Oulu: Guided Night Walking Tour with Northern Lights Hunting

Key Points

• Price and Duration: This tour costs $83 per person and lasts approximately 3 hours.
• Starting Point: It begins at Tori Police statue in Oulu city center.
• Main Highlights: Includes Northern Lights hunting, a scenic walk to Nallikari Sea beach, visits to Pikisaari island and Toppila harbor, plus a photo session.
• Inclusive Features: Guiding, hot drinks and snacks, professional photos, and educational insights about Oulu’s history, Finnish nature, and the Northern Lights.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most fitness levels, with many pauses for rest.
• Additional Options: Optional bonfire with BBQ snacks at Nallikari beach is available for extra cost (+20).

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Oulu’s Nightscape and Northern Lights Chase

The Oulu: Guided Night Walking Tour with Northern Lights Hunting offers a compelling way to explore the Finnish city after dark while chasing one of the most mesmerizing natural phenomena—the Northern Lights. For $83 per person, this 3-hour guided walk combines cultural insights, scenic views, and the thrill of Arctic skywatching, making it perfect for those eager to experience Oulu’s nighttime beauty.

The tour departs from Tori Police statue, a recognizable landmark in the Oulu city center, setting the stage for an authentic local start. It’s designed for easy walking over approximately 8 kilometers, with plenty of pauses for rest and photo opportunities. The experience is suitable for most fitness levels, though those with low fitness may want to consider their comfort during the walk.

From Oulu Market Square to Pikisaari Island and Beyond

The journey begins in the heart of Oulu, where the guide leads travelers through scenic city streets. You’ll stroll across Pikisaari island, a picturesque area known for its historic wooden buildings and art galleries. This part of the walk offers a glimpse of Oulu’s maritime past and vibrant cultural scene.

Next, the route takes you along the Oulu River delta, revealing views of the waterways and natural landscapes that surround the city. The walk then heads toward Nallikari beach, a highlight of the tour. Here, travelers have the opportunity to set foot on the frozen sea (from January to April) and visit the iconic Nallikari Lighthouse.

Discovering Nallikari Lighthouse and Arctic Seas

At Nallikari, the tour stops at the famous lighthouse, a well-known symbol of the area. Walking safely on the frozen sea provides a unique Arctic experience, especially under the night sky. The guide explains the significance of the lighthouse and the Arctic seascape, adding educational context to the stunning visuals.

A peaceful break by the sea provides a chance to enjoy hot drinks and traditional Finnish oat cookies. This moment of warmth amidst the Arctic scenery is a memorable part of the evening, especially if the Northern Lights make an appearance overhead.

Visiting Toppila Harbor and Learning About Oulu’s Seafaring Past

After the sea-side visit, the tour returns to the city through Toppila Harbor, once a bustling ship port. Here, museum ships attract attention, and the guide shares stories about Oulu’s seafaring history. The harbor’s historic buildings and marine artifacts give further depth to the city’s maritime identity.

The route continues through river delta views and the nighttime cityscape, providing a diverse mix of urban and natural sights. This segment offers a relaxed pace, enabling participants to absorb the quiet beauty of Oulu’s night.

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Learning and Photography Opportunities During the Tour

Throughout the walk, the guide provides insights into the local flora, fauna, and Northern Lights phenomena. An included photography course helps travelers improve their night photography skills, and professional pictures are taken during the tour, ensuring visitors have high-quality mementos of their Arctic adventure.

This combination of education and photography adds value to the experience, especially for those interested in capturing stunning night sky images or learning more about Finnish nature.

The Practicalities: Snacks, Photos, and Flexibility

Included in the tour are small snacks and hot drinks, perfect for warming up and recharging during the walk. For an additional +20, travelers have the option of enjoying a bonfire with BBQ snacks on Nallikari beach, enhancing the outdoor experience with more warmth and food.

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later. The tour operates in English, Polish, and Finnish, catering to a diverse audience, and is wheelchair accessible for added convenience.

Logistics and Meeting Details

The tour starts at Oulu Market Place, specifically at the Tori Poliisi location. It’s important to wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing for the outdoor walk, and bringing a camera is recommended to capture the scenic moments and the Northern Lights if they appear.

While the tour is available in daylight without chasing the Northern Lights, its main highlight remains Aurora hunting at night, making it ideal for those seeking an evening adventure under the Arctic sky.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Similar Experiences

Compared to other Northern Lights tours, this guided walk offers a more relaxed, scenic approach rather than a noisy chase or vehicle-based tour. The focus on historical sites, natural beauty, and photography makes it a well-rounded option for travelers looking for a blend of culture, nature, and skywatching.

The small group size and personal guidance ensure an intimate experience, and the educational component about Finnish nature and Oulu’s history enriches the journey. The tour’s accessible design also means it can accommodate a range of participants, including those in wheelchairs.

Oulu Night Walking Tour: Final Perspective

This 3-hour guided walking tour provides a thoughtful route through Oulu’s city streets and seaside landscapes with the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights. Its combination of scenic stops, educational content, and photography tips makes it appealing to nature lovers, history buffs, and sky enthusiasts alike.

While it does not include a bonfire with snacks by default, the option is available for those wanting extra warmth and food. Its affordable price and flexible booking options add to its attractiveness. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic, and informative evening in Finland’s Arctic region.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the price of the tour?
  The tour costs $83 per person.

• How long does the tour last?
  It lasts approximately 3 hours.

• Where does the tour start?
  It begins at Tori Police statue in Oulu city center.

• Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
  Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

• What should I bring?
  Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera are recommended.

• Can I join the tour during the day?
  Yes, the tour is also possible in daylight without Northern Lights chasing.

• What if I want to enjoy a bonfire?
  A bonfire with BBQ snacks can be added for +20, available at Nallikari beach.

• Is there an educational component?
  Yes, the guide provides information on the history of Oulu, Finnish nature, wildlife, and the Northern Lights, plus a photography course.

• What languages are available?
  The tour is conducted in English, Polish, and Finnish.

• What if I need to cancel?
  You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance and receive a full refund.

  You can check availability for your dates here:
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