Unlimited Range Northern Lights Hunt with VIP Van

Experience the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi with Lapin Taivas’s Unlimited Range Northern Lights Hunt

Imagine spending an evening in a spacious, cozy Mercedes Pegabus Van, driving through the dark wilderness of Finnish Lapland, chasing the elusive Aurora Borealis. This tour, priced at around $207 per person, lasts approximately 7 hours, and is tailored for true Aurora hunters—those who want to go beyond the usual and venture into the backcountry in search of clear skies and stunning lights. Led by experienced guides and photographers, this experience is all about flexibility and persistence, with no fixed route and a focus on finding the best viewing conditions.

What we really love about this tour is the unlimited mileage—they travel up to 300+ kilometers if needed—meaning you’re not limited to a single spot or just half-heartedly hoping for a sighting. Instead, you’re taken on the best possible adventure, whether that’s into the wilderness or into areas with minimal light pollution. Plus, the professional photography included ensures that you’ll leave with high-quality images to remember the night. However, one point to consider is that if you have an early activity the next morning, this late-night adventure might be a bit tiring.

This tour suits travelers who value personalized experiences, are willing to go the extra mile (literally) for a good chance at seeing the Northern Lights, and appreciate the comfort of a well-equipped vehicle. It’s perfect for those who dislike the crowded, fixed-route tours and prefer a more tailored, flexible approach to Aurora hunting.

Key Points

• Unlimited Mileage: Travel up to 300+ km to find the clearest skies, avoiding light pollution for optimal Aurora viewing.
• Professional Photos: Get high-quality, professional shots emailed to you within 24-72 hours, captured with top gear.
• Flexible Route: No fixed path—drives are based solely on weather and Aurora forecasts, maximizing your chances.
• Comfort and Convenience: Spacious Mercedes van with WiFi, snacks, and a pick-up/drop-off service within 15 km of Rovaniemi.
• Experienced Guides: Guides use weather reports, solar wind data, and their expertise to find the best viewing spots.
• Late Night: The tour often extends into the early hours, so it’s best for night owls without early next-day plans.

An In-Depth Look at the Northern Lights Hunt

The Itinerary and Experience

Starting at Valtakatu 23 in Rovaniemi, your adventure begins around 7:00 pm, with a convenient hotel pick-up within 15 km of the city center. Once aboard the luxurious, WiFi-equipped Mercedes van, you immediately notice the focus on comfort—crucial after a long day of travel or sightseeing.

Unlike fixed-route tours, Lapin Taivas’s approach is all about chasing the clear sky. The guides are highly skilled, relying on real-time weather forecasts, cloud coverage, and solar activity data to pick the best spots. In 2023-24, their success rate has been impressive—86% overall success and even higher this season at 92%. That’s a significant edge, especially when compared to other tours that may stick to a predetermined route regardless of weather.

You’ll typically visit 2 to 3 different viewpoints during the roughly 6-hour experience, each carefully selected to maximize your odds of witnessing the Aurora. Some reviews highlight the road trip aspect—“it’s a nice drive,” as one guest put it—but the real focus is on finding the perfect viewing spot, not just ticking off a checklist. The journey can take you into Finnish or Swedish Lapland, sometimes reaching remote areas where light pollution is minimal and the natural environment is pristine.

The Food and Comfort

On this tour, there’s no barbecue or sausage-fueled feast—your guides prioritize the Aurora, but they do serve Finnish Pulla (a sweet bread roll) and berry tea to keep you warm and satisfied. The snacks are simple but thoughtful, emphasizing comfort during what can be a long night.

The van’s interior is spacious and warm, with amenities like WiFi, power banks, and cables—meaning you can stay connected, upload photos, or just relax comfortably. Many reviewers mention the professional photography as a standout feature. Guides and photographers use high-end gear, including Sony A7III cameras with Sigma astrophotography lenses, capturing the Northern Lights in full glory. The photos are delivered via email within 24 to 72 hours, a thoughtful gesture that turns a fleeting natural phenomenon into lasting memories.

The Guides and Their Passion

The guides, such as Emin, Chevos, and Han, are repeatedly praised for their dedication, knowledge, and infectious enthusiasm. They are motivated not just by earning a living but by their genuine passion for the Aurora and their desire to make your experience unforgettable. As one guest said, “Emin is an exceptional guide who went above and beyond” to help guests see the lights, even in challenging weather.

Many reviews note the team’s persistence—“Emin kept searching until 7:30 am,” as one guest recounted—highlighting their commitment to maximizing chances for sightings. This relentless pursuit of the Aurora is what we love about this tour from less dedicated operators.

The Realities of Aurora Hunting

Of course, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and no tour can guarantee a sighting. Several reviews acknowledge cloudy nights or low activity but emphasize the value of the journey and the guides’ efforts. For instance, “The northern lights were not the strongest that night. (Not the company’s fault)”, but guests still appreciated the experience, the effort, and the photo opportunities.

This honest approach, combined with a high success rate (86% in 2024-24), reassures travelers that they are making a good investment. Plus, the flexibility of visiting multiple locations dramatically improves the odds of witnessing the Aurora.

Transportation, Group Size, and Price

The tour keeps its group size intimate—maximum 16 guests—ensuring everyone gets personal attention and space. The Mercedes Pegabus is a comfortable, climate-controlled vehicle, making the long drives less taxing. The pickup within 15 km of Rovaniemi is a nice touch, saving you from cold walks or public transport.

At $207.38 per person, the tour’s value hinges on the quality of the experience and the professionalism of guides. When you consider the professional photography, the personalized route, and the chance to go deep into the wilderness, the cost feels justified—especially for Aurora enthusiasts eager for more than just a fleeting glimpse.

Late-night drives and flexible routing mean more time in the dark, which is essential for Aurora viewing but may not suit those with early morning plans. The tour recommends against early commitments the following day, given how late it can run.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re an Aurora chaser who wants to maximize your chances with expert guides—willing to travel far from light pollution—you’ll love this experience. It’s ideal for adventurers who dislike crowded or fixed-route tours and prefer a more personalized, flexible approach. The quality photos and the comfort of the van also appeal to those seeking a luxurious yet authentic Arctic adventure.

Travelers with a sense of patience, a love of road trips, and an appreciation for genuine outdoor experiences will find this tour rewarding. Conversely, if you’re on a tight schedule, have early plans, or prefer a more structured, shorter outing, this might not be the best fit.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
Pickup and drop-off within 15 km of Rovaniemi, WiFi, snacks with soft drinks, a professional photo shoot, and guides speaking English and other languages supported by AI translation are included.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 7 hours, starting at 7:00 pm and often extending into the early hours, with some guests staying out until dawn.

Can I book this tour if I’m traveling alone?
Yes, solo participation is welcomed, and reviews show many guests have had great experiences traveling alone.

What should I wear?
While winter clothing is not included, you will want to dress warmly—think thermal layers, insulated jackets, hats, gloves, and sturdy boots.

Is there a chance I won’t see the Northern Lights?
Yes, Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity. However, the guides’ expertise and unlimited driving significantly improve your chances.

What is the success rate?
In 2023-24, the success rate was 86% overall, with this season reaching 92%.

Are food and drinks provided?
Snacks, soft drinks, and berry tea are available during the trip, but meals or barbecue are not included.

What kind of camera gear do guides use?
Guides use high-end cameras like the Sony A7III with astrophotography lenses to capture stunning Aurora images.

What happens if the weather is poor?
Tours are weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a reschedule or a full refund.

Can I reschedule or cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Rescheduling is handled on a case-by-case basis, especially in poor weather.

In closing, this Northern Lights hunt offers a rare combination of flexibility, professionalism, and comfort. If you’re serious about seeing the Aurora and enjoying an Arctic adventure that’s tailored to conditions, Lapin Taivas’s approach is hard to beat. You’ll leave not just with photos but with stories of a true chase through the wilds of Lapland, making it a memorable highlight of your Finnish trip.