Rovaniemi: Aurora Ice Skating Tour

Rovaniemi: Aurora Ice Skating Tour offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility in the heart of Lapland. For $182 per person, you’ll spend about 3.5 hours exploring a pristine, snow-blanketed lake under the vast northern sky. Led by guides who seem to genuinely love sharing their corner of the Arctic, this tour takes you from the comfort of a small group into the quiet beauty of Lapland’s winter wilderness.

What we really love about this experience is the chance to skate across a frozen lake in such a remote setting—imagine the silence broken only by your blades and the crackle of fresh snow. Second, warming up with hot drinks and cookies beside the fire offers a cozy contrast to the icy open air.

A potential consideration? Weather plays a big role here. If the night sky is cloudy, chances of seeing the Northern Lights diminish, and the tour might be rescheduled or canceled. That’s a small risk in such a wild environment, but it’s worth keeping in mind if you’re counting on a star show.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, appreciate natural beauty, and don’t mind dressing warmly. It’s especially appealing if you want a peaceful, less touristy Arctic experience rather than a high-energy chase after the Northern Lights. Families with children over 8 who can skate might also find this a memorable outing.

Key Points

• Unique Arctic Experience: Glide across a pristine, frozen lake under the stars.
• Great for All Skill Levels: No skating experience required; guides are welcoming and patient.
• Northern Lights Opportunity: Clear skies might gift you with a spectacular aurora display.
• Authentic Settings: Surrounded by snow-laden pines, with a fire and cookies to warm up afterward.
• Small Group Feel: Limited to 8 participants, creating a comfy, intimate atmosphere.
• Weather-Dependent: The sky’s mood can affect the Northern Lights viewing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Aurora Ice Skating Tour

Setting the Scene in Lapland’s Wilderness

We’ll start with transportation, which is typically included in the tour, with pickups and drop-offs arranged from your accommodation. This convenience means you don’t have to worry about navigating snowy roads or finding your way to the remote lake. Once arrived, you’re greeted by an untouched, snow-dusted landscape. The backdrop of towering pines heavy with snow frames the lake, contributing to a scene straight out of a winter fairy tale.

The Ice Skating Experience

For the skating portion, the experience is designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of skill level. Don’t worry if you’re a beginner; guides are there to assist and ensure safety. You’ll be provided with skating equipment—blades, and possibly helmets—so all you need is to wear comfortable, warm shoes and layered clothing.

As you glide across the frozen surface, you’ll notice how exhilarating yet peaceful it feels. We loved the sensation of the cold air on our face and the quiet, almost meditative stillness of the landscape. The vast night sky above offers a dramatic, star-studded canopy. If conditions are just right, the Northern Lights may dance overhead, turning the entire scene into a magical glow.

The Guide and the Experience

One reviewer mentioned how Antoinette, the guide, explained everything in detail about the Northern Lights and the local environment, making the experience both educational and engaging. It’s this kind of knowledgeable guiding that can really enhance your understanding and appreciation of the Arctic environment.

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Post-Skating Cozy Moments

After some time on the ice, you’ll gather around a fire at the lakeside to warm up with hot drinks and freshly baked cookies. This is a thoughtful touch that makes the experience feel authentic and welcoming, giving you a chance to chat with fellow travelers or simply enjoy the quiet beauty of the winter night.

Weather and Aurora Viewing Conditions

While the Northern Lights are a highlight, they’re not guaranteed. The tour relies on favorable weather—clear skies are essential. As one reviewer noted, “Very good hot fruit juice with cookies by the fire. Unfortunately, too much cloud to see the Northern Lights!” That’s the nature of Arctic adventures; patience and a bit of luck are part of the package.

The Value of this Experience

When evaluating the cost of $182, think about what you’re getting. The combination of ice skating in a remote setting, guided insights, cozy refreshments, and the chance (though not a certainty) of witnessing the Northern Lights makes it a worthwhile indulgence. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances active adventure with moments of stillness and warmth.

Perfect For…

This tour is ideal for adventurous souls who love outdoor activities, families with children over 8, and anyone seeking a genuine, less commercial Arctic experience. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate guided insights into nature and want a cozy, memorable evening under the stars.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after adrenaline, high-energy pursuits like snowmobiling or husky safaris might be more your style. But if your priority is experiencing the Arctic landscape in an authentic, peaceful way, this ice skating tour hits the mark. You’ll get to enjoy the silence and beauty of Lapland’s winter, with the added thrill of skating on a frozen lake—something many travelers find both exhilarating and oddly calming.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need prior skating experience? No. This tour welcomes all skill levels, even complete beginners, with guides ready to assist.
• What should I wear? Dress warmly in layers, including comfortable shoes suitable for winter conditions. The guides recommend bringing warm clothing to stay cozy during the outdoor part of the tour.
• Is the Northern Lights guaranteed? Not quite. The Northern Lights depend on weather conditions and aurora activity, which can be unpredictable.
• How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 3.5 hours, including transportation, skating, and time at the fire pit.
• Are children allowed? Children under 8 need to be accompanied by an adult. The tour is generally suitable for older kids who can skate.
• What’s included in the price? Pick-up and drop-off, guided skating, skating equipment, warm drinks, and cookies.
• Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes. The activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for your trip plans.

Final Thoughts

The Rovaniemi Aurora Ice Skating Tour offers a genuine taste of Arctic life—frosty, peaceful, and with a hint of the extraordinary. It’s a chance to glide across icy waters, breathe in crisp mountain air, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. The friendly guides and cozy post-skatefire side chat make it all the more inviting.

This tour suits travelers looking for a memorable, authentic Arctic experience without the rush of more commercialized activities. It’s perfect for those who value natural beauty, a peaceful atmosphere, and the chance to enjoy Lapland’s winter wonderland at a relaxed pace.

If you’re prepared for the cold and enjoy outdoor adventures, this experience will leave you with lasting memories of the quiet splendor of Lapland under the stars. Just remember, while the Northern Lights might make an appearance, the true gift lies in the simple joy of skating in one of the most beautiful places on earth.

You can check availability for your dates here: