Rovaniemi: Northern Lights Hunting in Lappish old cottage

Rovaniemi: Northern Lights Hunting in Lappish Old Cottage

If you’re dreaming of catching the elusive Northern Lights in Finland’s Arctic lap, this tour offers a well-rounded experience centered around the natural wonder of Lapland. For $85 per person, you’ll spend about three hours away from the city lights, hunting for the aurora borealis in a place that feels both authentic and comfortable. The tour includes a warm Lappish cottage and a crackling campfire, with plenty of time to soak in the starry sky and learn about the local landscape.

What we love about this experience is how it combines stunning natural scenery with the chance to relax in a cozy setting, and the opportunity to get some great photos of the Aurora—if luck is on your side. The guides seem knowledgeable and friendly, making the whole evening feel welcoming rather than hurried. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the success of spotting the Northern Lights depends heavily on the weather—cloud cover or snowstorms can mean you might not see the lights at all.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate authentic outdoor experiences paired with cultural stories and who don’t mind the unpredictability of nature. It’s perfect if you’re eager to learn about Lapland’s natural environment while enjoying some traditional Finnish warmth. If your main goal is guaranteed Aurora viewing, you might want to consider additional options, but for a relaxed, atmospheric outing, this tour hits the right notes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic setting: A cozy, traditional Lappish cottage and campfire create an intimate experience.
• Expert guidance: Guides not only help with Aurora spotting but also share local myths and stories.
• Photo opportunities: Guides and guides’ cameras can help capture the lights if they appear.
• Weather-dependent: The chance to see the Aurora depends on clear skies—be prepared for the possibility of a cloudy night.
• Family friendly: Suitable for travelers with children, as noted in reviews where even a two-year-old enjoyed the experience.
• Value for money: At $85, the experience offers a memorable combination of nature, culture, and comfort.

An In-Depth Look at the Northern Lights Hunting Experience

The Itinerary and What It Means for You

The tour begins with a hotel pickup, which ensures convenience and saves you the hassle of finding your way to the meeting point. You’ll be driven away from Rovaniemi’s city lights into darker, more scenic areas where the sky’s clarity is better suited for aurora viewing. This part of the journey is short, but it’s crucial—good transportation logistics mean you spend more time enjoying rather than worrying about the drive.

At the first stop, your guide will set up an open fire in a traditional Lappish cottage or at an outdoor site. Sitting around a fire in crisp Arctic air is an experience in itself—it’s the moment when the anticipation builds, and the landscape around you feels vast. The fire serves as a focal point for warmth, storytelling, and roasting Lappish sausages, a local delicacy that adds a deliciously authentic touch to the evening.

The guide’s role is more than just logistics—they’ll share fascinating stories, myths, and facts about Lapland, Finnish culture, and the Northern Lights. This storytelling element helps you appreciate the environment you’re in, making the experience more than just waiting for a light show. As the fire crackles, you’ll be encouraged to relax and enjoy the moment.

The Cozy Cottage and Aurora Educational Content

After a bit of time outdoors, you’ll be invited into a warm cottage where a short video about the Northern Lights is shown. This educational component enriches your understanding and appreciation of what you’re hoping to see in the sky. The guides are eager to answer questions, making the experience interactive and informative.

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Photography and Equipment

One of the highlights—especially for travelers who love capturing moments—is that guides are equipped with high-quality cameras. They’re happy to help take photos of your experience and offer advice on aurora photography if you bring your own camera. This is a real plus because catching the Northern Lights on camera can be tricky, and professional guidance increases your chances of a good shot.

The Experience Feedback

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with one saying, “Andreis was very, very nice,” indicating that the guides make this experience special through their friendliness and expertise. Another reviewer appreciated that the “pick-up was punctual,” and felt well cared for during the trip. However, some noted that the weather can be a limiting factor—if it’s cloudy or stormy, seeing the Aurora might not happen, a common caveat in aurora hunting.

The Price and What You Get

At $85 per person, this tour offers a good value considering it includes transportation, an outdoor experience, a warm cottage, a campfire, and the chance (though not guaranteed) to see one of nature’s most spectacular light displays. It also includes BBQ snacks, hot drinks, and photos, making it a comprehensive package for a short evening adventure.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits nature enthusiasts, families with children, and those interested in Finnish culture. If you’re looking for a relaxed, atmospheric evening where you can learn about Lapland’s environment and traditions while waiting for the Aurora, this tour fits the bill. However, if you’re strictly after guaranteed Aurora sightings, you might want to consider additional or alternative options.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This?

If you’re traveling to Rovaniemi during the winter months and want an authentic, atmospheric night that combines nature, storytelling, and cultural insights, this tour offers a charming introduction. It balances the thrill of Aurora hunting with the comfort of a cozy cottage and campfire, making it perfect for those who value experience over guaranteed sightings.

Travelers who appreciate guided expertise, scenic outdoor settings, and a touch of local lore** will find this tour engaging and memorable. It’s especially well-suited for families or anyone seeking a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, rather than a purely expedition-style adventure.

While the unpredictability of the Northern Lights means there’s no guarantee you’ll see them, the overall experience—good guides, beautiful dark skies, and a warm setting—means you’ll leave with stories to tell, even if the lights don’t dance across the sky.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with the start times depending on availability. Always check the schedule before booking.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, time spent watching the sky, a warm cottage setting, BBQ snacks, hot drinks, and photos of the Northern Lights if they appear.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, sightings depend on weather conditions. Guides will do their best to find clear skies, but cloudy or stormy weather can prevent viewing.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, including winter boots, hats, gloves, and insulated clothing—outdoor temperatures can be very cold during the evening.

Can I bring my own camera?
Yes, guides are happy to advise on aurora photography if you bring your own camera, and they also bring high-quality cameras themselves.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, as noted by reviews mentioning a two-year-old who enjoyed the experience.

How do I know when to expect pickup?
Please wait in your hotel lobby at least 5 minutes before the scheduled pickup time. Drivers will wait no more than 5 minutes.

What happens if the weather prevents Aurora viewing?
In that case, you’ll still enjoy the outdoor campfire, storytelling, and cultural experience—it’s a memorable night regardless.

What is the maximum group size?
While not specified, small groups tend to be typical for this kind of experience, creating a more intimate atmosphere.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if weather or plans change.

This Rovaniemi Northern Lights tour offers a thoughtful blend of outdoor adventure, cultural insight, and comfortable hospitality, making it a worthwhile choice for those wanting to experience Lapland’s magic—weather permitting.

You can check availability for your dates here: