Lakeside Auroras Paparazzi Photography

Lakeside Auroras Paparazzi Photography offers a unique way to chase the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi, Finland. This three-hour excursion combines expert-guided aurora hunting with a dedicated photoshoot, aiming to give travelers a memorable souvenir of their Arctic adventure. With round-trip transport from the city and cozy amenities like hot snacks and thermal clothing, it promises both comfort and a chance at a spectacular natural show.

What we particularly like about this tour is its focus on creating a tangible keepsake—professional photos of you and your loved ones under the Aurora Borealis. However, it’s important to note that Northern Lights are unpredictable, and despite efforts to increase your chances, sightings aren’t guaranteed. This type of experience is best suited for those seeking a combination of adventure, photography, and the magic of Lapland’s night sky.

If you’re a traveler who values guided expertise and a relaxed, well-organized outing, this tour could be a good fit. It’s also a great choice if you’re eager to come away with professional photos and don’t want to worry about the logistics of finding the perfect viewing spot yourself. Conversely, if your main goal is guaranteed aurora sightings, you might prefer a more intensive or guaranteed tour elsewhere.

Key Points

• Guided Aurora Viewing: Led by experienced guides who select optimal locations based on weather conditions.
• Photo Opportunity: A professional photoshoot against the Northern Lights, perfect for lasting memories.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes thermal clothing, hot snacks around the fire, and round-trip transportation from Rovaniemi.
• Natural Uncertainty: The Aurora Borealis remains unpredictable, and sightings are not guaranteed.
• Group Size & Timing: Small groups (max 15) ensure personalized attention, with tours booked on average 39 days in advance.
• Value for Photography Enthusiasts: Especially suited for those wanting high-quality photos without the hassle of outdoor photography equipment.

Detailed Review of the Lakeside Auroras Paparazzi Photography Tour

The Itinerary and Experience

This tour kicks off from the centrally located Sunny Safari office in Rovaniemi, with pickup included, making logistics straightforward for travelers staying in or near the city. The journey takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on conditions, as the guide drives away from the glow of city lights to a dark observation point in the surrounding countryside—a crucial move to improve your chances of spotting the Aurora.

Once at the location, you’ll find yourself in a cozy setup: thermal clothing is provided, which is a significant plus, considering how cold the Arctic night can get. This allows you to comfortably wait around a bonfire, sip hot snacks, and listen to stories about the Northern Lights, which adds a layer of cultural context to the experience. According to a reviewer, “There was a lot of wasted time at the beginning of the night due to some organisation issues within the company,” but overall, the heat and snacks help make the wait more bearable.

The main highlight is the photoshoot. A professional photographer, often described as friendly and experienced, captures stunning images of you and your group with the Aurora shimmering above. One traveler noted, “The Northern Lights were incredible and we appreciated being able to get good photos since we only had our phones.” This focus on photography can be especially valuable if you’re eager for high-quality keepsakes and want to avoid the hassle of trying to snap your own Aurora shots.

The Search for the Aurora

Our guide will make decisions based on current weather conditions and Aurora forecasts, aiming to maximize your chances of seeing the lights. But it’s crucial to remember that Northern Lights are inherently unpredictable. Despite the effort, there’s no 100% guarantee you’ll witness the Aurora during your trip. As one review pointed out, “The Aurora is an unpredictable natural phenomenon, there is no guarantee but we will try the best to increase the chance of seeing it.”

The guide’s local knowledge and flexible approach are among the tour’s strengths. Still, if clear, vibrant Aurora sightings are your primary goal, you might want to consider additional options or tours that promise guaranteed viewing or longer durations.

What’s Included and How It Affects Value

For $118.53 per person, the tour offers quite a bit: round-trip transport, thermal gear, hot snacks, and a professional photoshoot. For many travelers, this package offers excellent value, especially considering the cost of hiring a photographer and the convenience of pickup and drop-off. The photos link is sent via email after the tour, available for 14 days, giving you ample time to download and share your images.

However, some reviews suggest that organizational issues can sometimes lead to delays or a less smooth experience. “No Title” from Verity C mentions some wasted time at the beginning, which might be typical for tours operating in remote conditions where weather can interfere.

Group Size and Booking

With a maximum of 15 travelers, this tour maintains a small-group atmosphere, fostering a more personal experience. You might find this beneficial, especially in a cold environment where having a guide’s attention can make a difference. Booking is typically made around 39 days in advance, reflecting good demand for this kind of experience during peak Aurora season.

Suitability and Considerations

This tour suits travelers who:

• Want professional photographs as keepsakes
• Are comfortable staying outdoors for 1-2 hours
• Appreciate guided excursions with logistics taken care of
• Are flexible because of the natural unpredictability of Aurora sightings

On the other hand, it might not be ideal for those who absolutely must see the Aurora or prefer a longer or more guaranteed viewing experience. Also, since the experience depends heavily on weather and Aurora activity, it’s wise to have flexible expectations.

Final Thoughts

The Lakeside Auroras Paparazzi Photography tour offers a charming blend of guided Aurora hunting and professional photography in the scenic surrounds of Rovaniemi. It’s an experience that combines comfort with natural wonder, making it a good choice for travelers who value beautiful photos and hassle-free logistics. The inclusion of thermal clothing and hot snacks ensures comfort, while the small group size enhances the experience.

While it doesn’t guarantee sightings—an inherent challenge with Aurora chasing—the tour maximizes your chances with expert guidance and carefully chosen locations. The photos you receive afterward will serve as a lasting reminder of your Arctic adventure, whether or not the Aurora makes a grand appearance.

This tour strikes a good balance between value and experience, especially for those who are more interested in capturing memories than chasing the Aurora at all costs. If you’re a photography enthusiast or first-time visitor eager for a cozy, guided night under the Northern Lights, this outing should be on your list.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transport from Rovaniemi to the viewing spot is included, making logistics easier and more comfortable.

What should I wear? The tour provides thermal clothing, but it’s advised to wear enough warm clothes underneath, including hats, gloves, and thermal layers, since you’ll be outside for 1-2 hours.

Can I participate if I’m traveling alone? Yes, solo travelers can join existing groups or pay for two adults’ prices, as the minimum number of participants is two.

Is there a guarantee of seeing the Northern Lights? No, the Aurora is a natural phenomenon and unpredictable. The guides will do their best to locate it, but sightings are not assured.

What happens if the weather is poor? If the weather conditions prevent sightings, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled. A full refund or alternative date will be offered.

How are the photos delivered? The professional photos are emailed after the tour and are available for 14 days for download and sharing.

What is the group size? The maximum group size is 15, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Are snacks and drinks included? Yes, hot snacks are provided around the fire to keep you warm and comfortable during the wait.

In the end, the Lakeside Auroras Paparazzi Photography tour offers a practical, well-organized way to chase the Northern Lights with the added bonus of professional photographs. It’s best suited for those seeking a mix of comfort, guided expertise, and memorable images—perfect for capturing a true Arctic moment without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.