Rovaniemi: Guaranteed Ultimate Aurora Hunt with Photographer

Imagine spending a long winter night chasing the elusive Northern Lights in the Arctic. This 10-hour tour from Rovaniemi offers just that—an honest attempt to find the Aurora Borealis in some of the most remote and dark locations in Lapland, Finland. The experience costs $369 per person and promises unlimited time and mileage, guided by professionals who know how to find clear skies and the best spots for viewing.

What drew us to this tour? First, the emphasis on finding dark skies far from city lights really appeals to anyone who’s ever been disappointed by light pollution. Second, the professional photography service stands out—knowing you can get high-quality photos of the Northern Lights without lugging your own camera gear is a real bonus.

One consideration? With a focus on chasing clear skies and ideal conditions, the success can sometimes depend on Mother Nature’s mood. And while the tour is long, it’s also quite flexible—potentially extended if the auroras are dancing above.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who want to maximize their chances of seeing the Aurora in a comfortable setting. If you’re a photography enthusiast, you’ll also appreciate the professional photos included in the package. But if you’re expecting guaranteed sightings despite cloudy weather, keep in mind that seeing the Aurora depends heavily on weather and solar activity.

Key Points

• Flexible, all-night Aurora hunting with no time or distance restrictions
• Pick-up in Rovaniemi from outside the city center, with comfortable transportation
• Professional guide and photographer, capturing your experience
• Remote, dark locations chosen for optimal Aurora visibility
• Longer-than-average tour (minimum of 6 hours, with potential extension)
• Small group size (up to 8 participants) for personalized attention

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Look at the Aurora Hunt Experience

The idea of spending a night in the Arctic searching for the Northern Lights sounds magical—and it can be. But it’s also good to understand what you’re signing up for. This tour is run by Wonderlapland and designed specifically for those eager to chase the Aurora with serious effort and expert guidance. It’s not about quick stops or rushing—you’ll get at least 6 hours of solid hunting, and possibly more if conditions warrant.

The Itinerary and Locations

What makes this tour stand out is the unlimited mileage and time. Guides are free to venture as far afield as needed—be it lakes, hills, snowy roads, or even crossing borders into neighboring countries like Sweden or Norway. This flexibility is a major plus because it means your chances of seeing the Aurora improve dramatically compared to shorter, more fixed schedules.

The pickup is from anywhere outside Rovaniemi’s city center, which is convenient for those staying in different accommodations. Once picked up, you’re transported in a comfortable, warm vehicle—something that’s crucial when waiting in cold conditions. The guides, usually two per group, work to analyze radars and aurora metrics, seeking out cloud-free skies and the best spots for viewing.

The Search for Aurora

One reviewer highlights that even when the weather forecast was cloudy around Rovaniemi, the guides successfully located a cloudless zone in Sweden. According to them, the guides’ skill in analyzing weather and aurora activity was impressive: “They analyzed radars and aurora metrics and successfully found a cloud-free spot,” which allowed for beautiful photos of the auroras—even when conditions seemed unfavorable.

However, not everyone is guaranteed to see the Northern Lights with their own eyes. As one traveler noted, “We were not able to see the Aurora with our eyes,” though they remain hopeful the photos might reveal some glimpses. This is a reminder that the Aurora is unpredictable, especially if solar activity isn’t strong, but the professional photos ensure you’ll have a record of the night.

Photography and Memories

A standout feature is the professional photography. Guides carry long-exposure cameras on stands, taking stunning images of the Aurora and their guests. This means you don’t need to worry about bringing your own camera gear or fiddling with settings in the dark—your memories will be preserved beautifully. Many travelers appreciated this service, as it allowed them to enjoy the experience without worrying about capturing the perfect shot.

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Duration and Comfort

The tour lasts a minimum of 6 hours, which is longer than most Aurora hunts. This extra time is important because it offers multiple opportunities for the Aurora to appear and gives guides plenty of flexibility to find clear skies. The tour may extend if conditions stay promising, ensuring you get the most out of your Arctic night.

Comfort is addressed with winter overalls and snow boots, provided to keep you warm and dry. The small group size (up to 8 clients) means a more intimate experience, with plenty of opportunity for questions and personalized attention.

Value and Cost

At $369 per person, this tour is priced in line with other premium Aurora experiences. The inclusion of hotel pickup, professional guides, winter gear, and photos adds substantial value, especially considering the long duration and flexible itinerary. Compared to shorter tours that might only stay local, this approach maximizes your chances—though, as always, the Northern Lights’ visibility remains partly a matter of luck.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a serious Aurora hunt and value expert guidance and photography. If you’re a night owl willing to venture far from the city and enjoy the Arctic outdoors, you’ll appreciate the remote locations and dark skies. Photography enthusiasts will love the chance to get professional shots. However, if your primary goal is a guaranteed Aurora sighting regardless of weather, remember that the experience is weather-dependent and not guaranteed to produce visible auroras for everyone.

The Sum Up

For those willing to spend a night in the snow, this Aurora tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and professionalism. The unlimited mileage and time provided by guides make it one of the best options in Rovaniemi for maximizing your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights. The inclusion of professional photos adds a tangible memory to an already spectacular experience.

If you’re a traveler who values authentic Arctic wilderness, expert guidance, and the thrill of a long night under the stars, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially recommended for those who don’t mind leaving the city behind and are prepared for a flexible, potentially extended hunt for one of nature’s most fleeting displays.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from outside the Rovaniemi city center, in a comfortable vehicle suited for Arctic weather.

How long does the tour last?
The minimum duration is 6 hours, but it can be extended depending on weather and Aurora activity, often making it a full 10-hour experience.

Can I see the Northern Lights with my own eyes?
Visibility depends on weather and solar activity. One review noted they did not see the auroras with their eyes, but professional photos captured the experience.

What gear is provided?
You will be supplied with winter overalls and snow boots so you stay warm during waiting periods outside.

Is food included?
No, food is not included in the price, so plan to bring snacks or dinner if desired.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its unlimited mileage and time allow guides to chase the best conditions and locations, increasing your chances of seeing the Aurora.

Is it suitable for children or family groups?
While not explicitly stated, the small group size and focus on comfort suggest it can be suitable, but check with the provider for family-specific arrangements.

What language options are available?
Guides speak several languages, including French, English, Spanish, Catalan, and Persian, making it accessible for many travelers.

In the end, this tour offers a genuine, flexible approach to chasing the Northern Lights in Lapland, combining expert guidance, remote locations, and professional photography to turn a winter night into a memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: