Oulu: Starguaranteed Northern Lights Mobile Chase

If you’re dreaming of catching the Aurora Borealis while visiting Finland, the Oulu: Starguaranteed Northern Lights Mobile Chase offers an intriguing option. It’s a tour designed to maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, with the added bonus of learning how to hunt for them yourself. While I haven’t experienced this tour firsthand, I’ve gone through the details, and it seems like a practical, well-organized adventure that could suit travelers who appreciate a mix of expert guidance and the flexibility of being driven to the best spots.

What I really like about this experience is how it combines local insight with modern technology—guides use apps and research to optimize the sightings, and they’re upfront about the natural unpredictability of the Aurora. Also, the opportunity for photoshoots in scenic locations makes it more than just a chase; it’s a chance to create lasting memories. One potential downside is that, being dependent on weather and natural phenomena, sightings aren’t guaranteed, meaning you might not see the lights on every trip. But if you’re someone who’s flexible and eager to learn, this tour could be quite rewarding.

This experience tends to attract those who are genuinely interested in the Aurora, enjoy being outdoors in chilly conditions, and want an informative, guided night out. It’s especially suitable for travelers who value well-researched chasing tactics and don’t mind a bit of unpredictability. If that sounds like your style, read on—there’s a lot more to uncover.

Key Points

• High success rate: Over 90% of groups report seeing the Aurora during their trip, thanks to careful planning and real-time tracking.
• Expert guidance: Guides teach Aurora hunting with apps and local knowledge, making the experience both educational and practical.
• Flexible, tailored experience: The tour adapts to weather conditions, with options to cancel if chances are low, often with a full refund.
• Comfort and convenience: Pickup and drop-off in Oulu make logistics simple, especially after a long day of traveling.
• Photo opportunities: Multiple stops for photoshoots mean you can capture the Northern Lights in beautiful settings.
• Natural unpredictability: Sightings can never be guaranteed, but the team’s research and multiple viewing spots increase your odds.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Northern Lights Chase

This tour is centered around giving you a good shot at seeing the Aurora Borealis in a way that’s both informative and flexible. It lasts about 3 to 4 hours, with pickup from your accommodation in Oulu, so it’s not a huge time commitment but enough to make the most of the night.

Pickup and Initial Drive

The adventure begins with a pickup in Oulu, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers. The guides are experienced and use a combination of local weather reports, Aurora prediction apps, and their own expertise to choose the best spots. This is where the tour really stands out—your guide isn’t just taking you somewhere pretty; they’re actively seeking the best conditions for Aurora sightings.

The Scenic Stops and Photo Opportunities

The itinerary includes at least two designated stops—one in Oulu itself (about 30 minutes) and another in Northern Ostrobothnia (another 30 minutes). These are places chosen to maximize your chances of seeing the lights, but also to give you a chance to stretch, enjoy the night sky, and snap some photos. Guided by knowledgeable staff, you might even learn how to adjust your camera settings for Aurora photography.

Practical Education on Aurora Hunting

One of the biggest perks is that guides teach you how to hunt for the Aurora using apps and real-time data. This isn’t just a ride in the dark—you’ll learn what signs to look for and how to interpret the sky and apps to increase your odds. Some reviews highlight guides being friendly, helpful, and even acting as photographers—”Jussi was so friendly and a great photographer,” one reviewer shared.

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The Search for Aurora Sightings

Thanks to their extensive network of over 30 Aurora stations and real-time visual control over the region, the guides can drive to where the sky is most open and clear. If the Aurora is visible, they’ll stay out as long as there’s a chance to see it, even into the night. If the conditions look poor, they will advise cancellation with a full refund, which is reassuring for anyone wary of wasting money on a cloudy night.

The Overall Experience

Past guests seem to find the tour both enjoyable and successful—with over 90% of groups seeing the lights during their visits from 2021 to 2024, and similar success continuing into 2025. Their approach seems rooted in persistent research and flexible planning, which really benefits the traveler. One reviewer mentioned, “The guides were very kind, and we saw amazing auroras,” which speaks volumes about the quality of the experience.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Pickup in Oulu: Starting your night with a convenient pickup means you avoid the hassle of finding spots yourself and get straight into the action. Plus, you’re in safe hands with guides who know the region well.

Oulu Photo Stop: This initial stop allows you to get an idea of the night sky’s potential. It’s a relaxed 30-minute window to take some photos, gather your gear, and chat with your guide about what’s happening overhead.

Northern Ostrobothnia Stop: The second photo stop is likely in an area with less light pollution, giving you better chances of seeing the Aurora. Here, you can enjoy the quietness of the Finnish wilderness, and the guides often set up fires or provide hot drinks, making the experience cozy despite the cold.

Drive to Aurora Hotspots: If the lights are visible, the guides might stay in the area longer, even driving to different spots for better viewing. The flexibility helps maximize your chances, which is especially important given how unpredictable the Aurora can be.

Return to Oulu: After a few hours under the night sky, you’ll be driven back to your accommodation, hopefully with some unforgettable photos and new knowledge about Aurora hunting.

The Real Value: What You’re Paying For

Price-wise, this tour is a fair investment considering the guidance, transportation, and the potential to see the Northern Lights—something that’s both a natural wonder and a highlight of many trips to Finland. The fact that they offer full refunds if chances are low adds a layer of security, making it less risky to book.

Plus, the tour includes guidance on how to use apps for Aurora prediction, which is a skill you can take home and use on future nights. The opportunity to have photos taken by guides—who bring their own cameras—is an extra bonus, especially for travelers who might not have a good camera of their own.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adventure-minded travelers who want a guided, well-researched effort to see the Aurora. If you’re a person who loves learning new skills, enjoys outdoor chilly nights, and doesn’t want to leave your Aurora sighting to chance, you’ll appreciate the thoughtful planning behind this tour.

It’s also suitable for those traveling in a small group or solo—most reviews mention friendly guides and a cozy atmosphere. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner, it can be a romantic and memorable night out, especially with the photo opportunities.

Final Thoughts

The Oulu: Starguaranteed Northern Lights Mobile Chase stands out because it combines expert guidance, flexible planning, and a real effort to maximize your chances of witnessing one of the most stunning natural phenomena. It’s not a guaranteed sight, but the approach and the research behind it suggest you’re in good hands. The experience offers a chance to learn about Aurora hunting, enjoy scenic stops, and maybe even walk away with some beautiful photos.

For those who are patient, flexible, and genuinely interested in the Northern Lights, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to spend an evening in Finnish Lapland. It’s not overly commercialized, and the focus on research and safety makes it a solid choice.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on conditions and the Aurora’s appearance.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be picked up and dropped off at your accommodation in the Oulu city area, making logistics straightforward.

Can I cancel if the weather looks bad?
Yes, you can cancel with a full refund if the chances of sighting are too low, which is a nice reassurance.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing is essential—think layers, hats, gloves, and sturdy boots to stay comfortable outdoors.

Will I see the Aurora every time?
Not guaranteed. The guides use their experience and apps to maximize chances, but Aurora sightings depend on natural factors beyond anyone’s control.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the information doesn’t specify family suitability, the outdoor nature and duration suggest it’s best for older children or teenagers prepared for cold weather.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its focus on Aurora prediction technology, flexible driving to optimal spots, and a high success rate (over 90%) set it apart.

Do I get photos?
Yes, guides often take photos during stops, and some reviews mention it as a highlight, especially with the guides acting as photographers.

In the end, if the Northern Lights are on your Finland bucket list, this tour offers a thoughtful, research-backed way to chase them, with plenty of opportunities to learn, enjoy, and possibly capture that perfect shot.

You can check availability for your dates here: