Northern Lights Hunting Adventure in Lapland

Northern Lights Hunting Adventure in Lapland

Imagine spending a crisp winter night in Lapland, driving through snow-covered forests and across frozen lakes, all in pursuit of the elusive Northern Lights. For $226 per person, you get a 7-hour adventure led by a knowledgeable Aurora guide, who’ll do everything possible to increase your chances of witnessing this breathtaking natural display. The tour starts in Rovaniemi, with pick-up options for those staying outside the city center, and takes you deep into the wilderness—sometimes up to 400 kilometers away—to find clear, dark skies.

What we love most about this experience is the personalized approach; with only a maximum of 8 people, you’ll get plenty of attention from your guide, who’s equipped with a professional camera to capture the magic. The second feature that stands out is the flexibility—your guide constantly checks weather and solar activity forecasts, adjusting routes so you’re best positioned for the lights, rather than sticking to a rigid schedule.

However, a potential consideration is the reliance on weather conditions. If the skies remain cloudy or the solar activity is low, your chances of seeing the Aurora diminish, regardless of how much effort is put in. This is true of any Northern Lights tour, but it’s worth mentioning because real-life reviews highlight that sometimes the weather doesn’t cooperate.

This tour suits travelers who are eager for an authentic Arctic experience, enjoy scenic drives, and are patient enough to wait out the weather. If you’re flexible, open to long drives, and genuinely want the best shot at seeing the Aurora, this tour could be a great choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Personalized experience with small groups (up to 8 people), ensuring more individual attention.
• Flexible routes based on weather and solar forecasts maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora.
• Long drives into the wilderness provide stunning scenery and a genuine Arctic adventure.
• Professional photography captures your moments, with pictures sent the next day.
• Eco-conscious approach—your emissions are offset through tree planting.
• Limited in-city pickups promote sustainable tourism, requiring you to meet at the tour office if staying in Rovaniemi center.

A Deep Dive into the Northern Lights Hunting Adventure

Setting the Scene: What Makes This Tour Special?

If you’re dreaming of catching the Northern Lights, this tour is designed with that goal front and center. For 7 hours, you’ll be out in the dark, cold Arctic night, with the chance to see one of nature’s most mesmerizing phenomena. The tour’s key appeal is its flexibility—your guide, Matus or others, constantly monitor weather conditions and solar activity, adapting routes to find the clearest skies.

What makes this approach valuable is that it isn’t just a fixed schedule; it’s an ever-changing chase, which increases the likelihood of a sighting. As one reviewer noted, “Although it was cloudy, our guide did his best and drove us until the Russian border to see the Northern Lights.” That kind of dedication can make a big difference, especially when the sky is less cooperative.

The Itinerary: What Can You Expect?

The tour begins with gathering your warm clothes and boots, since temperatures can plunge to -30°C. The guides provide professional winter clothing—think insulated overalls and sturdy boots—so you can focus on the experience without worrying about the cold. Once dressed, your guide will pick you up or meet at the designated office (Rovakatu 24) in Rovaniemi.

From there, the adventure kicks off with a drive into the wilderness. Depending on weather reports, routes can take you up to 400 kilometers away from the city, into areas with less light pollution and a higher chance of clear skies. During the drive, your guide will check the latest forecasts, and you might stop at several different locations—lakes, hilltops, or forested clearings.

Several reviews emphasize the scenic beauty of these drives. One reviewer, David, shared, “We loved the way our guide drove us until the Russian border to get better views.” These scenic routes aren’t just for finding the lights—they’re also a chance to take in the Arctic silence and natural beauty of Finnish Lapland.

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The Experience at Each Stop

Expect short stops for hot drinks and light snacks, which help keep your energy up during the long night. The guide uses a professional camera to photograph you and the Aurora, capturing moments that are often more stunning than what the naked eye can see. The photos, sent to you the next day, provide a wonderful souvenir of your Arctic adventure.

