Northern lights hunting with car

If witnessing the Northern Lights is top of your Finland travel wish list, the Northern Lights hunting with car tour offers a practical and engaging way to increase your chances. For $151.68 per person, this 3 to 4-hour experience departs from Rovaniemi, with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off included. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour takes you to carefully selected spots free of light pollution, maximizing your opportunity to see the Aurora borealis. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join and the option to borrow warm overalls for added comfort. Review ratings of 4.5 out of 5 from 10 reviews highlight its strong reputation, though some mention that Aurora sightings can never be guaranteed.

This tour is ideal for those eager to avoid the hassle of planning their own Aurora hunt and who appreciate the reassurance of a guided approach, with plenty of practical amenities included. You get not only the chance to see the Northern Lights but also enjoy local stories, snacks, hot drinks, and photos — all in a cozy, well-organized package. Keep in mind, lunch is not included, so packing a meal or planning accordingly is recommended if you’re hungry after the tour.

Key Points

• Guided Aurora hunting with a local expert increases your chances of seeing the Northern Lights.
• Transport is included, eliminating concerns about finding spots or driving in cold weather.
• Snacks, hot drinks, and photos are part of the package, creating a warm, memorable experience.
• Tour starts at 7:30 pm from Rovaniemi, with pickup from your hotel or cabin.
• Weather conditions influence Aurora sightings, but the guide checks forecasts to select the best viewing locations.
• Small group size of up to 8 travelers ensures a personalized experience.

Pickup from Rovaniemi and the Tour Schedule

This tour departs from Rovaniemi at 7:30 pm, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, making it a seamless experience. The guide will collect travelers from their accommodations, whether a hotel or cabin, ensuring a hassle-free start. The tour then proceeds in a comfortable vehicle, with different starting points at Luosto and Pyhatunturi at 8:00 pm for those staying in those areas. The flexible 3 to 4-hour duration means you can expect an early evening adventure, with plenty of time to chase the Lights across multiple viewpoints.

Carefully Chosen Viewing Spots with No Light Pollution

A major advantage of this tour lies in the guide’s expertise at selecting the best locations to observe the Aurora borealis. The journey involves visiting multiple viewpoints away from artificial light, dramatically increasing your chances of a spectacular sighting, weather permitting. The guide’s knowledge of the weather forecast and Aurora activity helps optimize viewing conditions, though it’s important to remember that Northern Lights remain a natural phenomenon with no guarantees.

Travelers can expect to be taken to quiet, scenic spots, often near nature-rich areas like frozen rivers or open landscapes. These locations provide a clear, unobstructed view of the dark sky, and the guide’s storytelling adds depth to the experience.

Warm Clothing and Comfort Measures

Given the cold conditions typical of Lapland nights, warm overalls are available for those who need them, ensuring comfort during the outdoor viewing. The tour emphasizes staying warm and cozy by the campfire, where hot drinks and snacks are served. Roast sausages are part of the experience, adding a traditional touch and helping keep everyone warm in the chilly evening air.

The guide also takes care of photography, offering to capture pictures of the Northern Lights so you can focus on enjoying the moment without worrying about your camera settings.

Food, Beverages, and Social Atmosphere

The inclusion of hot beverages, snacks, and roast sausages helps create a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. The campfire setting offers a chance to chat, listen to stories about Lappish life, and appreciate the natural surroundings. These features make the tour suitable for families and small groups looking for a comfortable experience under the Arctic sky.

The snacks and drinks are served by fire, fostering a convivial environment and offering a warm break during the long winter night.

The Expertise and Personality of the Guide

The local guides are known for their knowledge of the Northern Lights and Lappish nature. They share interesting facts about the Aurora borealis, adding educational value to the journey. Several reviews praise guides like Kristiina, Onni, and Eero for their helpfulness, friendliness, and skill at finding the Lights, even in challenging weather conditions.

The guides also take photos for guests, ensuring everyone can leave with memorable images of their experience.

Review Highlights: What Travelers Love and What to Consider

Most reviews are highly favorable, with ratings of 4.3 and 4.5 out of 5. Travelers appreciate knowledgeable guides, beautiful viewpoints, and the friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Several reviewers mention guides like Kristiina and Onni by name, highlighting their enthusiasm and ability to find the Northern Lights.

However, some reviews note that Aurora sightings are inherently uncertain, as weather and atmospheric conditions vary. One reviewer expressed disappointment when the Lights were not visible, which is a common aspect of Aurora tours.

It’s worth noting that preparation and communication are generally good, but last-minute changes can occur based on weather, so flexibility helps.

Practicalities and Booking Policies

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure**, providing flexibility if your plans change or if weather conditions look unfavorable. The maximum group size of 8 ensures personalized attention, with guides checking the weather forecast carefully before setting out.

Guests are advised to advise any dietary requirements when booking, as food preferences are accommodated. As the tour is most suitable for most travelers, physical requirements are generally minimal, but it is advisable to dress warmly for outdoor conditions.

Why This Tour Is a Good Choice

The Northern Lights hunting with car tour from Rovaniemi combines practical logistics—hotel pickup, local guides, and multiple viewpoints—with a warm, social experience. It offers a well-rounded package that balances Aurora chasing with comfort, including snacks, hot drinks, and photography.

This tour especially suits those who want peace of mind that their Aurora hunt is guided by experts and who value small group sizes for a more intimate experience. While Aurora sightings are never guaranteed due to natural variability, the careful planning and local knowledge greatly enhance the chance of witnessing this spectacular natural display.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making the experience more convenient, especially in cold weather.

What should I wear for the tour?
Warm clothing is recommended, and overalls are available if needed to stay comfortable during outdoor viewing.

Can I cancel the tour if weather conditions are poor?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility if conditions look unfavorable.

Will I get photos of the Northern Lights?
Yes, the guide offers to take pictures for guests, capturing the Aurora and the overall experience.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity, so while guides do their best to find clear spots, there’s no guarantee. The tour’s careful planning still offers a rewarding outing in Lapland’s winter landscape.

This guided Northern Lights hunting with car tour provides a practical, cozy, and informative way to chase the Aurora borealis in Rovaniemi. Its combination of expert guidance, comfort, and scenic locations makes it a solid choice for those eager to see this natural wonder with a trusted local operator.