Aurora Arctic Ice Floating in Rovaniemi, Small-group

Experience the Arctic like never before with the Aurora Arctic Ice Floating tour in Rovaniemi. For around three hours, you’ll journey to a dark, remote Arctic lake, far from city lights, where the night sky promises stunning views of the Northern Lights—if luck is on your side. Led by friendly guides, you’ll don thermal waterproof suits, then gently float in an ice hole at the lake’s center, gazing skyward as stars twinkle above. Afterward, warm drinks, cookies, a campfire, and a cozy wooden cabin await to keep you comfortable and share the true spirit of Lapland.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines adventure and comfort. The suits are designed to keep you warm even in freezing temperatures—one reviewer noted that even at -28°C, they stayed cozy. Plus, the intimate group size (maximum 15 travelers) means you can enjoy personalized attention and authentic camaraderie. We also appreciate the effort to include hot drinks and cookies, making the evening feel like a true Lapland gathering rather than just a tour.

A potential consideration? Since the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, there’s no guarantee you’ll see them on every night. But with tours running from autumn through spring, your chances are high. Also, this activity requires a moderate level of physical fitness—climbing stairs and moving in water—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with some physical activity.

This tour is ideal for travelers who crave a mix of adventure, comfort, and the chance to witness the Northern Lights in a unique setting. If you’re curious about Arctic waters, enjoy outdoor experiences with warm clothing, and want a memorable story to tell, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

Key Points

• Unique Arctic experience: Float serenely in an ice hole at night, under the stars and hopefully the Northern Lights.
• All-inclusive comfort: Waterproof thermal suits, hot drinks, cookies, and a cozy wooden cabin make the experience warm and inviting.
• Small group intimacy: Max 15 travelers, ensuring personalized guides and a friendly atmosphere.
• Natural unpredictability: The Northern Lights are a natural occurrence—sightings depend on weather and solar activity.
• Hassle-free logistics: Round-trip transportation from Rovaniemi makes logistics simple and stress-free.
• Physical requirement: Moderate fitness needed, including the ability to climb stairs and move comfortably in water.

A Deep Dive into the Arctic Ice Floating Experience

If you’re thinking about what makes this tour stand out, it’s the blend of adventure and comfort that sets it apart. Floating in ice-cold water is inherently thrilling, but Nordic Adventures has designed this experience so that the cold becomes an afterthought thanks to the thermal suits. Several reviewers noted how surprised they were to stay warm, even in sub-zero temperatures. One said, “we weren’t cold at all,” which is a testament to the quality of the gear and the professionalism of the guides.

The location plays a big role in the appeal. The tour departs from Rovaniemi’s tourist information center, a convenient starting point, and then just a 25-minute drive takes you to a dark, pristine Arctic lake. Here, away from electric lights and city glow, the sky reveals its starry splendor—perfect for catching the Northern Lights if they appear. The guides provide helpful tips on how to increase your chances, although nature always has the final say.

The floating activity itself is simple but exhilarating. You’ll be instructed on how to safely enter and enjoy the ice hole, and many reviews describe the sensation as “indescribable.” One traveler shared, “the feeling of floating in the icy water was amazing, and I stayed in for nearly an hour.” The suits act as a barrier against the cold, maintaining body heat while allowing you to relax and take in the silent beauty of the Arctic night.

After the dip, the tour continues with warm drinks and cookies around a fire or in a heated cabin, offering a cozy contrast to the icy waters. In one review, a guest called it “an incredible night of gingerbread cookies and warming tea,” emphasizing how these small comforts elevate the experience from mere adventure to a warm, memorable evening.

The Practical Details

The tour lasts approximately three hours, giving ample time for transportation, preparation, the floating experience, and relaxation afterward. The price of $145.13 per person is reasonable given what’s included: thermal suits, transport, hot drinks, cookies, and all fees and taxes. Since the suits are designed to keep you warm, you might think the price is high, but reviewers consistently say it’s a good value for a once-in-a-lifetime Arctic experience.

You’ll meet at the Rovaniemi Tourist Information at 7:00 pm, and the activity begins with a safety briefing, gear fitting, and some helpful tips from guides like Alex, Pedro, or Victor—each praised in reviews for their friendliness and professionalism. The small group size enhances safety and makes the experience more personal and enjoyable.

While the activity is open to ages 14 to 65 and has a maximum weight of 110 kg, it does require some physical fitness—climbing stairs and moving comfortably in water. Travelers with a fear of dark water should consider this, but most reviews highlight how surprisingly comfortable and enjoyable the activity is, even for beginners.

What to Expect on the Itinerary

Once the group is gathered, you’ll take a short drive to the remote Arctic lake. Here, guides will give safety instructions, demonstrate how to use the suits, and share tips for floating. You’ll then enter the ice hole—most describe it as “surprisingly warm” thanks to the suits, with one reviewer mentioning they stayed in near an hour.

Around the water, you’ll have stunning views of the night sky, with the chance to see the Northern Lights. Though sightings aren’t guaranteed, the guides do their best to pick the best locations and times. You might also enjoy some fun moments racing or floating with fellow travelers, making the experience playful and social.

Post-dip, you’ll gather around an open fire, sip hot drinks, nibble on cookies, and perhaps relax in a heated cabin. Many reviewers mention how this downtime is just as memorable as the floating, providing a genuine sense of connection and warmth in the chilly Arctic air.

Authenticity and Local Insights

One thing that shines through in reviews is the quality of guides like Alex and Pedro, who share insights into Finnish life and culture, adding depth and friendliness to the experience. You’ll appreciate the attention to safety, the small-group atmosphere, and the genuine enthusiasm guides have for sharing their Arctic homeland.

While the Northern Lights remain unpredictable, participants feel the experience is worth it regardless of the sky’s display, thanks to the thrill of floating in Arctic waters, the cozy communal atmosphere, and the stunning natural surroundings.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour suits curious travelers eager to try something different and memorable. If you enjoy outdoor adventures, don’t mind some cold and physical activity, and want an authentic Arctic experience with a friendly guide, you’ll love this tour. It’s also perfect for those who want a combination of adventure, comfort, and the chance to see the Northern Lights without the pressure of a guaranteed sighting.

Travelers with a moderate fitness level will find it accessible, but those afraid of dark water or with mobility issues should consider their comfort level. The small group size makes for a more personalized experience, ideal for travelers wanting to connect with others or seek a more intimate Arctic adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Rovaniemi to the Arctic lake is included, making logistics simple and stress-free.

What should I wear?
While winter clothing isn’t included, the thermal waterproof suits provided will keep you warm in the water. You should wear warm layers underneath, especially in hands and feet, for extra comfort.

Can I guarantee seeing the Northern Lights?
Since the Northern Lights depend on natural conditions, sightings cannot be guaranteed. Tours run from autumn to spring to maximize your chances.

How physically demanding is the activity?
It requires moderate fitness—climbing stairs, moving comfortably in water, and some standing or walking. Travelers should be able to handle these activities.

Is the activity suitable for children?
The minimum age is 14, and the maximum weight is 110 kg, so it’s best suited to teenagers and adults who are comfortable in cold water and outdoor activities.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

What’s included in the price?
Thermal rescue floating suits, transportation, hot drinks, cookies, and all fees and taxes are included.

Final Thoughts

The Aurora Arctic Ice Floating tour in Rovaniemi offers a rare chance to combine Arctic waters, starry skies, and the Northern Lights in a safe, well-organized setting. The experience’s highlight is the surreal feeling of floating in icy waters while staying warm thanks to excellent gear and guides’ expertise. It’s a memorable adventure that appeals to those looking for authentic, active, and cozy Arctic moments.

With small groups and attentive guides, you’ll feel cared for while enjoying nature’s grand show. Whether you see the Northern Lights or not, this adventure feels genuine, fun, and worth every penny for travelers seeking a story to tell back home.

The Sum Up

This tour is especially perfect for travelers who want to experience the Arctic in a way that blends nature’s beauty with outdoor fun. It’s suited for those comfortable with some physical activity and eager for an authentic Lapland experience. The small-group format and warm gear make it accessible and personal, fostering genuine moments of awe and connection.

If you’re interested in a safe, enjoyable, and truly unique Arctic adventure, this floating experience in Rovaniemi should be high on your list. It’s a great choice whether the Northern Lights put on a show or not, because the sense of floating in icy waters under a starry sky is unforgettable in itself.

Enjoy your Arctic adventure, and keep your camera ready—just in case those elusive Northern Lights decide to make an appearance.