If you’re eager to see the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi, Auroras – Northern Lights Tours by Aurora Experts offers a well-regarded option priced at $137.75 per person. This 5 to 6-hour tour departs from Rovakatu 26 and emphasizes visiting the best possible viewing locations—mountains and hills with clear, unobstructed views to the north, far from artificial lights. Known for a high probability of aurora sightings, estimated at 80%, this tour is ideal for those seeking expert guidance in pursuit of the elusive aurora borealis.

While the tour has received some mixed reviews regarding organization, its strong points include knowledgeable guides, prime viewing spots, and practical amenities like access to toilets and fire pits. The experience suits travelers who prioritize expertise and strategic locations over luxury or high-end accommodations. The tour’s unique focus on weather-dependent location adjustments and nighttime timing makes it a compelling choice for aurora enthusiasts.

Key Points

Price: $137.75 per person, with a duration of 5 to 6 hours.
Starting point: Rovakatu 26, Rovaniemi, with pickup included.
Optimal times: The tour is most effective between 11 PM and 12 AM.
Location advantage: The tour uses remote, light-free sites on mountains and hills with excellent north-facing views.
Guide expertise: Guides like Shoja are praised for their weather knowledge and ability to find clear skies even in challenging conditions.
Tour experience: The tour is private, ensuring focused attention, and includes adventure gear and access to fire pits and facilities.

Prime Viewing Locations and the Tour’s Unique Focus

This tour centers around visiting the best possible spots for spotting the Northern Lights, with a strong emphasis on remote mountain and hill locations. Unlike glass igloos, which many assume help visibility, the tour clarifies that wide open views, far from artificial lights, are essential for both seeing and photographing the aurora. The tour’s approach is based on long experience, ensuring the chances of witnessing the lights are maximized, especially during the prime viewing window from 11 PM to 12 AM.

The elevation of the chosen sites means travelers can enjoy unobstructed views of the northern sky, increasing the likelihood of seeing auroras even if the weather in town is cloudy or foggy. The tour’s strategy relies on weather monitoring and satellite data, with guides like Shoja adjusting locations on the fly for the best possible chance.

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Starting Point at Rovakatu and Equipment Provided

The tour begins at the Lapland Welcome Safari Office on Rovakatu, where guests receive their adventure gear. This 15-minute stop is also where the admission ticket is issued, making it a quick and efficient start. The pickup service simplifies logistics, allowing guests to relax and focus on the experience.

Participants should arrive at the meeting point ready for a nighttime adventure, with the tour set to start at 9:00 PM. The activity ends back at the same meeting location, simplifying transportation arrangements. The private nature of the tour means that only your group is involved, offering a more personalized experience.

The Guide’s Role and Weather Adaptability

Several reviews highlight the expertise and resourcefulness of guides like Shoja and Anthony. Shoja, in particular, is credited for studying weather conditions using satellite imagery and finding suitable locations even under challenging weather, such as heavy clouds or snow. This flexibility is crucial in Lapland, where weather can change rapidly.

The guides are praised for sharing stories and local knowledge, creating a friendly and informative atmosphere. Despite some comments about disorganization within the company, the guides themselves are seen as experienced professionals who prioritize safety and maximizing the chance of seeing the aurora.

Food, Facilities, and Comfort During the Tour

While the primary focus remains on aurora viewing, the tour includes access to toilets, fire pits, and food at the base site. These amenities provide some comfort during the long night out, especially in cold conditions. One review describes warming up around a campfire and enjoying sausages, while another mentions taking photos of the family near the fire.

However, the tour is primarily about location and timing, not luxury. Travelers should prepare for cold conditions, especially if aurora sightings are delayed or weather is less than ideal.

The Importance of Timing and Night Conditions

The best chances of seeing the Northern Lights are during the late night hours, specifically 11 PM to 12 AM. The tour’s success hinges on weather conditions and sky clarity, with guides actively monitoring satellite data to adjust the location as needed.

Guides like Shoja have demonstrated skill in finding clear patches even when the weather is challenging, such as heavy snow or clouds in Rovaniemi. The tour’s flexibility in selecting optimal spots is one of its main strengths, giving participants a fighting chance to witness the aurora borealis.

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The Tour’s Limitations and Considerations

While the tour boasts an 80% chance of aurora sightings, weather remains a key factor that can influence outcomes. Some reviews mention cloudy or snowy weather, which can obscure the lights despite the best efforts of guides. It’s also worth noting that the tour is non-refundable, so weather cancellations are not covered, and changes are not possible once booked.

The disorganization noted in some reviews might affect the overall experience, though guides are generally praised for their knowledge and professionalism. Travelers should be prepared for cold nights, and those expecting luxury amenities might find the focus more on practical viewing than comfort.

Comparing with Other Aurora Tours in Rovaniemi

This tour emphasizes prime locations and expert guidance, distinguishing it from others that might rely on more traditional or less strategic spots. The focus on mountain and hilltop locations with far-reaching views makes it particularly appealing for photographers and serious aurora enthusiasts.

Other tours in the area may offer guaranteed sightings or unlimited mileage, but this tour’s strength lies in location selection and weather responsiveness. The private setup also offers a more tailored experience compared to larger groups.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you seek a guided experience with a high likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights, this tour provides a practical and well-focused option. The expert guides, especially those who actively adjust locations based on weather data, help maximize your chances of witnessing this natural phenomenon.

However, be prepared for potential weather challenges and the possibility of disorganization, which has been noted in some reviews. The tour is best suited for adventurers who prioritize strategic locations and knowledgeable guides over luxury amenities. It’s ideal for those willing to brace the cold and stay flexible in pursuit of the aurora borealis.

Ready to Book?

Auroras – Northern Lights Tours by Aurora Experts – Rovaniemi

4.0

(8)

“Very disorganized. Nasty personnel except for the guides were very sweet and kind but they didn't really have much energy or personality because th…”

— A Tripadvisor Reviewer, Dec 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $137.75 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours and departs at 9:00 PM.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is Rovakatu 26, Rovaniemi, at the Lapland Welcome Safari Office.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, pickup is offered as part of the experience, making logistics easier.

What is the best time to see the Northern Lights?
The prime viewing window is between 11 PM and 12 AM, with guides actively seeking the best spots during this period.

Can I expect luxury amenities?
The tour provides access to toilets, fire pits, and food, but the focus remains on location and weather conditions rather than luxury comforts.

What if the weather is cloudy or snowy?
Guides like Shoja monitor weather closely and will adjust location to optimize visibility, but aurora sightings are not guaranteed in poor weather.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While specific age restrictions are not detailed, the cold outdoor environment and nighttime setting suggest it is better suited for older children or teenagers capable of handling cold conditions.

Are the tours flexible in case of bad weather?
The tour is non-refundable, and once booked, changes are not permitted, but guides do their best to find clear skies using satellite data.

How does this tour compare to other aurora experiences?
Its key advantage is location strategy and expert weather monitoring, making it a good choice for those wanting a focused, guided chase rather than just a scenic drive.

This detailed overview underscores the strengths of Auroras by Aurora Experts: expert guidance, remote viewing locations, and a strategic approach to aurora hunting. While some organizational issues are noted, the main draw remains the high likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights in a setting optimized for that purpose.