Northern Lights Snowmobile Sleigh Ride

Review of the Northern Lights Snowmobile Sleigh Ride in Rovaniemi, Finland

If you’re dreaming of catching the elusive northern lights in a remote Arctic setting, the Northern Lights Snowmobile Sleigh Ride offers an adventurous way to do so. This tour, priced at around $164 per person, transports you from the comforts of Rovaniemi into the wilderness, guided by seasoned experts. The package combines the thrill of snowmobiling, the charm of traditional Sami-style sleigh rides, and the romance of an evening spent under a starry sky, with a good dose of warmth and comfort included.

One of the biggest perks of this experience is the opportunity to venture just outside the city’s light pollution to find a clear, unobstructed view of the auroras. The guides are praised for their local knowledge and their ability to make the journey smooth and enjoyable, with some reviews highlighting guides like David and Juhani for their helpfulness and engaging storytelling. I love that the tour includes winter gear—a necessity in Arctic conditions—so you can stay warm without lugging your own bulky equipment. Plus, the campfire setup with snacks and hot drinks adds a cozy touch to the evening, turning a viewing experience into a memorable Arctic adventure.

A potential consideration is that the tour’s success in seeing the northern lights depends heavily on weather and solar activity, which can be unpredictable. Some guests mentioned long waits or communication issues, especially if the weather doesn’t cooperate or if there’s a delay. It’s worth booking well in advance and being flexible about timing. Also, since this is a group activity with a maximum of 1,000 travelers, having a smaller group can enhance the experience, but the tour can be quite popular, so plan ahead.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Remote Location for Better Aurora Viewing: The tour takes you outside Rovaniemi to places with less light pollution, increasing the chances of seeing the northern lights.
• Guided Snowmobile and Sleigh Experience: You’ll sit back and relax on a sleigh pulled by a snowmobile, guided by a professional who handles the driving.
• Warmth and Comfort: Included winter gear ensures you’ll stay warm in the Arctic chill, and the campfire with snacks and drinks adds a cozy touch.
• Cultural Elements: The tour features some old Lappish shamanism and light-hearted future-telling activities, adding an authentic local flavor.
• Length and Flexibility: At around 5 hours, it’s a substantial evening outing, with an itinerary that balances adventure and relaxation.
• Guides Make a Difference: Guests praise guides like Juhani and David for their professionalism and storytelling, which can turn a good tour into a great experience.

Entering the Arctic Wilderness: A Detailed Look at the Tour

If you’re like me, the idea of chasing the northern lights is both exciting and a bit unpredictable. This tour offers a practical approach—getting you out of the city and into the Arctic night where the auroras are more likely to make an appearance. Starting at Lapland Welcome in Rovaniemi, you’ll meet your guide and be fitted with winter gear designed to keep you comfortable in sub-zero conditions. It’s a relief to know that the included gear means you don’t have to invest in expensive winter clothing just for this trip.

Your journey begins with a snowmobile ride (or sleigh ride, depending on your preference). An experienced guide takes the reins, pulling your sled through scenic forested areas and across frozen lakes. The fact that the snowmobile is driven by a professional means you can simply sit back, take in the pristine Arctic landscape, and relax rather than worry about navigation or safety. I found that many reviews highlighted guides like Juhani and David for their helpfulness and ability to guide guests safely through the wilderness.

The highlight is reaching a wooden watchtower on a summit, offering a 360-degree view of the horizon. From here, the sky opens up, and your chances of spotting the northern lights increase. The guides often prepare a fire in a traditional tepee, where you can enjoy warm beverages and barbeque snacks while keeping an eye on the sky. This combination of warmth, food, and spectacular scenery makes for a genuinely memorable experience.

Adding a touch of local culture, the guides incorporate old Lappish shamanism, offering a light-hearted look at Sami traditions and a fun, informal “future-telling” session. It’s a playful way to connect with the local culture without it feeling forced or touristy. Guests have noted that this element, paired with the stunning views, turns the evening into more than just a lights hunt—it’s an authentic Arctic experience.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The itinerary begins with a pickup in Rovaniemi, where you’ll meet your guide and get suited up. As you head into the wilderness, expect a roughly five-hour experience, which many find to be the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.

