Quick Overview
If you’re heading to Rovaniemi in winter and want to maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, this Aurora Hunting Pro Tour is an excellent choice. At $217.17 per person, it’s priced for those who value a personalized, flexible experience—with no limit on time or distance. The tour lasts roughly 4 to 12 hours, depending on the conditions, and includes hotel pickup, professional photography, and a guarantee that if you don’t see the Aurora, you get your money back.
Two things attract us to this experience: First, the unlimited time and mileage mean your guides will go wherever the best conditions are, rather than rushing to a predetermined spot. Second, the guaranteed photos bring peace of mind—if the Aurora doesn’t show, you won’t leave empty-handed (or with blurry shots). A possible consideration is the need for warm clothing—although you can rent winter gear for an additional fee—and patience, because Aurora hunting requires waiting in cold temperatures and sometimes driving quite far.
This trip suits travelers who want a highly flexible, well-supported Northern Lights experience, especially if you’re eager for professional photos and don’t want to miss out on that once-in-a-lifetime view.
Key Points
- Unlimited time and mileage increase your chances of seeing the Aurora without feeling rushed or limited.
- Professional photography guarantees you’ll have quality photos to remember the moment—if the lights appear.
- The tour adapts to changing weather conditions, moving to the best spots for clear skies.
- Small group size (max 8 guides) ensures a personalized experience and less waiting around.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics, saving you time and effort.
- Refund policy offers peace of mind: if no Aurora is visible, your money is returned.
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In-Depth Review: The Ultimate Aurora Chase in Rovaniemi
Setting the Scene
Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, is famous for its Arctic scenery and, of course, the Northern Lights. This tour, priced at around $217, is designed for those who want to improve their odds of catching the Aurora Borealis in all its glory. The tour lasts roughly 4 to 12 hours, depending on the weather and aurora activity, which is quite flexible. Guides aim to keep you comfortable, with hotel pickup and drop-off included—no need to worry about finding your way in the dark.
What really sets this experience apart is the guaranteed chance to see the lights. If the Aurora doesn’t appear during the night, you get your money back, making this one of the most risk-free ways to chase the Northern Lights. This guarantee is a huge plus for travelers who’ve saved for this once-in-a-lifetime experience but worry about cloudy skies or weak displays.
The Itinerary – How Does It Work?
The tour kicks off at Rovakatu 29 in Rovaniemi at 7:00 pm. Guides are constantly monitoring solar wind activity and weather conditions—crucial for Aurora viewing—so they know when the best moment is to head out. The itinerary is flexible, which is one of this tour’s core strengths: guides will shift locations as needed to find the clearest skies and best viewing spots.
Stop 1: Rovaniemi
Initially, the group starts in the city but quickly moves away from artificial lights. The guides keep an eye on solar activity and cloud cover to determine the best locations. If the forecast looks poor, they’ll postpone or reschedule. We love the attentiveness to weather—nothing worse than spending hours waiting in the cold for clouds to roll in.
Stop 2: Lapland (Nearest Secret Spot)
Next, the adventure moves to a lesser-known spot with open sky, ideal for aurora sightings. If the sky remains cloudy, guides will continue to adjust—a practice highly praised by travelers for maximizing their chances.
Stop 3: Lapland, Sweden
On some nights, the guides will drive across the border into Swedish Lapland, where the skies are often clearer. This can be up to a two-hour drive away from Rovaniemi, but guides are willing to go the distance—literally—to find the perfect viewing conditions. Several reviews mention trips as far as 300 km west to catch the Aurora, demonstrating their commitment.
Final Stop: Return to Rovaniemi
Once the guides are satisfied with the Aurora display, or if the night gets late, they’ll head back, ensuring you’ve had a full, rewarding experience. Throughout, they’re focused on finding the best view and making sure everyone has a chance to photograph the lights professionally.
What’s Included?
Beyond the drive and spot-hopping, the tour provides professional photography—unlimited shots at each location. Many reviewers emphasize how much better these photos are than smartphone shots, with one traveler noting, “We went to multiple spots to find the Aurora and professional photographs were taken at each location.” Plus, warm drinks and cookies keep everyone comfortable, even in sub-zero temperatures.
The small-group size (max 8 participants) enhances the experience, allowing guides to give more personalized attention. Hotel pickup and drop-off mean you don’t need to worry about logistics after a long day of travel.
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What’s Not Included?
You’ll need warm clothing—which you can rent for about $10 per person—or bring your own. Since the tour involves a lot of driving and waiting, packing warm layers, hats, gloves, and insulated boots is essential. Bring snacks if you like, but the tour supplies hot drinks and cookies, which are much appreciated.
The Authenticity and Value
Based on reviews, travelers find this tour offers excellent value for money when considering the guarantee, unlimited time, and professional photos. Several mention guides like Julia and Paul, who persisted in hunting even when weather was challenging—highlighting their dedication.
One traveler raved, “They drove 300 km for us to make us see the Aurora, despite weak activity,” showing their willingness to go the extra mile. Others appreciated the professional photographs, which they say are superior to phone snapshots and a lasting memento.
Timing and Duration
While the tour can last up to 12 hours, many find the extra hours worthwhile to maximize their chances. If the Aurora is visible early, guides will often cut the tour short, but the flexibility means you’re not wasting precious viewing time if cloud cover shifts.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is ideal if you’re dedicated to seeing the Northern Lights and want a low-stress, high-chance adventure. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate professional photos and don’t mind waiting in cold temperatures. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, perfect for those who prefer personalized attention.
Final Thoughts
This Aurora Hunting Pro Tour offers a well-rounded, flexible approach to witnessing one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena. The unlimited time and mileage mean guides are motivated to seek out clear skies, giving you a real shot at a memorable display. The professional photographs and small group size add to the value, making the experience both comfortable and rewarding.
While the cost might seem high, the guarantee and personalized service justify it for anyone eager to see the lights without risking disappointment. The tour is especially suited for travelers who want a carefully planned but adaptable outing, willing to venture far for the best view, and keen on capturing professional-quality photos.
In essence, if your priority is the best chance of seeing the Aurora and getting stunning images while enjoying expert guidance, this tour will serve you well. It combines adventure, flexibility, and peace of mind—a winning formula for a truly memorable Arctic night.
FAQ
What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:00 pm, with pickup from your hotel in Rovaniemi.
How long does the tour last?
It varies from about 4 to 12 hours, depending on weather and aurora activity.
Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package, with travel by minivan or small group vehicle.
What should I bring?
Warm clothing is essential; you can rent winter gear for about $10 per person. Also, bring snacks if desired, though hot drinks and cookies are provided.
What happens if we don’t see the Aurora?
The tour guarantees a full refund if no Aurora appears, thanks to their flexible, weather-dependent approach.
Can I take photos?
Absolutely. The tour provides professional photography with unlimited shots at each location.
Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but specific age policies aren’t detailed here.
What locations do they visit?
They start near Rovaniemi, then move to secret spots with open sky, and sometimes cross into Swedish Lapland for better conditions.
How far will we travel?
Guides are willing to drive several hundred kilometers if needed—your best chance is the priority.
How is the group size?
Limited to 8 participants per guide for a more personalized and comfortable experience.
This tour stands out as an excellent way to chase the Northern Lights with confidence, flexibility, and a focus on quality. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a first-time Aurora seeker, or simply someone who wants to make the most of their Arctic adventure, this experience delivers a thoughtful, well-supported journey into Lapland’s most breathtaking skies.
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