Rovaniemi: Northern Lights Tour with BBQ & Glögi

Witness the Northern Lights in Lapland with a 3-hour guided tour from Rovaniemi that combines aurora viewing with a cozy traditional BBQ and Glögi. Hosted by Record Travel Rovaniemi, this tour offers a chance to escape the city lights and enjoy the serene Finnish countryside. The tour is rated 3.5 out of 5, making it a solid choice for those seeking a relaxed, outdoor experience with a focus on natural beauty and local flavors.

This experience begins with a hotel pickup in Rovaniemi, followed by a journey into light-pollution-free areas where the chances of seeing the Northern Lights are higher. The highlight is an authentic Lappish barbecue served by a private lake, where guests can warm up by the fire, sip Glögi, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. While the tour does not guarantee aurora sightings due to their natural unpredictability, the carefully chosen locations and the opportunity to relax in a peaceful setting make it an appealing choice for aurora seekers.

Key Points

• Duration of 3 hours offers a quick, manageable experience in the Finnish night sky.
• Includes hotel pickup within Rovaniemi, with a prompt start time.
• Visit to a serene private lake boosts chances of seeing the Aurora away from light pollution.
• Traditional Lappish barbecue is served around a fire, with warm Glögi to keep guests cozy.
• Focus on tranquility and natural beauty rather than crowded viewing spots.
• No guaranteed aurora sightings, as it depends on natural conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Rovaniemi: Starting Point for Aurora Adventures

This Northern Lights tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Rovaniemi. The convenience of a hotel collection means no need to navigate or arrange transport, and the driver waits no longer than 5 minutes after the scheduled pickup time. The journey into the Finnish countryside takes you away from city lights, setting the stage for a better view of the aurora borealis.

The tour’s goal is to increase the likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights by heading into areas where light pollution is minimal. The scenic drive into Lapland’s scenic wilderness provides an atmospheric start to the evening, with the quiet darkness helping you settle into the anticipation of the natural display.

Scenic Stops at a Private Lake for Aurora Viewing

The first stop takes place at a serene private lake, carefully selected for its low light pollution and wide-open views of the sky. Here, the focus is on waiting calmly for the aurora to appear. The tranquil environment enhances the chances of witnessing this natural phenomenon, even if the lights do not materialize.

The darkness and stillness of this setting make it ideal for watching the night sky. The tour guides monitor aurora activity, but as with all Northern Lights excursions, it’s important to remember that the phenomenon is unpredictable. The colors and intensity of the aurora can vary, sometimes appearing faint and other times bursting into vivid displays.

Traditional Lappish BBQ by the Fire

After spending time at the lake, the tour continues to a secluded location where a traditional Lappish barbecue is served. Guests can relax around an open fire, warming themselves with Glögi, a warm spiced drink perfect for the cold night.

The Lappish barbecue is a highlight, featuring locally inspired dishes cooked outdoors. The fire adds a cozy element to the experience, and the serene surroundings of the private lake create an intimate atmosphere. This part of the tour is especially appreciated for its combination of authentic Finnish cuisine and peaceful wilderness.

The Aurora: Expectation and Reality

As the night progresses, the guides keep a close eye on the sky, waiting for the spectacular Northern Lights to appear. They clarify that aurora sightings are not guaranteed, since the lights depend on natural conditions like solar activity and weather.

The colors and brightness of the aurora can range from faint glows to dazzling displays, and patience is key. This tour emphasizes enjoying the tranquil setting and the warmth of the fire while hoping for a sighting rather than relying solely on the lights to make the experience memorable.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it suitable for those with limited time or looking for a brief yet immersive outdoor experience. Live guides speak English, ensuring clear communication and storytelling throughout.

Booking is flexible with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for changes in weather or plans. The reserve now and pay later option provides added convenience, making it easier to secure a spot even if plans are uncertain.

What Sets This Tour Apart: Focus on Tranquility and Authenticity

Unlike some Northern Lights tours that target busy, crowded spots, this experience emphasizes peaceful, scenic locations and authentic Finnish food. Guests enjoy a relaxed pace with time to soak in the natural surroundings and indulge in a traditional barbecue.

The tour’s small group feel and private lake stop provide an intimate setting, ideal for those who prefer a more personalized outdoor experience. While the 3-hour duration is brief, the combination of nature, local cuisine, and potential aurora sightings makes it a compelling option.

Limitations and Considerations

It’s important to keep in mind that aurora borealis is a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed. The lighting conditions, solar activity, and weather all influence whether the Northern Lights will be visible during your tour.

The rating of 3.5 suggests that while the experience is pleasant and well-organized, some guests might find the actual Aurora viewing less consistent. It’s best suited for travelers who value relaxing outdoor environments and local flavor over guaranteed spectacular light shows.

The Sum Up: A Cozy, Authentic Northern Lights Experience

This 3-hour Northern Lights tour from Rovaniemi combines the thrill of aurora hunting with the comfort of a traditional Lappish barbecue and fire-side warmth. The tour’s emphasis on peaceful, scenic stops and local cuisine makes it a good choice for travelers seeking a relaxed outdoor adventure.

While aurora sightings are not assured, the serene lakeside setting and authentic Finnish food deliver a memorable experience regardless of the lights’ appearance. It’s especially suitable for those who want a short, nature-focused outing that balances adventure and relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup in Rovaniemi, transportation to scenic spots, a traditional Lappish barbecue, and warm Glögi by the fire.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts around 3 hours, making it a manageable evening activity.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed to appear?
No, aurora sightings depend on natural conditions like weather and solar activity, so sightings cannot be guaranteed.

What should I wear for this tour?
While the data doesn’t specify clothing, expect cold outdoor conditions, so warm layers, hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes are advisable.

Where exactly does the tour go?
The tour visits a private lake and other countryside spots outside Rovaniemi, away from city lights.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Though not explicitly specified, the short duration and outdoor setting suggest it could be suitable for families with children, especially those comfortable in cold weather.

What makes this tour different from others?
The focus on peaceful lakeside locations, authentic Lappish cuisine, and relaxation by the fire sets it apart from more crowded or activity-heavy aurora tours.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby