Levi: Northern Lights Magic and Stargazing by Telescope

Key Points

• Price and Duration: This tour costs $129 per person and lasts 3 hours, making it a compact yet comprehensive Arctic night experience.
• Location and Setting: It departs from Levi, Lapland, traveling to a remote lake surrounded by forest, ideal for viewing the Northern Lights away from city light pollution.
• Unique Features: Includes stargazing with a telescope, moon and star exploration, and optional snowshoeing on the frozen lake.
• Highlights: Witness the Northern Lights, capture them on your phone or with a guide’s camera, and warm up beside a fire with hot drinks and roasted sausages.
• Guidance and Photos: An experienced guide leads the night, sharing stories and providing professional photographs within 2 days.
• Weather and Flexibility: The tour accommodates cold conditions, with the possibility of rescheduling if temperatures drop below -30°C.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Levi: Northern Lights Magic and Stargazing by Telescope – An Arctic Night to Remember

The Levi Northern Lights and Stargazing tour, priced at $129 per person, offers a three-hour adventure into the Arctic sky from Lapland, Finland. Led by Keo Wilderness, this experience emphasizes telescope-guided star and moon exploration, along with Northern Lights viewing in a carefully selected natural setting. The tour is tailored for those seeking a rich combination of celestial sights, local storytelling, and thermal comfort.

This tour starts with hotel pickup from six convenient locations in Levi, followed by a short 15-minute drive into the wilderness. Here, amidst snowy forests and frozen lakes, travelers gain access to some of the best natural spots for viewing the Aurora Borealis and a star-filled sky, away from city lights. Though the Northern Lights are unpredictable, the experience guarantees stargazing and telescope viewing, making it a compelling option even for those who may not see the Aurora.

The experience balances adventure and comfort, offering snowshoes for walking on the ice, warm drinks, and a cozy shelter with a fire. The combination of nature, storytelling, and astronomy creates a memorable Arctic night that appeals to families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Key Points

• Affordable and concise: $129 for 3 hours of guided Aurora and stargazing in Lapland.
• Remote viewing location: A lake surrounded by forest, ideal for dark-sky observation.
• Includes telescope and photos: Guided telescope exploration, with professional photos sent afterward.
• Weather considerations: Rescheduling possible in extreme cold, with clothing recommendations.
• Family-friendly: Not suitable for infants or people with mobility issues, but snowshoeing and storytelling add fun elements.
• Expert guidance: Experienced guides share insights and help you capture images of the night sky.

Starting the Night: Pickup and Drive into the Wilderness

The tour begins with hotel pickup from six central locations in Levi, including Levi Hotel Spa, Design Hotel Levi, and Hullu Poro. From there, a comfortable van takes passengers into the Lapland wilderness, a journey of about 15 minutes that offers glimpses of snow-covered forests and lakes. This short transit prepares guests for a night immersed in nature.

The destination is a remote lake, chosen for its dark sky conditions. This setting provides unobstructed views of the Northern Lights and stars, away from any light pollution, offering a pristine backdrop for the night sky. The quietness of the snow-covered landscape enhances the sense of tranquility and wonder that defines this tour.

Exploring the Finnish Night Sky Through a Telescope

Once at the lakeside, guests are introduced to their guided telescope. The guide offers step-by-step instructions using a simple app, allowing travelers to capture images of the moon, stars, and planets on their own phones. The telescope provides a close-up view of celestial objects, with the opportunity to see the moon’s surface, numerous stars, and possibly nearby planets if the sky is clear.

The professional guide also captures high-quality images of the group and the night sky, which are sent to guests within two days. This service allows visitors to relive the experience and share their memories, making the tour especially attractive for those interested in astrophotography.

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Northern Lights Viewing and Photo Opportunities

The highlight of the tour is the Northern Lights appearance. When the Aurora appears, waves of green light ripple across the sky, sometimes with pink or purple hues, moving like curtains of light. These natural displays sometimes dance above the trees and across the stars, creating a breathtaking scene.

Guests can watch the Aurora with their own eyes, then capture it on their phones, or let the guide use a professional camera for high-quality photographs. The fire-side shelter provides a warm environment to enjoy hot drinks and roast sausages, offering comfort during the wait for the Aurora to appear.

Stargazing with the Telescope in the Arctic Night

After the Aurora, the focus shifts to star gazing through the telescope. The clear Arctic sky reveals countless stars and, if the weather permits, nearby planets. The quietness of the surroundings fosters a profound connection with the universe, as the guide shares stories and legends about the stars and the northern sky.