One significant aspect of the experience is its small group size. Limiting the tour to eight people means you aren’t lost in crowds, and the guide can tailor the experience to your interests and needs. This is especially valuable in a pursuit as unpredictable as Aurora viewing, where patience and individual attention matter.

Weather and Aurora Conditions

Since the Aurora is a natural phenomenon, no tour can guarantee its appearance. The guide’s continuous monitoring of weather forecasts and solar activity helps optimize your chances, but cloudy skies or low solar activity can still mean no show. One reviewer pointed out that “they start the trip at a fixed time even if the weather isn’t great,” which can sometimes feel frustrating if you’re eager to see the lights immediately.

However, the flexibility to drive to different locations during the night is a huge plus. If things aren’t looking promising at one spot, your guide can quickly adapt and head to a different area, increasing your odds of catching that magical glow.

Transportation and Comfort

Transportation is by minivan, designed to be comfortable even in cold weather. The pick-up and drop-off service outside Rovaniemi city is included, although if you stay farther out, there might be an extra surcharge. The tour operates rain, snow, or shine—meaning you’ll be out in whatever weather occurs, so appropriate clothing is essential.

The Cost and What You’re Getting

At $226 per person, this tour might seem pricey, but considering the personalized service, transportation, professional photography, and the potential for a once-in-a-lifetime sighting, many travelers find it to be good value. The fact that emissions are offset through tree planting adds an eco-friendly dimension that many appreciate.

Authentic Arctic Experience

What sets this tour apart from some larger, more commercial options is its focus on authenticity. No mass tourism here—groups are limited, and the effort to chase clear skies makes each trip a unique adventure. You’ll love the scenic drives, the quiet, snowy landscapes, and the sense of adventure that comes with hunting for the Aurora in the vast wilderness.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who are willing to wait patiently and enjoy long drives through scenic Arctic landscapes. If you have flexible expectations—understanding that the Aurora is a natural occurrence and not guaranteed—you’ll appreciate the effort put into maximizing your chances. It’s especially suitable for those who value small groups and personalized attention.

People who enjoy photography will benefit from the professional pictures sent afterward, and those interested in sustainable tourism will like that their emissions are offset. However, if you are not comfortable with cold weather or long drives, or if you’re traveling with very young children, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

The Northern Lights Hunting Adventure in Lapland provides a well-rounded, authentic Arctic experience. With a focus on maximizing your chances of seeing the Aurora, it offers scenic drives, small-group intimacy, and professional photography—all in the stunning backdrop of the Finnish wilderness. It’s suitable for those who are patient, eager for a personalized adventure, and ready to embrace the unpredictability of nature.

While the success of spotting the lights depends on weather and solar activity, the guides’ dedication and flexible approach mean you’ll get a memorable and genuine experience. If your goal is to try your luck in the Arctic night, this tour could very well be your best shot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers the Northern Lights hunting adventure, professional winter clothing and boots, hot drinks and snacks, a professional guide with a camera, photos sent afterward, and taxes and fees.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, with the starting time depending on availability and weather conditions.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, hotel pick-up and drop-off are included if your accommodation is outside Rovaniemi city center, though additional charges may apply if you stay further away.

What should I bring?
Bring water and warm clothing suitable for Arctic winter, as temperatures can drop to -30°C. The tour provides winter gear, but layering is advised.

Can I cancel if the weather looks bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. However, since the Aurora is weather-dependent, no sighting can be guaranteed.

What happens if the Aurora doesn’t appear?
There are no guarantees, but the tour’s flexible routing and expert forecasts give you a better chance. The guide will do everything possible to find clear skies.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 8 years due to the cold and long hours outdoors.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, guides are experienced, monitor weather and solar activity, and are equipped with professional cameras to capture your moments.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Is this experience environmentally responsible?
Yes, the tour offsets travel emissions by planting trees, reflecting a commitment to sustainable tourism.

If you’re eager to chase the Northern Lights and enjoy a personalized Arctic adventure, this tour offers an authentic and well-organized way to make it happen. Just remember—patience, warm clothes, and a bit of luck are key.

You can check availability for your dates here: