Rovaniemi: Ice Floating in Forest Lake with Aurora Borealis

Floating in a forest lake in Rovaniemi while watching the Northern Lights is a truly distinctive way to enjoy Lapland’s winter magic. This 2.5-hour tour by NordicUnique Travels offers a peaceful, surreal experience that combines the thrill of ice floating with the chance to witness the Aurora Borealis in comfort. Priced affordably, this activity is suitable for those who want a relaxing outdoor adventure, although it requires participants to be at least 130 cm tall and in good health.

The experience starts with a hotel pickup in Rovaniemi, making logistics simple and stress-free. You will don a high-quality insulated survival suit that keeps you dry and warm, regardless of the cold temperatures. Guided by friendly and knowledgeable guides, visitors float in a frozen lake amid enchanting winter scenery, with the chance to see the Northern Lights if the weather permits. After the float, hot drinks and gingerbread cookies help warm you back up, creating a cozy end to this peaceful activity.

Key Points

• Duration: 2.5 hours, including pickup and warming drinks
• Location: Rovaniemi, Finland, in the heart of Lapland
• Experience: Floating in a frozen forest lake while watching for the Aurora Borealis
• Guides: Professional, caring guides ensure safety and provide helpful tips
• Climate: Suit keeps you dry and warm, but some leaks can occur, so dress appropriately underneath
• Group size: Minimum of 2 people; activity may be canceled with fewer participants

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Rovaniemi’s Forest Lake Ice Floating in the Cold Night Sky

This activity takes place on a frozen lake in Lapland, where participants float on icy waters dressed in insulated suits. The high-quality suits are designed to keep you comfortable and dry, even during extended periods in the cold. Guides ensure everyone is safely suited up and prepared for the water. The floating experience is described as very relaxing and peaceful, with many noting it’s a highly memorable way to connect with Lapland’s winter landscape.

The ice floating takes place under a star-studded sky, and if the conditions are right, visitors may catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights shimmering above. The tour is praised for its calm atmosphere, allowing full appreciation of the natural surroundings without feeling hurried. Some reviews mention that the water inside the suit may leak slightly, so dressing in thermal layers underneath is recommended.

Meeting Point and Pickup in Rovaniemi

The tour simplifies logistics with hotel pickup within Rovaniemi city center. Travelers are advised to be ready and waiting at the hotel lobby about 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time. This process ensures smooth start to the adventure, especially after a day exploring Lapland. The small group size maintains an intimate atmosphere, and the guides are attentive to safety and comfort throughout.

The group minimum is two persons, and the tour may be canceled or rescheduled if fewer people sign up. On some Sundays, at least four participants are necessary for the activity to proceed. This setup means that booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak times when the activity is most popular.

Suiting Up for the Frozen Lake Float

Participants must be at least 130 cm tall to fit into the floating suits. Guides provide instructions on how to don the suits properly, ensuring everyone feels secure before entering the water. The suits are waterproof and designed to keep you dry, although some leakage can occur, especially around the hands. It’s recommended to wear thick gloves and socks underneath for extra warmth.

Many reviews highlight the professionalism and care of the guides, who help with all gear and ensure participants are comfortable. Guides also stay outside the lake to monitor safety and assist with photos, adding a reassuring touch to the experience. For travelers concerned about suit size or fit, reaching out ahead of time is encouraged.

Watching for the Northern Lights: A Natural Bonus

While the Aurora Borealis cannot be guaranteed—since it depends on weather and solar activity—many visitors hope for a sighting. The guides often stop to watch the sky and share insights about the Aurora, heightening anticipation. Even if the lights aren’t visible due to cloud cover or poor conditions, reviewers say the floating in the icy lake and stargazing alone make the activity worth it.

Some reviewers mention that the guides are excellent at taking photos of the Northern Lights when they appear, capturing memories that last long after the tour ends. The peaceful, starry environment creates a feeling of floating in space, even without the Aurora.

