Rovaniemi: Aurora hunting and a fireside BBQ experience

Key Points

• Affordable and intimate: Priced at $126 per person for a 4-hour small-group experience limited to 8 participants.
• Expert-led Northern Lights chasing: Guides use their Arctic knowledge to find optimal spots away from city lights.
• Authentic Arctic meal: Enjoy a hearty barbecue featuring traditional Lappish dishes like grilled sausages, with vegetarian options available.
• Cultural storytelling: Listen to Lapland legends and stories about the auroras as you gather around a cozy fire.
• Convenient pickup and drop-off: Hotel pickups are included from seven locations within 10 km of Rovaniemi.
• High review rating: The tour earns a solid 4.6 out of 5 based on 37 reviews, highlighting guides’ friendliness and chances to see the auroras.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Rovaniemi: Aurora Hunting with Fireside BBQ for $126

This 4-hour tour in Lapland from Rovaniemi offers an inviting blend of Northern Lights hunting, traditional Finnish cuisine, and storytelling. For $126 per person, the experience combines adventure and culture in a small-group setting, ensuring a cozy and personalized atmosphere. The tour is ideal for those who want a well-rounded Arctic evening with expert guidance, scenic locations, and authentic food. It’s important to note that the tour is not suitable for children under 4, babies under 1, or individuals with certain mobility issues, due to its outdoor nature and cold conditions.

The guides lead the group in comfortable minivans into remote locations where artificial light pollution is minimal, maximizing chances to witness the Northern Lights in full display. The overall rating of 4.6/5 reflects strong praise for the knowledgeable guides and the delicious, warming barbecue served under the starry Arctic sky.

The Northern Lights Chase in Lapland

The core focus of this tour is finding the auroras in the Arctic wilderness surrounding Rovaniemi. The guides are experts in tracking the Northern Lights, adjusting locations based on weather and cloud cover. The carefully chosen remote spots promise clear views of the natural phenomenon, often away from city lights and noise.

Participants benefit from guides’ local knowledge and experience in Arctic terrain, making the pursuit more successful than a casual look from the city. The excitement builds as the group travels into the wilderness, with the hope of catching the aurora’s glow during the evening. The personalized approach limits the group size to 8, which helps maintain a cozy, friendly atmosphere.

Scenic Drive and Location Selection

The tour departs from seven convenient pickup points within 10 km of Rovaniemi’s city center, including Santa’s Igloos, Arctic TreeHouse Hotel, and Santa Claus Village. The scenic drive lasts approximately 3 hours, providing a chance to see Lapland’s snowy landscape and mountains. The guides select locations that maximize viewing potential, often on frozen lakes or open areas near forests, offering stunning Arctic scenery.

Traveling in comfortable minivans, the journey feels smooth and relaxed, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos along the way. The timing and route are flexible, aiming to balance viewing success with the comfort of the group.

Fireside BBQ with Traditional Finnish Flavors

One of the tour’s highlights is the outdoor barbecue, set in a scenic, remote location. The crackling fire lends warmth and ambiance, contrasting with the cold Arctic air. The menu often features traditional Lappish dishes like grilled sausages cooked over an open flame, accompanied by sides such as potatoes, bread, or salads.

Vegetarian options are available upon request, making the meal accessible for different dietary preferences. Beverages include hot chocolate, tea, or berry juice, ensuring everyone stays warm and hydrated. The food is praised for being satisfying and warming, adding a comforting touch to the outdoor experience.

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Stories, Legends, and Sami Culture

While enjoying the barbecue, guides share fascinating stories and legends about Lapland and the Northern Lights. These tales include folklore from the Sami people, the indigenous inhabitants of Lapland, who believe the auroras are spiritual phenomena connected to ancestors or mythical beings.

The storytelling adds a cultural dimension to the experience, blending science and folklore. The guides’ passion for the region shines through, making the evening not just about the lights but also about learning and cultural appreciation.

The Guides and Customer Experience

The guides are frequently praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and humor. One guide, Michael, is noted for passing around an AUX cable for karaoke and making the group feel at ease. The small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Guests comment on the guides’ dedication to finding the best viewing spots, even if it involves long drives or waiting out clouds. This commitment increases the likelihood of seeing the Aurora in its most vibrant form, often for up to 25 minutes or more.

Food, Drinks, and Photographing the Aurora

The barbecue meal is complemented by hot drinks and traditional Finnish snacks, providing comfort in the Arctic cold. A professional photographer is often present to take high-quality pictures of the auroras and the group, offering free photos afterward—an appreciated added value.

Guests frequently mention the quality of the food and drinks, which help keep everyone warm and energized during the outdoor wait for the auroras. The photo service is a bonus, allowing travelers to capture memories without the hassle of taking perfect shots themselves.

Convenience, Accessibility, and Practical Tips

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from seven nearby locations, making it easy to join without extra travel. Travelers are advised to wear warm clothing and comfortable shoes, as the outdoor conditions can be very cold.

Since bikes, strollers, and alcohol are not permitted, the experience favors adults and older children prepared for winter weather. The duration of 4 hours balances a good chance of seeing the auroras with a manageable outing.

Comparing This Tour to Other Arctic Experiences

While similar tours exist, this small-group experience with expert guides and authentic Finnish cuisine sets itself apart. The focus on storytelling and local culture enhances the experience beyond just chasing the lights. Its affordable price and high ratings make it a compelling choice for travelers seeking value and quality.

Plus, the possibility of seeing the auroras multiple times during the evening, combined with pictures taken by professionals, offers excellent memories and keepsakes.

Final Thoughts on the Aurora Hunting and BBQ Experience

The Rovaniemi Aurora hunting tour with fireside BBQ provides a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and comfort. For $126, guests gain access to scenic locations, delicious local food, and guides passionate about the region. The small group size fosters a personalized experience, increasing chances to see the Northern Lights.

While weather can influence aurora visibility, the expert guidance and careful location selection maximize booking success. The storytelling and authentic Finnish meal make this tour more than just a light chase; it becomes a memorable Arctic evening to cherish.

This experience is especially suited for adults or older children interested in nature, culture, and outdoor adventures. Those seeking a cozy, well-organized Northern Lights outing with professional photography will find it a great value.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts 4 hours, including transportation, location stops, and the outdoor barbecue.

What is the price?
The experience costs $126 per person, which includes pickup, a barbecue meal, hot drinks, storytelling, and live guidance.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from seven pickup locations within 10 km of Rovaniemi, such as Santa’s Igloos, Santa Claus Village, and Arctic TreeHouse Hotel.

Is food provided during the tour?
Yes, a traditional Finnish barbecue with grilled sausages, sides, and hot drinks is included. Vegetarian options are available.

Can children join this tour?
The tour is not suitable for children under 4 years or babies under 1 due to outdoor cold conditions and group logistics.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not recommended for individuals with back problems or those requiring wheelchair access.

What makes this tour special?
The small group setting, expert guides, cultural storytelling, and authentic outdoor barbecue make this a memorable Arctic adventure.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
The guides aim to maximize your chances, but as the auroras depend on weather conditions, sightings are not guaranteed. However, the tour’s location choices and guide expertise significantly improve your odds.

Are professional photos available?
Yes, a professional photographer often takes pictures of the aurora and group, which are provided free of charge afterward.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, comfortable shoes, and water, as outdoor conditions can be very cold. No alcohol, bikes, or strollers are allowed on the tour.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby