Unlimited Range Northern Lights Hunt with VIP Van

When it comes to chasing the Northern Lights in Finnish Lapland, finding a tour that combines flexibility, comfort, and a good chance of success can be a bit of a challenge. The Unlimited Range Northern Lights Hunt with VIP Van by Lapin Taivas promises an adventure tailored to serious aurora hunters—driving up to 300+ km into the backcountry, escaping light pollution, and hunting for those elusive, shimmering lights.

What caught our eye about this tour are two standout features: the personalized, route-free approach that drives where the sky is clearest, and the professional photography included—so you don’t just chase the lights, you also capture them. However, with a price tag of around $207 per person, some might wonder if it offers good value, especially given the unpredictable nature of the Aurora Borealis.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who prioritize comfort, flexibility, and high-quality photos. If you’re a dedicated Aurora enthusiast who loves a good road trip and doesn’t mind long nights, this could be your perfect match. But if you’re a nervous traveler or on a tight schedule, you’ll want to weigh the possibility of no lights appearing against the overall experience.

Key Points

• Flexible Route: The tour does not follow a fixed path but drives where the weather and sky conditions look best, maximizing your chances of seeing the Northern Lights.
• Extended Experience: With around 7 hours of chasing, the tour offers ample time—often starting at 7 PM and sometimes going into the early morning—to catch the Aurora.
• Comfort and Convenience: Traveling in a spacious, VIP Mercedes Pegabus Van means you’ll stay warm and comfortable, even in the cold Arctic night.
• Professional Photography: High-quality photos, taken with Sony A7III gear, are included and delivered within 24-72 hours, helping you preserve your magical memories.
• Incredible Value for Aurora Hunters: With an 86% catch rate during the 2023-24 winter season, the chance to witness the Aurora is high, especially given the 300 km range which allows for spontaneous detours.
• Group Size: Limited to 16 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience without feeling crowded.

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Point and Pickup

Your adventure begins in Rovaniemi at Valtakatu 23—conveniently close to the city center, within a 15 km radius. The tour kicks off at 7:00 pm, with pickup included, so you won’t need to worry about logistics. Upon boarding the plush van, you’ll notice the WiFi, the snacks (including Finnish Pulla and berry tea), and the charging power banks, all set to keep you comfortable during the long night.

The Drive and the Philosophy

Unlike many tours that stick to a predetermined route, Lapin Taivas’s approach is all about adaptability. They use weather reports, cloud coverage data, and solar wind information to determine the best spots for viewing. This means you might visit 2 or 3 different viewpoints across Finnish and Swedish Lapland, traveling anywhere from 50 km to over 120 km in a single night.

One reviewer highlighted this flexibility, mentioning how their guide, Emin, drove until 5 am, finally witnessing the lights after a long hunt. The emphasis on driving where the sky is clearest is perhaps the standout feature—maximizing your odds rather than settling for the nearest spot.

The Stops and Vista

Each viewpoint is carefully chosen based on weather and sky clarity. Some reviews note that this approach sometimes results in multiple vans at the same location—an unavoidable consequence of the hunt, especially when a lot of others are also chasing the lights. But the benefit of driving into less light-polluted, remote areas outweighs the occasional crowding.

Expect to find yourself on frozen lakes, on the edge of forests, or other spots with clear, dark skies. You might find yourself in Swedish Lapland, adding a bit of international adventure to your night.

Food and Comfort

While some Aurora tours fire up a barbecue or serve sausages, Lapin Taivas opts for simple, quality snacks—a Finnish Pulla (Dallas Roll) and berry tea—keeping the focus on the sky and the experience. The van’s warmth and spaciousness are praised consistently, which can make or break a late-night outing in Arctic cold.

Photography and Memories

A major highlight is the professional photography service. Guides use Sony A7III cameras with Sigma astrophotography lenses, ensuring high-quality shots. Photos are sent to your email within 24-72 hours—meaning you can relive the magic without worrying about capturing perfect shots yourself. Several reviews mention how helpful guides are in taking photos with your own phone or camera, too.

