Chasing Aurora with Photographer – Small Group

If you’re dreaming of witnessing the Northern Lights in their full, shimmering glory, the Chasing Aurora with Photographer tour in Lapland promises a well-organized, small-group adventure filled with expert guidance and cozy comforts. This 4-hour excursion by minibus is crafted to maximize your chances of catching the aurora, all while offering some fantastic photo opportunities and authentic Lappish treats.

What truly makes this experience stand out is the professionalism of the guides—experienced photographers who are as committed to helping you photograph the northern skies as they are to finding the perfect viewing spots. However, it’s worth noting that, as with all aurora tours, sightings are never guaranteed, making patience and a bit of luck essential.

One consideration? The tour’s reliance on weather forecasts means that cloudy skies can still limit visibility, despite the guides’ best efforts. Still, if you’re after a balanced mix of adventure, photography, and local flavor, this tour is a compelling choice for curious travelers or photography enthusiasts alike.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a small, intimate experience with a focus on photography, comfort, and authentic local snacks. If you’re flexible with the possibility of not always seeing the aurora but eager to learn and capture stunning images, this tour ticks many of the right boxes.

Key Points

• Expert guides with photography skills increase your chances of capturing the aurora.
• Multiple locations provide varied backdrops and better sighting opportunities.
• Warm gear and thermal overalls ensure comfort in the Arctic cold.
• Small group size (max. 8 participants) offers a personalized experience.
• Photo services include a free download of all images taken during the tour.
• Authentic Lappish snacks like sausages and hot drinks around an open fire add a cozy touch.

In-Depth Look at the Aurora Chase Experience

The Itinerary and Locations

This tour is designed to optimize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights by visiting 2-3 different locations. While the specific spots aren’t detailed in the brochure, the idea is to move away from the city lights of Rovaniemi, seeking darker, more unobstructed views. The guides use weather forecasting tools and local knowledge to pick the best spots on the night.

Traveling in a minibus, you’ll appreciate the ease of moving between locations rather than waiting outside in the cold for hours. This flexibility is especially valuable in winter when weather can shift quickly, sometimes requiring quick adjustments.

The Guide and Photography Help

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is the professional guides who are also trained photographers. Their dual expertise is useful—whether you’re a complete novice or a keen shutterbug, they can help you fine-tune your camera settings for the best shot.

As one review states, “Our guide Luigi was good,” and he even took photos with his own camera, sharing them afterward. The guides’ tips can make a real difference, especially for those unfamiliar with night photography, turning your chances of a stunning shot into a real possibility.

Warmth and Comfort

In Finland’s Arctic winter, staying warm is as important as the sighting itself. The tour provides thermal overalls and winter boots, which make a noticeable difference in comfort levels. Many travelers find that these provided layers make the experience much more enjoyable, allowing you to focus on the sky rather than shivering.

Plus, the tour includes lappish sausages and hot drinks around an open fire, creating a cozy atmosphere. While the hot drinks are delivered at the end of the tour, some reviewers suggest that having warm beverages available sooner would improve the experience—especially if you’re waiting in cold conditions.

The Photography Component

For those eager to capture the Northern Lights, this tour offers a dedicated Aurora photography service. Guides will help you understand camera settings and composition, which can be daunting when shooting in dark, cold conditions. Plus, you’ll get all your photos for free, which is a nice bonus, especially since capturing the aurora often requires quick adjustments and patience.

The Reality of Aurora Sightings

It’s important to recognize that Northern Lights are unpredictable. While the guides use forecasting tools and local knowledge to improve your odds, no one can guarantee a sighting. As one reviewer put it, “The tour was with small refreshment. It could have been better if a warm drink was available sooner not in the end,” highlighting that weather and sky clarity are outside anyone’s control.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour keeps groups small—max. 8 travelers—which is great for personalized attention and a more intimate experience. Pick-up and drop-off are included, but travelers should check their email for precise times and locations, especially if their accommodation is outside the city center.

Pricing and Value

At around $211 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience at a reasonable price, considering everything included: transportation, multiple locations, professional guiding and photography assistance, thermal gear, and local snacks.

While some might find the cost slightly high if weather conditions aren’t ideal, the small group size and expert guides add significant value—especially for those keen on photography or seeking a more personalized adventure.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This tour suits photography lovers, travelers wanting a more personalized experience, and those who appreciate comfort and local tastes amid their Arctic adventure. If you’re flexible, patient, and eager to learn about the Northern Lights in a relaxed setting, you’ll likely enjoy this trip.

The Sum Up

The Chasing Aurora with Photographer tour provides a thoughtful balance of comfort, expert guidance, and genuine Arctic charm. While the elusive Aurora can never be guaranteed, the combination of multiple viewing spots, the help of professional photographers, and cozy amenities makes it a strong contender for your Lapland bucket list.

It’s an ideal choice for travelers who value small groups, personalized attention, and high-quality photo tips. If your main goal is to increase your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights while capturing stunning images, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable option.

However, keep your expectations flexible—cloudy skies or unexpected weather can still play spoilsport. But even without a sighting, the experience of Arctic cold, local stories, and expert guidance will add a memorable layer to your trip.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup and return to your accommodation, transportation by minibus to multiple aurora viewing locations, professional Aurora photography assistance, a free download of all photos, thermal overalls, lappish sausages and hot drinks around an open fire, and a small-group setting limited to eight participants.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about four hours, including transfers and time for dressing in thermal gear. Starting times vary, so check your booking confirmation for the exact schedule.

Can I bring my own camera?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own camera gear to record the Northern Lights. The guides will help you with camera settings and composition tips to maximize your photos.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
While the guides forecast weather and aurora activity to boost your chances, sightings are never guaranteed. The tour offers a higher likelihood but depends on natural conditions.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is accessible and designed for small groups. It is suitable for those able to dress warmly and tolerate cold outdoor conditions for a few hours.

What should I bring?
Warm shoes, hat, and layered clothing are recommended. Thermal overalls and winter boots are provided, but additional personal layers or hand warmers can be helpful.

In sum, the Chasing Aurora with Photographer tour offers a well-rounded, authentic Arctic experience focused on maximizing your chances of seeing and capturing the Northern Lights. It’s particularly well-suited for photography enthusiasts and those seeking a cozy, guided adventure in the wilds of Lapland.