Guests are encouraged to take photos of the moon’s surface and celestial objects using the telescope app, with guidance from the expert. This part of the experience emphasizes learning and discovery in a setting that feels both intimate and awe-inspiring.

Warmth, Stories, and Local Legends

While waiting for the Aurora, the guide shares local stories and sky legends that connect the land with the night sky. The cozy shelter becomes a social hub where guests can warm up, enjoy hot drinks, and roast sausages around the fire. These moments foster a relaxed atmosphere and connection to the local culture.

The fire and warm drinks are especially appreciated in Arctic temperatures, which can drop below -30°C. The tour recommends wearing warm clothing, gloves, and sturdy shoes to stay comfortable during the outdoor activities.

Optional Snowshoeing and Walking on the Ice

For the adventurous, snowshoes are provided, allowing guests to walk on the frozen lake. This silent, snowy landscape enhances the sense of being immersed in Arctic nature. The activity is optional, but many find it to be a magical way to experience the wilderness and the peace of the Arctic night.

Walking on the ice provides a unique perspective on the landscape, with the stars overhead and the quietness of snow underfoot. This addition makes the tour suitable for those wanting a bit of physical activity and up-close nature.

The Logistics of Pickup, Drop-off, and Overall Pacing

The pickup and drop-off process is designed for convenience, with six pickup locations and prompt timings. Guests are advised to arrive 10 minutes early to ensure a smooth start. The tour’s pacing balances outdoor activities, storytelling, and free time at the fire, making for a well-structured 3-hour experience.

In extremely cold weather (below -30°C), the tour providers reserve the right to reschedule or refund for safety and comfort reasons. The small group size and local expertise of the guides contribute to a personalized experience.

The Experience of Professional Photos and Memories

A notable feature is the professional photography during the tour. The guide captures images of the Northern Lights, stars, and participants with a professional camera. These photos are edited and sent to guests within two days, allowing everyone to treasure and share their Arctic night memories.

This service adds value for those wanting high-quality keepsakes of their experience without the hassle of taking photos in freezing conditions.

Suitability and Considerations for Visitors

This tour is not suitable for infants, children under 8, or people with mobility impairments. The cold temperatures and outdoor setting require guests to dress appropriately. The tour is primarily conducted in English, and extra arrangements like private tours are available upon request.

For travelers concerned about weather disruptions, the flexible booking policy allows full refunds if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. The short duration and focused activities make this tour a great choice for those wanting a compact, immersive Arctic sky experience.

Why Choose This Tour Over Others

Compared to other tours in the region, this experience offers a blend of celestial observation, storytelling, and local ambiance. The inclusion of telescope use and professional photos sets it apart, providing tangible souvenirs of the night. The small group size and personalized guidance foster a relaxed and engaging atmosphere.

While the Aurora’s visibility depends on weather and solar activity, the tour’s guidance in chasing the lights and expert advice increases the chances of witnessing this natural wonder, making it a reliable choice in Lapland’s winter landscape.

This 3-hour tour delivers more than just Aurora viewing. It combines star gazing, storytelling, and photography, offering a full experience of the Arctic sky. The remote lakeside location, guidance by experienced professionals, and warm shelter with fire create a balanced mix of adventure and comfort.

The price of $129 is competitive for what’s included, such as hotel pickup and drop-off, telescope exploration, hot drinks, and professional photography. Though weather conditions can affect Aurora sightings, the tour’s flexibility and comprehensive approach make it a worthwhile choice for anyone keen to connect with the universe in Lapland.

In summary, this tour suits adventurers, astronomy enthusiasts, and families looking for a well-rounded Arctic night experience. With reliable guidance, stunning visuals, and memorable photo opportunities, it promises a meaningful glimpse of the Northern Lights and stars in one of the sweetest spots on Earth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included, from six central locations in Levi.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts 3 hours, allowing enough time for activities, storytelling, and viewing.

What should I wear?
Guests should bring warm clothing, gloves, and sturdy shoes suitable for Arctic temperatures.

Can I see the Northern Lights every night?
The Aurora remains unpredictable, but the guide actively traces the lights and adjusts the route to maximize chances.

What equipment is used for star and moon viewing?
A guided telescope with simple app instructions enables close-up views of celestial objects.

Are children under 8 allowed?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 8 years.

What if the weather is too cold?
If temperatures reach -30°C or colder, the tour may be rescheduled or refunded for safety.

Are photos included?
Yes, professional photographs are taken during the tour and sent within two days.

Is snowshoeing optional?
Yes, snowshoes are provided and can be used for walking on the frozen lake.

Can I book a private tour?
Private tours are available for an additional charge; contact the provider for details.

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