Ice Floating in Forest Lake with Aurora Borealis

A Magical Arctic Night: Ice Floating in Forest Lake with Aurora Borealis

If you’re headed to Rovaniemi, Finland, and look for a way to see the Northern Lights in a truly unforgettable setting, this Ice Floating in Forest Lake tour might just be what you’re after. For around $127 per person, you’ll spend about 2.5 hours immersed in the crisp Arctic air, floating peacefully on icy waters while waiting for those elusive, shimmering auroras to dance overhead. The experience is led by guides who know how to keep things safe, warm, and memorable, with small groups of no more than 16 participants.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the combination of tranquility and adventure—floating in icy water while being surrounded by the quiet beauty of Finnish nature. Second, the chance to witness the Northern Lights in a peaceful, almost meditative setting far from city lights. We love how you’re provided with a dry, insulated survival suit, which not only keeps you warm but also ensures buoyancy. But, a word of warning: this is a winter adventure, so be prepared for cold temperatures and the possibility that the aurora might not appear—nature’s show isn’t guaranteed.

This tour is ideal for those who want a mix of serenity, stunning scenery, and the thrill of Arctic waters, especially if you’re comfortable with cold. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate guides with stories and tips, and for those eager to tick a truly offbeat experience off their bucket list. If you’re after a cozy, once-in-a-lifetime activity that’s as much about the natural environment as the spectacle of the Northern Lights, this could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Unique Experience: Floating on a frozen lake while waiting for the Northern Lights
• All-Inclusive Gear: Dry survival suits included to keep you warm and buoyant
• Small Groups: Intimate tours with no more than 16 participants
• Convenient Pickup: Hotel pickup and drop-off included for ease
• Post-Experience Warm-up: Gingerbread and blueberry tea to warm your hands and heart
• Weather Dependent: Aurora sightings depend on natural conditions, not guaranteed

In-Depth Look at the Experience

Location and Setting: Forest Lake Near Rovaniemi

This tour takes you about 20 minutes out of the town, into a quiet, dark forested area with pristine lakes perfect for aurora viewing. The drive itself sets the scene—you’re leaving the light pollution of city streets behind, heading into a natural environment where the only sounds are likely your own footsteps and the occasional call of Arctic wildlife. The lake itself, often frozen solid, offers a surreal backdrop that’s both peaceful and otherworldly.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Departure is typically around 7:30 pm, although the exact time can vary based on the season and weather conditions. You’ll meet at Maakuntakatu 29, and from there, a guide will transport you comfortably to the lakeside. The journey is short but scenic, giving you a taste of the Finnish wilderness before the main event.

Once on site, you’ll be handed a warm, dry survival suit—a crucial piece of gear. It’s designed not only to keep you insulated against the sub-zero temperatures but also to keep you afloat. You’ll be guided into the water via a sturdy, ladder-like entry, similar to a swimming pool, ensuring safety and ease of access.

Floating and Aurora Watching: The Main Event

Floating in the icy water is an experience unlike any other. Many reviewers mention that the sensation is almost surreal, like being a part of the lake itself with only the starry sky overhead. As you drift quietly, your guide will share insights into the natural phenomenon of the Aurora Borealis and local Finnish landscapes, adding an educational touch to the tranquility.

Multiple reviews highlight the calmness and awe of this activity. Konstantina calls it “a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” while others describe it as “relaxing fun” and “surreal.” Be aware that you may feel quite cold, but the provided suit prevents water entry and keeps you comfortable enough to enjoy the moment.

Post-Float Warm-up and Snacks

After your floating adventure, you’ll have the chance to warm up with gingerbread cookies and blueberry tea, a thoughtful touch that helps to reheat your hands and restore comfort. Many reviews emphasize the cozy atmosphere created afterward, making the cold part of the experience feel like a small adventure in itself.

Group Size and Guides

The tour keeps things intimate, with no more than 16 travelers, allowing guides like Matthias or Alaina to give personalized attention, take photos, and help everyone feel safe and cared for. Several reviews praise guides for their helpfulness and storytelling skills—adding a warm, human touch to the Arctic adventure.

The Reviews: Authentic Perspectives

Many travelers rave about the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. Allison calls her guide “fun and engaging,” and Amy appreciated how her guide took photos for her. The quality of gear also gets high marks; most say the suits are well-maintained, dry, and odor-free, which is crucial in such a cold environment.

However, not all reviews are glowing. Some mention issues like suits with holes or organizational hiccups, such as changed departure times or less-than-helpful staff. Jeremy notes a “terrible” experience with a damaged suit and poor customer service, reminding us that this activity isn’t foolproof.

The weather dependency is also a common theme. Since the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, sightings aren’t guaranteed. Several reviewers mention that they didn’t see auroras but still enjoyed the experience of floating in the Arctic night—finding it beautiful even without the lights.

What Works Well

• The small group size enhances the experience, making it more personal and less crowded.
• The gear and safety measures give peace of mind, especially for first-timers.
• The post-float warmth and snacks foster a cozy atmosphere after the cold dip.
• The guides’ storytelling adds cultural context and makes the experience more meaningful.

What Could Be Better

• The uncertainty of aurora sightings means this isn’t a guaranteed spectacle.
• Some reviews highlight organizational issues, like inconsistent timing or gear problems.
• The activity is not suitable for children under 12 or those with disabilities, which may limit some travelers.

The Practicalities

Pricing and Value

At $126.56 per person, the price reflects the inclusion of transportation, gear, guides, and post-activity treats. Considering the uniqueness of floating in a frozen lake under the Northern Lights, many find it good value—especially when compared to other Arctic activities like snowmobiling or reindeer rides, which tend to cost more.

Duration and Timing

The activity lasts about 2.5 hours, with pickup starting at around 7:30 pm, perfect for evening viewing. The exact schedule can vary, so checking your email for updates is wise. Remember, weather conditions can influence the timing and experience quality.

Group Size and Accessibility

Limited to 16 participants, this ensures a more relaxed atmosphere. Keep in mind, participants must be at least 130cm tall to fit in the suit, and the activity isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if weather or health concerns arise. If the weather isn’t suitable or the minimum number of travelers isn’t met, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity is best suited for adventurous travelers who are comfortable with cold conditions and enjoy serene, natural environments. It’s ideal for those seeking a peaceful, once-in-a-lifetime experience rather than a high-energy adventure. If you appreciate guides who are helpful and knowledgeable, and if you’re eager to see the Northern Lights in a quiet, stunning setting, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

However, it’s less suitable for young children under 12, individuals with disabilities, or anyone not comfortable in winter gear or cold water. Keep in mind, the main draw—the Aurora Borealis—is a natural phenomenon not guaranteed every night.

The Sum Up

This Ice Floating in Forest Lake with Aurora Borealis tour offers a rare blend of peace, natural beauty, and Arctic thrill. Floating on icy waters while waiting for the Northern Lights is a mesmerizing experience that many travelers remember long after the trip ends. The comfort of the dry suit, combined with the warm treats afterward, makes it a well-rounded activity for those wanting to blend relaxation with adventure.

It’s a great choice for nature lovers and those craving a quiet, authentic Arctic experience. The guides’ local knowledge, the small group size, and the breathtaking scenery all contribute to making this a memorable part of any trip to Rovaniemi. While it’s weather-dependent and not for everyone, the chance to see the Northern Lights from such a peaceful vantage point makes it worth considering.

If you’re a traveler who values authentic moments over touristy attractions, this activity could become the highlight of your trip—assuming Mother Nature cooperates.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides round-trip transportation from your hotel, making it easy to join without worrying about logistics.

What should I wear or bring?
The tour supplies a warm, dry survival suit. It’s recommended to wear comfortable, thermal base layers underneath, and bring gloves and a hat if desired, though the guide suggests keeping gloves off inside the suit for better mobility.

Can children participate?
Children under 12 must be accompanied by paying adults and must meet the minimum height requirement of 130cm to fit in the suit.

How long does the activity last?
The floating experience itself is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including transportation and post-float warming-up.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, the activity may be canceled or rescheduled, and you’ll be offered a full refund or alternative date.

Is there a chance to see the Northern Lights?
While the tour aims for aurora sightings, it cannot be guaranteed as it depends on weather and solar activity. Many reviews mention that even without lights, the experience remains special.

Is this activity suitable for people with disabilities?
No, this activity requires physical mobility to enter and float in the water safely.

What is the group size limit?
Small groups of up to 16 people ensure personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

Will I have help taking photos?
Yes, guides often help by taking pictures with your camera, ensuring you capture memories of this unique moment.

What is the main attraction of this tour?
The combination of peaceful ice floating and potential aurora viewing makes it a memorable Arctic highlight, especially for those who love quiet natural wonders.

This floating adventure in Rovaniemi offers a rare chance to connect with the Arctic environment in a calm, authentic way. Whether you’re chasing the elusive Northern Lights or simply seeking a peaceful moment on frozen waters, it’s an experience worth considering—just remember to dress warmly and bring your patience for Mother Nature’s unpredictable show.