Northern lights hunting photo tour with bbq; small groups

Discover the Northern Lights Photo Tour in Rovaniemi for $98.69

The Northern Lights hunting photo tour in Rovaniemi, Finland offers an immersive experience designed for those eager to witness the aurora borealis without the hassle of planning. For $98.69 per person, this around 3-hour adventure includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, warm sausages, hot drinks, and the guidance of knowledgeable local guides. The tour is tailored for small groups of up to 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

This tour is most suitable for visitors who want a hassle-free outing, with transportation arranged and the opportunity to relax around a campfire while waiting for the skies to light up. While the aurora sighting depends on weather conditions, the tour aims to optimize your chances by moving away from city lights. Keep in mind, seeing the northern lights is not guaranteed, but the combination of storytelling, food, and beautiful scenery makes this a memorable Arctic experience.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $98.69 for a 3-hour Northern Lights experience
• Includes hotel pick-up and drop-off for maximum convenience
• Small group size of up to 20 travelers for a more personal experience
• Warm snacks and drinks like grilled sausages, coffee, and tea are part of the tour
• Guides are knowledgeable and keep guests entertained with storytelling and updates on aurora activity
• Multiple stops away from city lights increase chances to see the aurora, though sightings depend on weather

How the Tour Arrives at the Best Aurora Spots with Small Groups

This tour departs from Rovaniemi around 8:30 pm, with pickup directly at your hotel. The transportation is provided by the tour operator, making logistics effortless for travelers. The small group size ensures a comfortable environment and allows guides to focus on individual questions and needs.

The guides lead guests away from bright city lights, heading to locations such as a frozen lake or countryside spots with minimal light pollution. These locations are chosen specifically for their higher potential to witness the aurora borealis. The small groups also mean fewer crowds, which can be a significant advantage if you prefer a quieter, more focused experience.

Guests should be prepared for potentially cold outdoor conditions but will find the heated van and warm food help manage the chill. The transportation and timing are coordinated to maximize your chances, but it’s essential to remember that aurora sightings are weather-dependent.

Visiting the Frozen Lake and Countryside Spots for Aurora Viewing

One of the main locations visited is a frozen lake, offering an open and dark space ideal for spotting the northern lights. The guides often stop here, providing an unobstructed view and room for guests to take photos. Some reviews mention that these lakes can be close to busy streets, which could introduce some light pollution, but generally, the locations are well chosen.

Guests can expect to be warmly welcomed at these spots with campfire sausages and hot drinks, creating a cozy atmosphere despite the cold. The guides sometimes cook sausages over the fire, offering a tasty snack while waiting for the aurora to appear. If luck is on your side, the lights will dance above this scenic backdrop, providing perfect conditions for aurora photography.

The experience at these stops is relaxed, with guides often sharing interesting stories about the northern lights and local culture. Although sightings depend on weather, the hope is that the second location or another chosen spot will reward everyone with a glimpse of the shimmering sky.

The Guide’s Role in Storytelling and Aurora Updates

The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach. They keep guests entertained with storytelling about the Finnish Arctic and the northern lights phenomenon, enriching the experience beyond just waiting outside.

Guides also provide real-time updates on aurora activity, calling guests out of the van when the lights become visible. This responsiveness helps maximize the chances of seeing the aurora borealis. Some guides are noted for taking professional photos of guests and sharing these images afterward, although not all reviews confirm that photos are always delivered.

The guides’ warmth and professionalism are among the tour’s highlights, with many reviews emphasizing their helpfulness and friendliness. Their local expertise adds value, especially when it comes to understanding the science behind the lights and the best camera settings for photos.

Food and Drinks: Sausages, Coffee, and Tea in the Arctic Night

One of the most appreciated features of this tour is the campfire snacks. Guests enjoy grilled sausages cooked directly over the fire, often accompanied by warm drinks like coffee or tea. These items help keep everyone comfortable during the outdoor waiting periods and add a tasty element to the adventure.

