Rovaniemi: Aurora Hunting Tour with Photography by Van

If you’re dreaming of catching the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights in Finland, you’re not alone. This Aurora Hunting Tour with Photography from Sunsuni Safari promises a night filled with natural beauty, expert guidance, and authentic local flavor. While no one can guarantee a sighting—since the Aurora is a natural phenomenon—the tour’s focus on maximizing your chances makes it an attractive choice for travelers eager for an authentic Arctic experience.

What we love about this tour is how it combines professional photography guidance with a genuine taste of Lappish culture. You’ll get help capturing the lights on camera—important, because many reviews praise the guide’s photography tips—and enjoy a hearty barbecue around an open fire that’s both warming and delicious. The only possible catch? The unpredictable weather can sometimes limit your chances of seeing the Aurora, especially if clouds roll in or solar activity is low. Still, it’s a flexible, well-organized outing that’s ideal for those who appreciate small groups and personal attention.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and photography, especially if experiencing the Northern Lights is a bucket list item. It appeals to those who enjoy nature, local traditions, and are comfortable with some unpredictability—since the Aurora is a natural wonder, not a guaranteed show.

Key Points

• Expert guidance enhances your chances of capturing the Aurora on camera.
• Small groups (maximum of 11 people) ensure personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• The authentic Lappish barbecue provides warmth and local flavor, making the experience more than just Aurora hunting.
• The flexibility of the tour means your guides will drive farther for clear skies, increasing the odds of a sighting.
• The tour’s value lies in the combination of professional photos, local insights, and a memorable outdoor experience.
• Weather considerations are important—cloud cover or low solar activity might limit Aurora visibility, but guides do their best to find good spots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Pickup and Starting Point

The tour begins with hotel pickup, which is convenient and ensures you’re ready to go without daily logistical hassle. You’ll be collected from your hotel or Airbnb within a 10 km radius of Rovaniemi center, making this accessible even if you’re staying outside the city core. The exact departure time depends on sunset and weather conditions, typically between 6:30 pm and 9:00 pm in winter, and is confirmed by 4:30 pm on the day of your tour. This flexibility is helpful, especially given how rapidly Arctic weather can change.

Scenic Drive and Aurora Vantage Points

Once on the road, expect a scenic journey into the wilderness of Lapland. The guides are experienced at navigating the Arctic landscape, driving to various locations that promise darker skies and better views. Many reviews note that guides are dedicated and willing to drive significant distances if needed, in search of clear conditions.

The stops themselves are carefully chosen for their visual potential—frozen lakes, open fields, or quiet forests that provide a stunning backdrop for the lights. Several guests mention visiting multiple sites, which means your chances of seeing the Aurora increase, even if the weather doesn’t cooperate initially.

Aurora Watching and Photography

As your guides seek the best spots, they’ll assist with camera settings and photography tips, helping you capture the Lights—an aspect many reviews rave about. One guest noted, “Pekka set up his DSLR camera and took beautiful pictures for everyone,” highlighting the professional attention given.

Even if the lights are faint or elusive, your guides will keep searching. Several reviews mention that the guides try their best to bring guests to locations where the Aurora is visible, sometimes driving far and waiting patiently for the dancing lights to appear.

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The Lappish Barbecue Experience

A highlight for many is the warm campfire topped with a traditional barbecue. Depending on the weather, you might enjoy grilled pork or vegetarian sausages, hot berry juice, cookies, and marshmallows. Guests consistently comment on how cozy and authentic this part of the tour feels, adding a special touch that turns a simple outing into a memorable cultural experience.

One review pointed out that even in -26°C temperatures, guides help keep everyone comfortable with extra blankets and warm drinks. If weather conditions allow, the guides may also tell stories about Finnish and Lappish traditions, deepening your connection to this Arctic land.

End of the Tour and Return

After hours of searching and waiting—sometimes under the stars, sometimes around the fire—you’ll be transported back to your accommodation. The typical duration is about 4 hours, but depending on weather and Aurora activity, it can stretch to 6 hours. The flexibility means you get a full evening of Arctic adventure without feeling rushed.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Focus on Photography

Many travelers stress the importance of capturing memories and the value this tour adds with professional photography. Guides are adept at helping guests take stunning photos of the Aurora—something that keeps the magic alive long after the lights fade.

Genuine Local Experience

The guides are local Finns, which adds authenticity and insight that other tours might lack. From cultural tidbits to honest updates about Aurora visibility, their local knowledge helps manage expectations while maximizing your chances of a sighting.

Flexibility and Effort

Reviews show that guides put in considerable effort to find clear skies, often driving far from Rovaniemi if necessary. Their patience and dedication are clear, and many guests appreciate the sincerity in their approach, especially when the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Value for Money

At $136 per person, the price includes hotel pickup, multiple vantage points, professional photos, and a warm, hearty barbecue. Considering the personalized service, small group size, and the opportunity for memorable photos, most find this to be good value—particularly if witnessing the Aurora is a top priority.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Dress warmly: The Arctic can be extremely cold, especially at night. Bring insulated clothes, hats, gloves, and warm shoes—many reviews emphasize layering.
• Be flexible: The Aurora is unpredictable; sometimes clouds obscure the sky or solar activity is low. Keeping an open mind makes the experience more enjoyable.
• Bring your camera: While guides assist with photos, having your own camera or smartphone with a tripod can help you get great shots.
• Expect some driving: Depending on weather, you might travel quite far; be prepared for a scenic, sometimes bumpy ride.
• Enjoy the local touches: The barbecue and stories about Finnish culture add warmth and authenticity to the experience.
• Communicate with your guide: If you have specific questions about photography or want to maximize your experience, don’t hesitate to ask.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This Aurora Hunting Tour is ideal for adventurers and nature lovers who want more than just a quick glimpse of the Northern Lights. If you’re eager for professional photos, a genuine cultural experience, and don’t mind some weather unpredictability, this is a strong choice. It’s especially good for small groups looking for a personalized experience and knowledgeable guides who genuinely care about maximizing your chances.

It also suits those who appreciate warmth and camaraderie around a campfire, combined with the thrill of Arctic wilderness. If you’re traveling with family or friends and want a memorable, authentic night under the Arctic sky, this tour ticks many boxes.

FAQ

Will I definitely see the Northern Lights?
No. The Aurora is a natural event, so sightings depend on weather and solar activity. Guides will do their best to find clear skies, but no one can guarantee a sighting.

What should I bring?
You’ll want to wear warm clothing and shoes suitable for winter weather. Layers, hats, gloves, and insulated footwear are essential because it can get very cold at night.

How long does the tour last?
The typical tour runs about 4 hours, but it can extend to 6 depending on conditions and Aurora activity.

Is photography included?
Yes, guides help you take photos of the Aurora, and many reviews mention professional photos being provided the next day.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can change rapidly. If conditions are unfavorable, guides may cancel or reschedule, or drive further in search of clear skies. If you’re unsure, check the weather forecast closer to your tour date.

How do I know what time to expect pickup?
Pickup times depend on sunset and weather. You’ll be notified by 4:30 pm on the day of your tour, with departure between 6:30 pm and 9:00 pm in winter.

Final Thoughts

This Aurora Hunting Tour with Sunsuni Safari offers a genuine chance to experience Lapland’s Arctic wilderness in a small, personal setting. The combination of expert guides, professional photography, and local flavor elevates it beyond a simple chase for the Northern Lights. While the unpredictability of nature remains, the effort and care guides put into maximizing your viewing experience make this a worthwhile adventure.

For travelers who value authenticity, cultural insights, and beautiful landscapes, this tour provides a memorable Arctic night out. It’s especially suited for those who want a relaxed, small-group atmosphere with knowledgeable guides and a warm outdoor feast to end the evening.

Whether you’re hoping to capture the perfect photo, enjoy a hearty campfire, or simply stand under the Arctic sky and dream, this tour offers a well-rounded, heartfelt experience of Lapland’s most famous natural wonder.

You can check availability for your dates here: