Rovaniemi: Northern Lights Hunting in Lappish old cottage

Rovaniemi: Northern Lights Hunting in Lappish Old Cottage

Looking for a unique way to chase the elusive Northern Lights in Lapland? This tour offers a blend of traditional Lappish charm, expert guidance, and a chance to witness the aurora in a rustic, intimate setting. While the experience hinges heavily on weather conditions—which can be unpredictable—it provides a memorable, authentic adventure for those eager to experience the Arctic night sky.

One standout feature? The cozy Lappish cottage where you can warm up after a night of aurora spotting, coupled with storytelling and a crackling open fire. That said, the tour’s value really depends on your expectations about catching the lights—if you’re lucky, you’ll get a spectacular display; if not, you’ll still enjoy a genuine Arctic evening immersed in local culture.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate the charm of the outdoors, are comfortable with some unpredictability, and want to combine aurora hunting with cultural insights and cozy comforts. It’s especially appealing for those traveling with family or who love a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Combining aurora chasing with storytelling and a warm Lappish cottage.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, equipped with high-quality cameras, and willing to share tips on aurora photography.
• Weather Dependent: Success in seeing the Northern Lights depends on clear skies, which can be unpredictable.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics, and the cozy cottage provides a much-needed warm retreat.
• Value for Price: At $85, this tour offers a balanced package of cultural, scenic, and natural experiences.
• Family Friendly: With warm drinks, marshmallows, and sledding, it’s suitable for families with children.

An In-Depth Look at the Northern Lights Hunting Tour

Starting Point: Easy Pickup and Clear Logistics

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Rovaniemi, a critical feature that makes the experience hassle-free. The pickup is punctual, as noted by a reviewer who appreciated the timeliness. Guides arrive on time at the designated location (9GR7GR26+7RF), and drivers are reported to be safe and careful during the transfer. Just a heads-up—some travelers have mentioned that the inside of the vehicle can get cold, so dressing warmly for the ride is recommended. You might wish they kept the car a bit warmer, but overall, transport arrangements are straightforward and stress-free.

Journey Into the Night: Leaving City Lights Behind

Once you’re out of Rovaniemi, the real magic begins. The tour takes you to a spot with a clear view of the night sky—a vital component since the Aurora Borealis demands dark, open skies. The drive itself can be quite scenic, with snowy landscapes and starry vistas enhancing the anticipation.

The Open Fire and Lappish Hospitality

Arriving at the selected viewing spot, your guide will prepare an open fire, where you can relax and enjoy the ambiance. Sitting around the crackling flames in the brisk Arctic air, you’ll be served Lappish sausages (which are quite tasty and a staple of local cuisine), marshmallows, hot drinks, and perhaps some cookies. One reviewer described the experience as “sledding to play with the snow,” emphasizing the fun and relaxed atmosphere that this setting fosters.

The storytelling component is a highlight—your guide will share interesting facts, myths, and tales about Lapland and the Northern Lights, adding context and a personal touch to the night. These stories make the experience more meaningful, especially for those new to Arctic traditions.

Aurora Watching: Expectations and Realities

The core of the tour is, of course, hunting for the Northern Lights. Guides are well-equipped with high-quality cameras and are happy to offer advice on aurora photography, which can enhance your chances of capturing this fleeting phenomenon. If you bring your own camera, expect expert tips to improve your shots.

However, the reality is that seeing the Aurora depends heavily on weather conditions—cloud cover, temperature, and geomagnetic activity all play roles. According to reviews, some guests were fortunate enough to see the lights and even received E-Photos of their experience, while others enjoyed the evening without sighting the aurora but still valued the overall atmosphere—such as marshmallows warmed over the fire, sledding in the snow, and cozy moments in the cottage.

A Cozy Lappish Cottage for Rest and Reflection

After hours outdoors, you’ll retreat to a warm cottage. This is the perfect place to warm up, watch a short video about the Northern Lights, and listen to more stories about life in Lapland. The cottage adds a layer of comfort and authenticity, making the experience suitable for families or travelers seeking a homey Arctic atmosphere.

Overall Duration and Flexibility

The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, with starting times depending on availability. The tour includes pickup and drop-off, making it easy to fit into your Rovaniemi itinerary. Cancellation is flexible—up to 24 hours in advance—giving you peace of mind if weather turns unfavorable.

What You’ll Get for the Price

For $85 per person, this tour offers a fair balance of cultural insight, scenic beauty, and potential aurora sightings. While it’s not a high-end, luxury experience, it provides good value considering the combination of transportation, guided storytelling, cozy shelter, and the chance to see the lights.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who want more than just a bus ride trying to spot the aurora. If you enjoy storytelling, outdoor fires, and local culture, you’ll find it enriching. It’s also a good pick for families—the marshmallows and sledding keep kids entertained, and the warmth of the cottage ensures comfort. Be aware, though, that aurora sightings are not guaranteed, so it’s best approached with realistic expectations. If you’re flexible and looking for an immersive, authentic Arctic evening, this tour fits the bill.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If your goal is to experience Lapland’s natural beauty and culture alongside the thrill of potentially witnessing the Northern Lights, this tour offers a genuine, cozy, and educational adventure. The combination of expert guides, storytelling, and the outdoor setting makes it stand out from more generic aurora tours.

However, if your main focus is guaranteed aurora viewing, consider that weather conditions are beyond the tour operator’s control. But even if the lights stay hidden, you’ll leave with a warm feeling of connection to Lapland’s traditions and landscapes—and plenty of great photos, if luck is on your side.

This tour suits those who value authenticity, comfort, and a relaxed atmosphere in the Arctic wilderness. It’s a modest expense for a memorable experience that captures the magic—and unpredictability—of Arctic nights.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.

What’s included in the price?
Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, viewing of the Northern Lights (weather permitting), a cozy cottage, BBQ, and photos of the aurora if it appears.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, the Northern Lights are weather-dependent. Cloud cover and geomagnetic activity influence visibility, so sightings can’t be guaranteed.

Can I get photos of the aurora?
Yes, guides have high-quality cameras and are happy to offer advice on aurora photography. Bring your own camera if you want tips.

Is this experience suitable for families?
Absolutely. The cozy cottage, marshmallows, sledding, and hot drinks make it family-friendly. Just keep in mind the cold outdoor conditions and the unpredictability of the Aurora.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, especially for outdoor portions—think thermal wear, a good winter jacket, hat, gloves, and warm footwear.

How punctual is the pickup?
Guides are generally punctual; they will wait no longer than 5 minutes after the scheduled pickup time.

What happens if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if weather looks unfavorable.

What if I don’t see the aurora?
You’ll still enjoy the outdoor atmosphere, storytelling, and cozy environment. Many reviews note that even without aurora sightings, the experience remains enjoyable.

How do I book this tour?
Visit the provider’s page on GetYourGuide to check availability, reserve your spot, and confirm your pickup details.

To sum it up, this Northern Lights tour in Rovaniemi combines the thrill of aurora hunting with cultural storytelling and a cozy Arctic setting. It’s perfect for travelers who want a genuine, relaxed experience and are okay with the element of luck that comes with chasing the Aurora Borealis. For those seeking an authentic taste of Lapland’s traditions, combined with the potential for a breathtaking natural show, it’s a solid choice.