Northern Lights Hunting Photo Tour in Levi

Northern Lights Hunting Photo Tour in Levi: A Deep Dive into Finland’s Sky Show

If you’ve ever dreamed of witnessing the elusive dance of the Aurora Borealis, a guided Northern Lights tour in Levi might be just what you need. This particular experience, offered by Safartica, promises an evening of scenic drives, expert guidance, and the chance to capture stunning photos of Finland’s night sky. At a modest price of around $140 per person, it’s designed for those eager to combine the thrill of a sky-hunting adventure with the joy of photography.

What makes this tour stand out is the knowledgeable guides who tailor each trip to maximize your chances of spotting the aurora. Plus, the tour offers more than just sky-watching; it includes practical photography tips and free photos taken during the trip, which is a real bonus for travelers who want to remember the night vividly. However, it’s worth noting that some guests felt the focus leaned heavily towards photography rather than the hunt itself, which might be a consideration depending on your expectations.

This experience suits travelers who love a mix of scenic exploration, photography, and that magical chance of seeing the Northern Lights in a comfortable, guided setting. If you’re an adventurous soul with a camera in hand or simply want a reliable way to chase the elusive aurora, this tour could be a great fit. But if you’re hoping for a more traditional “hunt,” it’s good to manage your expectations around the focus on photography and the fixed spots visited.

Key Points

• Flexible scheduling: The tour can be rescheduled if the weather or aurora forecast isn’t ideal.
• Expert guidance: Guides are well-versed in the area and in the science of the Northern Lights.
• Photo opportunities: The guide takes photos and shares a weblink with all your images.
• Scenic spots: Multiple stops are made to increase your chances of seeing the aurora.
• Group size: The tour limits participants to 30, ensuring a more personal experience.
• Value for money: The price includes hot drinks, cookies, and personalized photo tips, providing good value.

An Honest Look at the Tour Experience

How the Tour is Structured

This four-hour adventure begins at Hiihtäjänkuja 10 in Sirkka, a convenient meeting point near Levi. From there, the guided drive takes you to several carefully selected spots around the region. The journey isn’t just about waiting under the sky; it’s an active exploration, with the guide adjusting the route based on the weather forecast and aurora activity predictions.

One of the standout features is the personalized approach—the guide acts as your “selfie stick” and photographer, capturing moments throughout the night. Expect to stop at three or more different locations, each chosen because of their potential for clear skies and aurora visibility. Reviewers highlight that guides are familiar with the area—”We drove to three spots, but they weren’t necessarily looking for the best aurora display at that moment,” shares Ellen_A, indicating that the guide’s knowledge mainly focused on scenic or good photo spots rather than necessarily the highest aurora activity.

What You’ll Experience at Each Spot

Each stop offers a chance to glimpse the skies, with the guide often playing with light tricks for creative photos. Guests will appreciate the useful tips on camera settings—especially helpful for those wanting to capture their own photos in future trips. During the tour, hot drinks and cookies are served, creating a cozy atmosphere despite the cold night.

The photos taken during the tour are a notable perk, with the guide providing a weblink afterward. Many guests enjoyed having professional-looking images of themselves under the Northern Lights—something that adds significant value for the price paid.

The Search for the Aurora

While the actual appearance of the Northern Lights depends heavily on weather and geomagnetic activity, the guide’s expertise increases the odds of a sighting. As one reviewer notes, “We did go to three known spots, but the aurora wasn’t necessarily dancing when we were there.” This highlights an important point: the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and no tour can guarantee a sighting.

What About the Photographic Focus?

A common theme in reviews is that the tour leans toward photography rather than just aurora hunting. One guest felt the focus was more on visiting “usual spots” and taking photos rather than seeking the best possible aurora display at that moment. This isn’t necessarily a drawback if your main interest is capturing beautiful images and learning how to photograph the Northern Lights. But if you’re seeking a more traditional, sky-focused experience, it’s good to be aware of this emphasis.

Value for Price and Overall Impression

At about $140, the tour offers good value, especially considering the personalized photography, hot drinks, and the opportunity to visit multiple scenic spots. The group size is capped at 30, which helps maintain a friendly environment and allows guides to give more tailored advice. The flexibility to reschedule if the weather isn’t cooperating is also a plus.

Some reviews mention that the tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants being able to join without special requirements. The tour confirmation is prompt, and the pickup service adds convenience—especially important in winter conditions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for photographers or aspiring aurora chasers who want to learn how to capture the Northern Lights and enjoy a relaxed, scenic evening with good company. If your main goal is to see the aurora dance in the sky, it’s worth keeping in mind that sightings are weather-dependent, and the tour’s stops are chosen with photography in mind.

Travelers who value expert guidance and don’t mind a focus on photography over pure sky-watching** will find this tour rewarding. It’s also a good choice for those who enjoy a cozy atmosphere with hot drinks and cookies as part of their adventure.

If you’re after a more “hunt-focused” experience or prefer fewer stops, other options might suit you better, but for a balanced mix of scenic views, photography, and the chance of seeing the aurora, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts

The Northern Lights Hunting Photo Tour in Levi offers a well-organized, scenic, and educational experience that balances the excitement of aurora hunting with the practicalities of photography. The guides’ knowledge and friendly approach help make the night memorable, especially if you’re eager to learn how to photograph the aurora.

While it doesn’t promise a guaranteed sighting, the tour maximizes your chances through multiple stops and expert advice. The inclusion of professional photos and warm drinks adds great value, making it a worthwhile choice for travelers interested in capturing their adventure.

This tour is best suited for enthusiastic photographers, nature lovers, and those looking for a relaxed yet scenic evening under the northern skies. If you’re flexible, prepared for weather variability, and eager to learn, you’ll likely find this an enjoyable and worthwhile experience.

FAQ

Can I reschedule the tour if the weather isn’t good?
Yes. You can contact the front desk by 16:00 on the tour day to reschedule for a suitable next day.

Is pickup included?
The tour offers pickup, making it more convenient, especially in winter conditions.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, providing enough time for multiple stops and photos.

What’s included in the price?
Hot drinks, cookies, guided transportation, and the photos taken during the tour are included.

Is the tour suitable for most travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the group size is limited to 30 for a more personal experience.

Will I see the Northern Lights?
While the guide maximizes the chances with multiple spots, sightings depend on weather and geomagnetic activity—nothing is guaranteed.

What kind of photography tips are given?
The guide provides useful advice on camera settings for night photography, perfect for capturing your own photos later.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Hiihtäjänkuja 10, Sirkka, Finland.