Snowmobile Photography Trip to the Aurora

An Adventure to Chase the Northern Lights on a Snowmobile in Rovaniemi

The Snowmobile Photography Trip to the Aurora offers a unique way to see the Northern Lights while enjoying the thrill of snowmobiling in Rovaniemi, Finland. Priced at $343.41 per person, this 4-hour tour combines outdoor adventure with expert guidance, making it ideal for those eager to capture the Aurora Borealis with professional help. The tour includes cold-weather gear to keep participants warm, and pickup service in Rovaniemi simplifies logistics. However, it’s worth noting that the price is per person and involves twin riding, meaning each snowmobile seats two, with the option to switch drivers or buy a solo-driving experience.

While the tour’s primary draw is the chance to photograph the Northern Lights with a professional photographer guide, it’s important to remember that Aurora sightings cannot be guaranteed—they depend on weather and solar activity. This experience suits those who appreciate guided outdoor excursions, photography, and wilderness adventure. Overall, it offers a well-rounded mix of nature, technique, and local culture.

Key Points

• 4-hour guided snowmobile trip in Rovaniemi, Finland, focusing on photographing the Northern Lights
• Price of $343.41 per person, with twin riding on snowmobiles and optional solo driving
• Includes cold-weather gear to stay warm during the outdoor experience
• Professional photographer leads the tour, offering tips and unforgettable photo opportunities
• Pickup and drop-off service in Rovaniemi simplifies travel logistics
• Northern Lights sightings are not guaranteed due to weather and solar activity factors

The Best Places to View the Aurora from Rovaniemi’s Wilderness

This tour departs from Nordic Unique Travels at Maakuntakatu 29, Rovaniemi, with the start time around 6:30 pm, though exact times can vary depending on the season. The evening begins with a convenient pickup service in Rovaniemi, making it easy to get to the wilderness away from city lights. The tour guides select locations that maximize the chances of seeing the Aurora, emphasizing the importance of going far out into natural darkness for the best viewing.

Travelers can expect to spend the majority of their time snowmobiling through pristine Finnish landscapes, where the clear, starry sky often provides perfect conditions for Aurora sightings. The emphasis on dark, open areas helps create an environment with minimal light pollution, which is crucial for witnessing the Northern Lights at their brightest.

Exploring the Snowmobile Experience and Logistics

Participants ride on snowmobiles in pairs—a driver and a passenger—on a twin riding basis. The tour offers the chance to switch positions during the ride, giving both individuals a turn at driving. For those who prefer to drive solo, there is an option available for purchase prior to the trip. Drivers must hold valid driving licenses and be at least 18 years old.

The cold-weather gear provided ensures participants stay warm despite the low temperatures. The gear is essential because the tour takes place during winter nights when temperatures can drop significantly. The snowmobiles are the perfect way to cover large wilderness areas quickly, increasing the chances of Aurora sightings while adding a fun, adrenaline-pumping element to the experience.

Highlights of the Aurora Photography Focus

The core appeal of this tour lies in learning about the Northern Lights while capturing stunning photographs. The professional photographer guide shares insights into how to photograph the Aurora, helping participants get the best results. This guidance is especially valuable because Northern Lights photography requires specific techniques to succeed.

Along With the photography, the tour offers a Lappish barbecue featuring reindeer sausage, adding a warm, local touch to the outdoor adventure. After the snowmobiling session, participants can enjoy hot drinks and snacks, which provide comfort before heading back into the cold night.

The Stops and Scenic Highlights of the Tour

The main stop is at Nordic Unique Travels, where the group heads into the wilderness. The guides emphasize that the key to Aurora viewing is to stay away from city lights, making the open, dark areas the perfect backdrop for the Northern Lights. The tour doesn’t include multiple stops but focuses on immersing travelers in the natural environment where Aurora sightings are most likely.

The experience is designed to maximize night sky visibility, with the guides selecting locations that provide unobstructed views of the stars and Aurora. The scenery includes snow-covered forests and open skies, typical of northern Finland’s winter landscape, creating a picturesque setting for both photography and awe.

Practical Details and Considerations

Participants should be ready and waiting in their hotel lobby 10 minutes before pickup. The group size is limited to 32 travelers, ensuring a manageable and personalized experience. The tour operates with a minimum of 2 people on weekdays and Saturdays, and at least 4 people on Sundays and public holidays.

It’s essential for children under 12 to be accompanied by adults paying full price. Children 140 cm or taller can sit on the snowmobile, while younger children must ride in a sleigh. Remember to bring your driving license if you plan to drive, and inform the guide of any dietary requirements ahead of time.

The Unpredictable Nature of Aurora Sightings

While the guided tour enhances the chances of seeing the Northern Lights, Aurora sightings cannot be guaranteed. The phenomenon depends on weather conditions and solar activity, both outside the control of the tour operator. Travelers should be prepared for the possibility of not witnessing the Aurora but can still enjoy the snowmobiling adventure and the chance to learn about this natural wonder.

Comparing This Tour with Similar Options

This tour stands out because of its focus on professional photography and the inclusion of a local guide who explains the natural phenomenon thoroughly. The hot drinks and barbecue add a cozy outdoor element, and the pickup service makes logistics straightforward. Other similar experiences might focus solely on Aurora hunting, but this one combines adventure, photography, and local culture in a well-rounded package.

Limitations and Recommendations

The main limitation is the price point, which reflects the guided photography aspect and included gear. The duration of approximately 4 hours may feel short if weather conditions are not ideal, as the actual time spent snowmobiling could be less than expected, based on some reviews. For travelers with children or those new to snowmobiling, the twin riding setup offers a shared experience, but solo drivers should pre-arrange the option.

This tour offers a memorable experience for photographers, adventure lovers, and anyone eager to explore the Finnish wilderness under the night sky.

The Final Word on the Aurora Snowmobile Tour in Rovaniemi

This guided snowmobile photography adventure combines outdoor excitement, expert guidance, and local culture in one package. The focus on Northern Lights photography makes it especially appealing to those wanting to capture stunning images of this elusive phenomenon. The hot drinks and barbecue add a warm, authentic touch, perfect after a night of snowmobiling.

While Aurora visibility remains uncertain, the guides’ experience and the dark, open landscapes increase the likelihood of a sighting. This tour suits adventurous spirits, photographers, and anyone enthusiastic about wilderness exploration in winter. The pickup service and cold-weather gear make the experience convenient and comfortable, despite the chilly night.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the price per person, and can I drive alone?
Yes, the price is $343.41 per person for twin riding. Solo driving is available for an extra cost, but must be arranged beforehand.

What are the requirements to drive a snowmobile?
Drivers must have a valid driving license and be at least 18 years old. There is an option for solo driving if purchased in advance.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including snowmobiling, photography, and warm-up breaks.

Can children participate?
Children under 12 years old must be accompanied by full-paying adults. Those 140 cm or taller can sit on the snowmobile; younger children must sit in a sleigh.

What is included in the experience?
The tour includes cold-weather gear, snowmobiles, professional photographer guidance, hot drinks, and a barbecue with reindeer sausage.

Is Aurora viewing guaranteed?
No, sightings depend on weather conditions and solar activity. The tour aims to maximize chances but cannot guarantee Aurora sightings.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from Nordic Unique Travels at Maakuntakatu 29, Rovaniemi, and returns there at the end of the experience.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring driving licenses if planning to drive, and be prepared for cold weather with appropriate clothing.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is possible if canceled at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How many people can join the tour?
The maximum group size is 32 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

This Snowmobile Photography Trip to the Aurora offers a practical, exciting way to experience Finnish winter and the Northern Lights, especially for those keen on photography and outdoor adventure.