Ice Floating in Forest Lake with Aurora Borealis

Ice Floating in Forest Lake with Aurora Borealis: An Adventurous Yet Relaxing Arctic Escape

When it comes to experiencing Finland’s legendary Northern Lights, most travelers picture chasing them in the dark with cameras in hand. But this tour offers a refreshingly tranquil alternative: floating in a frozen forest lake while gazing at the sky’s celestial ballet. It’s a mix of serenity, thrill, and natural beauty wrapped into one 2.5-hour excursion that’s perfect for those seeking something a little different from the usual aurora chase.

One of the things we love about this experience is how it combines the adventure of ice floating—a truly rare activity—with the chance to relax afterward with warm gingerbread and blueberry tea. It’s a cozy finish to a chilly yet breathtaking outing. That said, it’s important to note that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so seeing them isn’t guaranteed, which can be a bit disappointing if the weather isn’t cooperating.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a quiet, contemplative experience amid nature, especially those curious about Arctic activities and willing to brave the cold for a chance at a stunning sky show. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate guided experiences with small groups for a more intimate feel.

Key Points

• Unique activity: Floating in an icy lake while waiting for the Aurora Borealis creates unforgettable memories.
• All-inclusive gear: The provided dry suits are designed to keep you warm and buoyant, making the activity accessible and safe.
• Small group experience: With a maximum of 16 travelers, it’s intimate, allowing for personalized attention from guides.
• Post-activity warmth: Gingerbread and blueberry tea help warm you up, adding a charming, festive touch.
• Dependence on weather: The Northern Lights are unpredictable, and sightings depend heavily on weather and solar activity.
• Accessibility considerations: Participants must be at least 130cm tall to fit in the floating suit, and participation may not be suitable for everyone.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Meeting Point

The tour starts from Maakuntakatu 29, Rovaniemi, with a scheduled departure around 7:30 pm. The experience includes round-trip transportation from your hotel, which makes the whole process hassle-free and allows you to relax knowing your transfer is taken care of. Travelers are advised to be ready and wait in their hotel lobby about 10 minutes before pickup, so the guides can stick to their schedule.

The Itinerary Breakdown

While the activity itself lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, the real magic happens during the time spent floating—and the moments before and after it. The exact departure time can vary depending on the season and weather conditions, so it’s essential to double-check your email updates from the provider.

The Lake: Floating on Icy Waters

Once at the meeting point, you’ll suit up in a special dry floating suit—designed to keep you warm, dry, and buoyant in freezing water. The suits are a highlight, with reviews indicating they are well-maintained, leak-proof, and comfortable enough for the activity. However, one traveler noted that their suit had a hole, which resulted in a less pleasant experience; this underscores the importance of verifying suit condition if you have concerns about fit or quality.

Guided by an expert, you’ll walk to the edge of the forest lake and gently float in the icy water. The sensation of being on a frozen lake, surrounded by snow-dusted trees, feels surreal. As you float, your guide shares stories about the natural surroundings and the Northern Lights phenomenon, enriching the experience with insights that make the sky-watching even more meaningful.

Aurora Watching: A Waiting Game

The Northern Lights are a natural wonder, so spotting them depends on weather and solar activity. While this activity doesn’t guarantee a sighting, reviews suggest that when the lights appear, they do so in a spectacular fashion—ranging from faint glows to intense ribbons dancing across the sky. Some guides are praised for their knowledge and storytelling, making the wait engaging.

The Post-Float Warm-up

After the floating, you’ll head to a cozy spot where gingerbread and blueberry tea are served. It’s a simple, authentic Finnish touch that adds warmth and comfort after the chilly adventure, making it a perfect end to the activity. Many reviewers mention how much they appreciated this thoughtful detail and the chance to chat with fellow travelers under the starry sky.

What the Reviews Say

The feedback on this tour is largely positive, with many travelers praising the knowledgeable guides—particularly highlighting guides like Matthias and Alaina for their friendly, helpful attitude and storytelling skills. The small group size is noted as a plus, creating a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.

