Rovaniemi: Northern Lights Sleigh Ride

The Rovaniemi: Northern Lights Sleigh Ride offers a cozy yet adventurous way to hunt for the aurora borealis in Lapland. Priced at $112 per person and lasting approximately 2.5 hours, this tour combines the thrill of a snowmobile-pulled sleigh with the comfort of winter gear and a warm snack. It departs from Rovaniemi, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, making it a convenient choice for visitors staying in the area.

This experience is perfect for those who prefer a relaxed, guided outing without the need to drive a snowmobile themselves. While sightings of the Northern Lights are subject to weather and solar activity, the tour’s highlights—such as a visit to a frozen lake and storytelling by the guides—add genuine value, even if the skies stay cloudy.

Key Points

• Price: $112 per person, including warm clothing, snacks, and hotel transport
• Duration: 2.5 hours, with flexible start times based on availability
• Experience: Snowmobile-pulled sleigh ride through snowy landscapes in the Arctic Circle
• Highlights: Hunting for the Northern Lights, visiting a frozen lake, enjoying blueberry juice and gingerbread
• Guides: Friendly, informative English-speaking guides, with other languages available on request
• Limitations: Northern Lights sightings are not guaranteed due to weather and solar activity

You can check availability for your dates here:

Rovaniemi’s Guided Snowmobile Sleigh Ride in the Arctic Circle

This tour begins with hotel pickup from Rovaniemi, usually from the Santa Claus Holiday Village or the Nordic Unique Travels office at Maakuntakatu 29. From there, it takes about 2.5 hours and includes a sleigh pulled by a snowmobile, driven by professional guides. Winter clothing—overalls, boots, gloves, and a balaclava—are provided to keep participants warm during the ride.

The sleigh ride itself is a quick yet exhilarating journey across the snowy landscape, leading toward a frozen lake far from light pollution. The guides lead you through this stunning environment, sharing stories and tales about the Northern Lights, enhancing the experience with local folklore and scientific facts.

From Snowmobile-Driven Sleighs to Frozen Lake Destinations

The highlight of this tour is the trip out to a magic frozen lake, which provides a perfect backdrop for potential Aurora Borealis sightings. Even if the lights do not appear, the scenic landscape and sense of adventure remain memorable. The guides take care of all the driving, making this tour suitable for travelers who prefer not to operate snowmobiles themselves or lack a driver’s license.

At the lake, guests are encouraged to warm up with hot blueberry juice and gingerbread, creating a cozy atmosphere in the winter darkness. While waiting, guides share stories about the Northern Lights, adding an educational touch to the experience.

Expert Guides and Local Stories

The guides on this tour are praised for their knowledgeable storytelling and friendly manner. Reviews highlight guides like Linda, Jessica, and Leo for their professionalism and warmth. They answer questions about the aurora, local traditions, and the environment, making the evening both fun and informative.

This tour is especially appreciated for its personalized attention and the effort guides put into making sure everyone feels comfortable and engaged. Their storytelling enhances the experience, making it more than just a chase for the Northern Lights.

Warm Up with Blueberry Juice and Gingerbread in the Snow

One of the most enjoyed parts of the tour is the hot blueberry juice served in a traditional cup alongside gingerbread biscuits. This warm treat contrasts nicely with the chilly air and snowy surroundings, creating a welcoming ambiance. The guides often tell stories and share local legends around the campfire, adding another layer of charm to the outing.

Even if the aurora remains hidden by clouds or weather conditions, this cozy moment and the scenic environment make the tour worthwhile. Many reviews mention how the food and storytelling contribute to a memorable evening regardless of the sky’s clarity.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

This tour includes pickup and drop-off service, making it easy to join without worries about transportation. It operates with a minimum of 2 participants on weekdays and Saturdays, and 4 on Sundays and holidays, so planning ahead is advisable.

Participants are advised to be ready 10 minutes prior to pickup. The cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for changing plans. Payment is flexible, with a reserve & pay later option, making it convenient to secure a spot without immediate payment.

Weather and Aurora Sightings: What to Expect

The main caveat of the Northern Lights tour is that sightings cannot be guaranteed. Aurora activity depends heavily on weather conditions and solar activity, which are unpredictable. Many guests have enjoyed the experience even without seeing the lights, thanks to the beautiful landscape, storytelling, and cozy atmosphere.

Some reviews mention seeing the Aurora behind clouds or not at all, but still valuing the overall experience. Guides often do their best to find clear skies or suggest alternative viewing spots, but nature remains the ultimate determinant.

The Tour’s Suitability and Limitations

This tour is not suitable for children under 3 years or for wheelchair users, due to the outdoor nature and snow terrain. It’s also recommended for those who prefer not to drive a snowmobile themselves, as the guides handle all the transport.

While the tour provides winter clothing, guests should still be prepared for cold temperatures and potentially long waits outside. The relaxed pace and guided storytelling make it a good option for families, couples, or small groups seeking a comfortable way to experience Arctic nature.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

Travelers looking for a guided, hassle-free experience with the chance to see the Northern Lights will find this tour appealing. The hotel pickup, warm snacks, and scenic drive provide excellent value, especially for those unfamiliar with driving snowmobiles or unsure about venturing alone into the cold.

The storytelling component and local atmosphere turn a simple chase into a memorable adventure. However, those with high expectations for guaranteed Aurora sightings should approach with realistic hopes, as the natural phenomenon depends on weather conditions.

Rovaniemi: Northern Lights Sleigh Ride – Final Thoughts

This tour offers a relaxed and informative way to explore Lapland’s winter landscapes while hunting for the Northern Lights. The professional guides, warm snacks, and scenic frozen lake make it a charming evening activity. The $112 price includes everything needed for a cozy, guided adventure, making it a solid choice for visitors who want a taste of Arctic magic without the stress of driving.

While Aurora sightings are not guaranteed, the storytelling, landscape, and warmth of the experience often leave a lasting impression. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate guided tours and convenience, and who are prepared for the unpredictability of nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed on this tour?
No, sightings depend on weather conditions and solar activity, which are unpredictable.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, winter clothing, snowmobile-pulled sleigh ride, hot blueberry juice, and gingerbread.

Can children join this tour?
Children under 3 years old are not recommended. Children under 11 must be accompanied by paying adults.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users due to outdoor snow terrain.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with flexible start times based on availability.

What should I wear or bring?
Participants receive winter clothes but should dress warmly for outdoor cold temperatures and be prepared for possible outdoor waiting.

This Northern Lights sleigh ride in Rovaniemi offers a warm, guided introduction to Arctic winter, making it a practical and enjoyable way to experience Lapland’s natural wonders.

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