Aurora Ice Floating in Rovaniemi offers a unique twist on Arctic sightseeing—combining the serenity of floating on a frozen Finnish lake with the chance to witness the elusive Northern Lights. For $160.43 per person, you’ll spend roughly three hours immersed in an experience that many travelers find both peaceful and unforgettable. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a dry suit to keep you warm, and hot drinks to warm your hands after your float.
What we really love about this experience is how close you get to nature—floating quietly among icebergs, gazing up at the shimmering auroras in virtually no light pollution. It’s a rare moment of pure calm in a busy world. Also, the guides receive high praise for their helpfulness and friendliness, which makes the experience both enjoyable and safe.
However, one consideration is that the success of seeing the Northern Lights depends heavily on the weather and aurora activity. Overcast skies can obscure the lights, which can be disappointing if you’re hoping for a show. Despite that, many reviewers still found the floating experience magical even without the auroras lighting up the sky.
This tour suits travelers who seek a peaceful, authentic Arctic experience and are comfortable with some outdoor exposure in winter. If you’re keen on small-group adventures and appreciate guided insights, this trip offers a memorable way to connect with Finland’s wilderness.
Key Points
- Unique experience: Floating on a frozen lake while watching for the Northern Lights.
- Comfort and safety: Dry suits and hot drinks are included to ensure warmth.
- Expert guidance: Guides are praised for their helpfulness and friendly attitude.
- Ideal location: Far from light pollution, increasing chances to see the aurora.
- Group size: Usually small, with a maximum of 50 travelers, making it personal.
- Weather dependent: Aurora sightings are not guaranteed, depending on weather and sky conditions.
In-Depth Review of Aurora Ice Floating in Rovaniemi
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What is the Experience Really Like?
When you book the Aurora Ice Floating tour in Rovaniemi, you’re signing up for far more than just a sightseeing activity. It’s an adventure that combines peaceful solitude with the thrill of Arctic nature. Starting with hotel pickup (or a meeting at the central tour office), you’ll head out into the Finnish wilderness—away from city lights, into the quiet, icy beauty of Lapland.
The highlight? Floating in a frozen lake wearing a special dry suit that makes you buoyant and keeps you warm even in near-freezing water. It sounds bizarre—lying back among ice chunks, staring up at the sky. Yet, it’s surprisingly comfortable, thanks to the dry suit designed for Arctic conditions. The guides will assist you in getting suited up, and many reviewers comment on how helpful and friendly the staff are—making even nervous first-timers feel at ease.
The Scenic Setting
Imagine lying on your back, drifting silently in a lake that’s solidly frozen over. The only sounds are your breath and, hopefully, the distant crackle of the auroras overhead. Since you’re far from any city lights, the sky is a canvas for the Northern Lights, flickering and dancing in ways you won’t forget. This environment offers a pristine, unspoiled view of nature—a stark contrast to the busy tourist spots.
Even when the Aurora isn’t visible, many reviewers say the experience is still worth it. The peacefulness of floating alone on a frozen lake is something that sticks with people long after the trip. One traveler described it as “sounds bizarre, doesn’t it,” but added that it’s “so peaceful to just lay in a frozen lake, see almost nothing, besides the hoped-for Northern Lights.”
Practical Details of the Tour
The tour lasts about 3 hours, with the main activity involving about 2 hours of floating time. Transportation is included, with pickup and drop-off at selected Rovaniemi hotels. The meeting point at Safartica in the town center is convenient for most travelers, and the small group sizes (up to 50 participants) help ensure a more personalized experience.
Once floating is over, you’ll warm up with hot drinks, often enjoyed around a campfire or in a cozy tipi, as noted by some reviewers. This is a wonderful way to end the experience, sharing stories and warmth after the icy adventure.
The Good and the Not-So-Good
The value for money is generally considered good, especially given the inclusions—guided assistance, winter clothing, hotel transfers, and hot drinks. Many reviewers felt it was a unique experience at a reasonable price, especially when compared with more expensive Aurora tours or activities with less personal attention.
On the downside, the Northern Lights are unpredictable. Overcast skies can block the view, which disappointed some travelers, as noted in reviews. One person mentioned that the suit was not waterproof, which might be a concern, although most found it sufficiently warm and functional.
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Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers seeking peace and natural beauty, especially those who enjoy quiet, contemplative moments. It’s well-suited for small groups or couples, and families with children over 120cm tall, as children must be accompanied by adults. If you are eager to combine a unique outdoor activity with the chance to see the Northern Lights in a tranquil setting, this tour is a strong candidate.
Why Choose Aurora Ice Floating?
This tour offers something different from the typical Northern Lights chase. Instead of chasing the auroras in a vehicle or from a crowded viewpoint, you get to become part of the Arctic landscape, floating amidst ice and stars. Many reviews highlight the guides’ helpfulness—a crucial factor in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience, especially in such cold environments.
While the weather can be a wildcard, the journey itself—the quiet, the stars, the ice chunks—remains strikingly beautiful. Even for those who don’t see the Aurora, the sensation of floating under an open, star-filled sky is often described as “magic” or “unforgettable.”
Final Thoughts
Aurora Ice Floating in Rovaniemi is a highlight for travelers looking to experience the Finnish Arctic in a tranquil, intimate way. It’s a gentle adventure that emphasizes peace, natural beauty, and authentic Arctic wilderness. The combination of professional guides, inclusive gear, and the chance to float in icy waters makes it a good value, especially for those who want a memorable story to tell.
While aurora sightings are never guaranteed, most find the experience itself rewarding, regardless of the sky’s display. It’s particularly well-suited for those seeking an escape from crowds and an opportunity to connect with nature in a profound way.
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 3 hours, with around 2 hours of floating on the lake.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at selected Rovaniemi hotels.
What should I wear?
The tour provides winter clothing and a dry suit to keep you comfortable and warm during the float.
Can children participate?
Children over 120 cm in height can float, but they must be accompanied by an adult.
What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
Aurora viewing depends on weather and aurora activity. If the sky is overcast, you may not see the Lights, but many still enjoy the peaceful float experience.
Is the activity safe?
Yes, guides are trained, and the dry suits are designed for Arctic conditions, making it a safe activity for most travelers.
Are the group sizes large?
The maximum group size is 50 travelers, but most bookings tend to be smaller, offering a more personal experience.
What’s included in the price?
The price covers transfers, guide service, winter clothing, hot drinks, and all taxes and fees.
How do I book?
Bookings can be made in advance, with most travelers booking about 161 days ahead, to secure their spot.
What is the most important thing to know?
The success of seeing the Northern Lights is weather-dependent. Even if the sky is cloudy, the unique experience of floating in the Arctic remains special.
Whether you’re after a peaceful Arctic moment or the thrill of chasing the Aurora, Aurora Ice Floating in Rovaniemi offers a memorable way to experience Finnish Lapland’s winter wonders. Prepare for serenity, stunning scenery, and perhaps a flicker of green overhead—an experience that will stay with you long after you leave the frozen lake behind.
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