Rovaniemi: Discover the Northern Lights Photography Tour

Travelers heading to Finnish Lapland often dream of witnessing the elusive dance of the Northern Lights. This particular tour, offered by Beyond Arctic, has built a reputation for offering a well-balanced mix of adventure, expert guidance, and high-quality photography in small groups. It’s not just about catching a fleeting glow in the sky — it’s about making that moment memorable with professional support and personalized experiences.

What sets this experience apart? For starters, over a decade of aurora chasing experience underpins every part of the tour, ensuring you’re in expert hands. I love the emphasis on private locations that keep away from crowds and light pollution, giving you a better shot at seeing the aurora in its full glory. The professional photos provided afterward are a solid bonus, letting you relive the night’s magic without fumbling with your camera settings.

One consideration? This tour is quite demanding physically and mentally — it involves walking, patience, and sometimes making long drives into remote areas, which may not suit everyone. The tour’s carefully curated approach, however, makes it a serious contender for anyone seeking a genuine, high-value Arctic adventure.

• Experience and expertise: With 10+ years of aurora hunting, Beyond Arctic’s team is deeply knowledgeable and skilled at reading weather, solar activity, and forecasting conditions.
• Small-group intimacy: Limited to 8 guests, this tour offers personalized attention, which can make or break the experience, especially in cold, unpredictable conditions.
• Private locations: Access to 20+ exclusive spots means fewer crowds, better skies, and more authentic viewing opportunities.
• Photographic support: A professional guide helps guests with camera settings, and everyone receives high-quality edited photos — a big plus for capturing memories.
• Dynamic planning: Tours are carefully planned from early morning, analyzing real-time weather, aurora activity, and forecasts for the best chance to see the lights.
• Flexible and reliable: The tour operates with a “reserve and pay later” option, canceling up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund, adding flexibility to your trip planning.

The journey begins early, with pickup from your accommodation within 10 kilometers of Rovaniemi, making the start convenient and hassle-free. Once the group assembles, the guide provides a briefing about the evening’s plans, emphasizing the unpredictability of the Aurora Borealis but also explaining how their extensive experience increases your odds of a sighting.

The transport is in a comfortable minivan, designed to handle Arctic conditions while giving you a clear view of the snowy landscape. The team’s meticulous planning is evident — they analyze weather and aurora forecasts well before departure, aiming to head to locations where the sky is clearest and light pollution is minimal.

One of the highlights is the visits to 2-3 private locations scattered deep into the wilderness. Each spot offers its own unique backdrop and photographic opportunities. As some reviews highlight, guides like Markus and Ville go the extra mile — they will drive up to 100 kilometers away if conditions demand, all in pursuit of a good view.

The stops are not just for gazing; they’re active photo sessions. Guides help guests with camera settings, and in many cases, they take professional shots of everyone. Some reviews mention guests downloading stunning images days later, a reminder of how well-equipped this tour is for photography enthusiasts.

The journey often includes a break for a barbecue, snuggling around a fire, roasting sausages, and sipping hot drinks. One guest described it as “a magical night,” which perfectly captures the mix of outdoor adventure, warmth, and Arctic silence. Even if the lights aren’t visible, the experience feels genuine, immersive, and worth the effort.

Based on reviews, guides like Leevi, Aleksi, and Ryan have built reputations for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and patience. They’re not just chasing lights; they’re sharing stories, teaching about the phenomenon, and making sure everyone leaves with breathtaking photos.

The tour wraps up back in Rovaniemi after about 4.5 hours, leaving you with not just memories but also professional photographs to cherish.

This experience is ideal for those who appreciate small-group intimacy, authentic Arctic adventures, and serious photo opportunities. The minimum age of 10 years is a good marker — it’s suited for older children, teens, and adults who can handle cold and walking. If you’re a photography buff or simply eager for a genuine chase with an expert team, you’ll find this tour hits the mark.

Keep in mind, the success of the evening hinges on weather conditions, as the aurora is natural and unpredictable. However, the team’s careful planning and willingness to drive further into the wilderness significantly improve your chances.

At $165 per person, this tour offers a lot of value — especially considering the personalized experience, private locations, and high-quality photos included. Compared to larger or less curated options, it’s a fair price for what you get: expert guiding, strategic planning, and a shot at witnessing one of nature’s most extraordinary phenomena.

The fact that the tour has been operating for over 10 years speaks to its reliability and success rate. Many reviews praise the guides’ dedication, with some describing their experience as “magical,” thanks to guides like Markus and Ville. Considering the Arctic environment, the transportation, gear, and expert support, this is a premium yet reasonable way to maximize your Northern Lights experience.

Pickup and Briefing: The adventure starts at your hotel or accommodation, where guides provide insights and set expectations. This short session helps you understand the plan and what to look for.

First Stop — Secret Location: The first visit is typically a walk of about 45 minutes. This allows you to stretch, get acclimated, and scout an ideal viewing spot. Guests often comment on the peacefulness and beauty of these remote locations.

Second Stop — Another Hidden Gem: The group moves to a different private site, sometimes a 1.5-hour activity with a break, a chance to relax, enjoy a fire, or take photos. This flexibility allows guides to adapt based on real-time conditions.

Final Return: After a few hours of chasing, the team heads back to Rovaniemi, with many guests commenting on how the experience exceeded their expectations. Some mention that guides like Ryan, Markus, or Ville stayed out longer than scheduled, driven only by the aurora’s appearance.

Inclusions: The tour offers pickup and drop-off, warm clothing and boots if needed, headlamps, BBQ gear, hot drinks, and snacks. These thoughtful touches make a cold night comfortable and enjoyable.

If you’re seeking a serious, well-organized Northern Lights adventure, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s perfect for photographers eager for professional guidance, adventurers looking for remote, private locations, or anyone who values expert planning and small-group intimacy. It’s also a strong choice if you want flexibility — with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

It’s less suited for very young children or travelers who prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding experience. If your main goal is simply to see the lights without the photography or outdoor walking, some other options might be more appropriate.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, with starting times available depending on the day.

What is included in the price?
Pickup and drop-off within 10 km of Rovaniemi, a photography guide, transportation in a minivan, warm clothing if needed, headlamps, BBQ gear, hot drinks, and snacks.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
Since the Aurora is a natural phenomenon, it can’t be guaranteed. However, the experienced team’s careful planning and real-time data analysis significantly increase your chances of seeing them.

What if I don’t see the lights?
Even if the aurora is hidden behind clouds or poor weather, the tour still offers an authentic Arctic night experience with opportunities for night photography and professional photos of the night sky.

Is this suitable for children?
The minimum age is 10 years old due to the photography focus and physical demands of the tour.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing, gloves, and a hat are recommended. The tour provides gear if needed, and the stops include fire pits for warmth.

How are the locations chosen?
Guides analyze weather, aurora forecasts, and use local knowledge of over 150 viewing spots, including 20+ private locations, to maximize your chance of seeing the lights.

Can I book with flexibility?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

This Northern Lights Photography Tour in Rovaniemi offers a well-rounded, expert-led experience perfect for those wanting more than a quick glimpse. With dedicated guides, private locations, and professional photos, it elevates the typical aurora chase into a memorable Arctic night. You’ll love the personalized approach, the chance to visit remote spots, and the professional support that helps you capture that perfect shot.

While weather can always be a wildcard, the thorough planning and regional knowledge of Beyond Arctic give you the best possible odds of witnessing the aurora’s full glory. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value authenticity, expert guidance, and quality photos — a genuine Arctic adventure that’s worth every penny.

Whether you’re an avid photographer, a nature lover, or simply seeking a memorable experience, this tour is worth considering if your goal is to chase the Northern Lights with a knowledgeable team in small, intimate groups. Just be prepared for cold nights, and keep your fingers crossed for clear skies — that’s all part of the Arctic adventure.