Rovaniemi: Night Tour in Search of the Aurora with BBQ

This Northern Lights tour in Rovaniemi offers a carefully balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and authentic Arctic charm. For those heading north in winter, catching a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis is often high on the wishlist, and this tour promises to boost your chances with visits to three carefully selected locations beyond the city lights. With a cozy BBQ by a campfire, knowledgeable guides, and options for photos, it feels designed to make the experience both memorable and accessible.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines Aurora hunting with genuine Arctic hospitality—think sausages grilling over an open fire and warm berry juice to keep the cold at bay. That said, the unpredictable nature of the Northern Lights is always a caveat; even with multiple stops, there’s no guarantee of seeing the lights. Still, this tour would suit travelers who love outdoor winter adventures and are okay with the possibility of a cloudy night, as the experience itself delivers plenty of scenic beauty regardless.

If you’re after a well-organized, value-for-money experience with friendly guides and lots of opportunities for photos and Arctic snacks, this tour could be a great choice. It’s especially suited to those who want a bit of everything—scenic stops, a warm fire, and a hopeful glimpse of the Aurora—without the high price tag of private or guaranteed-viewing tours.

Key Points

Multiple Locations: Visiting 3 different spots increases your chances of seeing the Aurora, and each stop offers unique scenery.
Authentic Arctic Atmosphere: Cozy BBQ fires, traditional Finnish treats, and the chance to toast marshmallows create a warm, festive vibe.
Expert Guides & Photos: Guides like Daria are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, often helping guests with photography to capture their experience.
Unpredictable but Rewarding: Aurora sightings depend on weather conditions, but the experience itself offers beautiful Arctic landscapes regardless.
Inclusive & Flexible: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, along with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, make booking straightforward and adaptable.
Value for Money: At $89, the tour offers a well-rounded experience with multiple stops, food, and photography assistance.

A Detailed Look at the Rovaniemi Aurora Night Tour

Starting the Adventure: Easy & Comfortable Pick-Up

The experience kicks off with hotel pick-up in Rovaniemi, usually around 19:30. Guests should be ready and waiting outside their accommodations — drivers typically wait five minutes before moving on. This door-to-door service is a real plus, especially in freezing weather, meaning minimal fuss and a warm start to your Arctic night.

The Journey & First Stop: Scenic and Light Pollution-Free

The first stop takes you beyond the city, into the Lapland wilderness. Here, you’ll enjoy a brief 20-minute walk or photo stop to stretch your legs and get your bearings. The guides often point out interesting natural features and help guests capture the landscape, setting the tone for the night ahead.

The Secret Stops: Multiple Opportunities & Cozy Fires

The tour features three main locations, each with its own charm. One of these is near the city, where guests can enjoy a Lapland BBQ by the fireplace, grilling sausages and marshmallows. Reviewers consistently mention how much they appreciated guide Daria’s enthusiasm and her efforts to take photos with her iPhone for everyone, making memories to take home. The 80-minute stop at one of these secret spots is the highlight for many, offering time to gaze at the sky, enjoy the fire, and indulge in traditional snacks like Finnish pies, cookies, and hot berry juice infused with spices.

While the second and third stops are more remote, they serve as excellent vantage points away from light pollution, increasing the chances for Aurora sightings. One reviewer mentioned that they were lucky enough to see the Northern Lights at all three locations, thanks to the varied spots and clear skies. Others found that the landscape alone, with its frozen forests and starry skies, made the tour worthwhile—even if the Aurora stayed elusive.

The Photography Angle: A Real Bonus

Guides like Daria are praised for helping guests set up their phones to capture the Aurora or landscape images—an often overlooked but valuable aspect. With limited time at each stop, having someone assist with camera settings can mean the difference between a blurry shot and a stunning photo of the Northern Lights or Arctic scenery.

The Final Stops & Free Time: Relax and Reflect

After the main stops, there’s a brief 15 to 20-minute window for photos and reflection, giving guests a chance to relax and soak in the scenery. Even if the Aurora doesn’t make an appearance at every stop, the overall landscape and the cozy fires provide plenty of visual rewards.

