When you think of Rovaniemi, the first image that might come to mind isn’t necessarily a smoky barbecue pit, but that shouldn’t be a surprise. The city’s unique setting in Lapland makes it a perfect spot for outdoor culinary experiences that blend authentic Lappish cuisine with adventure. Whether it’s warming up after a snowmobile ride or enjoying a cozy fire with a view of the Northern Lights, Rovaniemi offers a handful of BBQ experiences that are as thrilling as they are tasty. We particularly like the Korouoma Canyon & Frozen Waterfalls Tour, which combines spectacular natural beauty with a traditional Finnish BBQ, and the Husky Safari & Campfire BBQ, where mushing your own team of huskies ends with a hearty outdoor meal. These tours stand out for their authenticity and scenic settings, making them perfect for travelers craving adventure and flavor.
If you’re short on time, the Snowmobile Adventure & BBQ offers a quick, adrenaline-fueled trip with a cozy finish, while the Northern Lights Tour with BBQ provides a stellar chance to combine aurora hunting with a warm meal under the stars. For those who want to experience Finnish wilderness while enjoying a local barbecue, Rovaniemi’s options won’t disappoint.
Quick Overview of Rovaniemi’s Best BBQ Tours
Rovaniemi’s top BBQ experiences include day hikes, snowmobile safaris, husky sled rides, and Northern Lights hunting, each with a focus on outdoor cooking and local flavors. Many tours feature fire-side barbecues, traditional Lappish sausages, and wildlife encounters, with some including full-day wilderness hikes (see the Hike to Frozen Waterfalls of Korouoma). Whether you prefer self-driving husky sleds or guided aurora tours, these options combine spectacular scenery with tasty outdoor meals for a genuine Arctic experience.
Below is a detailed look at each top-rated BBQ experience in Rovaniemi, helping you decide which fits your mood, budget, and adventure level.
1. Rovaniemi: Korouoma Canyon & Frozen Waterfalls Tour with BBQ
At number 1, this tour gives you seven hours of Arctic adventure exploring one of Finland’s most cherished natural sites. You’ll trek through Korouoma’s icy canyons, marvel at frozen waterfalls, and then warm up with a traditional Finnish BBQ around an open fire. The highlight here isn’t just the scenery but the chance to connect with nature on a personal level, thanks to a knowledgeable guide sharing insights about the local flora and fauna. The reviews praise the well-organized nature, friendly guides, and the authentic outdoor meal. The tour’s price of $158 is reasonable given the seven-hour experience and high-quality scenery. It’s perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers who want a full day immersed in Lapland’s icy beauty.
Bottom line: A well-rounded outdoor adventure with stunning views and a cozy BBQ, ideal for travelers wanting both scenery and a hearty meal.
2. Rovaniemi: Guided Wilderness Snowmobile Safari & Barbeque
Number 2 on our list offers a three-hour snowmobile adventure across untouched winter wilderness. This tour stands out because it takes you far from touristy trails, into the heart of Lapland’s pristine landscape. The guided ride includes multiple photo stops, giving you a chance to capture the frozen lakes and snow-laden forests. After an hour of driving, you’ll settle by a fire for grilled sausages—a classic Finnish BBQ—adding a delicious touch to the adrenaline rush. Guests rave about the friendly guides and the authentic outdoor experience, with prices at $124 offering good value for a mid-length tour.
Bottom line: Perfect for thrill-seekers who want a private wilderness experience topped with a warm, outdoor BBQ.
3. Hike to Frozen Waterfalls of Korouoma Including BBQ Lunch from Rovaniemi
For those who prefer a full-day outdoor activity, this seven to eight-hour trek takes you into Korouoma’s stunning canyons with guided hikes that focus on ice formations, frozen waterfalls, and Arctic flora. The trip includes thermal clothing, a bonfire BBQ, and blueberry tea—a hearty way to fuel your adventure. Guests praise the expert guidance, especially for families with children, who enjoy playing in the snow and sliding down icy slopes. The tour’s high rating of 5.0 reflects its quality and immersive nature, at $231.05 per person.
Bottom line: Ideal for active travelers ready for a long hike with authentic outdoor dining in a breathtaking setting.
4. Rovaniemi Husky Safari & Campfire BBQ – 6–10 km Self-Drive
Number 4 offers a self-driven husky sled adventure lasting about four hours. You’ll drive your own sled team through lapland’s snow-covered forests—a thrill for adventure lovers who want to mush their own team. The tour’s secluded farm setting ensures no crowds, and the experience ends with a campfire BBQ, featuring local sausages and warm drinks. Reviewers love the friendly guides and the chance to interact with the dogs. The price of $306.90 reflects the self-drive experience, making it a premium choice for those wanting autonomy and action.
Bottom line: A hands-on husky adventure with a cozy outdoor meal, best suited for experienced outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Rovaniemi: Lapland Northern Lights Tour with BBQ
Number 5 is a three-hour Northern Lights tour that includes a Lappish BBQ by a lake. While the primary goal is aurora hunting, the BBQ dinner under the stars creates a magical atmosphere. The tour is praised for professional guiding and the authentic outdoor setting, with many reviewers noting successful sightings of the Aurora Borealis. Priced at $90, it offers solid value for a short but memorable experience.
Bottom line: Best for travelers eager to combine Northern Lights with outdoor dining in a warm, convivial setting.
$90 per person
6. Rovaniemi: Husky Safari & Campfire BBQ – 6–10 km Self-Drive
This slightly longer self-drive husky tour focuses on exploring Lapland’s wilderness over five hours. You’ll drive through forests and across frozen lakes, meeting friendly huskies along the way. The tour ends with a campfire BBQ, where you can warm up with local sausages and hot drinks. Guests mention the quality of the dogs, the guide’s friendliness, and the beautiful landscape. The price of roughly $306 makes it suited for serious dog lovers and those wanting a full day of mushing.
Bottom line: Authentic self-driven husky experience with a relaxed outdoor meal and plenty of photo opportunities.
7. Rovaniemi Snowmobile Adventure & BBQ – 1 Hour Drive, Small Group
If you’re after a shorter, high-energy trip, this one-hour snowmobile tour is perfect. It’s a more affordable option at $126.75, ideal for first-timers or those on a tight schedule. You’ll drive your own snowmobile on private trails, then gather around a fire for a simple BBQ. Guests highlight the fun of solo riding and the scenic winter landscape. The experience is less physically demanding, making it accessible for most.
Bottom line: A quick but memorable snowmobile ride with a cozy BBQ, suitable for families and beginners.
8. Rovaniemi: Korouoma Canyon Hike and Barbecue Experience
For hiking and outdoor dining lovers, this full-day tour offers about seven hours exploring Korouoma’s icy depths. It features guided hikes, thermal clothing, and a fire-side BBQ lunch, praised for its scenic beauty and family-friendly atmosphere. Reviewers call it “an excellent way to experience Lapland’s outdoors” and recommend it for all ages. At $164.83, it presents great value for a full-day excursion.
Bottom line: The best pick for active travelers wanting guided hikes and authentic outdoor meals.
9. Northern lights hunting photo tour with bbq; small groups
Number 9 offers a three-hour small-group tour focusing on photographing the Aurora. It includes hotel pickup, hot snacks, and a campfire BBQ. Many reviews mention successful Aurora sightings and friendly guides who help with photo tips. All this for just $98.69 makes it one of the more affordable options for Aurora chasers wanting professional guidance and outdoor warmth.
Bottom line: Ideal for photo enthusiasts wanting to capture the Northern Lights with light outdoor dining.
10. Rovaniemi: Autumn Husky Safari & BBQ – 6–10 km Self-Drive
This autumn husky tour offers a self-driven mushing experience amid colorful foliage. Lasting around four hours, it combines forest exploration with a seasonal BBQ offering local flavors. Reviewers mention friendly guides and fun interactions with the dogs. At $259.50, it is well suited for dog lovers and those interested in autumn scenery.
Bottom line: Unique seasonal mushing with a cozy outdoor meal, perfect for families and adventure seekers.
11. Northern Lights Tour with BBQ and drinks
Number 11 is a three-hour guided Aurora tour that includes hot drinks and sausages. The small-group setting and hotel pickup make it convenient, and many reviewers report spectacular aurora displays. At $133.52, it balances value and experience for Aurora enthusiasts wanting a relaxed outdoor evening.
Bottom line: Great for Aurora fans who want easy logistics and a warm outdoor meal.
12. Rovaniemi: Ice Fishing Small Group Tour & Barbeque
Number 12 offers a four-hour ice fishing experience on a private lake, with a cozy BBQ afterward. Reviewers love the professional guidance and the chance to catch fish in a peaceful setting. At $113.49, it’s a great value for those interested in traditional winter fishing combined with outdoor cooking.
Bottom line: Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want a true Arctic fishing experience with authentic outdoor barbecue.
13. Rovaniemi: Aurora hunting and a fireside BBQ experience
This 4-hour tour offers a combination of Aurora hunting and outdoor BBQ, with storytelling about Lapland legends. Many guests enjoy successful Aurora sightings and warm fireside chats. At $126, it’s a well-rounded option for those wanting cultural insights alongside outdoor dining.
Bottom line: A balanced choice for cultural and natural experiences with a hearty outdoor meal.
14. Rovaniemi: Night Tour in Search of the Aurora with BBQ
Number 14 is a three-hour evening Aurora hunt, focusing on finding the Northern Lights with fire-side BBQ. Reviewers appreciate the flexibility to visit multiple locations, and the hot meal keeps everyone warm. The price of $89 makes it an affordable option for Aurora seekers.
Bottom line: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers wanting a guided Aurora hunt with outdoor dining.
$89 per person
15. Rovaniemi: Winter Wonderland Vikaköngäs Hiking Tour & BBQ
This seasonal tour offers a three-hour hike through winter landscapes, with scenic views of snow-covered forests and frozen waterfalls. Guests praise the easy trails and delicious BBQ at the end, with positive reviews about the guides and scenery. At $123, it’s a great choice for nature lovers who want a manageable outdoor adventure.
Bottom line: A scenic winter hike with fire-side BBQ, suitable for all fitness levels.
16. Aurora Hunt with BBQ in Rovaniemi
Finally, this three-hour Aurora hunt emphasizes outdoor comfort, with local sausages and hot drinks around a fire. The friendly guides and small group size ensure a personal experience. Many reviewers mention successful Aurora sightings, making it a popular choice for aurora chasers. At just under $86, it’s an affordable way to try your luck at witnessing the Northern Lights while enjoying a warm outdoor meal.
Bottom line: An economical, guided aurora experience with outdoor BBQ and storytelling.
How to Choose Your Perfect BBQ Experience in Rovaniemi
When selecting your ideal BBQ adventure, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. For full-day scenic hikes and nature immersion, the Hike to Frozen Waterfalls of Korouoma offers a comprehensive outdoor experience. Those seeking adrenaline might prefer the snowmobile or husky safaris, which provide self-driving options for more autonomy (see the Husky Safari & Campfire BBQ).
If your priority is Northern Lights, tours like Northern Lights Hunting with BBQ or Aurora Hunt with BBQ in Rovaniemi maximize your chances with expert guidance and comfortable outdoor setups. Budget travelers will appreciate the shorter Aurora tours at around $85, whereas families or outdoor enthusiasts may prefer full-day options. Book early, especially during peak winter months, to ensure your spot on these unforgettable Arctic culinary adventures.
Rovaniemi offers a diverse selection of BBQ experiences that match every type of traveler—from adventure junkies to nature lovers and Aurora chasers. Whether you opt for a full-day canyon hike or a quick snowmobile dash, you’ll find something that combines spectacular scenery, authentic outdoor cooking, and memorable moments. So gear up, pick your adventure, and start planning your Arctic feast in this winter wonderland—you won’t regret it.