One reviewer called it the highlight of their trip, emphasizing how the Northern Lights on that night were unforgettable. Another appreciated the “surreal” feeling of floating on a lake, describing it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

However, not all reviews are glowing. Some expressed disappointment when the auroras didn’t make an appearance, which is inevitable due to the natural variability of the phenomenon. A few mentioned issues like suits with holes, or guides seeming less attentive—reminders that quality control can vary and that weather unpredictability is a factor.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

• The guides are consistently praised for their friendliness and storytelling ability, which elevates the experience.
• The hot drinks and cookies are highlighted as a lovely, warming gesture after the chilly float.
• The activity’s uniqueness is what makes it stand out, especially compared to more conventional Northern Lights tours.
• Several mention that the activity is not suited for everyone, especially those with disabilities or who are very sensitive to cold.

Practical Details and Value

Pricing and Duration

At $126.56 per person, this experience offers a good balance of value, especially considering the included dry suit, transportation, and post-activity treats. It’s particularly appealing for travelers looking for a specialized Arctic activity rather than just a standard Northern Lights chase.

The duration of around 2.5 hours makes it manageable even for those with tight schedules, and the round-trip transport means you don’t have to worry about logistics—just show up, suit up, and enjoy.

Group Size and Accessibility

Limited to 16 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate vibe, which is ideal for those who prefer a quieter, more personal experience. Nevertheless, the requirement that participants be at least 130cm tall to fit in the suit is worth noting; if you’re near that height or have mobility concerns, it’s best to check with the provider beforehand.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

Since aurora sightings depend heavily on weather, this tour operates on a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance. If the weather is poor on the night of your booking, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund. It’s a smart choice for travelers wary of weather-dependent activities.

Is This Tour Worth It?

In our view, this activity offers a memorable mix of adventure and tranquility. Floating in a freezing lake surrounded by pristine Finnish wilderness is not something you do every day, and it’s enhanced by the chance to see the Northern Lights if luck is on your side. The guides’ knowledge and the cozy post-activity treats add to the overall value.

It’s especially suited for those who enjoy small-group, guided experiences and aren’t overly concerned about guaranteeing a sighting, but rather cherish the idea of a peaceful Arctic adventure. If you’re looking for a high-energy chase or activities suitable for all mobility levels, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

This tour stands out for its combination of serenity and adventure. Floating on a frozen lake under the vast Arctic sky is a rare, almost poetic way to connect with nature. The activity is well-organized, with friendly guides who add a personal touch, making sure you get the most out of your time in Rovaniemi.

While the unpredictability of the Northern Lights means you might not always see the sky’s fireworks, the experience of floating on icy waters, bundled in warm gear, is worth every penny. The post-float gingerbread and tea are perfect for warming up and chatting about the night’s celestial display—or lack thereof.

In the end, this experience is ideal for travelers seeking a quiet, authentic Arctic activity with a chance, however small, to witness one of nature’s most incredible phenomena. It’s a memorable addition to a Finnish winter trip, especially for those who value cozy moments and natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from your hotel is included, making it easy to join without extra hassle.

What should I wear for this activity?
You’ll be provided with a dry, warm floating suit, but it’s advisable to wear thermal base layers underneath. Check with the provider if you have concerns about sizing.

Can children participate?
Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult paying full price. Participants need to be at least 130cm tall to fit in the floating suit.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions prevent the activity, it will be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long does the activity last?
The floating experience is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including transportation and post-activity warm-up.

Will I definitely see the Northern Lights?
Not necessarily. The lights depend on weather and solar activity, so sightings are not guaranteed, but guides will do their best to inform and assist.

Is the activity suitable for people with disabilities?
Probably not, as the activity requires walking on uneven icy terrain and fitting into a floating suit, which may not be accessible for everyone.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers transportation, the floating suit, and the warm drinks and gingerbread after the float.

This ice floating tour in Rovaniemi promises a peaceful, unforgettable Arctic adventure—perfect for adventurous spirits who enjoy natural beauty, cozy moments, and a touch of winter magic.