Aurora trip and Snowshoes in Lake Rautusjarvi

A Night Under the Northern Lights: Snowshoeing and Aurora Viewing at Lake Rautusjarvi

Imagine standing on a frozen lake, wrapped in warm clothing, with the sky above you suddenly bursting with shimmering colors. That’s exactly what you get with the Aurora trip and Snowshoes in Lake Rautusjarvi near Levi, Finland. This three-hour adventure, offered by Keo Wilderness, combines the thrill of snowshoeing on a truly pristine, icy landscape with the hope of catching a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights. The experience is priced at $0.00, because it’s a package that includes transportation, equipment, and guides—making it a fantastic value for a memorable Arctic night.

From the moment we were picked up at the Levi tourist office, it felt like stepping into a carefully crafted winter outing designed for genuine explorers. The guide, whose enthusiasm was contagious, led us about 15 km away from the city lights to Lake Rautusjarvi, a spot chosen for its wide-open skies and minimal light pollution. Two things really stood out to us: first, the expert guidance and warm hospitality—our guide’s knowledge about Lapland’s legends and local environment added depth to the experience. Second, we loved how the snowshoes made walking on the lake not only feasible but fun, turning what could be a simple walk into a playful adventure.

Of course, the big caveat is that Northern Lights sightings are never guaranteed. Even with perfect conditions, nature has its own schedule. Still, the chance to stand on the ice, surrounded by silence, with a cozy fire and hot drinks, makes the experience worthwhile for anyone eager to embrace the Arctic wilderness. If you’re someone who enjoys outdoor activities, appreciates good guides, and is patient enough to wait for a natural spectacle, this tour is tailored for you. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an authentic, peaceful Arctic night.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Snowshoeing on a frozen lake in the Lapland wilderness offers both adventure and a sense of connection to nature.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights into local legends and the environment.
• Flexible and Comfortable: All necessary equipment is provided, and transportation is included, removing hassles for travelers.
• Memorable Photos: A professional camera captures the best moments, with the top five photos sent to you for free.
• No Guarantee of Aurora: While the lights are a highlight, they depend on natural conditions, so patience is key.
• Great Value: The tour includes hot drinks, snacks, and snowshoes, adding comfort and fun at no extra cost.

Detailed Review: What to Expect from Your Arctic Night

The Journey to Rautusjarvi

The experience begins with a convenient pickup in Levi, making it easy to transition from the bustling resort town into the quiet Lapland wilderness. The vehicle is private, ensuring a comfortable ride, and the journey itself takes you through scenic winter landscapes that spark anticipation. The approximately 15 km drive is often filled with stories and tips from your guide, who is eager to share the lore of Lapland—think about legends of the Northern Lights, Sami culture, and the unique Arctic ecosystem.

Arrival at Lake Rautusjarvi

Once at the lake, you’re greeted with wide, open skies that seem to stretch forever. This is a key point; the absence of city lights means your chances of seeing the Aurora are much higher. The guide helps you gear up with snowshoes, which are surprisingly easy to wear and make walking on the ice much more manageable. We loved how the snowshoes transform the experience into a fun, almost childlike activity; suddenly, standing on a frozen lake becomes an adventure rather than just a walk.

The Snowshoeing Experience

Walking on the lake’s surface is peaceful—crunching snow, the crisp air, and the vastness around you create a profound sense of solitude. The snowshoes allow you to explore the terrain safely and comfortably, giving you the ability to move around and find the best vantage points for viewing the sky. As one reviewer put it, “Standing on the frozen lake and seeing all the stars in the sky was out of this world.” The snowshoeing adds a physical element that makes the experience more immersive, especially for those who enjoy outdoor activity.

The Fire and Hot Drinks

Midway through, the group gathers around a small fire, a thoughtful touch that offers warmth and a cozy atmosphere. The guide provides hot drinks and a cookie, which are perfect comforts after walking on the snow. This moment of warmth is a simple yet meaningful way to connect with the natural surroundings and each other—an essential part of Lapland’s charm.

Waiting for the Northern Lights

Patience is the name of the game. The guide will find the best spot to watch the sky and keep an eye out for auroral activity. While sightings are not guaranteed, many travelers have reported seeing spectacular displays, like the reviewer who described the experience as “simply amazing.” The natural phenomenon depends on solar activity and weather conditions, but the setting—the quiet lake under open sky—maximizes your chances.

The Photos and Memories

One of the highlights is the professional camera used to capture the best moments of your night. You’ll receive the top five photos for free, a thoughtful touch that ensures you leave with tangible memories of this special Arctic evening.

Why This Tour Stands Out

We can see this tour appealing most to travelers who value authentic outdoor experiences over crowded, touristy setups. The combination of snowshoeing, a fireside break, and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights creates a well-rounded adventure. The professional guides and the small group size (max 15 travelers) keep the experience intimate and personalized, something that many reviews emphasize as a real plus.

On top of that, the value is clear. With transportation, equipment, hot drinks, and photos included, it’s a package that offers a lot more than just a chance to see the lights. You’re also getting a taste of Lapland’s natural beauty and culture in a respectful, sustainable way.

Possible Drawbacks

The only downside to consider is the unpredictability of the Aurora Borealis. If viewing the lights is your main goal, it’s important to keep expectations realistic. The tour’s success hinges on nature’s fickle mood, so a cloudy night can mean no show. However, the guide’s expertise in choosing the best viewing location and the cozy fire make the overall experience worthwhile, regardless of the aurora.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for families with children, as the snowshoeing is accessible and the guide makes it engaging for kids. It’s also perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking a peaceful night in the Arctic wilderness. Those with a moderate physical fitness level will find it manageable, as the snowshoeing isn’t overly strenuous. If you’re someone who enjoys authentic, quiet moments in nature with a dash of adventure, this tour will satisfy your curiosity and sense of wonder.

Final Thoughts

The Aurora trip and Snowshoes in Lake Rautusjarvi offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s winter magic. Beyond the potential for a Northern Lights sighting, you get the chance to walk on a pristine frozen lake, enjoy the company of knowledgeable guides, and experience the peaceful solitude that only a northern night in Finland can provide. The inclusion of equipment, transport, hot drinks, and professional photos makes it a thoughtful, well-rounded package that’s excellent value.

While you must accept the unpredictability of nature, the overall experience—combining outdoor activity, cultural insights, and a cozy fireside—delivers far more than just a chance to see the Aurora. It’s about making memories in one of the most beautiful and untouched corners of Europe.

This tour suits travelers who want an authentic, hassle-free Arctic adventure with a good dose of patience and appreciation for natural beauty. It’s especially well-suited for those traveling with family or anyone eager to embrace the quiet beauty of a Finnish winter night.

FAQ

Will I definitely see the Northern Lights?
Not necessarily. Aurora sightings depend on solar activity and weather conditions. The guide will select the best viewing spot, but nature has the final say.

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention families with kids enjoying the snowshoeing and the cozy atmosphere. Just ensure children are comfortable with cold weather and walking on snow.

Do I need to bring thermal clothing?
While the tour provides snowshoes and hot drinks, the tour recommends that you dress warmly, as thermal clothing is not included.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 3 hours, which includes transportation, snowshoeing, waiting, and enjoying hot drinks by the fire.

What is the group size?
The tour has a maximum of 15 travelers, keeping the experience intimate and personalized.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation from Levi is part of the package, making it easy to relax and focus on the experience.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply someone eager to experience the Arctic night sky, this tour offers a fantastic opportunity. It balances adventure, comfort, and cultural charm, making it a highly recommended choice for your Lapland trip.