Reviews highlight that the food quality is generally good, with sausages described as delicious and tasty. The warm beverages are appreciated, especially on cold nights, creating a cozy atmosphere around the campfire. The food and drink offerings are included in the tour price, making it a convenient, all-in-one experience.

While some reviews point out that the bbq experience can feel simple or basic, the focus remains on enjoying the scenery and the company. The fire serves as a gathering point, and guides often keep guests entertained while waiting for the sky to light up.

The Challenge of Aurora Sightings and Weather Conditions

The most significant limitation of this tour is that aurora sightings depend heavily on weather. Cloudy skies or poor conditions mean the northern lights may not be visible, despite the best efforts of guides. Several reviews mention cloudy nights where no aurora appears, which can be disappointing.

However, the tour company emphasizes that they make every effort to find clear spots and maximize chances. If the weather makes viewing impossible, guests are often offered the possibility to reschedule or receive a full refund, thanks to the free cancellation policy.

It’s important to manage expectations, as nature remains unpredictable, but most guests agree that the experience itself, with storytelling, food, and scenic locations, remains worthwhile even if the lights are elusive.

The Photography Aspect of the Northern Lights Tour

This tour occasionally offers aurora photo hunting opportunities, with guides taking professional pictures of guests during the outing. Some reviews note that while photos are taken, not all guests receive the images, or there’s a lack of follow-up on image delivery.

Guests interested in capturing the northern lights should bring their own cameras and be prepared to ask guides about recommended settings, as the guides may not always provide photos immediately. The scenic locations and dark skies do create excellent conditions for photography, whether with smartphones or dedicated cameras.

The included images can serve as memorable keepsakes, but it’s wise to clarify with the guides beforehand about photo sharing if this is a priority.

The Practicalities: Booking, Group Size, and Cancellation Policy

The tour is most popular, with bookings typically made about 25 days in advance, indicating high demand. The minimum age is not specified, but most travelers can participate comfortably.

The maximum group size of 20 helps maintain a personalized experience and avoid overcrowding at scenic spots. The pickup service is available from most hotels in Rovaniemi, making arrival and departure straightforward.

The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, offering peace of mind if weather or other plans change. If canceled due to poor weather, guests are offered a full refund or the chance to reschedule for another night.

Summary of the Northern Lights Photo Tour with BBQ in Rovaniemi

This tour offers a practical, well-organized way to pursue the northern lights with small-group intimacy and included transportation. The warm sausages, hot drinks, and storytelling create a welcoming atmosphere, making the outdoor wait more enjoyable. The locations away from city lights are carefully chosen to enhance viewing potential.

While the weather-dependent nature of aurora sightings is a clear limitation, the tour’s professional guides and scenic stops make it a solid choice for visitors who want an easy, guided experience. The small group size ensures a comfortable atmosphere, and the free cancellation policy provides flexibility.

This tour suits those looking for a hassle-free Arctic adventure with good value, especially for first-time visitors or those short on time. It’s a reliable option, with the caveat that aurora sightings are never guaranteed, but the experience remains worthwhile even on cloudy nights.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Northern Lights photo tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours from start to finish.

What is included in the tour price?
Guests receive hotel pick-up and drop-off, guide services, snacks including grilled sausages, and warm drinks like coffee or tea.

Can I see the northern lights on this tour?
While the tour aims to optimize your chances by traveling away from city lights, aurora sightings depend on weather conditions, and there’s no guarantee.

What locations are visited during the tour?
The main stops are typically a frozen lake and other dark countryside spots chosen for their light pollution levels.

Are there opportunities for photography?
Guides often take photos of guests during the outing, but delivery of these images is not always guaranteed. Guests should bring their own camera equipment.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but no specific age restrictions are given. Be prepared for cold outdoor conditions.

What if the weather is cloudy or snowy?
If weather conditions prevent a sighting, the tour company offers a full refund or the chance to reschedule.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book around 25 days in advance to secure a spot, as the tour is popular.

What should I bring for the outdoor experience?
Dress warmly in layers, as outdoor temperatures can be very cold. The tour does not include overalls, so proper winter clothing is essential.

How do I cancel the tour?
Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time through the booking platform.