Northern Lights Adventure in the Wild with Campfire Treats

An In-Depth Look at the Northern Lights Adventure in Levi

If you’re dreaming about chasing the Aurora Borealis in Lapland, this Northern Lights Adventure with Campfire Treats offers an authentic, cozy, and well-organized option. Priced at around $170.81 per person, the approximately 3.5-hour tour takes you 35 kilometers north of Levi to the quiet wilderness of Lompolo. From the moment I read about it, I liked the idea of leaving behind city lights and noise to stand under a dark, star-studded sky waiting for nature’s greatest light show.

Two things I particularly appreciated are the focus on comfort and storytelling. The tour’s inclusion of thermal jackets, the warm hut with a fire, and the chance to roast sausages and enjoy hot berry juice create a genuine sense of a shared experience — not just a hurried chase after fleeting lights. Plus, the knowledgeable guides like Heli and Ellen make the whole thing far more engaging with their stories and local insights, as echoed vividly in reviews describing guides as super friendly and culturally aware.

A possible consideration is the unpredictability of the Northern Lights themselves. As one reviewer noted, “We couldn’t see the northern lights, but we still had a great time” — which speaks to the experience’s value even without the main star. If your travel dates are fixed or if clear skies are essential, it’s worth remembering that the aurora is never guaranteed. Still, the combination of small group size, beautiful scenery, and authentic Finnish hospitality makes this tour a worthwhile gamble for most travelers.

Key Points

• Authentic Wilderness Setting: Far from city lights at Soma Hideout by a serene frozen lake.
• Warm and Cozy Atmosphere: Includes thermal jackets, a crackling fire, and traditional Finnish treats.
• Expert Local Guides: Guides like Heli and Ellen bring warmth, stories, and local knowledge.
• Flexible and Well-Arranged: Pickup from your accommodation around 9 p.m., small group sizes (max 8 travelers).
• Great Value for the Experience: For around $170, you get transportation, gear, food, and a memorable night under the stars.
• Unpredictable Aurora: While the setting is ideal, the aurora’s appearance isn’t guaranteed, but the experience remains special.

Exploring the Experience in Detail

This tour begins with a convenient pickup from your Levi accommodations, typically after 9 p.m., which is prime time for Aurora spotting. The minibus ride takes about 35 kilometers into Lapland’s wilderness, away from the light pollution of towns. Traveling in a small group—up to eight people—means you’ll get a more personal experience than the crowd-heavy tours. The drive itself is scenic, offering a glimpse of Finland’s snowy, quiet landscape.

Upon arrival at Soma Hideout, the atmosphere shifts to a peaceful, almost magical setting. The traditional reindeer herding village and the lake-side location set the perfect stage for Northern Lights viewing. The glass-roof kota or cozy hut with a fire provides a warm base, which is especially appreciated since waiting for the lights can take time. Inside, the fire crackles as you roast sausages and toast marshmallows — a simple but effective way to stay warm and engaged. The hot berry juice adds a sweet touch, perfectly complementing the cold outside.

One element that really stands out is the snowshoe walk on the ice lake. For those who want to stretch their legs or add a bit of adventure, the light from hand lanterns on the snowshoes heighten the sense of exploring Lapland’s quiet, icy wilderness. If luck is on your side, you’ll witness the Aurora’s dance overhead, framed by the wide, unobstructed view of the northern sky.

The guides’ stories about local culture and their personal warmth make the experience more than just a Northern Lights chase. As one reviewer put it, guides like Heli and Ellen aren’t just knowledgeable but genuinely lovely, which makes the environment feel inviting and authentic rather than commercialized.

What the Tour Includes and Excludes

The inclusion of thermal jackets is a thoughtful touch for comfort, especially because you might find that thermal trousers are not provided. Planning to bring your own or rent thermal gear could make a big difference on those chilly nights.

Transportation, gear, food, and hot drinks are covered, but it’s worth noting that the tour’s price is reasonable considering all these elements—a true value for a specialized Arctic experience. Meanwhile, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, giving peace of mind if weather turns out to be uncooperative.

The Real Experience: Feedback from Travelers

Reviewers seem to unanimously agree on the quality of this experience. Olga G mentions that, even without a sighting of the lights, the time at the cabin with sweets and sausages was great. Others, like Elisa T, praise the small group size and personal touch, highlighting the guides’ friendliness and the exclusive setting at the frozen lake. Isa A’s glowing review emphasizes the authenticity and cultural insight, describing the tour as “the most amazing experience” of her vacation.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure suits travelers craving an intimate, cozy, and genuine Lapland experience. It’s perfect if you’re interested in a relaxing night under the stars, good food, and storytelling rather than high-adrenaline pursuits. Its moderate price and inclusion of gear and food make it appealing to those wanting a hassle-free, well-organized outing.

However, if your main goal is a guaranteed Aurora sighting, be prepared for some luck. The experience’s value isn’t solely in the lights but the incredible setting, warmth, and shared stories that make it memorable regardless.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a meaningful Arctic adventure with an emphasis on comfort, local culture, and authentic scenery, this tour strikes a fine balance. It offers excellent value, especially with guides who genuinely care about sharing Lapland’s magic. The setting — far from any light pollution — is ideal for Aurora viewing, and the cozy hut, food, and snowshoe options make the night engaging and warm.

This experience is well suited for those who want a relaxed, intimate outing rather than a crowd spectacle. It’s also a smart choice for anyone interested in learning about local traditions while enjoying the stunning winter landscape. Just keep in mind the Aurora’s unpredictability, and you’ll leave with a memorable night regardless.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes. You’ll be picked up from your Levi accommodation around 9 p.m. and transported to the wilderness location.

What should I wear for the tour?
Thermal jackets are provided, but thermal trousers are not included. Dressing in warm layers, including thermal underwear and windproof outerwear, is recommended.

What is the approximate duration of the tour?
The total experience lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes, including travel, waiting, and activities.

Can I cancel if the weather doesn’t look good?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. If the weather prevents the experience, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

What is included in the price?
Thermal jackets, transportation, food (sausages, marshmallows, hot berry juice), and some outdoor gear are included.

How large are the groups?
Groups are small, with a maximum of 8 travelers, which enhances the personal experience.

Will I get a chance to see the Northern Lights?
While the setting is ideal, seeing the aurora depends on weather and solar activity. Guides do their best to find the best spots, but sightings are never guaranteed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but given the outdoor setting and late start, it’s best suited for older children comfortable with cold environments.

What is the overall value of this experience?
Considering the included gear, food, transportation, and the genuine storytelling aspect, this tour offers solid value—especially for travelers who appreciate authenticity over just chasing lights.