Aurora Ice Floating in Rovaniemi

This review explores the Aurora Ice Floating tour in Rovaniemi, Finland—a standout adventure combining the magic of the Northern Lights with the tranquility of floating on a frozen lake. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 55 reviews and 91% of travelers recommending it, this experience promises a peaceful, immersive way to connect with the Arctic wilderness. The tour lasts about 3 hours, includes pickup at your hotel, and features all necessary winter gear, making it accessible and straightforward.

What we love most about this tour is how it offers a unique perspective—floating quietly under the Northern Lights in the middle of the Finnish wilderness, away from city light pollution. The guides, especially Greta and Salla, receive praise for their friendliness and helpfulness, making the experience even more memorable. However, it’s worth noting that successful Northern Lights sightings depend heavily on weather conditions, as some reviews mention overcast skies or cloudy nights that obscured the auroras.

This experience suits travelers seeking a peaceful yet adventurous escape, those eager to see the Aurora Borealis in an unusual setting, or anyone curious about Arctic survival gear like dry suits. Since the tour’s appeal hinges on nature’s unpredictability, it’s best for flexible spirits who can embrace the experience even if the lights don’t appear on the night of your booking.

Key Points

• Exclusive Arctic adventure: Float silently in a frozen lake, with the Northern Lights flickering overhead—an experience unlike any other.
• Expert-guided experience: Guides like Greta and Salla are highly praised for their friendly, knowledgeable approach.
• All-inclusive comfort: Dry suits, warm drinks, and hotel pickup make this a convenient, comfortable outing.
• Weather-dependent: The Northern Lights are unpredictable; cloudy nights may mean no auroras, but the peaceful setting still offers a memorable experience.
• Good value: Priced at around $160 per person, it offers a unique combination of adventure, comfort, and expert guidance.
• Group size and booking: Small groups (maximum 50), booked on average 161 days in advance—perfect for those who plan ahead.

An In-Depth Look at the Aurora Ice Floating Tour

Setting the Scene: A Unique Arctic Adventure

Floating on a frozen lake while gazing up at the Northern Lights sounds surreal, yet it’s exactly what the Aurora Ice Floating tour in Rovaniemi promises. You start your adventure with pickup from your hotel, which makes logistics seamless. Alternatively, you can meet at the centrally located Safartica office in town. This flexibility is a bonus, especially after a day of exploring Rovaniemi or nearby attractions.

Once in transit, you leave behind the city lights and venture into the Finnish wilderness. Think snow-covered forests, crisp air, and a sense of remote tranquility. The actual ice-floating takes place on a carefully selected secret location—an isolated section of a frozen lake far from light pollution, ensuring the best chance to catch the Aurora if they’re visible.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour includes all necessary winter gear, notably the dry suit, which is essential to stay warm while floating in near-freezing waters. Reviewers have praised the dry suits: “The suit was not water-proof but kept us warm enough to enjoy the experience,” noted one guest, highlighting the importance of proper gear in Arctic conditions.

Once suited up, you lie back in the water, floating among icebergs and reflecting the sky above. The sensation of being weightless in such a serene environment is often described as “bizarre but beautiful,” with some guests mentioning that the peacefulness of floating in near silence is almost meditative. The guides are attentive, helping with gear and ensuring safety throughout.

The Northern Lights: A Natural Wonder

The main highlight is, of course, the chance to see the Northern Lights. Since this tour takes place in a dark, open setting, it’s designed to maximize your viewing chances. Many reviewers have enjoyed clear views; “We got to see the northern lights clearly in the sky,” says Kathryn_M, emphasizing how guided excursions can enhance the experience. However, a few guests noted overcast or cloudy skies, which is a reminder that nature is unpredictable.

After floating, you can warm up with hot drinks—another thoughtful addition that keeps the experience cozy. The guides’ friendliness and professionalism shine through, making sure everyone stays comfortable and informed.

The Overall Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros include:
– The peacefulness of floating in icy waters, often described as “breathtaking.”
– The knowledgeable and caring guides like Greta and Salla, who receive consistent praise.
– The warm dry suits that allow guests of various ages and sizes to participate comfortably.
– The convenience of hotel pickup, removing logistical worries.
– The opportunity to combine adventure with relaxation, especially after floating when you can sit around a fire or enjoy hot drinks in the cold.

Potential drawbacks:
– Depending on weather, Northern Lights sightings are not guaranteed. Some guests have had overcast nights or seen only faint auroras.
– The location is somewhat remote, which adds to the sense of adventure but also means limited access to amenities nearby.
– Some reviews mention that the dry suits, while good, are not completely waterproof—important to know if you’re a particularly cautious swimmer or worried about leaks.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity is best suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate quiet, scenic moments and are okay with some unpredictability. It’s perfect if you’re seeking a peaceful, contemplative experience away from crowds, and if you’re drawn to the idea of floating under the Aurora Borealis. It also suits those who prefer a small group setting and value knowledgeable guides to enhance safety and storytelling.

The Sum Up: Is the Aurora Ice Floating Tour Worth It?

This tour offers an authentic Arctic experience that combines adventure, serenity, and the chance to witness one of Earth’s most amazing natural phenomena. The floating aspect provides a gentle, almost meditative way to connect with the wilderness, and the guides’ warmth and expertise add a personalized touch.

If you’re a traveler who loves offbeat activities and doesn’t mind the uncertainty of weather, this experience could be a highlight of your trip. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a peaceful, memorable moment in Lapland’s winter landscape, especially with the added thrill of potentially seeing the Northern Lights in their full glory.

However, keep in mind that viewings are weather-dependent, and the remote location means you’re truly off the beaten path. The experience’s value is bolstered by the thoughtful inclusion of warm gear, hot drinks, and hotel pickup, making it accessible and comfortable.

In summary, this tour offers a genuinely peaceful and scenic Arctic adventure, ideal for nature lovers, serenity seekers, and those curious about what floating in icy waters under the Northern Lights feels like. It’s a different kind of Arctic adventure—one that might leave you with more questions than answers, but definitely a story worth telling.

FAQ

Do I need to bring any special clothing?
No, all necessary winter clothing, including dry suits, is provided. Just wear warm layers underneath and bring any personal items like gloves or hats if you tend to get cold.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate if they are at least 120 cm tall. They must be accompanied by an adult, and a child rate applies only when sharing with two paying adults.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
The tour takes place in a dark, remote location to maximize viewing chances, but sightings depend on weather conditions. Cloudy or overcast skies might obscure the auroras, but many guests find the experience of floating in the Arctic wilderness alone to be rewarding regardless.

How long does the entire experience last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, including pickup, transfer, floating, warming up, and return.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers all taxes, fees, and handling charges, professional guides, transfers, winter clothing, hot drinks, and hotel pickup/drop-off.

How far in advance should I book?
Most guests book about 161 days in advance, indicating high demand and the need to secure your spot early, especially during peak Northern Lights season.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours before the activity. Refunds are not available for late cancellations or no-shows.

Is this experience physically demanding?
Not particularly. Floating and lying back in a dry suit requires minimal effort. It’s suitable for most travelers, provided they meet height requirements and are comfortable in cold environments.

This floating adventure in Rovaniemi combines the tranquility of Arctic nature with the thrill of potentially witnessing the Northern Lights. It’s a thoughtful mix of comfort, unique scenery, and awe-inspiring beauty—perfect for those who want to experience Lapland’s magic in a peaceful, memorable way.