The Likelihood of Seeing the Aurora

According to the latest reviews, Lapin Taivas boasts an 86% success rate during the 2023-24 winter season, which is excellent for Aurora-hunting tours. Many guests have described the experience as “spectacular,” “unforgettable,” and “magical,” especially when the lights dance across the sky at 2 or 3 a.m.

However, some reviews remind us that the Aurora is a natural phenomenon, and no tour can guarantee a sighting. The guides’ persistence and local knowledge, however, significantly increase your odds.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is clearly for those who value flexibility, comfort, and high-quality photos. If you’re an Aurora enthusiast willing to venture into the Arctic night with a good chance of success, this is a solid choice. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want to avoid crowded, fixed-route tours and prefer a more personalized, adventurous experience.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: Approximately 7 hours, starting at 7 pm, often into the early morning hours.
• Price: Around $207.38, which includes pickup, snacks, WiFi, professional photos, and guide services. When you consider the long drive and personalized approach, it’s a good value for avid Aurora hunters.
• Group Size: Limited to 16 travelers, balancing intimacy and social atmosphere.
• What to Wear: While not included, travelers are responsible for winter clothing. Some reviews note that the van is very warm, but it’s wise to layer up.
• Booking in Advance: The tour is popular, with an average booking window of 23 days, so plan ahead.
• Rating: 5.0 based on 261 reviews, with 97% recommending.

Authentic Guest Feedback

The reviews paint a vivid picture of this tour’s strengths. Many mention guides like Emin, Chevos, and Han, highlighting their passion, persistence, and care. Guests often praise the professional photography—with some saying their photos made their trip truly unforgettable.

One guest pointed out how their guide drove the entire night, chasing the lights with contagious enthusiasm: “Emin was an exceptional guide who went above and beyond to ensure we had the best possible experience.” Others appreciated the warmth and comfort of the van, especially during long waits in the cold.

Of course, no Aurora tour can promise sighting every time. A handful of reviews mention nights with less visible activity or crowded spots, but even then, guests appreciated the effort and the overall adventure.

The Sum Up

The Unlimited Range Northern Lights Hunt with VIP Van by Lapin Taivas offers remarkable value for dedicated aurora enthusiasts. The flexible route, professional photography, and cozy transportation combine to create an experience that’s both adventurous and comfortable. It’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize their chances of witnessing the Aurora Borealis while enjoying personalized service and expert guidance.

If you’re willing to spend a night in the Arctic cold, with an open mind and a love for photography, this tour could be the highlight of your trip. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate a more authentic and spontaneous experience, driven by real-time weather insights rather than rigid schedules.

For anyone looking for a memorable, well-organized Northern Lights adventure—especially those valuing good value, knowledgeable guides, and stunning memories—this tour comes highly recommended.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off within a 15 km radius of Rovaniemi city center, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby.

What should I wear?
While the tour provides a warm, comfortable van, you should dress in winter clothing suitable for Arctic conditions. Layers, thermal wear, and waterproof gear are advisable.

How long does the tour last?
The experience typically lasts around 7 hours, starting at 7 pm and often extending into the early morning hours, depending on the lights and weather.

Can I see the Northern Lights every night?
No, sightings depend on weather, solar activity, and cloud cover. The tour boasts an approximately 86% success rate, but no guarantee exists.

Are professional photos really included?
Yes, guides use high-end cameras and lenses to capture your experience. Photos are emailed to you within 24-72 hours.

What if the weather is poor or the lights don’t appear?
The tour operates based on weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a full refund or a rescheduled date.

Is this a good choice for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The group size is limited to 16, making it a comfortable and social experience, especially for those traveling alone with a passion for Aurora chasing.

How far will the guide drive?
They can travel over 300 km if needed, whether chasing clear skies or heading into remote areas for the best viewing.

In essence, this tour offers a solid mix of adventure, comfort, and authentic Aurora hunting, especially suited for those who want to make the most of their nights under the Arctic sky.