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Food and Warm-up After the Float

After your time in the icy waters, warmth is restored with hot drinks and gingerbread cookies served in a cozy setting. This part of the experience allows for mingling, sharing stories, and enjoying the Lapland winter atmosphere indoors. Many reviews highlight the friendly guides who ensure everyone feels comfortable and cared for during this post-float warming.

This warm-up session is appreciated as a relaxing conclusion, giving visitors a chance to reflect on their floating adventure and the natural beauty surrounding them.

The Experience of Guides and Group Atmosphere

Guides such as Gigi, Lia, Amy, Maura, and Nikki frequently receive praise for their friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable service. They help with suit fittings, safety instructions, and photo-taking, often sharing stories or insights about Lapland and the Northern Lights. Many reviewers note that the guides go above and beyond to make sure everyone is comfortable and safe.

The group size varies but is generally kept small, which creates a friendly and relaxed environment. Some reviews mention that the activity might be less suitable for children due to the cold and the need to stay still in the water. Also, people with mobility issues or those under 130 cm are not eligible, as the suits require certain size specifications.

Practical Tips for a Successful Floating Experience

To get the most out of the tour, it’s advised to dress warmly underneath the suit with thermal layers. Since some leaks can happen, extra socks and gloves are recommended. The suits are designed to be waterproof, so participants stay dry inside, but cold hands or feet might still be a concern if not properly layered.

Arriving promptly for pickup and being prepared with warm clothing afterward ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience. Also, since the activity is weather-dependent, flexible bookings and potential rescheduling are common, so it’s wise to plan accordingly.

Comparing This Tour with Other Rovaniemi Experiences

This ice floating tour offers a more relaxing and tranquil alternative to more adrenaline-focused Arctic activities like snowmobiling or husky sledding. Its focus on peaceful floatation and natural scenery makes it stand out. The presence of professional guides and the inclusion of warm beverages add comfort that many other outdoor adventures lack.

The group size and flexible cancellation policy enhance its appeal, especially for those booking in advance or traveling with family. While the chance to see the Aurora Borealis isn’t guaranteed, the experience itself—under the starry sky in the icy wilderness—is often described as unforgettable, regardless of the weather.

Who Will Love This Rovaniemi Tour

This activity appeals most to adventurers seeking tranquility, outdoor lovers, and those curious about unique ways to observe Lapland’s winter landscape. It’s ideal for adults or older children who can fit into the suits and are comfortable in cold environments. Relaxed, scenic, and safe—many reviewers say it’s a must-try activity that offers a different perspective on the Arctic wilderness.

While it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or children under 130 cm, those prepared for the cold and eager to experience a peaceful float amidst the Northern Lights will find this tour highly rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed during the tour?
No, the Aurora Borealis depends on weather and solar activity, so it cannot be guaranteed. However, guides monitor conditions and often stop to look for the lights.

What should I wear underneath the suit?
Dressing in thermal layers, socks, and gloves underneath the waterproof suit is recommended to stay warm, especially since some leakage might occur.

How long is the floating experience?
The core activity lasts around 1 hour, with additional time for pickup, fitting suits, and warming drinks, making the total 2.5-hour experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children aged 11 and under must be accompanied by paying adults. The activity is generally best suited for those over 130 cm tall due to suit sizing.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
Since the lights are a natural phenomenon, sightings are not guaranteed. Many find the floating activity itself to be worth it even without a sighting.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for weather or personal plans.

What group size can I expect?
The tour requires at least 2 people and may include small groups, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is the activity accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users or those unable to wear the suits comfortably.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup, insulated suits, guidance, and hot drinks with gingerbread cookies after the float.

What makes this tour different from other Arctic activities?
Its focus on peaceful ice floating in a forest lake setting with the chance to see the Aurora, combined with professional guides and warm refreshments, offers a distinctive, tranquil experience unlike more energetic Arctic adventures.

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