Northern Lights Snowmobile Hunt

The Northern Lights Snowmobile Hunt in Rovaniemi, Finland, offers an exciting blend of adventure and chance — all for about $185 per person. We’re talking about a 3 to 4-hour trip that whisks you out of the city and into the snowy wilderness, where you’ll hop aboard a two-person snowmobile and chase the elusive auroras. The tour includes hotel pickups and drop-offs, which makes the logistics straightforward in this remote, winter wonderland.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the combination of snowmobiling and aurora hunting means you get two memorable activities in one go, saving you from booking separate excursions. Second, the friendly, knowledgeable guides keep safety and fun front and center, making sure you feel confident even if you’re new to snowmobiling. The option to upgrade to a solo ride adds a bit of personal freedom for those who prefer to steer alone.

A word of caution: Northern Lights sightings are never guaranteed—they depend heavily on weather conditions and solar activity. Also, the ride itself is relatively short, about 30-45 minutes of actual snowmobiling, which some might find too brief for the price. It’s best suited for travelers who love outdoor adventures, don’t mind cold nights, and are eager for a genuine Arctic experience. If you’re traveling with family, children over 12 and those tall enough to sit on the snowmobile will find this trip especially enjoyable.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines aurora hunting with snowmobiling, saving time and effort.
• Guided safety: Experienced guides prioritize safety and fun, especially at night.
• Flexible options: Upgrade to single rider for more control and adventure.
• Weather-dependent: Aurora sightings aren’t guaranteed, so patience is key.
• Family friendly: Suitable for kids over 12; younger children can sit on the sled.
• Includes essentials: Equipment, hot snacks, and hotel transfers are part of the package.

A Practical Guide to the Northern Lights Snowmobile Hunt

If you’re looking for a memorable Arctic adventure, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of excitement, comfort, and authentic wilderness. We loved the way the tour seamlessly combines two major attractions—the thrill of snowmobiling and the magic of spotting the Northern Lights. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want to maximize their time and avoid the hassle of multiple bookings. The included hotel transfers mean you don’t have to worry about transportation after a late evening, and the gear provided keeps you warm and safe as you zip through snowy forests and open plains.

What’s particularly appealing about this tour is the guides’ professionalism and friendliness. Several reviews mention guides like Matias and others as being fun, knowledgeable, and attentive—important factors when you’re operating snowmobiles at night in potentially tricky conditions. It’s this careful oversight that makes the experience accessible to newcomers while still exciting for seasoned snowmobilers.

One of our favorite features is the campfire stop. After riding through the crisp, quiet snowscape, you’ll settle around a fire with hot sausages and drinks. Some reviews noted that pre-cooked sausages might be more convenient than cooking over open flames, but the cozy campfire atmosphere remains a highlight. A few travelers also mentioned that there’s no toilet facility at the camp, so it’s worth being prepared for that.

However, some travelers have pointed out that the snowmobiling portion is relatively short—about 30 to 45 minutes. If you’re seeking hours of riding, this might feel a bit brief for the price. But for many, the focus is more on the thrill of the night ride and the hope of seeing the Northern Lights, rather than the length of the ride.

This tour is best suited for those ages 12 and up, with drivers required to hold valid licenses and be at least 18. The group size is capped at 40 travelers, which helps maintain a comfortable, personal atmosphere. As with all outdoor activities in winter, packing warm clothing and being prepared for cold weather is essential.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at Maakuntakatu 29 in Rovaniemi, with pickup between 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm—be sure to confirm your exact time. Once picked up, you’ll head out into the snowy landscape, where you’ll meet your guides and receive a safety briefing. The actual snowmobile ride kicks off after a brief introduction to the vehicles.

Expect to share a snowmobile in pairs—a driver and a passenger—each ride lasting around 30-45 minutes. If you prefer solo riding, there’s an upgrade available, which many travelers see as a worthwhile investment for more independence and control.

