Rovaniemi Hunting Aurora at the Best Spots

Planning a trip to Lapland in winter? One of the most sought-after experiences is witnessing the Northern Lights, and this aurora hunting tour promises to take you to the best viewing spots outside Rovaniemi. We’ve looked into this tour to help you understand what makes it a popular choice, what to expect, and whether it offers good value for your money.

Our impressions are based on detailed reviews, the tour’s itinerary, and the features it offers. This is a guided experience that combines transportation, expert guidance, and prime viewing locations — all bundled into a 3.5-hour adventure that costs around $108 per person. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned aurora chaser, this tour has some key strengths but also a few points to consider.

What we love most about this tour is the expert guidance, which helps demystify the aurora phenomenon, and the access to stunning, less-light-polluted spots. On the other hand, a possible drawback is that the tour’s duration and timing might limit some travelers’ flexibility or comfort if they prefer longer experiences or more time at each location.

This tour suits those eager to see the Northern Lights in a short but well-organized outing. It’s ideal for travelers who want a focused, small-group experience with a knowledgeable guide and the chance to stay warm with hot drinks. If you’re looking for a quick, authentic glimpse of Arctic nature with the promise of aurora sightings, this might be the right fit.

Key Points

• Two prime aurora observation spots increase your chances of witnessing the lights.
• The tour is fully guided, with knowledgeable explanations about the aurora and local culture.
• The hot berry or fruit tea provides warmth and comfort during the viewing.
• Winter clothing is included, removing the hassle of packing or renting gear.
• The tour is limited to 8 participants, fostering a personal experience.
• It operates in the best viewing season for auroras, with high probability of sightings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting in the evening, the tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or accommodation in Rovaniemi, a convenience that saves you from navigating cold winter streets. You’ll be driven northward outside the town, passing landmarks like Santa Village and crossing the Arctic Circle — both scenic and culturally interesting milestones.

The first stop is typically at a spot with a nearby Arctic lake and forest, providing a natural backdrop that enhances the aurora’s beauty. The open sky visibility here is excellent, reducing the chances of light pollution obstructing your view. The guide will offer insights into the science and mythology of the aurora, helping you understand what you’re seeing rather than just gawking at colorful lights.

After some time at the first spot, the group moves to the second location — usually another dark, expansive area with a clear view of the northern sky. These two stops are chosen for their high chance of aurora sightings, but as with any natural phenomenon, there’s no 100% guarantee. Reviews show that some groups do get lucky, with glowing descriptions of the spectacular display and the sense of magic this experience creates.

The Experience of Aurora Viewing

During the wait, your guide will give tips on how to set up your smartphone or camera to capture the lights — a helpful skill for those wanting photos. Meanwhile, you can enjoy hot berry or fruit tea, a simple but thoughtful touch to keep you warm in the chilly Arctic air.

The guides aim to strike a good balance: they keep the group engaged, share cultural facts, and relax the atmosphere with friendly conversation. The small group size (up to 8 people) ensures everyone gets attention, and there’s plenty of opportunity to ask questions or simply sit back and take in the sky.

Duration and Practicalities

The entire experience lasts about 3.5 hours, including travel time. The tour starts around 20:00 and wraps up around 23:30, making it a convenient evening activity. You are responsible for picking up your winter clothing from the office at Rovakatu 25 — a flexible setup since you can choose to do this earlier in the day.

Transportation is by private vehicle or minibus, and the tour includes hotel transfers, which simplifies logistics, especially after a long day of sightseeing. The group size is limited, fostering a cozy vibe that many travelers appreciate.

Authenticity and Value

The reviews highlight the expertise of the guides as a major plus. One reviewer raved, “Our guide knew where to take us looking for the Northern Lights. And after a wait, we did see them.” Another mentioned it was an “unforgettable experience” with a guide who took the time to explain aurora science and Lappish culture.

At $108, the tour offers good value for what it includes — transportation, expert guidance, winter gear, and hot drinks. Compared to longer or more elaborate aurora excursions, this one is more streamlined but still well-organized, making it perfect for travelers who want a focused, small-group outing.

However, because the experience is relatively short, it might not suit those wanting more time at each view spot or a less hurried pace. The success of seeing the aurora also depends on weather and solar activity; it’s worth considering that no tour can guarantee a sighting, but this tour’s strategic locations and high-rated guides boost your odds.

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The Highlights in Detail

Prime Observation Spots

The tour’s main strength is its access to two carefully selected locations with high chances of aurora visibility. Staying away from the more touristy areas means less light pollution and a more authentic Arctic wilderness experience. These spots are near lakes and forests, offering natural backdrops that make the lights appear even more striking.

Guided Explanation

Guides are knowledgeable, sharing insights into aurora phenomena, local legends, and Lappish culture. Their expertise helps turn a simple light show into a memorable story, making the experience more meaningful for travelers.

Cozy Comforts

The inclusion of hot berry or fruit tea offers both physical warmth and a cozy ambiance — an appreciated touch in frigid temperatures. The tour also provides winter clothing, so you won’t have to worry about packing bulky gear, making the experience more accessible for casual travelers.

Small Group Atmosphere

Limiting the group to up to 8 participants keeps the experience intimate. You’ll get more personalized attention, and you’re less likely to feel like just another face in a crowd.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Timing is crucial — check the availability and start times, as aurora viewing is best on clear, dark nights.
• Remember to dress warmly. While winter clothing is provided, layering is recommended.
• Bring a camera and tripod if you want to photograph the aurora, and ask the guide for tips.
• Be prepared for cold weather, especially if the lights don’t appear immediately.
• The tour operates from 20:00 to 23:30, so plan your evening accordingly.
• Pickup and drop-off are included, but you should wait in your hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This aurora hunting experience is perfect for travelers seeking a short, well-organized adventure with expert guidance. It caters to those who want a small-group, authentic Arctic experience without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors to Rovaniemi or anyone eager to maximize their chances of witnessing the Northern Lights in a cozy, guided setting.

However, if you’re looking for an overnight or longer experience, or if you prefer more time at each site, you might want to explore other options. Keep in mind that auroras are natural phenomena, and even the best spots and guides can’t guarantee sightings — patience and a bit of luck are still key.

This aurora hunting tour offers a solid, value-packed way to enjoy the Northern Lights outside Rovaniemi. With its expert guides, carefully chosen observation spots, and cozy touches like hot drinks and winter gear, it provides a memorable Arctic experience without breaking the bank. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a focused, small-group adventure with the flexibility of hotel pickup and drop-off.

While it’s not the longest or most elaborate option, it’s a reliable choice for those eager to catch a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis in a natural, less-light-polluted setting. If you’re visiting during the aurora season and weather cooperates, this tour could very well be the highlight of your Arctic trip.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 3.5 hours, from pickup to drop-off, including travel time outside Rovaniemi.

What’s included in the price?
You get hotel or accommodation transfer, winter clothing (self-pickup), two observation locations, guidance from an English-speaking guide, and hot tea for warmth.

Do I need to bring my own winter gear?
No, winter clothing is provided if you pick it up from the office beforehand. It’s recommended to wear layers underneath.

Can I photograph the Northern Lights?
Yes, guides will give you tips on how to set up your smartphone or camera for good photos during the aurora display.

What if I don’t see the Aurora?
While the tour maximizes your chances at prime spots, seeing the lights depends on weather and solar activity. No guarantee, but guides are experienced at selecting the best locations.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for adults and children with appropriate winter clothing. However, check with the provider if you have very young children or specific needs.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended. You can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in your planning.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 8 participants, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

In short, this aurora hunting tour delivers a practical, friendly way to chase the Northern Lights while enjoying expert insights and Arctic scenery. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a well-organized, small-group outing that enhances their chances of seeing this spectacular natural wonder.

You can check availability for your dates here: