Aurora Borealis Picnic in Rovaniemi

Aurora Borealis Picnic in Rovaniemi: A Truly Unique Arctic Experience

If you’re dreaming of witnessing the ethereal dance of the Northern Lights in Finland’s Lapland region, this Aurora Borealis picnic tour offers a well-rounded blend of adventure, comfort, and culture. It’s not just about the breathtaking sky show — although that’s a huge part — but also about the cozy ambiance, expert guiding, and genuine wilderness experience that comes with it.

What makes this tour stand out for us is its combination of expert guides who know the best spots, and the thoughtful inclusion of warm clothing, hot drinks, and a traditional picnic. That said, the natural unpredictability of the Aurora means it’s not guaranteed, so being prepared for cloudy nights or no-shows is wise. Perfect for travelers who crave authentic Arctic encounters with a comfortable, manageable trip, this experience is a wonderful way to combine sightseeing with cultural discovery.

The Key Points

• Spot the Aurora: Ideal location with clear, dark skies away from light pollution.
• Comfort & Safety: Warm clothing and hot beverages provided, making the experience cozy despite the cold.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Edvard and Yasmin are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Flexible & Convenient: Pickup from central Rovaniemi and hotel options available, with flexible rescheduling.
• Value for Money: At around $109, the tour offers a memorable experience with all essentials included.
• Weather Dependency: The Northern Lights are natural — clouds can block the view, but the wilderness remains stunning.

A Deep Dive into the Aurora Borealis Picnic Tour

First Impressions: A Comfortable Arctic Adventure

Our review begins with the clarity that this tour is designed to maximize your chances of catching the Aurora while keeping the experience comfortable and engaging. Starting in downtown Rovaniemi or selected hotels, the meet-up point at Safartica is well-organized, making check-in smooth. From there, you’re fitted with extra warm clothing – a critical touch considering the temperatures in Lapland can plummet rapidly, especially after nightfall.

The transportation is by car, which is a practical choice, allowing you to venture into the wilderness without the hassle of self-driving in icy conditions. The small group size (up to 50 travelers) ensures a friendly, personal atmosphere, which many reviewers appreciated — guides like Edvard and Yasmin are praised for their friendly attitude and extensive knowledge, making the experience both educational and fun.

The Journey into the Wilderness

Once out of the town, the drive takes about two hours, heading into areas with minimal light pollution. Our guides are quick to point out that Lapland’s geographical position on the Arctic Circle is what makes it such a good spot for Aurora viewing. The open sky, combined with Finland’s low levels of artificial light, creates perfect conditions for the Lights to perform.

Throughout the trip, guides take care to keep guests comfortable, handing out thermal clothes and fire-starting gear. As several reviews note, the guides’ expertise is evident — they know exactly where to park and set up for the best chance of seeing the Aurora, and their commentary about the phenomenon adds an educational layer to the trip.

The Picnic: Cozy, Cultural, and Delicious

When you arrive at your viewing spot, the true highlight begins: a traditional Lappish picnic. Reviewers often mention the warmth and friendliness of the guides, who serve hot beverages like juice, chocolate, and sometimes local specialties, along with snacks like sausages and marshmallows roasted over fires.

While some travelers expressed slight disappointment about the food not being strictly traditional or the picnic’s simplicity, most agreed it was enough to keep everyone warm and happy amid the cold. The hot drinks and fire create a convivial atmosphere, encouraging conversation and anticipation as everyone waits for the Aurora.

Watching the Sky: A Mix of Expectation & Reality

The main event — spotting the Aurora — can be unpredictable. Several reviews highlight that clouds can obscure the sky, and despite the guides’ efforts, the Lights might remain elusive. However, even in cloudy conditions, the wilderness at night is a spectacle in itself, with some guests enjoying the silence, stars, and shooting stars (as one reviewer noted, they saw over 30!).

For those lucky enough to see the Lights, the experience is described as “extraordinarily amazing” and “beyond words”. Enthusiasts mention that guides like Vera and Liticia do a great job of pointing out the Aurora and making sure everyone gets the best view possible.

The Value of the Experience

At around $109, this tour seems well-priced for what it offers: transportation, warm clothing, a traditional picnic, hot drinks, expert guidance, and the chance — no matter how fleeting — to see the Northern Lights. Many travelers emphasize the value for money, especially considering the personalized attention and the quality of the guides.

The tour’s flexibility for rescheduling (up to 16:00 on the day) is helpful, especially since weather in Lapland can change unpredictably. The free cancellation policy also adds peace of mind, allowing travelers to adapt plans if conditions are unfavorable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, authentic Arctic adventure without the need for strenuous activities like snowmobiling or reindeer rides. It’s especially appealing if you’re keen on learning about the Northern Lights from knowledgeable guides and enjoying a cozy outdoor setting. Families, couples, and solo travelers will all find something to love here, though children must be accompanied by an adult.

Additional Details and Practical Tips

• Duration: About 3 hours, including transportation, making it a manageable evening activity.
• Pickup & Drop-off: Available from central Rovaniemi and select hotels, which simplifies logistics.
• Group Size: Up to 50 travelers, ensuring a friendly environment but still maintaining intimacy.
• Weather dependency: The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon — if clouds roll in or it’s too cloudy, the lights may not appear. However, the guides prioritize safety and comfort, and the wilderness setting still offers a stunning nighttime backdrop.
• Booking in advance: Most travelers book about 3 weeks ahead (average 23 days), which indicates good demand and helps secure your spot.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many reviews highlight the guides’ friendly and knowledgeable approach. Edvard, for example, was appreciated for his friendly manner and expertise, making even the less predictable nights enjoyable. Yasmin and Noah were praised as great guides, who took extra care and kept guests entertained, even when Aurora sightings didn’t happen.

Several guests mentioned that even if they didn’t see the Lights, the wilderness experience and camaraderie made the trip worthwhile. The fire, hot drinks, and friendly company often became the highlight, proving that the journey itself can be just as memorable as the spectacle.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those seeking an authentic Arctic adventure with the chance to see the Aurora Borealis, this tour offers a compelling mix of comfort, expert guidance, and culture. The inclusion of warm clothing, a traditional picnic, and hot drinks makes it accessible even for those who worry about the cold.

While Aurora sightings depend on weather and luck, even the evenings with clouds or no Lights are praised for their stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere. For travelers who value guidance, safety, and a relaxed outdoor experience, this tour hits the right notes.

If you’re after a well-organized, reasonably priced, and culturally enriching way to experience Lapland’s natural wonder, this trip is a strong contender. It’s particularly suited for those who want a low-stress, guided adventure with plenty of opportunities for photos, learning, and cozying up around the fire.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The experience is generally family-friendly, especially with the warm clothing and hot drinks included.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
The tour is weather-dependent, and Aurora sightings aren’t guaranteed. However, many guests still enjoy the wilderness and the nighttime ambiance, and guides do their best to find the best spots.

How warm will I be?
You’ll be provided with extra warm clothing, and the guides also give thermal clothes to ensure you’re comfortable even in freezing conditions.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, including transportation time, making it a good evening activity without feeling overly long.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. Rescheduling is also possible until 16:00 on the day of your tour.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, warm clothing, a traditional Lappish picnic, hot beverages, and the services of knowledgeable guides.

In summary, this Aurora Borealis picnic tour combines the magic of Lapland’s wilderness with expert guidance and cozy comforts. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting an authentic Arctic outing that balances adventure, culture, and the chance to see one of nature’s most mesmerizing displays.