Aurora Ice Floating in Rovaniemi

If you’re dreaming of witnessing the Northern Lights in a setting as extraordinary as the phenomenon itself, the Aurora Ice Floating tour in Rovaniemi could be just what you’re looking for. While I haven’t tried it myself, plenty of travelers have, and the reviews paint a pretty compelling picture. This tour offers more than just a chance to see the Aurora—it’s about the serenity of floating among icy landscapes in the Finnish wilderness, all under a sky alive with swirling lights.

What I really appreciate about this experience is how it combines a peaceful, almost meditative activity—floating in near-freezing water—with the thrill of witnessing one of nature’s most breathtaking spectacles. Plus, the fact that guided tours include all necessary winter gear and hot drinks makes it accessible and comfortable for most participants. That said, a possible drawback worth considering is the reliance on weather conditions; overcast skies can block the Aurora’s display, and the location, while beautiful, is quite remote. Still, if you’re someone who loves quiet, off-the-beaten-path adventures and is patient with the unpredictability of nature, this could be a highlight of your trip.

This tour is best suited to those wanting a distinctive Arctic experience, whether you’re a seasoned winter traveler or someone chasing a once-in-a-lifetime sighting of the Northern Lights. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy calm, reflective moments with a touch of adventure—floating on icy waters while gazing up at the night sky.

Key Points

• Exceptional scenery and tranquility in the Finnish wilderness.
• Guided experience includes all gear and warm drinks, ensuring comfort despite the cold.
• Remote location offers minimal light pollution, maximizing Aurora viewing chances.
• Group size typically limited to 50 travelers, maintaining a personal feel.
• Weather-dependent; cloudy nights may diminish the Aurora experience.
• Excellent reviews highlight helpful guides and good value for the price.

What to Expect from the Aurora Ice Floating Tour

We find that understanding the flow of the experience helps set expectations. This tour is designed to be both peaceful and awe-inspiring, taking you away from the city lights into the Finnish wilderness. Once you book, you’ll either be picked up from your Rovaniemi hotel or meet at the centrally-located Safartica office, making it convenient whether you’re staying downtown or nearby.

From there, you’ll hop into a vehicle that takes you out into the quiet, snowy landscape where the real magic begins. The journey itself adds to the anticipation, with some travelers mentioning the helpful guides who are eager to share their knowledge and make everyone feel at ease. The drive typically lasts about two hours, depending on conditions and the location of the lake.

The Ice-Floating Experience

Arriving at the lake, you’ll be outfitted with a dry suit—a key part of the experience. Guides are praised for their helpfulness and care, ensuring you’re comfortable and prepared before you hit the water. These suits are designed to keep you warm and buoyant, so floating in near-freezing water is surprisingly manageable.

Once suited up, you’ll lie back and float among icebergs, gazing up at the Northern Lights if the skies cooperate. Being far from any artificial light gives you an unobstructed view of the sky, which is why this tour is highly recommended for Aurora chasers. The sensation of floating peacefully on the icy water, hearing only the sounds of the natural landscape and the crackle of ice around you, creates an almost meditative atmosphere.

The Post-Float Warm-Up

After your float, the guides will help you climb out of the lake and warm up with hot drinks—often a simple but appreciated touch that brings comfort after exposure to the cold. Many reviews highlight how much people enjoy this moment of relaxation, especially if they managed to catch a glimpse of the Aurora. Some travelers mention ending their experience roasting marshmallows or chatting around a fire, which adds to the cozy, memorable vibe.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Safartica Office or Hotel Pickup
The tour starts with a pickup at your Rovaniemi accommodation or at the Safartica office. This part is straightforward—just make sure you’re ready on time to avoid missing out.

Journey into the Finnish Wilderness
The drive takes you away from the city, into an area chosen for its clear, dark skies and minimal light pollution. Around two hours are spent getting there, giving ample time for anticipation and some scenic views.

Arrival at the Frozen Lake
Once you arrive, guides will help you don the dry suits. This is where the magic begins—lying back in the water among the ice, with the night sky overhead. The experience typically lasts about 2 hours, which is enough time for a peaceful float and some chances to enjoy the Aurora if visible.

Warm-up & Return
After floating, you’ll go back to the vehicle, warm up with hot drinks, and head back to Rovaniemi, usually taking another couple of hours in total. The whole experience is roughly three hours, making it a manageable but memorable outing.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides who make all the difference. One reviewer mentioned, “The guides were extremely helpful and friendly, and we got to see the northern lights clearly in the sky,” illustrating how much this personal touch enhances the experience.

Even in cases where the Aurora doesn’t make an appearance—perhaps due to overcast weather—people still appreciate the tranquility and uniqueness of lying in a frozen lake. One reviewer noted, “It was a unique experience; my mom and I loved it. It’s so peaceful to just lay in a frozen lake, see almost nothing besides the Northern Lights, and hear nothing.” That peaceful silence is a big part of why many find this tour so special.

Of course, some travelers did mention minor setbacks, like suits not being completely water-resistant or weather conditions affecting the viewing. One review pointed out that the suits could be better, but overall, the guides’ helpfulness and the experience’s tranquility outweigh these small issues.

Is It Worth the Price?

At around $160 per person, this tour offers a mix of adventure and serenity that’s hard to beat. The inclusion of all gear and hot drinks, along with the personalized guidance, adds value. Plus, the remoteness and low light pollution significantly increase your chances of seeing the Aurora.

Compared to other Arctic activities, floating on a frozen lake elevates the experience by combining a physical activity with an awe-inspiring natural show, making it more memorable than simply watching from a bus or a cabin window.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is particularly attractive for those seeking a peaceful, contemplative way to see the Northern Lights. If you’re comfortable with cold water and enjoy quiet outdoor activities, you’ll likely love it. It’s also a good pick if you’re after something different from the usual Aurora chase tours—this is about relaxation, the natural environment, and a touch of adventure.

Keep in mind that weather plays a key role; if you’re visiting during overcast nights, the Aurora might hide behind clouds. But even then, many find the float itself worth it, thanks to the unique setting and the opportunity to disconnect from busy city life.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour? Yes, pickup and drop-off at selected Rovaniemi hotels are included, making logistics simple.

What should I wear? The tour provides winter clothing and dry suits, so you don’t need to worry about packing extra for cold exposure.

How long does the experience last? The whole tour is approximately three hours, with about two hours dedicated to the ice-floating.

Can children participate? Children must be at least 120 cm tall and be accompanied by an adult, making it suitable for older kids comfortable with cold water.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights? Overcast weather can block the view, but many still enjoy the peaceful float and the beautiful surroundings. Some reviews mention not seeing the Aurora but still valuing the experience.

Is this activity suitable for people with mobility issues? Since it involves lying in a floating position and climbing out of the water, it may not be ideal for everyone with mobility challenges.

What if I want to cancel? You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Aurora Ice Floating tour in Rovaniemi offers a genuinely distinctive Arctic experience. It’s perfect for those craving a quiet, intimate encounter with nature’s winter wonderland while enjoying the thrill of a Northern Lights sighting. The warm gear, guided expertise, and serene environment make it a solid choice for travelers who want something memorable beyond the usual sightseeing.

While it’s weather-dependent and involves cold water, the overall experience—peaceful, breathtaking, and well-organized—tends to leave a lasting impression. If you’re looking for a calm but awe-inspiring adventure that combines nature, tranquility, and a touch of magic, this tour deserves a spot on your Rovaniemi itinerary.

Remember: Always check the weather forecast close to your trip, and be prepared for the unpredictability of the Northern Lights. But no matter the sky’s mood, floating quietly in a frozen lake surrounded by winter’s stillness is a rare gift in its own right.