Rovaniemi Aurora Hunting Tour

Introducing the Rovaniemi Aurora Hunting Tour

If you’re chasing the Northern Lights in Lapland, the Rovaniemi Aurora Hunting Tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that combines stunning scenery, expert guidance, and authentic local flavor. This tour, run by Sunsuni Safari, is designed to maximize your chances of witnessing the aurora borealis while providing a warm, welcoming atmosphere—despite the cold Arctic night.

Two things I particularly like about this experience are the personalized small-group setting—which means you’re not just another face in a crowd—and the professional guides like Pekka and Amanda, who are praised repeatedly for their kindness, knowledge, and genuine effort to make the night memorable. Plus, the Lappish barbecue served at open fires adds a cozy, cultural touch to the adventure.

One aspect to consider is the unpredictability of the Northern Lights. As with all aurora tours, there’s no 100% guarantee you’ll see the lights, but the guides do their best to find the best vantage points and weather conditions. Planning for this as part of your expectations will help you relax and enjoy the journey, regardless of whether the sky cooperates.

Key points/Takeaways

• Small-group tours (maximum of 5 travelers) create a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere.
• Expert guides like Pekka and Amanda are frequently praised for their kindness and professionalism.
• Flexible departure times are based on sunset, typically around 8 pm, giving you a good chance to catch the sky after sunset.
• Transportation and photography services are included, making it easier to focus on the experience and capture memories.
• The tour includes traditional Lappish food like sausages and warm beverages, with options for soup, weather permitting.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours provides flexibility if weather or plans change.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Pickup and Departure

Your adventure begins with pickup from your accommodation in Rovaniemi**, typically around 8 pm**, depending on the sunset time. The small-group size means you’ll likely be picked up in a cozy minivan—more personal than a big bus—and driven out of the city into the wilderness, which really enhances the chance of seeing the Northern Lights away from city glow.

Scenic Vantage Points for Aurora Viewing

The main goal of this tour is to find the best vantage points around Rovaniemi for spotting the aurora borealis. The guide will choose the locations based on weather conditions and aurora activity. This flexibility is key because the Northern Lights are highly dependent on clear skies, but guides like Pekka are experienced at maximizing your odds. Several reviews mention guides working hard all night to record the aurora on camera—something valuable if you want to capture the moment as a lasting memory.

Photography and Cultural Food Experience

After locating a good viewing spot, you’ll have the chance to try capturing the Northern Lights with guided photography tips—this adds a fun, practical element to your evening. When the sky cooperates, you’ll get to see and photograph the aurora, which many reviewers describe as “spectacular.”

Midway or after your aurora hunt, you’ll gather around an open fire for a traditional Lappish barbecue. The food includes sausages (pork or vegetarian options), berry juice, marshmallows, and cookies. Soup can be requested if weather permits—remember, the barbecue is weather-dependent for safety and comfort. Reviewers often highlight the warm beverages and cozy atmosphere, which make the cold Arctic night more enjoyable and authentic.

Final Return to Accommodation

The tour typically lasts about 3 to 4 hours, with you back at your accommodation around 11 pm or midnight. This timing allows for a relaxed experience without rushing, and many travelers appreciate that it’s not a hurried, “see it quick” tour.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a small-group, personalized experience with knowledgeable guides who genuinely care about helping you see the Aurora. It’s suited for travelers who appreciate authentic local food, enjoy photography opportunities, and want to experience the Arctic wilderness in a relaxed, friendly setting. The tour’s focus on professional guidance and cozy local food makes it ideal for first-time visitors and seasoned aurora chasers alike.

However, if your main priority is guaranteed aurora viewing at all costs, it’s worth remembering that northern lights are an unpredictable natural phenomenon. That said, the reviews suggest that with guides like Pekka and Amanda, your odds are pretty good—and even if the lights don’t appear, you’ll enjoy the warmth, the scenery, and the company.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $130 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. The price includes private transportation, a personal guide, photography services, and local snacks or meals, making it a good value considering the personal touch and the effort guides put into maximizing your experience. Compared to larger, less personal Aurora tours, this small-group approach means you’ll receive more individual attention and a better chance of catching the aurora in a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere.

Given the reviews praising the professionalism of guides like Pekka and Amanda, and the inclusion of food and photography, most travelers will find this tour offers excellent value for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Practical Tips for the Aurora Hunting Tour

• Dress warmly: While the tour provides transportation and guidance, you’ll be outside in the cold Arctic night. Warm clothes are not included, so layer up—think thermal underwear, insulated jackets, hats, and gloves.
• Book early: The tour only allows a maximum of 5 travelers, so spots can fill quickly, especially during peak aurora season.
• Prepare for weather variability: The barbecue is weather-dependent, but the guides will do their best to find clear skies. Flexibility is key.
• Bring your camera: The guides offer photography help, but a good camera or smartphone with night photography capabilities will help you capture the aurora.
• Inform about food restrictions or children: Let the tour provider know in advance if you have food allergies or are traveling with children under 5 or under 145cm so they can prepare safety seats or accommodate dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your accommodation, making it convenient and stress-free.

Are warm clothes provided?
No, warm clothes are not included, so you should dress in layers suitable for Arctic winter.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, from pickup to return.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes snacks (sausages, berry juice, marshmallows, cookies), transportation, a personal guide, and photography services.

Are there options for vegetarians or special diets?
Yes, vegetarian sausages are available, and you should inform the provider of any dietary restrictions beforehand.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but if traveling with children under 5 or under 145cm, let the provider know so they can prepare safety seats.

How is the photography handled?
Guides will assist you with taking photos of the aurora, ensuring you get memorable shots.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, a camera, and an open mind ready for an Arctic adventure.

Wrapping Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

The Rovaniemi Aurora Hunting Tour is perfect for travelers who crave a personal, relaxed experience with expert guides who truly care about sharing the magic of the Northern Lights. It’s especially suited for those who value authentic local food, enjoy small-group intimacy, and want to optimize their chances of seeing the aurora in a comfortable setting.

If you’re a first-timer in Lapland or a seasoned aurora enthusiast wanting a more personalized outing, this tour offers a solid balance of adventure, comfort, and cultural charm. The combination of stunning scenery, professional guidance, and cozy food makes it a memorable addition to any winter trip to Rovaniemi.

Just remember, with natural phenomena like the Northern Lights, a bit of luck is involved—so keeping an open mind and enjoying the Arctic wilderness will ensure you leave with more than just photographs, but stories of a night under the stars you’ll never forget.