Unlimited Range Northern Lights Hunt with VIP Van

Review of the Unlimited Range Northern Lights Hunt with VIP Van

Chasing the Northern Lights in Lapland is a bucket-list experience, and this tour from Lapin Taivas is designed for those who want to maximize their chances. With the freedom to travel over 300 km in a comfortable Mercedes Pegabus Van, you’ll venture into Finnish and Swedish Lapland, seeking clear skies and perfect viewing spots. It’s a flexible, no-fixed-route adventure that prioritizes optimal aurora sightings over cookie-cutter itineraries.

One thing we really appreciate about this experience is the focus on personalized hunting—guided by professionals who use real-time weather reports and advanced photography equipment to help you catch that perfect shot. Plus, the professional photos included afterward are a fantastic bonus, giving you lasting memories without the hassle of capturing the lights yourself.

The only consideration worth noting is the long duration—some reviews mention the drive can be bumpy and it can last late into the night. This makes it best suited for travelers who are prepared for a late-night adventure and don’t have early commitments the next morning.

If you’re someone eager for a serious, data-driven aurora hunt with expert guides and a flexible, scenic route, this tour is likely to hit the mark. It’s especially good for those who want comfort, professional-grade photography, and a high success rate.

Key Points

• Unmatched Range: Travel over 300 km in a luxury van, ensuring you go wherever the sky is clearest.
• Expert Guides: Guides and photographers use weather reports and advanced lenses to optimize your chances.
• Flexible Route: No fixed stops—driving wherever the best viewing conditions occur.
• Professional Photos: All guests receive high-quality photos emailed within 3 days.
• Comfort and Convenience: Pickup and drop-off included within 15 km of Rovaniemi center, WiFi on board, snacks, and charging cables.
• High Success Rate: During 2023-24, the success rate was 86%; so chances are good you’ll see the lights.

The Experience: How It All Comes Together

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses a double-seated Mercedes Pegabus Van, which feels surprisingly spacious and warm—crucial for those chilly Arctic nights. With a maximum of 16 travelers, it maintains a cozy yet energetic atmosphere, ensuring you’re not lost in a huge crowd. Many reviews praise the guides’ attentiveness and friendliness, making the long hours more enjoyable.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour starts at Valtakatu 23 in Rovaniemi around 7:00 pm, with pickup included within a 15 km radius—so most guests are conveniently collected from their accommodations. The journey starts with a focus on comfort; snacks like Finnish Pulla (Dallas Roll) and berry tea keep your energy up during the hunt. WiFi, power banks, and cables are provided, helping you stay connected and charged for photos.

Since the route is not predetermined, the guides constantly check weather reports and solar wind data to find the best spots. This means you may visit 2 to 3 different viewpoints, each carefully chosen for minimal light pollution and optimal sky clarity. Some guests liken the drive to a scenic road trip, where the focus is on the journey as much as the destination.

Why the Flexibility Matters

The real magic here is the unlimited mileage—your guides won’t settle for a mediocre sky. During the 2023-24 winter season, the team achieved an 86% success rate at sightings, and this season’s rate is even higher. This flexibility means you’re not stuck in one location or at the mercy of group consensus; instead, the guides actively chase clear skies, often traveling up to 120 km one way.

Viewing and Photography

Guides and photographers use top-tier weather reports, cameras, and lenses to maximize your chances of capturing the aurora. Many reviews rave about the professional photos they received—email delivery within 24-72 hours. Guests report that guides like Emin, Chevos, and Han go above and beyond, with some spending until dawn to find the lights.

A notable perk is the personalized photo shoot—guides are happy to help you take shots with your own phones or cameras, ensuring everyone leaves with quality memories. Some reviewers mention that the photos are in high resolution, taken with Sony A7III bodies and Sigma astrophotography lenses, so you’re getting stunning clarity, even if the auroras are faint.

Food and Comfort

Unlike some tours that set up barbecues or sausages, this experience focuses on the pursuit of the lights. Snacks like berry tea and pulla are served, and the comfort of the vehicle ensures you’re warm and well-fed during the long waiting periods. Many guests mention the guides’ hospitality, with some describing guides like Cristina and Emin as genuinely attentive and passionate.

The Success Stories

While the weather can be unpredictable, many guests have memorable stories of multiple sightings—sometimes up to five times during the same night, as one reviewer mentioned. Guides’ persistence and dedication shine through, with some spending up to 11 hours driving and searching to make sure everyone gets a chance to see the aurora.

The Challenges

The main drawback is the long hours—some nights extend until 5 or 7 am. Also, given the nature of aurora chasing, there’s always a chance you might not see the lights, especially if the weather doesn’t cooperate. However, many reviews highlight that guides like Emin and Chevos try tirelessly, and even when the sky remains cloudy, the experience is still considered worthwhile thanks to the scenery and the professionalism.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who thrive on adventure and are serious aurora hunters. If you’re comfortable with late nights and can handle a long drive, you’ll love the flexibility and dedication of the guides. It’s ideal for those who want high-quality photos and personalized attention, particularly if you’re traveling with friends or solo but want the chance to share a memorable Arctic night.

It’s also perfect for visitors who prioritize comfort and convenience—the vehicle is well-equipped, and pickups are included. However, if you’re less tolerant of long hours or tight schedules, you might want to consider whether this is the right fit.

The Value Proposition

For around $207 per person, this tour offers an impressive balance of comfort, flexibility, and potential for aurora sightings. Given the success rate and the professional photography included, many guests find it excellent value, especially when compared to less personalized safaris. The dedicated guides’ knowledge, persistence, and ability to adapt to weather conditions stand out, making this a reliable choice for those serious about witnessing the Northern Lights.

The Sum Up

This Northern Lights hunt delivers a highly personalized, flexible experience with a focus on maximizing your chances of seeing and photographing the aurora. The professional guides, comfortable transportation, and professional photos make it a compelling option for travelers eager for a serious Arctic adventure. The long hours and late nights are part of the package, but many consider the effort well worth it for the memories created.

Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who appreciate attentive guides and a data-driven approach, this tour is designed to make every minute count in pursuit of the elusive lights. If you’re looking for a tour that goes beyond the typical, prioritizes comfort and success, and offers lasting souvenirs in the form of stunning images, this is definitely one to consider.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off within a 15 km radius of Rovaniemi’s city center, making it very convenient to start your Arctic night.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 7 hours, starting around 7:00 pm and often ending in the early morning hours, depending on aurora activity.

What should I wear?
While the tour provides a warm vehicle, it’s advisable to dress in winter clothing, including overalls, thermal layers, hats, gloves, and sturdy boots, for comfort during stops and photography.

Can I expect to see the Northern Lights?
While the guides do everything possible—driving over 300 km, monitoring weather reports, and visiting multiple viewpoints—the aurora is a natural phenomenon, and sightings can never be guaranteed. However, the success rate is high, with guests regularly witnessing the lights.

Are professional photos included?
Yes, all guests receive high-quality photos emailed within 3 days. Guides use professional equipment, including Sony A7III cameras and Sigma astrophotography lenses, to capture stunning images.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions prevent sightings, you’ll either be offered an alternative date or a full refund. The guides constantly monitor the forecast to ensure the best chances.

In essence, if you’re after an adventurous, flexible, and well-supported Northern Lights experience in Rovaniemi, Lapin Taivas’s unlimited range hunt could be just what you need.