Rovaniemi Aurora Hunting Tour

If you’re dreaming of catching the elusive dance of the Northern Lights in the Arctic wilderness, this Rovaniemi Aurora Hunting Tour offers a thoughtful and well-reviewed way to do just that. This tour, run by Sunsuni Safari, promises to take you to some of the best vantage points around Rovaniemi, Finland — all with a small-group vibe, expert guides, and a cozy outdoor barbecue.

What we love about this experience is how it combines the thrill of night sky spotting with authentic Lappish hospitality. Plus, the small-group size (maximum five travelers) means you’ll get personalized attention — something that’s often missing in larger tours. One thing to keep in mind: while the tour aims to maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora, it’s not a guarantee, since this celestial display depends entirely on weather and solar activity.

This tour suits travelers who want more than just a bus ride and are eager for an authentic Arctic adventure. If you’re okay with some waiting outdoors in chilly temperatures, and if a memorable night under the stars sounds appealing, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small-group tours ensure more direct interaction with guides and less crowding.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides help you spot the Aurora and capture photos, enhancing your chances of a memorable sighting.
• Authentic Food: Enjoy a traditional Lappish barbecue around an open fire, with options for sausages, soup, snacks, and warm beverages.
• Flexible Vantage Points: The tour adjusts locations based on weather and Aurora activity, aiming for the best possible views.
• Timing & Convenience: Pickup is offered, and the tour’s start time varies seasonally, making it adaptable to sunset times.
• Value & Comfort: With a reasonable price of $130 for 3-4 hours, the tour offers good value, including snacks, photography help, and transportation.

When considering a Northern Lights tour, what matters most is the balance between chance of success, comfort, and authentic experience. This tour ticks those boxes by blending scenic outdoor adventure with some cozy moments by an open fire.

The Pickup and Transportation

The experience kicks off around 8 p.m., with pickup offered from your accommodation—making it easy and hassle-free. Sunsuni Safari uses private transportation, ensuring a relaxed and intimate setting as you leave the town behind and head toward the wilderness. Groups are small, capped at five travelers, which means you’ll likely have a guide’s undivided attention.

This small-group setup is especially valuable in the Arctic, where a more personal approach can make a big difference in spotting the Aurora and understanding the environment. Plus, it’s more environmentally friendly and provides a quieter, more private experience than large buses.

The Vantage Points and the Search for Aurora

Once out of the city lights, your guides will navigate to the best vantage points available that night. The exact locations might shift depending on weather conditions and Aurora activity — flexibility is key here. Expect to be driven to scenic spots in the forest or open areas offering clear views of the night sky.

The guides are experienced and passionate, working hard to find the perfect spot for Aurora watching. Several reviews praise their dedication, with one stating, “Pekka and Amanda are both lovely people, very kind, knowledgeable and professional. They worked hard all night to give us the best experience.”

Aurora Watching and Photography

Your guides will help you capture the Northern Lights with professional photography services. They understand how to get the best shot, which is crucial for many travelers looking to take home proof of their Arctic adventure.

While the Aurora is a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed, the guides do their best to maximize the chances of a sighting. As one reviewer put it, “We ended up spotting the Northern Lights,” despite some challenging weather conditions.

The Lappish Barbecue

Perhaps one of the most memorable parts of the tour is the traditional Lappish barbecue enjoyed outdoors around an open fire. This isn’t just a snack break—it’s a cultural experience. You can expect sausages (pork or vegetarian), warm beverages, and snacks like marshmallows and cookies. Soup can also be requested, adding to the warmth and comfort of the experience.

The barbecue is weather-dependent for safety reasons, but when conditions are suitable, it creates a cozy, authentic atmosphere. Many reviews highlight how much travelers appreciated this aspect, describing it as “a great way to warm up and enjoy the Arctic wilderness.”

Return and Reflection

After several hours of sky-watching and enjoying the outdoor feast, you’ll be driven back to your accommodation. The total tour lasts about 3 hours, making it a manageable evening that leaves plenty of time to rest or explore more of Rovaniemi.

At $130, this tour offers a good value considering what’s included: private transportation, expert guidance, photography services, and local food. For those seeking an intimate, personalized experience rather than a crowded bus tour, the price is reasonable.

The inclusion of snacks, warm drinks, and a memorable outdoor barbecue adds a lot of value—you’re not just paying for a chance to see the Aurora, but also for a night of culture and comfort. The reviews affirm this, with visitors praising the guides’ dedication and the quality of their experience.

Practical Considerations

• Clothing: Warm clothes are not included, so dress for the cold with layered gear, thermal wear, and sturdy boots.
• Timing: Departure varies seasonally, so be prepared for late-night outings, especially during the darker months.
• Food Restrictions: If you have dietary needs or allergies, communicate with the operator beforehand to ensure your needs are met.
• Children: The tour is suitable for most travelers, but if you’re bringing young children, mention this so child safety seats can be arranged if needed.

This Aurora hunting experience is perfect for travelers who value a more intimate and flexible approach than larger tour groups. If you’re particularly interested in photography, the small group and guides’ expertise will be a huge plus. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate authentic Arctic cuisine and wish to combine sky-watching with a cultural experience.

However, if you’re highly sensitive to cold or prefer daytime activities, this tour might not be your best fit. Since the Aurora is always a waiting game, patience and a sense of adventure are key.

In short, the Rovaniemi Aurora Hunting Tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and authenticity. The knowledgeable guides, small-group setting, and outdoor barbecue combine to make it an experience that feels both personal and genuinely Arctic. The chance to witness the Northern Lights, even if not guaranteed, is heightened by the guides’ dedication and the flexibility of the locations they choose.

This tour is especially well-suited for travelers who want more than a generic bus ride, crave genuine local hospitality, and are eager to capture stunning photos of the sky. The price, including snacks and personal guidance, offers solid value for a memorable Arctic night.

For anyone visiting Rovaniemi in the winter months and eager for an authentic, small-group adventure in pursuit of the Northern Lights, this tour checks all the right boxes.

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes. The tour offers pickup from your accommodation, making it easy to join the experience without extra hassle.

How long does the tour last?
Expect about 3 to 4 hours, starting around 8 p.m., depending on the season and sunset times.

What should I wear?
Warm clothes are not provided, so dress in layers, thermal wear, and sturdy footwear suitable for cold, snowy conditions.

Can I see the Aurora on this tour?
While the guides do their best to find the ideal spots, sightings depend on weather conditions and Aurora activity, so a sighting can’t be guaranteed.

What food is included?
Snacks like sausages (pork or vegetarian), cookies, berry juice, and marshmallows are included. Soup can be requested in advance.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but if you have children under 5 or under 145 cm, contact the provider beforehand for safety seat arrangements.

What if the weather is poor?
If weather conditions prevent safe outdoor viewing, the tour will be canceled or rescheduled, or you’ll be offered a full refund.

In summary, this Rovaniemi Aurora Hunting Tour offers a well-rounded Arctic experience, blending the thrill of Aurora hunting with cozy local eats, expert guidance, and small-group intimacy. It’s a fantastic choice for those eager to make the most of their night in Lapland, with a good balance of adventure and comfort.