Northern Lights Snowmobile Sleigh Ride

The Northern Lights Snowmobile Sleigh Ride in Rovaniemi, Finland, offers an exciting way to chase the aurora borealis. Priced at $164.26 per person, this approximately 5-hour adventure combines the thrill of snowmobiling with the comfort of included winter gear and warm drinks. The tour departs from Lapland Welcome and features a guided journey through the Arctic countryside, pulling your sleigh behind a snowmobile to reach remote spots for optimal northern lights viewing.

While this experience is designed to maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis, it also provides a memorable outdoor adventure. The tour includes snacks, hot beverages, and the chance to sit by a campfire once at the viewing location. It’s especially suited for those interested in combining snowmobiling with a cozy, scenic night under the stars. Keep in mind that the tour is non-refundable, so planning ahead is advisable.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $164.26 per person and lasts approximately 5 hours.
• Remote Viewing Locations: It takes place just outside Rovaniemi, in a location chosen for optimal Aurora viewing.
• Guided Snowmobile Journey: A professional guide pulls your sleigh using a snowmobile, leading you through the Arctic landscape.
• Included Comforts: Winter gear, snacks, warm drinks, and a campfire are included to keep you warm and comfortable.
• Unique Experience: The tour features old Lappish shamanism and a light-hearted look into local traditions.
• Limited Booking Window: On average, it’s booked 205 days in advance, indicating high interest.

Starting Point and Logistics in Rovaniemi

The tour begins at Lapland Welcome, located at Rovakatu 26, 96200 Rovaniemi. It offers pickup services, making it convenient for guests to meet at the designated location. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, simplifying logistics.

Most travelers can participate, and vegetarian options are available if requested at the time of booking. While the main tour suits most, those seeking a private experience can opt for an additional charge. The tour is run by Lapland Welcome Oy, with contact options including a phone number and email.

The Itinerary and Key Stops

The tour’s main highlight is the journey to a wooden watchtower on the summit, which offers 360-degree views of the Arctic horizon. This elevated vantage point increases the likelihood of witnessing the northern lights. During the ride, a professional guide drives the snowmobile, while guests sit comfortably on a sleigh pulled through the snow.

At the summit, a tepee fires up with a campfire where snacks and hot beverages are served. This setting allows for a cozy wait under the star-studded arctic sky. The itinerary also includes some Lappish shamanism, providing light-hearted insights into local traditions and a fun glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage.

The Snowmobile and Sleigh Experience

The snowmobile pulls the sleigh through the forest and frozen lake, as noted in positive reviews about guides like David and Juhar. The ride takes energy, but the guides are praised for their instructions and friendly approach. The journey is set in a remote, natural environment, away from city lights, which enhances the chances of a spectacular aurora display.

The guides’ expertise and the scenic countryside are major highlights, creating an adventurous yet comfortable experience. The included winter gear ensures guests stay warm in temperatures typical of the Arctic night.

Viewing the Northern Lights from a Remote Spot

One of the best features of this tour is its strategic location outside Rovaniemi, away from artificial light pollution. The wooden watchtower on the summit provides unobstructed views of the northern sky, maximizing the opportunity to see the aurora. Even when the lights are faint or inconsistent, the ambiance of the Arctic night and the campfire make for a memorable experience.

The tour’s success in spotting the Aurora Borealis is reflected in reviews, with some mentioning they saw the lights, even if not in perfect conditions. The combination of guidance, location, and timing helps to enhance viewing prospects.

Warmth and Comfort During the Arctic Night

While the Arctic night in Rovaniemi can be cold, the tour includes winter adventure gear to keep visitors warm. Plus, the campfire acts as a cozy gathering point, where snacks and warm drinks like coffee or tea are served. This setup creates a welcoming atmosphere for spectators waiting for the aurora to appear and keeps discomfort at bay.

Guests can also enjoy Lappish traditional elements, such as a light-hearted shamanism demonstration, which adds a cultural layer to the experience.

The Cultural Touch: Old Lappish Shamanism and Future Reading

A distinctive feature of this tour is the inclusion of Lappish shamanism, where participants get a playful look into local traditions and are encouraged to see their future through a light-hearted program. This adds an extra dimension beyond the outdoor adventure, making it appealing to those interested in Sami culture and folklore.

Customer Experiences and Tips for Success

Reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and ability to explain the environment and traditions clearly. However, some note that long waits and communication issues can occur, so patience may be needed. The best chance to see the aurora depends on weather conditions, and travelers should be prepared for a night outdoors.

Booking well in advance is recommended, given the tour’s popularity. Travelers should also dress warmly, as the Arctic temperatures can be quite low, even with the provided gear.

Price Value and Overall Impression

At $164.26 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive Arctic experience with guided snowmobile rides, cultural highlights, and the chance to witness the northern lights. Its inclusion of transportation, guidance, and warm gear provides good value, especially considering the remote location and the expertise of the guides.

While it is non-refundable, the experience’s uniqueness and the scenic setting make it a worthwhile choice for those eager to combine adventure with aurora hunting in Rovaniemi.

Northern Lights Snowmobile Sleigh Ride (2023) — Final Thoughts

This tour stands out for its focus on remote Aurora viewing in an Arctic setting, with the guides’ expertise and scenic stops playing a central role. The guided snowmobile journey and lively cultural elements like shamanism make it more than just a lights chase—it’s a full Arctic adventure.

It’s best suited for those who enjoy outdoor winter activities, want to maximize their chances of seeing the Northern Lights, and are comfortable with cold weather and outdoor nighttime experiences. The included winter gear and communal campfire help ensure comfort, but flexibility with long waits or weather variability is advisable.

This experience offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, making it a compelling option for travelers seeking a memorable Arctic night in Rovaniemi.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Northern Lights Snowmobile Sleigh Ride last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, providing ample time for snowmobiling, viewing, and warming up at the campfire.

What is included in the price?
The price includes transportation, guidance, snacks, coffee and beverages, winter adventure gear, liability insurance, and bottled water.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Lapland Welcome at Rovakatu 26 in Rovaniemi.

Can vegetarians participate?
Yes, a vegetarian option is available if advised at the time of booking.

Is this tour suitable for children or all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but the physical activity involved may require a certain level of mobility. Contacting the provider for specific needs or language assistance is recommended.

What are the chances of seeing the northern lights?
While the tour maximizes the chances with a remote, panoramic location, sightings depend on weather conditions and aurora activity on the night of the tour.