Returning to Rovaniemi: Stress-Free & Punctual

The tour wraps up with a drop-off back at your hotel. Most reviews mention the promptness and friendliness of the transport, making the whole evening smooth and enjoyable.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Locations & Atmosphere

The multiple stops are designed not just with Aurora sighting in mind but to immerse you in traditional Lapland scenery. The fire, food, and starry skies create an authentic Arctic vibe that’s hard to match. Guests have noted that even when the Aurora was faint or absent, the landscape and experience were still spectacular.

The Guides & Personal Touch

Many reviewers point out the importance of friendly, knowledgeable guides. Daria, in particular, received glowing praise for her helpfulness and warmth, which makes a significant difference when you’re outdoors in freezing temperatures. She also goes the extra mile with photography, ensuring you leave with some great shots.

The Food & Comfort

The Lapland BBQ isn’t just a snack; it’s part of the experience. Grilling sausages and marshmallows over an open fire, warmed by traditional treats, helps break the cold and makes the night feel cozy. The hot berry juice, ginger biscuits, and pastries add a sweet, warming touch.

The Value for Money

At $89 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience: three locations, transportation, food, and photo assistance. For many travelers, that’s a fair price considering the quality and the memorable moments created.

The Unpredictability & Patience

It’s worth noting that Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and sightings depend heavily on weather and solar activity. Reviewers like Sabreena mention missing the lights due to cloud cover, which is normal. The key is that the experience itself is rewarding, regardless of whether the Aurora appears.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress warmly: Layers, thermal clothing, warm shoes, and hats are essential.
• Bring a camera: Guides can help, but a smartphone with good low-light capabilities works well too.
• Be patient: Aurora sightings are never guaranteed, but the stops and scenery make the trip worthwhile.
• Arrive on time: Be ready for pick-up at 19:30, and be aware that the driver will wait only five minutes.
• Prepare for the cold: The tour can reach temperatures of -27°C or colder; staying warm makes the experience much more enjoyable.
• Opt for the full experience: Visiting multiple locations maximizes your chances and enriches your Arctic adventure.

The Sum Up

This Night Tour in Search of the Aurora with BBQ in Rovaniemi offers a well-rounded Arctic experience. You gain multiple scenic stops, a cozy fire, traditional Finnish snacks, and the chance to see the Northern Lights—if luck and weather cooperate. The guides, praised for their friendliness and expertise, make the outing both comfortable and informative.

While Aurora viewing is never guaranteed, the effort, scenery, and atmosphere make this tour a solid choice for travelers seeking an authentic Lapland evening without breaking the bank. It’s particularly suited for those who want a blend of outdoor adventure, culture, and a warm respite from the cold.

For anyone wanting to chase the Northern Lights, enjoy a traditional Finnish BBQ, and explore the Arctic landscape, this tour hits most marks effectively. Just keep your expectations flexible, dress accordingly, and enjoy the adventure.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including pick-up, multiple stops, and return to your hotel.

What is included in the price?
Includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, visits to 3 locations, and a Lapland BBQ by the fireplace with snacks and hot drinks.

Can I get my photos taken during the tour?
Yes, guides like Daria often take photos of guests with their phones or iPhones and send them afterward, helping you capture the moment.

What should I wear?
Dress in warm layers, including thermal clothing, warm shoes, hats, and gloves, as temperatures can be very cold.

Are there any cancellations or refunds?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if weather conditions make the tour unsuitable.

What happens if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
Even if Aurora sightings are not guaranteed, you’ll still experience beautiful Arctic landscapes, cozy fires, and traditional Finnish snacks.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many families enjoy the experience, especially since the stops include warm food, and guides are friendly and helpful.

How many people are on the tour?
Group sizes vary but are generally small to moderate, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What if I don’t want to participate in the BBQ?
The BBQ is part of the experience, but if you have dietary restrictions, it’s best to check at booking or bring your own snacks.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, solo travelers often find this tour welcoming, especially with the friendly guides and the opportunity to meet others.

In the end, this tour offers a blend of adventure, comfort, and authentic Arctic charm, perfect for those eager to enjoy Lapland’s natural beauty and hope for a glimpse of the Northern Lights.