Rovaniemi: Ice Floating Experience with Northern lights

If you’re dreaming of a winter adventure that combines the magic of the Arctic with a truly unique activity, the Ice Floating Experience in Rovaniemi might just be what you’re looking for. This tour offers a rare chance to drift peacefully on a frozen lake, wrapped in a thermal wetsuit, while gazing up at the star-studded sky — and maybe catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights if luck is on your side. It’s a blend of tranquility, adventure, and authentic Arctic beauty, perfect for travelers seeking something memorable and different.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the serene sensation of floating on ice—a quiet, weightless feeling that’s hard to find elsewhere. Second, the opportunity to see the Northern Lights in a small, intimate group adds an extra layer of wonder. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that it’s weather-dependent; cloudy nights or poor aurora activity can mean missing one of the main highlights. Still, if you’re a lover of cold-weather adventures and natural phenomena, this tour suits those who want an authentic Arctic experience with a cozy finish.

Key Points

• Unique Arctic activity: Float on a frozen lake wrapped in thermal gear for a peaceful, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
• Northern Lights chance: If conditions are right, you’ll enjoy a spectacular natural light show.
• Comfort and warmth: All participants are provided with a thermal wetsuit, warm drink, and cookies afterward.
• Small group size: Limited to 9 participants, fostering an intimate and relaxed atmosphere.
• Flexible booking options: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Suitable for active swimmers: Comfort in water and good physical health are recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Arctic Encounter: What’s It All About?

This 3-hour tour with Wonderlapland takes you to the quiet beauty of Lapland’s landscape, but the real highlight is the act of floating on the ice in a specially designed thermal wetsuit. It’s a gentle, almost meditative activity that emphasizes the Arctic’s stillness. You don’t need to be a seasoned swimmer; just be comfortable in water and in good health. The wetsuit is thermal, designed to keep you warm and buoyant, making it a surprisingly relaxing experience despite the cold climate.

The adventure begins with pickup and drop-off, so you don’t have to worry about getting to the lake — a plus when navigating the often snowy roads of Lapland. Once there, you’ll be handed a thermal survival wetsuit that fits snugly over your clothes, providing insulation and mobility. The focus is on gentle floating rather than swimming, so everyone can participate regardless of skill level, as long as you’re comfortable being in water.

The Floating Experience: What Will You Feel?

Imagine lying back in the cold, still water, but feeling warm and protected inside your wetsuit. We loved the way the wetsuit allows you to float effortlessly on the icy surface, creating a surreal sensation of weightlessness amid the Arctic silence. The stillness of the frozen lake adds a profound sense of peace — it’s the kind of quiet that’s almost deafening in its calm.

Participants often describe the experience as “magical” and “peaceful”, with one reviewer noting, “It felt like floating in a different world — quiet, serene, and a little exhilarating.” The sensation of drifting in such a pristine environment is unlike anything else. As you float, you can look up and see the vast sky overhead, filled with stars, and, on clear nights, the chance to spot the Northern Lights dancing in the sky.

Weather plays a key role in whether you’ll see the Aurora Borealis during your trip. The tour’s provider mentions the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights, but it’s weather-dependent. Cloud cover, moon phase, and solar activity all influence the chances, so patience and a bit of luck are part of the experience.

Post-Float Comfort: Warming Up and Sharing Stories

After your tranquil float, the tour includes a cozy moment with warm drinks and fresh cookies, perfect for warming up your hands and soul. We found this part particularly enjoyable — the contrast between the icy stillness of the lake and the comforting warmth of hot beverages makes the experience well-rounded and satisfying.

The small group size (limited to 9 participants) ensures a relaxed atmosphere, allowing everyone to share the experience and ask questions. Many reviews mention the friendly, helpful guides who make sure everyone feels safe and comfortable throughout the activity. The absence of personal photography included in the package might seem a minor downside for some, but it encourages you to focus on the moment rather than worrying about capturing every detail.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• Price: At $142 per person, this experience might seem premium, but considering the unique nature, small group size, and included amenities, it’s a good value for an Arctic adventure.
• Duration: About 3 hours, including pickup, the floating experience, and warming up afterward.
• Availability: Check the schedule for specific start times, which vary depending on the season and weather conditions.
• Booking: The “Reserve now & pay later” option offers flexibility, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.
• What to bring: Dress in warm layers; waterproof outerwear is advisable since you’ll be in cold, possibly damp conditions.
• Not suitable for: Pregnant women, those with back or heart problems, or anyone uncomfortable in water.

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The Experience Provider: Wonderlapland

Wonderlapland specializes in Arctic activities and is known for small-group tours that prioritize comfort and authenticity. Their approach ensures you get a genuine experience without the crowds, and their multilingual guides (English, French, and Spanish) make it accessible for international travelers.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This ice-floating tour offers more than just a quirky photo opportunity. It’s a chance to connect with the Arctic environment in a deeply personal way, floating silently on a frozen lake under the vast, starry sky. The inclusion of a cozy drink afterwards makes it suitable for those who appreciate comfort after adventure. It’s especially appealing for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those wanting a memorable Arctic story to tell.

While the activity depends on weather and aurora activity, the journey itself — the quiet beauty of Lapland, the sensation of weightless floating, and the shared warmth afterwards — leaves many travelers with a feeling of tranquility and awe. The small group size adds an intimate touch, perfect for those who prefer personalized experiences over large, impersonal tours.

Final Thoughts

The Rovaniemi Ice Floating Experience with Northern Lights stands out as a genuine Arctic adventure that balances thrilling serenity with natural wonder. It offers the chance to see the Northern Lights in a peaceful setting, float on an icy lake in thermal comfort, and enjoy a warm moment of connection in the middle of the wilderness.

This tour is best suited for travelers who crave authentic, peaceful experiences and don’t mind the cold as long as they’re suitably prepared. It’s a rare opportunity to savor the silent beauty of Lapland and create memories that will stay with you long after you leave.

Whether it’s your first Arctic trip or a repeat visit, this activity provides a fresh perspective — one that combines adventure, relaxation, and a touch of magic.

FAQ

Is transportation to the lake included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included, so you don’t need to worry about reaching the location yourself.

What should I wear for this activity?
It’s recommended to dress in layers, including warm clothing and waterproof outerwear, to stay comfortable during the float and afterward.

Can I participate if I don’t know how to swim?
Yes, but you should be comfortable in water and know how to swim. The wetsuit provides thermal insulation and buoyancy, making it accessible for most.

Will I definitely see the Northern Lights?
Not necessarily. The tour offers the chance to see the Aurora Borealis if weather and aurora activity align, but it’s weather-dependent.

How long is the floating experience?
The floating itself is part of a 3-hour experience, including transport and warming up afterward.

Is this experience suitable for pregnant women or those with health concerns?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, or individuals with back or heart problems, due to the physical nature of the activity.

In summary, the Rovaniemi Ice Floating Experience with Northern Lights offers a rare blend of quiet Arctic beauty, gentle adventure, and cozy comfort that appeals to travelers seeking something truly different. If you’re up for a peaceful, awe-inspiring journey beneath the stars, this might just be your next unforgettable Arctic memory.

You can check availability for your dates here: