Chasing Aurora with Photographer – Small Group

Chasing Aurora with Photographer – Small Group offers an enticing chance to witness the elusive northern lights in the Finnish wilderness. For $185, you join a 4.5-hour adventure that begins at 8:00 pm in Rovaniemi, where a small group of no more than eight travelers heads out by minibus. The experience is led by a professional photographer who not only searches for the aurora but also takes stunning photos of each guest, providing downloadable pictures afterward. The tour includes stops at up to three different locations, a warm break with Lappish sausages, and hot drinks by an open fire.

What we love about this tour is its small-group size, which makes for a more personalized experience—you’re not just a face in a crowd but part of an intimate adventure. Plus, the photography aspect really elevates the experience; having a professional snap your moments makes the memories much more lasting and shareable. However, a potential drawback is the reliance on weather conditions—cloudy skies can mean no aurora, and this tour can be canceled or less rewarding if the skies don’t cooperate.

This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, guided experience with a focus on photography and smaller groups. If you’re hoping for a more flexible, customized chase or have specific dates in mind, the fixed schedule and weather-dependent nature might be frustrating. Still, for those seeking an authentic Northern Lights outing with a touch of professional photography, this could be just right.

Key Points

• Small-group experience enhances intimacy and personalized attention.
• Professional photographer guide ensures you get memorable photos.
• Multiple stops increase chances of seeing the aurora.
• Included hot drinks and Lappish sausages add warmth and local flavor.
• Weather dependence can lead to cancellations or no aurora view.
• Price-point offers good value for a guided, photography-focused outing.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Starting Point and Timing

Your adventure kicks off at Sunny Safari, located at Tähtikuja 1, Rovaniemi, Finland. At 8:00 pm, the small group boards a comfortable minibus for what promises to be an evening of chasing lights and capturing memories. The timing is typical for aurora hunting—once the dark hours are upon us, you maximize your chances of witnessing the phenomenon.

The compact size of the group—up to eight travelers—means you’ll likely find it easier to move around, ask questions, and share the experience without feeling lost in a crowd. This format is particularly appealing for those who prefer a more relaxed, personal atmosphere.

The Journey Through Wilderness

Once on the road, your guide—who is also a professional photographer—drives through the scenic Finnish wilderness, stopping at up to three locations in search of the best aurora display. These stops are chosen based on weather forecasts and real-time conditions, aiming to maximize your chances of seeing the lights.

While the specific locations are not detailed, you can expect stops in spots that offer clear, unobstructed views of the northern sky. Since Rovaniemi is surrounded by vast, open landscapes, you’ll enjoy the serenity of the snow-dusted wilderness, a perfect backdrop for northern lights photography.

The Photography Experience

The tour’s standout feature is the professional photographer guide who will take pictures of you under the aurora. We love the idea of having high-quality photos as souvenirs; these are often much better than what you’d capture on your phone, especially in low light. The guide’s expertise helps ensure you get flattering, memorable shots, and the downloadable images mean you can relive the magic long after the tour ends.

According to reviews, this aspect can be a real highlight, especially for those who want to remember their Arctic adventure with stunning visuals. However, keep in mind that the quality of the viewing experience is heavily dependent on clear skies—if the weather doesn’t cooperate, the photos may be of the landscape rather than the lights.

The Warm Break and Local Flavors

A warm break with Lappish sausages and hot drinks over an open fire adds a cozy touch to the evening. It’s the perfect chance to thaw out after braving the cold, share stories with fellow travelers, and appreciate the peaceful Arctic night. These moments of warmth and camaraderie can be some of the most memorable parts of the trip.

The Downside: Weather-Related Uncertainty

The biggest challenge with northern lights tours like this is predictability. As one reviewer bluntly put it, “We knew it was going to be cloudy, and we didn’t see the aurora,” which is a common frustration. The tour’s success hinges on clear skies, which are beyond anyone’s control. If clouds roll in or the geomagnetic activity drops, your chances of a sighting diminish considerably.

The policy states that if the tour is canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. But if you’re set on a specific night, there’s a risk of being disappointed despite the effort and expense.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is well-suited for travellers who value small-group intimacy, professional photography, and local storytelling over a guaranteed aurora sighting. It’s ideal if you’re okay with the possibility of not seeing the lights but still want a memorable Arctic night with warm food, hot drinks, and expert photos. Those with flexible schedules and a sense of adventure will likely enjoy the personalized approach and scenic stops.

Who This Tour Is Not For

If your primary goal is guaranteed aurora viewing, you might find this tour less satisfying, as the Northern Lights are inherently unpredictable. Similarly, if you prefer a more adventurous or active experience—like snowshoeing or snowmobiling—you might want to explore other options. Also, travelers expecting a large-group, bustling atmosphere may find this too quiet or personal.

Final Thoughts

For $185, this tour offers an authentic, intimate way to chase the Northern Lights with a professional photographer’s touch. Its strengths lie in the small group size, the focused photographic guidance, and the scenic stops that enhance the overall experience. The inclusion of local food and hot drinks adds comfort, making it a cozy Arctic adventure.

However, the weather-dependent nature means that patience and flexibility are key. If you’re seeking a relaxed, personalized night under the Arctic sky and are prepared for the possibility of no aurora, this tour can be quite rewarding. It’s best for those who want a memorable, picture-perfect experience rather than a guaranteed spectacle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Will I see the northern lights on this tour?
While the tour maximizes your chances with multiple stops and expert guidance, your opportunity depends heavily on weather and geomagnetic activity. No one can guarantee a sighting.

What is included in the price?
The main features are transportation, stops at up to three locations, hot drinks, Lappish sausages, and the professional photos taken during the evening.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 8:00 pm and returning to the meeting point afterward.

Can I cancel if the weather looks poor?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. The tour is weather-dependent, and cancellations due to poor conditions are handled accordingly.

Is the group size always limited to eight?
Yes, the maximum group size is eight travelers, providing a more personalized experience.

What if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves traveling by minibus and walking to stops, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are permitted. However, specific age restrictions are not mentioned, so it’s best to inquire directly with the supplier.

What should I wear during the tour?
Dress warmly in layers, including insulated outerwear, hat, gloves, and waterproof boots—it can get very cold at night.

Are photos included?
Yes, the professional photographer guide will take pictures, and downloadable photos will be provided after the tour.

Can I book this tour for a specific date?
Yes, you can choose your date, but keep in mind the tour’s availability and weather conditions.

In the end, this Northern Lights tour offers a cozy, personal, and photographic Arctic night. If you’re OK with the weather unpredictability and value intimate experiences with high-quality photos, it can be a wonderful choice. Just keep your expectations flexible and pack warmly—you might just catch that elusive green glow in the Arctic sky.