Rovaniemi: Northern Lights Hunting in Lappish old cottage

Rovaniemi: Northern Lights Hunting in Lappish Old Cottage

This Northern Lights tour in Rovaniemi, Finland, costs $85 per person and lasts approximately 3 hours. It offers a blend of aurora searching, local culture, and warmth in a Lappish cottage setting. The tour departs from pickup at a designated location in Rovaniemi, takes you away from city lights, and places you in a prime spot for starry skies and potential aurora displays. While the experience emphasizes the thrill of seeing the Northern Lights, it also focuses on Lapland nature, stories, and traditional activities like cooking sausages over an open fire.

The experience has a moderate rating of 3.7 out of 5 based on 6 reviews, highlighting its charm and genuine hospitality, though weather conditions influence the likelihood of spotting the aurora. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy cozy outdoor settings, storytelling, and photography, and are flexible about the chance of seeing the Northern Lights, given its dependence on weather.

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Key Points

• Cost is $85 per person for a 3-hour Northern Lights experience.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Rovaniemi.
• A warm, traditional Lappish cottage is central to the experience.
• Opportunity to see the aurora if conditions allow, with photos taken by guides.
• Cooking sausages and marshmallows over an open fire enhances the outdoor experience.
• Weather-dependent: aurora sightings are not guaranteed, but the experience remains memorable.

Pickup from Rovaniemi and Journey to the Aurora Spot

The tour begins with a pickup at a designated location in Rovaniemi, specifically at 9GR7GR26+7RF. The driver arrives punctually, and the transportation takes guests away from the city lights, heading toward an area with stunning views of the starry sky.

This journey lasts around 3 hours, giving ample time to enjoy the outdoor setting and prepare for potential aurora sightings. The driving is described as safe and comfortable, though some guests note that the inside of the car can feel a bit cold during pickup and return. It’s advisable to dress warmly and perhaps bring an extra layer for the ride.

Experiencing Lapland’s Night Sky and Aurora Search

Once at the outdoor location, the guide sets up an open fire, where guests can relax and enjoy cooking traditional Lappish sausages. The fire crackles in the crisp air as the guide shares fascinating facts, myths, and stories about Finnish life and the northern environment.

The outdoor area is designed as a comfortable spot to wait for the Northern Lights, with guides equipped with high-quality cameras to capture photos of the sky and aurora if it appears. Guests are offered advice on aurora photography if they bring their own cameras, making this tour appealing to those interested in taking memorable images.

The Cozy Lappish Cottage and Indoor Activities

After spending time outdoors, guests are invited into a warm, cozy cottage, which provides a comfortable retreat from the cold. Inside, a video about the Northern Lights is shown, along with stories about life in Lapland. This part of the experience adds a cultural touch and allows for rest and reflection after the outdoor search.

The cottage ambiance offers a contrast to the outdoor chill, creating a space where guests can warm up, enjoy hot drinks, and discuss the sky’s mysteries. The combination of outdoor viewing and indoor explanations balances the adventure with moments of relaxation.

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The Food: Sausages, Marshmallows, and BBQ

A notable highlight is the cooking experience around the open fire. Guests can try their luck at grilling sausages and marshmallows, adding a fun and interactive element to the tour. The BBQ component provides a taste of local tradition, making the outdoor segment both delightful and flavorful.

This activity is simple but authentic, emphasizing Lapland’s outdoor lifestyle. No elaborate meals are included, but the warm sausages and smores make for a cozy, memorable treat as guests wait for the aurora.

Optional Aurora Photography Advice and Photo Opportunities

Guides come equipped with high-quality cameras to capture the Northern Lights should they appear. This is a significant perk for photography enthusiasts or those wanting professional-quality shots of their experience.

Guests are encouraged to bring their own cameras if they wish to receive tips on aurora photography. The guides’ expertise helps maximize chances of good photos, even if the aurora is faint or fleeting.

Weather Conditions and Aurora Visibility

As with all Northern Lights tours, visibility depends heavily on weather and solar activity. Poor weather conditions, such as cloud cover or snow, can make aurora sightings impossible, as noted in a review where the weather was unfavorable.

While the tour offers a beautiful experience regardless of the aurora, travelers should manage expectations and understand that seeing the Northern Lights cannot be guaranteed. The experience remains enjoyable thanks to the fire, stories, and cozy environment.

Flexibility with Booking and Cancellations

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing travelers to reserve with confidence. It also has a “reserve now, pay later” option, providing flexibility in planning.

The timing of the tour varies depending on availability, so it’s important to check specific start times. The experience is designed to fit into a 3-hour window, making it suitable for short evening plans.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This experience suits those who enjoy outdoor winter evenings, storytelling, and culture. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking a friendly, relaxed environment with a chance to see the Northern Lights.

While the tour emphasizes a warm, welcoming atmosphere, it requires bundled clothing and patience, given the weather dependency. It’s perfect for visitors who value authenticity over luxury and are happy with a casual, intimate setting.

Final Thoughts on the Rovaniemi Northern Lights Experience

This tour provides a genuine taste of Lapland, combining aurora hunting with cultural storytelling and outdoor fun. The cozy cottage, open fire, and BBQ snacks create a warm, inviting vibe that balances the cold nights outdoors.

The guides’ expertise with photography adds a valuable element for those wanting to capture their experience. However, travelers should set realistic expectations about aurora sightings, which are weather-dependent.

This experience offers a memorable night in Lapland with a combination of adventure, culture, and comfort—ideal for families and first-time visitors eager to embrace the magic of the Arctic night.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $85 fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, outdoor aurora viewing, warm cottage access, BBQ, and photos with the Northern Lights if they appear.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, with timing depending on availability and sunset times.

Is the aurora guaranteed to appear?
No, aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity; poor weather can result in no visible aurora, but the experience remains enjoyable.

What should I wear for the outdoor part?
Dress warmly in winter layers, including thermal clothing, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots to stay comfortable outdoors.

Can I take my own photos?
Yes, guests are encouraged to bring their own cameras for aurora photography and can receive tips from guides.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the cottage and outdoor activities are family-friendly, with a cozy environment suitable for all ages.

What happens if I cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, receiving a full refund.

Are beverages available during the tour?
Yes, hot drinks are provided in the cottage, complementing the fire, stories, and snacks.

How do I find the pickup location?
The pickup point is at 9GR7GR26+7RF, and guests should wait in the hotel lobby 5 minutes prior to the scheduled pickup.

What’s the main appeal of this tour?
The combination of Northern Lights hunting, Lapland storytelling, and a warm, traditional setting makes this tour a charming Arctic night experience.

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