Ylläs in Lapland, Finland, offers a truly one-of-a-kind winter adventure: floating in a frozen lake under the starry sky, all while hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights. This tour, provided by Safartica, combines the magic of Arctic wilderness with the thrill of ice swimming—albeit in a safe, well-equipped manner. It’s a bold choice for anyone looking to do something off the beaten path, and in my view, it offers a rare blend of adrenaline, serenity, and natural beauty.
Two things I love about this experience are the high-quality rescue suits—which keep you warm and dry in the icy water—and the expert guidance that ensures safety without sacrificing the sense of adventure. Plus, the opportunity to relax afterward by a campfire with hot drinks adds a cozy finish to an otherwise chilly activity. However, a possible consideration is that it’s not suitable for small children or those under 120 cm tall, so it’s a trip best suited for teens and adults. Still, the promise of potentially witnessing the Northern Lights dancing above the ice makes it well worth thinking about.
Key points / Takeaways
- Unique Arctic experience: Floating in a frozen lake in the middle of Lapland’s wilderness provides a sensation that’s hard to match elsewhere.
- Safety and comfort: The tour supplies high-quality rescue suits that keep you warm, dry, and afloat, making ice swimming accessible even for those without swimming skills.
- Northern Lights chance: While the auroras are unpredictable, the clear nights in Ylläs give you a real shot at witnessing this natural spectacle.
- Expert guidance: Guides are fluent in English and instruct you thoroughly before entering the water, making the activity accessible for first-timers.
- Relaxing end to the activity: After your dip, you can warm up by a campfire with hot drinks, adding a cozy, social element.
- Flexible booking: You can reserve now and pay later, with full cancellation options up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind.
Experiencing the Arctic: A Deep Dive into the Ice-Floating Tour
When I first read about the Ylläs Northern Lights Ice-Floating tour, I was immediately struck by how it captures the essence of Arctic adventure—raw, beautiful, and a little daring. The tour is based in Ylläs, a well-known spot for winter activities in Lapland, and caters to those craving something more than just snowshoeing or snowmobiling. For about $141, you’ll spend around 2.5 hours immersed in one of the most pristine environments on earth, with the chance, weather permitting, to see the Northern Lights.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Yllas.
What the Tour Is All About
The main attraction is floating in a small, frozen lake. This isn’t just a dip in the water; it’s a carefully managed ice swim, made possible by the sturdy, high-quality rescue suits provided. These suits fully cover your body, keeping you warm and dry, and help you stay afloat without any swimming skills. The guides, like the well-reviewed Safartica team, ensure you’re instructed thoroughly beforehand, so even first-timers can feel confident stepping into the icy water.
The floating experience is oddly peaceful and surreal. Imagine lying on your back, gazing up at the vast, star-filled sky, with the possibility of catching the Northern Lights shimmering above. It’s about embracing the Arctic wilderness in its purest form—a rare chance to feel both vulnerable and invigorated.
The Northern Lights: A Natural Wonder
One of the biggest draws of this tour is the potential to see the Northern Lights. Guides emphasize that auroras are unpredictable, but the clear, dark skies in Ylläs during winter increase your chances. If the sky clears, you might find yourself under a swirling display of green or even purple, dancing above you as you float in the icy waters. This is a fleeting spectacle, and being out on the lake at night maximizes your odds—an experience that’s both humbling and unforgettable.
Post-Float Comfort and Relaxation
After your dip, you’ll return to a warm campfire area, where hot drinks await. This is a lovely way to warm up and reflect on the experience, especially after a cold swim. The reviews highlight this part as a favorite, noting how the cozy atmosphere and friendly guides make the whole adventure feel welcoming and authentic.
Practicalities and Logistics
The tour includes transfers, which means you won’t have to worry about finding your way to the remote location—an added bonus in the Finnish winter. The entire activity lasts about 2.5 hours, making it a manageable addition to a Ylläs winter itinerary. Booking is flexible: you can reserve now with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours before, perfect for uncertain weather or changing plans.
Who Should Consider It?
This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy cold-weather activities and are comfortable with high-quality safety gear. Since it’s not recommended for small children (minimum height 120 cm), it’s more appropriate for teens and adults. On top of that, if you’re a nature lover eager for a unique Arctic encounter—perhaps even hoping for a Northern Lights show—this tour offers both.
Potential Drawbacks
The main consideration is the unpredictability of the Northern Lights—despite the best efforts of guides and ideal conditions, seeing them isn’t guaranteed. Also, because of the cold water immersion, it’s not suitable for anyone with health concerns or very young children. Plus, the activity is physically demanding in a cold environment, so comfort with outdoor winter conditions is necessary.
Final Thoughts on Value
At $141, the tour offers a considerable experience for the price—especially when you factor in the transfer, quality gear, expert guidance, and the memorable chance to float beneath the Arctic sky. It’s an experience that balances thrill and tranquility, perfect for those who want a story to tell long after they’ve returned home.
Who Is This Tour Perfect For?
If you’re seeking an authentic Arctic adventure—something beyond typical snow activities—this ice-floating tour is a fantastic choice. It’s ideal for adventure-minded travelers, nature enthusiasts, and those eager to photograph the Northern Lights. The guides’ professionalism and the quality of equipment make it accessible even for novices, but it’s best suited for those in good health who are comfortable in cold environments.
FAQ
- Is the activity suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for small children, especially those under 120 cm tall, due to the physical nature of ice swimming and safety reasons. - Do I need swimming skills?
No, because the rescue suits keep you afloat, and guides provide thorough instructions beforehand, so swimming skills are not necessary. - What should I wear?
Warm clothing underneath the rescue suit is advised, and dressing in layers will help you stay comfortable before and after the activity. - What are the chances of seeing the Northern Lights?
While the tour maximizes your chances with clear, dark skies, sightings depend on weather and aurora activity, which are unpredictable. - How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2.5 hours, including transfers, instruction, floating time, and warming by the campfire. - Is the tour physically demanding?
It involves cold water immersion but is made accessible by quality gear and instructions; some physical comfort with outdoor winter conditions is helpful. - Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexible planning. - What’s included in the price?
Transfers, floating suits, ice swimming, hot drinks, and guiding in English are all included.
To sum it up, the Ylläs Northern Lights Ice-Floating Experience is a bold, memorable way to engage with the Arctic environment. It’s perfect for anyone craving a mix of adventure, serenity, and a chance to witness one of the world’s most stunning natural phenomena. While it’s not guaranteed to produce the Northern Lights, the experience of floating in icy waters beneath a starry sky is in itself a worthy adventure—one that can make your trip to Lapland truly unforgettable.