From Rovaniemi: Aurora Borealis Hunting with Photos & Videos

If you’re dreaming of catching the Northern Lights in Finland, you’re probably considering a tour like this one from Nordies Tour. We’ve looked into it, and while we haven’t been on this exact adventure ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a pretty compelling picture. It’s aimed at travelers who want more than just a glimpse; they want the full experience—expert guidance, high-quality photos and videos, and the chance to chase the lights across both Finnish and Swedish Lapland.

What really caught our eye are two things. First, the nearly 100% success rate over four years is impressive—this isn’t a gamble. Second, the professional photography aspect means you’ll not only see the Aurora but also walk away with stunning images and videos. But, of course, no experience is perfect. The key consideration? The tour requires clear weather, and you might be out late, sometimes up to 9 hours. Still, if you’re someone eager for a well-organized, personalized northern lights hunt, this tour could be just what you’re after.

This experience is best suited for those who value expert knowledge, want high-quality photos, and don’t mind late nights chasing the Aurora. It’s a good pick for travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy and thorough planning, especially if you’re serious about capturing the Northern Lights on camera.

Key Points

• High success rate of Aurora sightings over four years makes this a reliable choice.
• Small groups (max 8 guests) ensure personalized attention and less crowding.
• Unlimited photos and videos mean you’ll leave with plenty of professional-quality memories.
• Expert guidance includes explanations on Aurora formation and how to read solar wind data.
• Flexible itinerary that adapts to weather conditions, with stops ranging from 30 minutes to 4 hours.
• Duration varies from 5 to 9 hours, depending on conditions and how far they need to go.

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting with a pickup from your accommodation, the tour kicks off with a friendly and informative briefing. The guide will explain how Aurora Borealis forms and how they use solar wind data to find the best viewing spots. This isn’t just a random hunt; it’s backed by a vastly collected database and thorough regional understanding, which heightens your chances of seeing the lights.

Once on the road, the guide takes you to the top spots in fascinating Finnish and Swedish Lapland. The duration at each stop varies, depending on the conditions that night. Sometimes, you might be waiting in the vehicle for a quick check, other times, you’ll be out in the cold, waiting for the Aurora to appear. When the skies are clear, you’ll get ready for the photography session. The guide sets up top-notch camera gear, specialized in astro and nighttime photography, to capture the lights in breathtaking quality.

The tour generally lasts about six hours, but can stretch to nine if the Aurora is elusive or the conditions are complex. The starting time depends on the weather, typically between 17:00 and 22:00, so it’s flexible enough to fit different travel schedules.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Introduction

The journey begins with pick-up from your accommodation or a chosen meeting point. The guide introduces you to the science behind the Aurora, explaining how solar activity creates the lights and how they interpret data to find hotspots. This part is really helpful if you’re keen to understand the science and appreciate the effort behind the hunt.

The Driving Range

Next, a scenic drive into Lapland begins. The guide has a thorough understanding of the region and solar wind conditions, using a detailed database to pinpoint the most promising spots. You might travel for as little as 30 minutes or as long as four hours, depending on how the night unfolds.

The Viewing and Photography

When the guide spots a promising location where the Aurora might appear, they’ll stop. Once the lights are visible, they’ll set up their professional gear, and you’ll have the chance to marvel at the spectacle while they capture the moment in high-quality photos and videos.

Several reviewers have praised the guide’s professionalism and knowledge. Laura W. called her experience “Above and Beyond,” highlighting how the guide was engaging and dedicated, even staying late to maximize the chances of seeing the lights. Horace Porras appreciated the constant communication and detailed explanations of the tools used for tracking the Aurora, calling it “a fantastic 5-star experience!”

Flexibility and Comfort

The tour adapts to weather conditions. If it’s cloudy or snowing, the guide will keep hunting for clear skies or suggest alternative spots. The vehicle stops frequently for checks, which means you won’t be stuck in one place if the conditions aren’t right.

Duration and End

The tour generally ends around 6 hours after departure, but sometimes extends up to 9 hours if the forecast looks promising, or if the Aurora keeps teasing but not fully revealing itself yet. The flexibility is a big plus; you’re not locked into a strict timetable.

The Value of This Experience

At $137.57 per person, you might wonder if it’s worth it. When you consider the unlimited high-quality photos and videos, the expert guidance, and the reliable success record, it’s a solid investment for anyone serious about capturing the Northern Lights. Reviews confirm the value—many guests left with stunning images and unforgettable memories.

The small group size (max 8 travelers) enhances the experience’s intimacy and allows for personalized attention. Plus, the full refund guarantee if the Aurora doesn’t appear or the tour gets canceled offers peace of mind, especially considering Finland’s unpredictable weather.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This hunt is ideal for travelers who value expert guidance and want to maximize their chance of seeing the Aurora. It’s perfect if you’re a photography enthusiast eager for professional-quality photos and videos. It also suits those comfortable with late nights since the tour can extend into early morning hours.

While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the focus on late-night hours and outdoor weather conditions means it’s best for older teens or adults. If you’re a traveler who appreciates small groups and thorough, science-backed explanations, this tour aligns well with your interests.

FAQs

What is the success rate of seeing the Aurora Borealis on this tour?
The tour boasts a nearly 100% success rate over four years, making it one of the most reliable options in the area.

How long does the tour usually last?
The typical duration is about 6 hours, but it can extend up to 9 hours if the conditions require more chasing or if the Aurora teases longer.

Is pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your accommodation or a designated point, making logistics easy.

What kind of photos and videos will I receive?
You’ll get high-quality photos and videos of the Aurora, thanks to specialized camera gear guided by professionals. These are considered some of the best on the market.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour relies heavily on weather conditions. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, ensuring flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

If you’re serious about witnessing the Northern Lights and want a well-rounded, professional experience, this Aurora Borealis hunting tour from Nordies Tour ticks many boxes. The combination of expert guidance, unlimited high-quality photos and videos, and a high success rate makes it stand out among other options in Rovaniemi.

The tour’s flexible approach—adjusting to weather and Aurora activity—means you’re not just hoping for a clear sky but are actively managed by knowledgeable guides who understand the region and the science behind the lights. Many travelers have called it unforgettable, and with good reason.

This experience is best suited for those who want a personalized hunt, are patient with late nights, and want to walk away with stunning Aurora memories. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, it’s worth considering. Just remember to keep your expectations flexible, dress warmly, and prepare for a night that might just light up your trip to Finland.

Enjoy your Arctic adventure, and here’s to hoping you catch that perfect, shimmering display in the sky!