During the ride, you’ll traverse snowy forests, open fields, and possibly frozen lakes, all under starry skies. Riding at night adds a layer of excitement, with the chance to spot the shimmering Northern Lights overhead. The guides often stop at a remote camp, where you can sit around a campfire—warm with hot drinks, and possibly sausages roasting over the flames.

The return journey is straightforward, ending back at the meeting point. Most tours conclude around midnight, giving you a late but memorable Arctic adventure.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

Authentic reviews reflect a mix of admiration and helpful tips. Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides; one review mentions Matias as “stupendo,” highlighting the personal touch that small group guides often provide. The safety and fun during snowmobiling at night are repeatedly emphasized, as guides keep everyone protected.

Some reviews mention that the experience is “well worth it,” especially when they caught glimpses of the auroras. Others, however, pointed out that the short ride and price could be limiting. For example, one traveler felt it was “way too expensive for the short distance”, but still acknowledged that it was a “great experience,” especially if you’re after the thrill and the chance to see the lights.

Food and facilities at the campfire stop drew mixed reactions—some appreciated the cozy atmosphere with sausages, while others suggested pre-cooked food might be more practical. The absence of toilet facilities was also noted, so plan accordingly.

The guides’ expertise and the safety measures are often highlighted as major positives, giving confidence to those new to snowmobiling or night-time outdoor adventures.

What to Expect and How to Prepare

You’ll meet at Maakuntakatu 29 at 8:00 pm (or earlier, depending on your booking confirmation), ready to hop into your gear. Bring warm clothing, including thermal layers, hats, gloves, and sturdy boots—the Finns aren’t joking about the cold. The tour provides equipment, but dressing warm is on you.

The snowmobiles are designed for pairs, which means sharing the ride unless you upgrade to a solo ride. Sharing may be a bit cozy or even challenging if you’re eager to control the sled, so consider the upgrade if solo riding appeals to you.

While the Northern Lights are not guaranteed, the tour’s timing during the dark winter months gives you the best shot. Be patient, as aurora viewing depends on weather and solar activity—luck plays a big part.

Final Thoughts: Who is This Tour Perfect For?

This snowmobile and Northern Lights tour is most appealing to adventure seekers who value authentic outdoor experiences and don’t mind the cold. Families with children over 12 will appreciate the safe, guided environment, especially if the kids are excited about snowmobiling. Those looking for a combination of thrill and culture will find it rewarding.

If you’re someone who prefers longer rides or more private, personalized experiences, this may feel somewhat rushed or commercialized, as some reviews suggest. But if your goal is to combine a scenic snowmobile ride with the hope of catching the auroras, you’ll likely find this tour both fun and memorable.

Overall, it offers a solid balance of adventure, comfort, and authentic Arctic charm, making it a worthwhile addition to your Lapland itinerary—especially if you’re keen to experience the thrill of snowmobiling under the night sky.

FAQs

How long does the snowmobile ride last?
Expect about 30 to 45 minutes of actual snowmobiling, depending on the group size and weather conditions.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity, so while the tour maximizes your chances, it’s not guaranteed.

Can children participate?
Yes, children over 12 can join, and they can sit on the back of the snowmobile. Children under 12 might be able to sit on the sleigh, depending on their height.

Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, drivers must have a valid driving license and be at least 18 years old.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price includes snowmobiling equipment, hot snacks, drinks around the campfire, and hotel transfers.

What if I want to ride alone?
You can upgrade to a solo ride, which is available for an additional cost.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides provide safety instructions, and most travelers find it manageable even without prior snowmobiling experience.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in thermal layers, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots. The equipment provided helps, but staying warm is up to you.

How large are the groups?
Up to 40 travelers, which keeps things manageable but still lively.

What happens if the weather is poor?
Tours may be canceled or rescheduled, and you’ll be offered a full refund or a different date if weather conditions aren’t suitable for snowmobiling or aurora viewing.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Arctic adventure, wrapped in the comfort of guide-led safety and included amenities. If the idea of zipping across snow under the stars appeals—and you’re okay with the unpredictability of nature—this could be a highlight of your Finnish winter trip.