If you’re after something completely different on your trip to Lapland, this Northern Lights Ice-Floating Experience could be just the ticket. It promises the rare chance to drift peacefully in a frozen lake, wrapped in a dry suit, while keeping an eye out for the dancing auroras overhead. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but from what’s shared, it seems to combine adventure, tranquility, and a good dose of Arctic magic.
Two things stand out immediately: the safety and comfort of the dry suit and the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights in a genuinely unique setting. That said, it’s not a tour for everyone—if you’re not comfortable in open water or aren’t at least 120 cm tall, this might not be suitable. This experience looks especially appealing if you’re looking for a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime kind of moment—perfect for those who love a mix of nature, serenity, and a touch of adrenaline.
Key Points
- Unique Arctic experience: Floating on a frozen lake at night is both peaceful and exhilarating.
- Warm dry suits: High-quality suits keep you warm and dry, making the water temperature less of a concern.
- Northern Lights chance: Clear skies could reward you with a spectacular aurora display.
- Guided safety instructions: Expert guides ensure your safety and comfort, explaining everything beforehand.
- Relaxation after floating: Warm up by a campfire with hot drinks—a simple but appreciated touch.
- Not suitable for small children: Minimum height of 120 cm, and no swimming skills needed due to the suit.
What’s the Tour All About?
This experience lasts about 2.5 hours and is organized by Safartica, a reputable provider in Lapland. It’s designed to give you a taste of the Arctic wilderness in a way that’s both calming and adventurous. The main event is floating in a small lake in the middle of the Arctic landscape, which has been frozen over for the season.
You start by meeting your guides—usually in a central location near Ylläs—and then head out to the lake. Once there, you’ll get into a high-quality rescue suit in a cozy cabin. These suits are designed to cover your entire body, keeping you warm and dry even when immersed in the cold water. They also make sure you stay afloat at all times, so swimming skills aren’t necessary. Underneath, you’ll wear your own clothes, so dressing warmly is crucial.
The moment you slip into the water, you’ll be floating between ice blocks, enjoying the stillness of the frozen lake. All the while, the night sky above might light up with the Northern Lights, creating an unforgettable sight. The guides will stay close, ensuring everyone’s safety and providing instructions on how to float comfortably.
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The Experience of Floating in a Frozen Lake
Floating in icy water might sound intimidating, but with the proper gear and guidance, it’s surprisingly manageable. The suits are designed to keep you warm, and since you’re not required to swim, it’s more about relaxing and enjoying the atmosphere.
Many reviews highlight the peaceful nature of this activity. One traveler from Germany mentioned how the experience was “absolutely fantastic,” emphasizing the motivated guides who made everyone feel comfortable. Another praised the experience as “super fun” and appreciated the “individual attention” from the team, which made the whole evening feel special.
Picturing yourself lying back, floating peacefully, looking up at the open sky and possibly catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights, is pretty magical. It’s a bit of a surreal moment—floating in a tiny patch of water, surrounded by icy landscape, under a sky full of stars.
The Campfire and Warming Up
After your float, the tour continues with some well-earned relaxation. You’ll gather around a campfire, a classic Arctic touch that adds warmth and a cozy feeling. Hot drinks are provided, which are perfect for warming up after the chilly dip. Reviewers consistently mention how nice it is to sit around the fire with a hot drink, sharing stories and soaking in the Arctic calm.
This part of the experience really helps balance out the initial adrenaline rush with some peaceful downtime. It’s a straightforward, no-frills way to unwind and reflect on what you just did.
Transportation and Timing
Transportation is included, making it easy to get to the lake without fuss. The meeting times are set to ensure everyone is ready before the tour begins, and it’s important to be punctual. Keep in mind, the safari starts once everyone is geared up and ready to go—so arriving late means missing out, which isn’t refundable.
The tour’s flexible booking options allow you to reserve without immediate payment, which is nice if your plans are still shaping up. Cancellations are also straightforward, with free cancellations possible up to 24 hours in advance.
More Great Tours NearbySuitability and Considerations
A key point for potential participants: this experience isn’t suitable for small children. The minimum height to float is 120 cm, and the activity requires a basic level of comfort with open water. While no swimming skills are needed, the floating suits do ensure you stay afloat—so it’s more about comfort and confidence than skill.
If you’re someone who’s easily cold, this might not be the best fit unless you’re prepared for the chill, although the suits and the campfire help mitigate that. Also, since the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, there’s no guarantee you’ll see them—clear skies increase your odds, but it’s a matter of luck.
The Value of the Experience
At approximately 2.5 hours, this tour offers a manageable time investment with a memorable payoff. The price includes transportation, gear, guides, and the warm-up by the fire. Many reviewers have expressed satisfaction, emphasizing the professional guides and the overall peaceful, awe-inspiring setting.
For those who love nature, serenity, and a touch of Arctic adventure, the experience seems well worth it. The chance to float in icy waters while waiting for the Northern Lights is a rare combination that adds a layer of magic to a winter trip.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This activity is ideal for adventurous travelers who want an authentic Arctic experience, but it’s not necessarily for thrill-seekers. It’s more about the peacefulness of floating and the possibility of auroras than adrenaline rushes. If you’re comfortable with cold, open-air activities and love watching the night sky, you’ll likely find this both calming and exhilarating.
It’s also suited to those who appreciate guided experiences, as the safety and comfort instructions are thorough, and the guides are highly praised for their professionalism and friendliness.
Final Thoughts
The Northern Lights Ice-Floating Experience offers a chance to do something quite different in Lapland. The combination of floating in a frozen lake, bundled up in a top-notch dry suit, and waiting hopefully under the Arctic sky for the Northern Lights, makes for a genuinely memorable outing.
Yes, the activity isn’t suitable for small children, and there’s always a chance the sky will stay cloudy, but the guides seem dedicated to making sure everyone has a good time regardless. The warm campfire at the end caps off a peaceful, beautifully simple experience that’s perfect for travelers looking to add a touch of the extraordinary to their Arctic adventure.
Ylläs: Northern Lights Ice-Floating Experience with Transfer
FAQ
Is this experience suitable for children?
Not for small children, as the minimum height to float is 120 cm. You need to be comfortable in open water and with cold temperatures, though swimming skills aren’t necessary.
Do I need to know how to swim?
No, since the suits are designed to keep you afloat, no swimming skills are required. The guides will give instructions beforehand to ensure everyone feels safe.
What should I wear underneath the dry suit?
Bring warm clothing, as you’ll be dressed underneath the suit. The suit itself keeps you warm and dry, so focus on layering appropriately.
Will I definitely see the Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and while the experience is planned in hopes of seeing them, it cannot be guaranteed. Clear skies increase your chances.
How long is the tour?
The activity lasts about 2.5 hours, including transportation, instruction, floating, and relaxing afterwards by the campfire.
Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup is included in the package, making it easy to reach the lake without extra fuss.
Is this experience worth the price?
Many find it to be a fair value considering the gear, guides, and unique setting. The profound memories of floating under the Arctic sky can justify the cost for many travelers.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility in case your plans change.
If you’re after a distinctive Arctic adventure that combines tranquility, spectacular views, and a touch of daring, this ice-floating tour in Ylläs might just be your next highlight. Just remember to dress warmly, stay positive, and enjoy the quiet wonder of northern Finland.
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