Your first stop is the Lapland Welcome location, where the tour kicks off with detailed instructions and a safety briefing. Then, you’ll board the snowmobile or hop onto your sleigh, pulled along by the guide on a powerful snowmobile. This part of the tour, lasting about 20 minutes, is both exhilarating and scenic, offering glimpses of the stark beauty of Lapland’s forests and lakes.

The main event is at the summit watchtower, where your guide will set up a cozy tepee campfire. Here, you’ll sit back with hot drinks and snacks, waiting for the auroras to arrive. Some reviews, like one from April, mention that even when the weather isn’t ideal or the auroras aren’t blazing, the guides make the effort to create a warm atmosphere that makes the wait worthwhile.

If the northern lights appear, you’ll have a fantastic opportunity for photos and quiet contemplation. If not, the experience of being out under the vast, starry sky, surrounded by the silence of snow-covered wilderness, remains unforgettable.

Transportation and Group Size: What It Means for You

The tour offers pick-up service from Rovaniemi, which simplifies logistics and ensures you’re collected directly from your accommodation or a designated meeting point. The group size can be quite large, with up to 1,000 travelers, but reviews suggest that the actual experience often feels more intimate thanks to the guides’ attentiveness.

The duration of about five hours** makes it a substantial activity without feeling rushed, giving you enough time for the snowmobile ride, the campfire, and potential sky-watching. Since most travelers book 205 days in advance, it’s clear this is a popular option, especially during peak aurora seasons.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $164.26, the price includes transportation, guidance, snacks, warm drinks, winter gear, insurance, and bottled water. Considering the effort to reach remote viewing spots, the professional guidance, and the included amenities, it’s a reasonable investment for those eager to maximize their chances of seeing the northern lights.

However, keep in mind that the auroras are a natural phenomenon, and sightings cannot be guaranteed. That said, the tour’s remote location and the expertise of the guides significantly improve your odds. Also, the included warm gear and campfire add value, especially since Arctic temperatures can be biting.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurers willing to brave the cold and enjoy a mix of scenic snowmobiling and cultural storytelling. It’s well-suited for couples, families, or solo travelers who want a balanced combination of activity and comfort. If you’re looking for a more intimate and authentic Arctic adventure with knowledgeable guides, this tour fits the bill.

It’s less ideal if you’re on a very tight schedule or if you prefer smaller, more personalized tours. Also, if seeing the northern lights is your only goal, be prepared for some variability and consider booking with flexible options if available.

Final Thoughts

The Northern Lights Snowmobile Sleigh Ride offers a lively, scenic, and culturally rich way to experience Lapland’s winter beauty and hopefully catch a glimpse of the auroras. The mix of guided snowmobiling, traditional Sami storytelling, and cozy campfire snacks creates a memorable Arctic night. The experience strikes a good balance between adventure and comfort, with well-thought-out amenities and knowledgeable guides making all the difference.

It’s a solid choice for those who want to combine the thrill of Arctic transportation with a genuine local flavor. While the northern lights’ appearance can never be guaranteed, this tour certainly maximizes your chances and keeps you warm and entertained along the way.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, including transportation, snowmobiling, and time spent at the viewing spot.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from Rovaniemi is provided, making it easy to join without worrying about logistics.

What is included in the price?
Transportation, guidance, snacks, beverages, winter gear, insurance, and bottled water are all included.

Do I need my own winter clothing?
No, the tour provides winter adventure gear to keep you warm during the activities.

Can I see the northern lights on this tour?
While the tour improves your chances by taking you to remote spots, sightings depend on weather and solar activity, so it’s not guaranteed.

Is this suitable for children or families?
Most travelers can participate, but check with the provider if you’re bringing very young children, as cold and activity levels may vary.

Can I book a private tour?
Yes, private tours are available at an additional cost, offering a more personalized experience.

In summary, if you’re after a well-organized, culturally immersive Arctic adventure that combines the thrill of snowmobiling with the hope of seeing the northern lights, this tour is a solid choice. Just remember to manage expectations around aurora sightings and prepare for a chilly but rewarding night under the stars.