Dinner with Northern Light hunt in Rovaniemi

A Cozy Arctic Dinner and Northern Light Hunt in Rovaniemi — A Detailed Review

If you’re dreaming of chasing the elusive northern lights while enjoying a warm, memorable meal in the heart of Lapland’s wilderness, the “Dinner with Northern Light hunt in Rovaniemi” offers an intriguing option. Though we haven’t personally taken this tour, the experience promises a blend of scenic beauty, expert guidance, and innovative dining—wrapped in approximately two hours of Arctic magic.

One feature that immediately stands out is the unique setting of dining inside a glass roof igloo—a comfortable spot to watch the sky dance overhead, away from wind and cold. The tour is especially appealing for its focus on maximizing the chances to see the auroras, with professional guides leading the way into remote areas where light pollution is minimal.

A possible consideration is the price point of around $220 per person, which might seem steep for some travelers. However, for those seeking a balance of guided expertise, scenic views, and the thrill of a potential aurora sighting, this could be a worthwhile investment. This tour suits travelers who value authentic Arctic experiences, appreciate comfortable yet scenic environments, and are willing to spend a bit extra for a chance to witness one of nature’s most breathtaking phenomena.

Key Points

• Focused on Aurora Hunting: The tour emphasizes finding the northern lights with expert guidance and remote locations.
• Comfortable Dining Experience: Dinner inside a glass igloo offers warmth and unobstructed sky views.
• Scenic and Immersive: Includes walking on a frozen lake, adding a genuine Arctic touch.
• Group Size & Flexibility: Small groups, with a maximum of 8 travelers, foster a personalized experience.
• Value & Cost: At $220, the experience combines guided adventures with scenic comfort, suitable for those looking for a memorable, well-rounded Arctic evening.
• Guides Are Highlighted: Reviewers mention enthusiastic guides like Rai, who make the experience more engaging.

The Experience in Detail

Starting the Adventure: Pickup and Drive into the Wilderness

The tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Rovaniemi—an essential step that ensures you’re comfortably transported out of the city’s glow into the darkened wilderness. This drive, often about 2 hours, takes you northward through snowy landscapes, building anticipation for what lies ahead.

We’ve learned from some reviews that the guides, like Rai, are notably enthusiastic and knowledgeable about the local environment. Rai, in particular, is praised for showing guests the true beauty of Rovaniemi’s nature, making even the drive part of the memorable experience. Expect a friendly, informative commentary as you leave the urban lights behind, enhancing your understanding of Arctic conditions and the aurora’s science.

The Wilderness and Aurora Hunting

Once in the remote areas, away from light pollution, the real magic begins. The goal here is to maximize your chances of seeing the northern lights—which is never guaranteed, but the guides do their best to find optimal viewing spots. This part of the tour underlines the importance of timing and luck, but the expert guidance boosts your odds.

While waiting, travelers can enjoy the silence and vastness of the Arctic night, often with a hot drink in hand. The guides often engage guests with stories about the Northern Lights, local folklore, and the scientific phenomena behind the phenomenon, enriching the experience beyond just waiting in the cold.

Dining in a Glass Roof Igloo

The highlight for many is the dinner in a glass roof igloo. This setup combines comfort with spectacular views of the night sky. The igloos are designed to shield you from wind and cold, while still allowing a panoramic view of the starry sky and, hopefully, the auroras.

One reviewer noted that the experience of having a cozy fire in a glass environment, combined with the natural beauty outside, made for an unforgettable moment. The dinner is served on disposable plates, which one guest found less luxurious than anticipated, but the warmth and ambiance more than compensate. The quiet of the Arctic night, coupled with the glow of a crackling fire, makes it a perfect setting for a relaxed meal.

Walk on the Frozen Lake

After dinner, the tour often includes a walk on a frozen lake—an authentic Arctic activity that truly immerses you in the landscape. Walking on ice provides a tactile, almost meditative connection to the environment. From the reviews, it’s clear that this part of the evening leaves a lasting impression, with many guests noting the peacefulness and beauty of the snow-covered expanse.

Duration and Group Size

The entire experience lasts approximately two hours, making it a relatively short but packed activity. The small group size—limited to 8 travelers—ensures personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere, which can be especially valuable when waiting for the elusive lights to appear.

The Value and Who it’s Perfect For

Considering the cost of roughly $220 per person, this tour offers a combination of guided expertise, scenic Arctic environment, and a comfortable dining experience. For travelers who want to combine the thrill of aurora hunting with a cozy meal in a unique setting, this experience provides a good balance.

It’s particularly suitable for those who prioritize scenic comfort and expert guidance over the unpredictability of just chasing lights on their own. If you’re curious about the science, folklore, and landscape of Lapland, and enjoy a relaxed, small-group atmosphere, you’ll find this tour offers a memorable evening.

While some may find the price slightly high, the included transportation, professional guides like Rai, and the scenic setting make it a worthwhile splurge for a special Arctic night. The experience is flexible enough to appeal to first-timers and seasoned travelers alike, provided you’re comfortable with the possibility—and the hope—of seeing the Aurora Borealis.

Final Thoughts

This “Dinner with Northern Light hunt” in Rovaniemi crafts an experience that’s both comfortable and adventurous. The combination of scenic drive, expert guide, and the cozy ambiance of a glass igloo makes it stand out among Arctic tours. The chance to walk on a frozen lake, combined with the thrill of possibly witnessing a natural light show, appeals to travelers seeking a blend of relaxation and excitement.

While the experience might not guarantee a sighting of the auroras, the effort to find the best viewing spots and the overall atmosphere increase your odds of witnessing one of nature’s most captivating displays. If you value guided expertise, scenic comfort, and small-group intimacy, this tour is worth considering.

For travelers who prioritize genuine Arctic scenery, friendly guides, and a memorable dinner in the wilderness, this tour delivers a solid experience. It’s best suited for those willing to invest a little extra for a thoughtfully curated, scenic night out in Lapland.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation from your accommodation, guided aurora hunting, dinner inside a glass roof igloo, and the chance to walk on a frozen lake.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a compact but comprehensive Arctic experience.

Is the northern lights sighting guaranteed?
No, the tour aims to maximize your chances through expert guidance and remote locations, but sightings depend on weather and solar activity.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, including thermal underwear, a good insulated jacket, hat, gloves, and sturdy boots suitable for snow and ice.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, including those with service animals. The group size is limited to 8, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a fire-cooked dinner served in the igloo, though some reviews mention that food is on disposable plates, which may not feel luxurious.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
Primarily winter months, when the Arctic landscape is covered in snow and the auroras are most visible.

Are guides knowledgeable about the local environment?
Yes, reviewers highlight guides like Rai, who are enthusiastic and well-informed about the nature and culture of Rovaniemi.

What if I don’t see the northern lights?
While sightings are not guaranteed, the guided approach and remote locations increase your chances. Plus, the overall experience is scenic and cozy regardless of the lights.

This tour offers a cozy, scenic, and guided Arctic adventure that balances comfort with the excitement of chasing the northern lights. It’s perfect for those who want a bit of everything—scenery, storytelling, and the chance to witness nature’s stunning light show.