Levi Lapland: Northern Lights Snowshoeing

If you’re dreaming of a winter escape under a night sky filled with shimmering stars and the elusive Northern Lights, the Levi Lapland Northern Lights Snowshoeing tour offers a memorable way to experience the Arctic wilderness. Led by knowledgeable local guides from Polar Star Travel, this experience takes you on a gentle trek through snow-covered landscapes, with the hope of witnessing one of nature’s most spectacular displays. While there’s no guarantee you’ll see the auroras—cloud cover or luck can intervene—it’s a thoughtfully curated outing that emphasizes the beauty of Lapland’s winter environment.

What I love about this tour is how it combines adventure and comfort. The fact that it’s a relatively short, 2.5-hour outing means it’s accessible even for those with limited time or less strenuous winter stamina. Plus, the guides’ storytelling about the Northern Lights and Lapland’s nature adds a layer of cultural insight that elevates the experience. Another highlight is the cozy hut break, where warm drinks and snacks provide a satisfying end—and a chance to swap stories with fellow travelers.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and their appearance isn’t guaranteed. The tour’s success depends on the weather and aurora activity, which remains outside the control of the guides. For some, this element of unpredictability can be disappointing, but it also underscores the importance of embracing the moment and enjoying the stunning winter scenery regardless.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Snowshoeing through Lapland’s snowy forests and frozen lakes offers a genuine taste of winter’s tranquility.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides share interesting stories about the Aurora Borealis and local culture, enriching the experience.
• Flexible & Relaxed: The 2.5-hour duration makes it easy to fit into a broader Lapland itinerary without feeling rushed.
• Expectations vs. Reality: Seeing the Northern Lights is dependent on luck, weather, and aurora activity—be prepared for the possibility of a cloudy night.
• Comfort & Warmth: Warm drinks and a snack at a cozy hut make the outing comfortable, especially after some time outdoors.
• Ideal for Star Gazers & Nature Lovers: The dark night sky filled with stars is as much a highlight as the auroras themselves.

Your journey begins at a convenient meeting point—either in front of the Visit Levi office or another designated location. From there, a guide equipped with snowshoes, poles, and plenty of local knowledge will lead you into the silent beauty of Lapland’s nighttime landscape. The equipment is included, so you can focus on the scenery rather than gear worries. The tour is primarily conducted in Finnish and English, making it accessible for international visitors.

The start time varies depending on availability, but typically, you’ll head out into the darkness as the winter sun has set, creating an almost surreal contrast between the bright snow and the dark sky. As you walk, you’ll marvel at the gorgeous snow art created by nature—frosty trees, icy lakes, and undisturbed powder that looks almost too perfect to be real. The guides are skilled storytellers, sharing tales about Lapland’s traditions, the science behind the Aurora Borealis, and local legends that add a touch of magic.

The Snowshoe Trek: A Quiet Walk Under Starry Skies

Walking on snowshoes is surprisingly easy, even if you’ve never tried it before. It’s a low-impact activity that allows for a slow, mindful exploration of the landscape. The pace is gentle, making it suitable for most fitness levels. Along the way, you might find yourself stopping to appreciate the silence—only broken by your footsteps and the occasional call of nocturnal wildlife.

The highlight, of course, is the search for the Northern Lights. If luck is on your side, the guides will take you to the best vantage points for viewing. Many reviews mention the thrill of standing under a star-studded sky and hoping for the green, pink, or purple curtains of the aurora to dance overhead. One reviewer, Camille, described it as “a great activity,” especially because they could walk on a frozen lake and then warm up with sausages and hot juice by the fire—a perfect end to an Arctic adventure.

The Cozy Hut Break

After some time outside, you’ll take a break in a traditional Lapland-style hut. Here, you can sip hot drinks and enjoy a snack, which adds comfort and a social element to the tour. It’s a welcome retreat from the cold, and guides often share additional stories or answer questions about the Aurora and local traditions. For many, this moment of warmth and shared experience becomes the highlight of the evening.

Price, Duration, and Practicalities

The entire experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours, which is enough time to enjoy a meaningful outdoor excursion without feeling overly fatigued. The price, which includes snowshoes, poles, a guide, a snack, and hot drinks, is a solid value considering the included gear and expert guidance. The tour operates in small groups, enhancing the chance for personalized storytelling and a more intimate experience.

Since the Northern Lights are unpredictable, it’s wise to keep your expectations flexible. The guides emphasize that sightings depend on weather conditions and aurora activity, which cannot be guaranteed. Nonetheless, many reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and professionalism, making the outing worthwhile whether or not the lights show up.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This snowshoeing adventure is perfect for those who enjoy gentle outdoor activities in a winter wonderland, particularly if you’re keen on star gazing and cultural stories. It’s suitable for most ages over 7, though younger children might find the cold and walking on snow less appealing. If you’re traveling with someone who doesn’t want a strenuous activity, this leisurely trek offers a scenic, low-impact way to experience Lapland’s night.

Price and Logistics

The tour operates with flexible options—including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—making it a risk-free choice if your plans change. You can reserve your spot and pay later, which adds convenience in planning your trip. The meeting point is straightforward to find, and the tour ends back where it started, so transportation logistics are minimal.

Since the tour is held in the evening, dress warmly in weather-appropriate layers—think thermal underwear, insulated jackets, hats, and gloves. The guides typically speak both Finnish and English, ensuring clear communication.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who are looking for a relaxing, authentic Arctic outing with a touch of adventure. It’s ideal for star gazers, nature lovers, and those fascinated by the Northern Lights but not eager for a high-energy activity. It’s also a good choice if you want to combine outdoor exploration with cultural storytelling. Be prepared for the unpredictability of aurora sightings, but rest assured that the scenery and the winter night atmosphere are rewarding regardless.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need special clothing for this tour?
Yes, you should bring weather-appropriate clothing suitable for winter outdoor activities, such as thermal layers, waterproof jacket, hat, and gloves.

Can children participate?
The tour is not suitable for children under 7 years old, but older children and teenagers who enjoy winter walks should find it enjoyable.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, the Northern Lights depend on aurora activity and weather conditions. Guides will do their best to take you to good viewing spots, but sightings cannot be promised.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers experienced local guides, snowshoes, poles, a snack, and hot drinks at the hut.

How long does the tour last?
The experience typically lasts about 2.5 hours, making it a manageable evening activity that won’t interfere with other plans.

Where does the tour start and end?
You can meet at the Visit Levi office or other specified locations, and the tour returns to the same meeting point.

Is this experience suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Small group sizes foster a friendly atmosphere, and solo travelers often enjoy the chance to meet fellow adventurers.

In the end, if you’re after a peaceful, scenic, and culturally rich winter outing that combines gentle outdoor activity with the hope of witnessing the Northern Lights, this snowshoeing tour offers a solid value. The guides’ knowledge, the cozy hut break, and the opportunity to walk through Lapland’s winter silence make it a highlight for many travelers seeking an authentic Arctic night. Just keep your expectations realistic, dress warmly, and embrace the unpredictability—that’s what makes the experience truly special.