Rovaniemi: Northern Lights Tour at the Campfire

If you’re headed to Rovaniemi with hopes of catching the elusive Northern Lights, this Northern Lights Tour at the Campfire offers a calm, intimate way to experience Lapland’s magic. Unlike busy, crowded tours, this experience takes you to a private forest location where peace, nature, and the starry sky create an almost meditative backdrop for Aurora hunting. For $135 per person, you’ll spend about three hours immersed in Arctic wilderness — a decent investment for a chance to see one of nature’s most breathtaking spectacles.

What I particularly like about this tour is the atmospheric enclosed teepee, which provides comfort and shelter without sacrificing that authentic wilderness feel. It’s a cozy spot for roasting snacks over an open fire — an activity that makes the experience feel more communal and genuine. Plus, the inclusion of winter clothing (thermal overalls and sturdy winter boots) means you don’t need to pack bulky gear or worry about staying warm, making this a practical choice for travelers who want comfort and convenience.

One consideration worth noting is the limited language options for guides — primarily Finnish and English, with some availability in French, Spanish, and Portuguese. If you’re hoping for a guide in a specific language, it’s best to get in touch with the provider beforehand. Also, be aware that this tour is quite weather-dependent: since there are no man-made toilets at the site, you’ll be in nature, so come prepared for minimal facilities.

This tour strikes a nice balance between comfort, authenticity, and value, making it a great pick for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want a quiet, scenic Aurora experience away from the crowds.

Key points / Takeaways

• Private forest location for a peaceful Aurora viewing experience.
• Enclosed teepee offers cozy shelter and a unique setting for watching the Northern Lights.
• Roasting snacks over the campfire and warm blueberry juice create a memorable Arctic snack experience.
• All-inclusive winter clothing simplifies packing and keeps you comfortable in the cold.
• Guides speak English primarily, with some options for other languages; contact ahead for specifics.
• Experience lasts about 3 hours, including transport, waiting, and activities.

The journey begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Rovaniemi, making logistics straightforward. This is especially helpful if you don’t want to fuss with renting a vehicle or figuring out transportation in winter conditions. The ride to the forest campfire spot takes around 35 minutes, giving you a chance to start relaxing while en route.

Once you arrive, you’ll be handed quality winter clothing in a dedicated dressing area, which includes thermal overalls and sturdy winter boots. This thoughtful inclusion ensures you’re prepared for the cold — a major plus when you’re spending time outdoors in Lapland’s winter climate. The materials are comfortable and designed to keep heat in, allowing you to focus on the experience rather than battling the elements.

The private forest location is carefully chosen for its dark skies and good chances of Aurora visibility. Once settled, you have about 100 minutes to enjoy the scenery and await the Northern Lights. The atmosphere is peaceful and intimate, with fewer groups vying for the best view.

The enclosed teepee is the highlight — a warm, atmospheric shelter that protects you from wind and snow, but still feels rustic enough to connect you with nature. Inside, your guide will prepare a campfire, where you can roast snacks like sausages or marshmallows, adding a delicious, interactive element to the evening. Accompanying this is a cup of warm blueberry juice, which perfectly complements the cold night and adds a touch of local flavor.

Guests often comment on the stunning night sky and the chance to see the Aurora dancing overhead. While the lights can vary from faint shimmering to full, vibrant displays, even a single good sighting makes the trip worthwhile. One reviewer mentioned, “we had the chance to see only one but very pretty,” highlighting the unpredictable nature of Aurora watching.

The tour’s size keeps things intimate, and the guides are knowledgeable, providing insights about the Aurora, Lapland’s flora and fauna, and local traditions. Some reviews mention guides speaking English fluently, with limited options for other languages, so if you’re hoping for a French guide, for example, be sure to request this in advance.

The cost of $135 per person includes all essentials — transportation, clothing, snacks, and guide service — making it a good value considering the personalized experience and comfort. Compared to larger, more commercial Aurora tours, this offers a more relaxed and authentic vibe, perfect for those seeking tranquility and genuine Arctic ambiance.

This experience suits travelers who want a more subdued, nature-focused Aurora outing rather than a loud, crowded chase. It’s ideal if you’re traveling with a partner, family, or solo and appreciate the comfort of warmth, good company, and a scenic setting. It’s also a good choice if you’re interested in snacks and storytelling around a campfire — a classic Arctic activity.

However, if you’re eager to see multiple Aurora displays or prefer a tour with a dedicated photographic guide, this might feel a little limited. The focus here is on the experience’s serenity and authenticity rather than high-energy pursuit.

For $135, you get a three-hour experience with transportation, winter gear, snacks, and a guide — a package that offers convenience and comfort. The pickup and drop-off are included within a 10 km radius of Rovaniemi’s city center, simplifying logistics. Be aware that there are no toilet facilities at the campsite, so plan accordingly.

The tour’s flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours before allows you to book with confidence, knowing you can adapt your plans if the weather turns unfavorable or your schedule changes.

If you’re looking for a quiet, cozy, and well-organized way to experience the Northern Lights in Lapland, this tour from StayLapland delivers. The private forest setting, atmospheric teepee, and warm snacks create a memorable Arctic adventure that’s both authentic and comfortable. It’s especially suited for those who value a peaceful atmosphere over high-adrenaline pursuits.

The guides’ knowledge, the scenic setting, and the included winter gear add nearly unbeatable value, making this a solid choice for travelers wanting a relaxed yet special Arctic experience. While weather conditions are always a gamble, the overall package balances practicality with the chance to witness nature’s winter masterpiece.

This tour is best for those who appreciate simple, meaningful experiences in nature and don’t mind minimal facilities or the chance that the Aurora might be shy — sometimes, patience is part of the adventure.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation, a guide speaking English (with limited options for other languages), winter clothing (thermal overalls and boots), local snacks, and warm blueberry juice.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, including pickup, transport, campfire, and Aurora viewing time.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate, and the provided winter gear makes it comfortable and safe for younger guests.

What should I wear?
The tour provides thermal overalls and boots, so you just need to wear warm layers underneath, like thermal underwear, a hat, gloves, and a scarf.

Is there a chance I won’t see the Northern Lights?
Yes, Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity. The tour offers a good chance, but no guarantees. Even if you see only one display, it’s often a memorable moment.

Are there facilities at the campsite?
No, there are no man-made toilets available, so be prepared for natural facilities.

Can I request guides in other languages?
Guides primarily speak Finnish and English, with some availability in other languages. Contact the tour provider in advance if needed.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
Winter months, especially from late autumn to early spring, are ideal when the nights are longest and the skies darkest.

How is transportation arranged?
Pickup and drop-off are included within 10 km of Rovaniemi’s city center. The ride to the forest campfire location takes about 35 minutes.

Is the experience worth the cost?
Considering the included gear, snacks, warm shelter, and the chance to see the Northern Lights in a peaceful setting, many find this a very good value.

To sum it up, the Northern Lights Tour at the Campfire offers a relaxed, authentic, and comfortable Arctic adventure. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy nature without the hustle and bustle of larger groups, appreciate good storytelling, and cherish the quiet thrill of stargazing under Lapland’s vast, dark skies.