Snowmobile Photography Trip to the Aurora

If you’ve ever dreamed of catching the elusive Northern Lights while riding a snowmobile through pristine Finnish wilderness, this Snowmobile Photography Trip to the Aurora might just be your ticket. Based in Rovaniemi, Finland, this guided tour promises a blend of adventure, stunning scenery, and expert photography—an experience that appeals to both nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

What we really like about this tour is the opportunity to explore away from city lights, which is essential for optimal aurora viewing. Plus, having a professional photographer as your guide means you’re not just chasing the lights but also learning how to capture them in your camera—something that turns fleeting moments into lasting memories. That said, it’s worth noting that the experience’s length and some aspects of the included barbecue have received mixed reviews, so managing expectations is key.

This tour suits travelers who crave authentic Arctic adventures and photography buffs eager to learn from experts. It’s also perfect for those wanting a taste of local Sami culture, thanks to the included reindeer sausage barbecue. If you’re after a full, immersive experience with a bit of adrenaline and a lot of potential for awe-inspiring photos, read on for a detailed breakdown.

Key Points

• Excellent for Aurora Viewing: Away from city lights, offering clearer skies and a better chance of seeing the Northern Lights.
• Expert Photography Guidance: Led by a professional photographer, ideal for those wanting tips on capturing the Aurora.
• Comfort and Convenience: Cold-weather gear and pickup/drop-off included, making logistics simple.
• Group Size & Price: Up to 32 travelers, with a cost of approximately $343 per person, which balances value and limited group size.
• Mixed Review on Duration & Food: Some found the experience shorter than expected and the barbecue modest.
• Suitable for Adventurers & Photographers: Best for those comfortable with snowmobile riding and eager to learn or capture Aurora images.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Setting and Expectations

Starting from Maakuntakatu 29 in Rovaniemi, the tour begins around 6:30 pm. The exact pickup time varies depending on the season and availability, but the logistical ease of being collected from your accommodation adds a lot to the overall experience. The small-group nature—up to 32 travelers—means you won’t be lost in a crowd, and you get a more personalized adventure.

The key to this tour is its emphasis on getting out of the city—the first stop is at Nordic Unique Travels’ base, where guides stress the importance of heading into the wilderness for a good aurora sighting. The night sky here is generally clear and filled with stars, making it a perfect backdrop for aurora hunting.

Snowmobiling in Lappish Wilderness

The core activity revolves around riding snowmobiles in pairs (twin riding), with the option to switch drivers if you opt for a solo ride (which can be purchased). Sharing the snowmobile offers a fun, social element—though some reviews suggest that the ride time can sometimes be shorter than the advertised four hours. One traveler noted that instead of four hours, the experience felt closer to two, which might be disappointing if you’re particularly eager to maximize your time outdoors.

The snowmobiles are provided along with cold-weather gear, ensuring you stay warm despite the Arctic chill. This gear is especially vital given the outdoor nature of the tour and the late evening timing when temperatures drop sharply. Many appreciated how well the gear protected them, making the experience comfortable enough to focus on the scenery and the lights rather than shivering.

Aurora and Photography

The true highlight is the chance to see the Northern Lights—a natural phenomenon that’s never guaranteed but often breathtaking when it appears. Our review reveals that guides like Remy, who was described as both helpful and knowledgeable, can dramatically enhance the experience—offering insights into the science behind the Aurora and tips on capturing it on camera.

Guests benefit from having a professional photographer as part of the tour, which is a huge plus. One reviewer called it a “wonderful trip,” emphasizing how helpful the guide was in making sure they got great photos. This guidance isn’t just about snapping pictures; it’s about understanding how to adapt your camera settings to low-light conditions and how to frame the best shot amidst moving snow-covered landscapes.

The Reindeer Sausage Barbecue and Meals

After a good stint of outdoor adventure, the tour usually includes a Lappish barbecue featuring reindeer sausage—a cultural treat and a nice way to warm up. However, reviews indicate that the food portion can be quite modest—some guests received only one sausage and two marshmallows, which left some feeling the meal was underwhelming, especially given the price point. If food is a big part of your experience, you may want to consider bringing additional snacks or drinks.

Warming Up and Returning

The tour concludes back at the meeting point, typically around 10:30 pm, though this can vary. If you’re not a snowmobile veteran, it’s worth noting that drivers must have valid licenses and be at least 18 years old. Children under 12 need to be accompanied by full-paying adults, and younger kids who are over 140 cm tall can sit on the snowmobile, while smaller children are seated on a sleigh.

Value for Money and Practical Considerations

At $343.41 per person, this tour falls into a mid-to-high price range for Arctic excursions. Considering the inclusion of transportation, cold-weather gear, expert guidance, and the chance to photograph the Northern Lights, many travelers will find it offers decent value—especially if capturing photos of Aurora Borealis is a priority.

The small group size and personalized guidance are also significant perks, making the experience more intimate than larger tours. However, the shorter-than-expected duration and modest food portions are points to keep in mind. Some may find the experience worth it despite these minor drawbacks, especially those keen on photography or adventure.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This snowmobile Aurora adventure is best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind cold weather and are eager to experience the Arctic landscape in a dynamic way. It’s particularly appealing to photographers or those wanting to learn how to best capture the Northern Lights, thanks to the presence of a professional photographer guide.

If you’re seeking a fuller, more extensive tour, or a gourmet meal, you might find this experience a bit leaner in those departments. Conversely, if you value authentic wilderness exploration, expert guidance, and the thrill of snowmobiling, this trip delivers on all fronts.

Travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy and are keen to avoid the city lights will likely find this tour a memorable, photo-rich adventure. Just remember that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon—sightings cannot be guaranteed, but the experience’s overall value lies in the journey and the landscapes you’ll see along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, though some reviews suggest it can feel shorter, around 2 hours, depending on conditions and timing.

Does the tour include pickup and drop-off?
Yes, convenient pickup and drop-off are offered in Rovaniemi, making it easier to begin and end your night without fuss.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing is essential—luckily, cold-weather gear is provided. Layers, thermal underwear, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots are recommended.

Can children participate?
Children under 12 must be accompanied by full-paying adults. Those over 140 cm tall can sit on the snowmobile, while smaller kids will sit on a sleigh.

Is the experience suitable for solo travelers?
You can buy a solo driving option, but the standard price covers twin riding (sharing a snowmobile). The tour requires at least 2 people to run on weekdays and Saturdays, and 4 on Sundays and holidays.

How good are the chances of seeing the Northern Lights?
While the tour maximizes your chances by going away from city lights, Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity, which are not guaranteed.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers snowmobile use, cold-weather gear, professional photography guidance, transportation, and a reindeer sausage barbecue.

Are there any dietary restrictions to consider?
If you have specific dietary needs, communicate them at booking, though options may be limited to the provided barbecue menu.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 32 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

If you’re after a blend of Arctic adventure, cultural flavor, and photo opportunities, this Snowmobile Photography Trip to the Aurora offers an engaging way to experience Finland’s winter magic—just be prepared for the tricky weather and variable light displays.