Rovaniemi: Northern Lights Tour with Electric Snowmobiles

Rovaniemi: Northern Lights Tour with Electric Snowmobiles – Honest Review

If you’re dreaming of seeing the Northern Lights while zipping through snowy landscapes, this tour from Rovaniemi might catch your eye. It promises a unique ride aboard electric snowmobiles, a greener twist on a classic Arctic activity, combined with a cozy Finnish-style dinner in a private hunting cabin. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, reviews and the setup suggest it could be a memorable addition to your Arctic adventures.

What really stands out are the quiet, eco-friendly rides—the electric snowmobiles are a novel way to explore Lapland’s pristine wilderness without the noise and fumes of traditional engines. Plus, the chance to see the Aurora in a dark, peaceful setting away from city lights sounds truly magical. On the flip side, the three-hour duration and specific weather-dependent viewing can be limitations, so it’s good to go with flexible expectations. This experience is probably best suited for those who want a responsible, scenic journey combined with cultural touches like local grilling, and who appreciate smaller groups and personalized guidance.

Key Points

• Eco-Friendly Adventure: The electric snowmobiles offer a quieter, cleaner way to explore Lapland’s winter scenery.
• Prime Aurora Viewing: The ride takes you away from city lights, increasing your chances of seeing the Northern Lights.
• Cozy Finnish Atmosphere: After the ride, warm up by the fire in a private hunting cabin and enjoy traditional grilling with hot drinks.
• Guided Experience: An English-speaking guide helps with photography and makes sure you get the most from the experience.
• Flexible Booking: You can reserve now and pay later, with options for full refund if you cancel 24 hours in advance.
• Limited Children’s Age Range: Not suitable for kids under 4, and pregnant women or those with fragile health should consider this carefully.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

Meeting Point and Pickup

The adventure kicks off at the Safartica Office in Rovaniemi (Koskikatu 9), where you need to arrive 40 minutes before the scheduled start time. Arriving on time is crucial because missing the departure means no refund. If you prefer a different pickup location, it’s best to specify this when booking, as they might confirm your exact meeting time via email.

The Electric Snowmobile Ride

Once gathered, you’ll hop onto a shared snowmobile with another person, as two people share one machine. The electric snowmobiles are a newer addition to Arctic tourism and, honestly, quite impressive. They’re notably quieter, which adds to the serenity of the experience. The guide will lead you to a hill far from the city lights, offering an ideal spot for Aurora viewing.

The ride lasts approximately 3 hours, but the actual driving time can vary based on weather and snow conditions. If you’re a confident driver and want to go solo, you can pay an extra fee of 70 per person for single driving, but most will share. Remember, you need a valid driver’s license and must be at least 18 years old.

The Aurora Search

The main goal here is spotting the Northern Lights, but keep in mind that Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity. The quiet surroundings make it easier to see stars and maybe the Lights if they appear. The guide is very happy to help with camera settings—a real plus if you want to capture the moment.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Stop at the Hunting Cabin

After some time riding, the group pauses at a private hunting cabin, away from any light pollution. Here, you’ll get the chance to warm up around a fire, enjoy a Finnish-style grilling, and sip hot drinks. The setting adds a cozy, authentic touch to the night, and the fire creates a perfect backdrop for relaxing after your chilly ride.

Additional Details and Considerations

• Dress warmly: Layers, thermal gear, and waterproof clothing are advisable since you’ll be outdoors for some time.
• Children and Pregnant Women: Not suitable for children under 4, and pregnant women or those with fragile musculoskeletal systems might want to reconsider due to the physical nature of the activity and weather conditions.
• Group Size: Typically small, personalized groups, ideal for those who prefer intimate experiences.

The Real Vibe: What Travelers Say

One reviewer from Germany gave a glowing 5-star rating, simply saying, “Experience Provider” with a brief comment of “…!!” which suggests it left a strong impression. Others highlight the peaceful, quiet environment, emphasizing how different it felt compared to noisy, gas-powered snowmobiles. The guide’s helpfulness with camera settings was appreciated, especially for those eager to photograph the Aurora.

While the experience is largely positive, some mention that the Aurora isn’t guaranteed—which is common for any Northern Lights tour—so patience and good luck are involved. One thing to note is the price; considering the ride, guided service, and private cabin experience, many find it good value, especially given the eco-friendly aspect and the chance to avoid more crowded, commercial tours.

The Practical Side: Transport, Timing, and Cost

You’ll need to meet at the Safartica Office, and the entire activity lasts about 3 hours—perfect for fitting into a full evening or as a standalone adventure. The tour includes pickup and guide service, but make sure to arrive on time, as missing your departure isn’t refunded.

The cost, while not specified directly, should be considered against the intimate, responsible experience on quieter, cleaner machines. It’s not the cheapest option, but the focus on sustainability and personalized guidance adds value for many eco-conscious travelers.

Is This Tour Right For You?

If you’re someone who loves exploring outdoors in winter, appreciates eco-friendly options, and has a keen interest in Aurora hunting, this tour offers a blend of adventure and comfort. The quiet electric snowmobiles make the ride more peaceful and less intrusive in the landscape, which is especially nice if you’re sensitive to noise or fumes.

It’s also a great choice for those who want a more intimate experience, away from large groups, with the added benefit of a cozy fire and authentic Finnish grilling. However, if your main goal is guaranteed Aurora sightings or if you’re traveling with very young children, this may not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

This Rovaniemi North Lights Tour with Electric Snowmobiles really appeals to travelers looking for a sustainable, peaceful, and scenic Arctic experience. The combination of eco-friendly transportation, stunning natural surroundings, and warm Finnish hospitality makes it stand out from more conventional snowmobiling tours.

It’s ideal for those who want a responsible adventure that balances excitement with a touch of cultural charm. The small group setting and guide assistance with photography are thoughtful touches that enhance the overall experience. While viewing the Aurora isn’t guaranteed, the quiet, dark environment gives you the best possible chance to witness this celestial phenomenon.

For travelers eager to try something different while respecting the environment, and who don’t mind the weather-dependent nature of Aurora watching, this tour offers genuine value. It’s a memorable, responsible way to explore Lapland’s winter wonderland, perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a mix of adventure and peacefulness.

FAQ

Do I need a driver’s license to participate?
Yes, drivers must be 18 or older and hold a valid driver’s license to operate the snowmobiles.

Can I book the tour now and pay later?
Absolutely. You can reserve your spot now and pay nothing until closer to the date, giving you flexibility.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it easier to plan without risking your money.

How long is the entire tour?
The activity lasts about 3 hours, including riding and the stop at the hunting cabin.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Children under 4 years old are not allowed. Kids aged 4-14 will be seated in a sledge behind the snowmobile.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly—layers, thermal gear, waterproof clothing—and prepare for outdoor cold.

What if I want to drive alone?
A single driving supplement of 70 per person is available if you prefer to operate the snowmobile solo.

Is this activity family-friendly?
It’s mainly suited for adults and older children comfortable with outdoor winter activities.

Will I see the Northern Lights?
While the tour maximizes your chances by taking you away from city lights, Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity.

Are hot drinks included?
Yes, hot drinks are served at the hunting cabin along with a Finnish-style grill.

If you’re after an adventure that combines responsible travel, stunning scenery, and the chance to witness the Northern Lights in peace, this tour deserves a spot on your Arctic bucket list.

You can check availability for your dates here: