Aurora Hunting with Snowshoes

Exploring Aurora Hunting with Snowshoes in Lapland

If you’re looking for a night of genuine Arctic adventure, the Aurora Hunting with Snowshoes offered by Northern Echoes in Lapland could be just what you need. This two-hour private tour combines the quiet thrill of snowshoeing on easy terrain with the cozy warmth of a campfire, all under the possibility of catching the elusive Northern Lights. From the reviews, it’s clear that this experience is appreciated for its personalized touch and the knowledge of guides like Eveliina, who seems to make the night truly memorable.

What I really appreciate about this activity is the private aspect—it means no crowded group, just your party and a guide who can respond to your questions and requests. Plus, the included hot drinks and snowshoes make it feel like a well-rounded, thoughtfully organized outing. On the flip side, you should be prepared for the weather dependence — if clouds roll in, seeing the Aurora isn’t guaranteed, but the experience of snowshoeing in a pristine winter landscape is worthwhile on its own.

One little consideration: you’ll need to bring your own winter clothing, which isn’t included. This is typical for Arctic tours, but worth keeping in mind so you’re not caught unprepared for the cold. Still, with pickup, private transportation, and all fees included, this tour offers solid value for those eager to combine outdoor activity with a chance to see the Northern Lights.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Private experience enhances the sense of exclusivity and flexibility during your Arctic adventure.
• Knowledgeable guides like Eveliina are praised for their friendliness and ability to make the tour special.
• Hot drinks and snacks—including hot chocolate—are included, adding warmth and comfort in the cold.
• Weather can impact the Aurora sighting, but the snowshoeing and bonfire keep the experience engaging regardless.
• Effortless logistics with pickup, snowshoes, headlights, and all fees covered streamline your evening.
• Dress warmly on your own, as winter clothing isn’t provided, ensuring you’ll stay comfortable in the cold.

Entering the Arctic Night with Snowshoes

This tour begins in Sodankylä, at Jäämerentie 28, with a start time of 8:00 pm, perfect for catching the Northern Lights after dark. Your guide, likely Eveliina based on reviews, will pick you up in private transportation, eliminating the hassle of navigating in unfamiliar snowy conditions. Once at the meeting point, you’ll gear up with snowshoes and headlights, ready to trek across the quiet, snow-covered terrain.

The terrain is described as “easy-to-navigate,” so you don’t need prior experience—if you can walk, you can snowshoe. As you hike, there’s plenty to enjoy: the crisp winter air, the starlit sky, and the peaceful silence of the Arctic wilderness. The snowshoes distribute your weight, making walking on snow much easier, while headlights help carve out a safe path in the darkness.

The Campfire and Hot Drinks: Warmth in More Ways Than One

Midway through your walk, you’ll reach a cozy campfire setup, where your guides will light a fire to warm you up. This is a highlight—nothing beats sitting beside a crackling fire under a starry sky, with a hot drink in hand. The reviews mention hot chocolate and local snacks that make the night feel even more special. As one reviewer said, the hot chocolate “warmed both body and soul,” which is exactly the kind of authentic Arctic moment that makes this tour memorable.

The campfire area isn’t just about warmth—it’s an opportunity to relax, chat with your guide, and maybe snap some photos of the flickering flames against the snowy landscape. This pause amid the snowshoe hike really elevates the experience from simple outdoor activity to a genuine Arctic evening.

Catching the Northern Lights: A Natural Wonder

The main draw for many is the chance to glimpse the Northern Lights, and though they’re a natural phenomenon, guides like Eveliina are experienced at maximizing your chances. The reviews highlight that even when the sky was initially cloudy, the Aurora eventually made an appearance, much to everyone’s delight.

It’s important to remember that sightings aren’t guaranteed, but the combination of a knowledgeable guide, late-night timing, and the outdoor setting increases your odds. When the lights do dance across the sky, you’ll find it hard to forget the wonder of that moment—flickering green, possibly purple, swirling in the Arctic night.

Logistics and Practical Details

This experience costs about $160.91 per person, which includes snowshoes, headlights, private transportation, and all fees and taxes. For a two-hour activity, this is quite reasonable, especially considering the private nature of the tour and personalized service. The activity is most often booked about 11 days in advance, so planning ahead ensures you secure a spot.

Weather can impact the experience, and if poor conditions cause cancellations, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund. Because it’s a private tour, you’ll benefit from flexible responses to requests and personal attention.

As far as clothing goes, you’ll need to bring your own winter gear—think thermal layers, waterproof outerwear, hats, gloves, and boots. This is standard for Arctic tours, but it’s a good reminder to pack appropriately.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This activity is well-suited for adventurers who enjoy outdoor pursuits, but also for those who prefer a more intimate experience rather than crowded group tours. If you’re a couple, a small family, or friends traveling together, the private aspect adds a layer of comfort and flexibility.

It’s also perfect for first-time visitors wanting to get a taste of Arctic winter life and see the Northern Lights without the hassle of complicated logistics. The inclusion of hot drinks and a campfire rounds out the experience, making it welcoming even for those who may not be seasoned outdoor enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In the cold, dark beauty of Lapland, this snowshoe aurora tour offers a blend of adventure, comfort, and chance—a chance to walk in silence under a starry sky, warm by a campfire, and maybe, just maybe, witness the Northern Lights in all their glory. The private nature, friendly guides, and well-organized setup make it a standout option for anyone seeking an authentic Arctic night.

While it’s weather dependent, the experience itself—snowshoeing in pristine snow, cozying beside a fire, and sharing a hot drink—delivers plenty of value regardless of the Aurora’s appearance. It’s ideal for those craving a slow, scenic, and personal Arctic outing that combines outdoor activity with the chance to witness a natural wonder.

FAQ

Do I need to have prior snowshoeing experience?
No, the terrain is described as easy to navigate, so beginners can comfortably participate, especially with snowshoes that make walking on snow easier.

What should I wear?
You need to bring your own winter clothing—think thermal layers, waterproof outerwear, hats, gloves, and boots. The tour itself does not include clothing.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, as a natural phenomenon, the Aurora can’t be promised. However, guides like Eveliina are experienced at maximizing your chances, and reviews suggest that sightings are quite likely.

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts approximately two hours, starting at 8:00 pm, making it a manageable evening outing.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers snowshoes, headlights, private transportation, all fees and taxes, and hot drinks/snacks during the campfire.

Can the tour be canceled?
Yes, if the weather is poor, it may be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Cancellations due to weather are not your fault, and the process aims to be straightforward.

This private snowshoe tour in Lapland offers a genuine taste of Arctic winter life, blending outdoor activity, cozy warmth, and the hope of catching the Northern Lights. It’s a balanced choice that emphasizes comfort, flexibility, and authentic experiences—perfect for those seeking more than just a typical sightseeing trip.