Northern Lights Tour with BBQ and drinks

Exploring the Northern Lights Tour with BBQ and Drinks: A Practical Look

If you’re planning a trip to Rovaniemi and hoping to catch the elusive Northern Lights, this Northern Lights Tour with BBQ and Drinks could be just what you’re after. While no one can guarantee a sighting—nature’s a bit unpredictable—what this tour offers is a well-organized, enjoyable experience that maximizes your chances. It’s especially appealing if you like the idea of a small-group outing, cultural storytelling, and warming up by an open fire in the Arctic night.

Two things we really like about this tour are its convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, which means you won’t have to worry about finding a meeting point in the dark, and the knowledgeable guides who bring the experience to life with stories and tips. Plus, the included hot drinks and sausages around the campfire add a cozy, authentic touch. On the flip side, a key consideration is that this is a natural phenomenon—and weather conditions play a big role. If clouds or snow block the sky, sightings might not happen.

This tour suits those who appreciate a relaxed, guided adventure rather than a high-octane chase for the lights. If you’re okay with a 3-hour outing, want some cultural insights, and love the idea of warming up with traditional food, you’ll likely find it a worthwhile addition to your Arctic itinerary.

Key Points

• Maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora with expert guides and flexible locations.
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple and stress-free.
• Includes warm food and drinks around an open fire, creating a true Arctic experience.
• Small-group setting ensures a more intimate, personalized atmosphere.
• Weather-dependent activity—sightings depend heavily on clear skies.
• Great for those who enjoy storytelling, culture, and outdoor adventures.

What to Expect from the Northern Lights Tour with BBQ and Drinks

This 3-hour experience is designed to give you a taste of Arctic wilderness, culture, and the thrill of chasing the Aurora Borealis. From the moment you’re picked up from your hotel in Rovaniemi, you’re in good hands with a professional guide who knows the area well. The journey takes you away from the city lights into a more secluded, dark spot ideal for Aurora viewing.

Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins at 7:30 pm, with hotel pickup included. This is a big plus—not having to figure out where to meet on your own makes the evening smoother. The transportation is by minivan, suitable for small to medium-sized groups, with a maximum of 45 travelers. The ride itself is part of the adventure, as you travel through the pristine, frozen wilderness, enjoying the anticipation and possibly some local stories along the way.

The Secluded Campfire Experience

Once at the location, you’ll settle around an open fire, where the guide shares Lappish tales—a chance to learn about local myths and traditions. This cozy setting is a highlight, especially if you’re into cultural insights or simply want to enjoy a warm drink while waiting for the sky to light up.

The included sausages cooked over the open fire are a simple but delicious touch, giving you a taste of local cuisine. Alongside hot drinks—think tea or perhaps coffee—you can relax, chat, and take in the vast, quiet beauty of the Arctic night.

The Search for the Northern Lights

While the lights aren’t guaranteed (and this is true for any Aurora tour, as they are a natural phenomenon), the guide’s experience and the chosen location increase your chances. The Aurora can appear in many colors and intensities, and even if it doesn’t light up the sky, you’ll get to enjoy the night’s ambiance and the adventure of being out in nature after dark.

What Past Travelers Say

We’ve seen reviews praising the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Brandon, who made the experience engaging and fun, regardless of whether the Aurora appeared. One traveler noted, “Such a good time! We were lucky enough to see the lights towards the end, but the guide’s personality made it worth it.” Conversely, a less positive review pointed out disappointment due to weather, which is out of the guide’s control. It’s good to remember that Northern Lights tours are weather-dependent, so patience and flexibility are key.

Practical Details

Pricing at around $133.52 per person is reasonable considering what’s included: transportation, guidance, food, drinks, and the chance to experience the Arctic night in comfort. It’s worth noting that booking about a month in advance, on average, can help secure your spot, especially during peak Aurora season from September to April.

The Itinerary in Detail

• Start (7:30 pm): After pickup, you’ll head out into the wilderness, away from city lights, to the chosen viewing spot.
• Arrival and Campfire: Once settled, the guide will set up or direct you to the open fire, where you’ll sit with hot drinks and sausages.
• Storytelling and Culture: As you relax, expect to hear tales about Nordic myths and local traditions, enriching your experience.
• Aurora Watching: The guide will help you with tips on spotting and photographing the lights if they appear.
• Return: After roughly three hours, you’ll be driven back to your hotel, hopefully with some memorable moments and maybe a few photos of the night sky.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, culturally rich experience rather than a high-energy chase. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable being outdoors in winter for a few hours and enjoy storytelling or local food. Families with older children (above 10, as recommended) who are interested in Arctic lore and nature will find it a memorable outing. If your main goal is a guaranteed Aurora sighting, keep in mind that weather conditions are out of the guide’s control. However, if you’re open to the possibility and want a comfortable, atmospheric experience, this tour fits the bill.

Final Thoughts

The Northern Lights Tour with BBQ and Drinks from Rovaniemi offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and cultural insight. The combination of hotel pickup, expert guidance, traditional food, and the chance to see the Aurora makes it a strong choice for anyone seeking an authentic Arctic outing. While weather can be a gamble, the experience itself—sitting around a campfire, enjoying local stories, and being out in the snowy night—is something most travelers find worthwhile.

If you’re looking for a tour that doesn’t just chase the lights but also immerses you in the local atmosphere, this is worth considering. It’s especially good if you value small-group intimacy and the comfort of having everything taken care of, so you can focus on soaking in the magic of Lapland.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your Rovaniemi hotel, making logistics easy.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at 7:30 pm.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers transportation, a professional guide, hot drinks, grilled sausages, and the chance to see the Northern Lights if the weather is clear.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. If the weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for children?
The minimum recommended age is 10 years old, so it’s best suited for older kids and adults.

What happens if we don’t see the Aurora?
Since the lights are a natural phenomenon, sightings aren’t guaranteed—yet the experience includes storytelling and warming by a fire, which many travelers enjoy regardless.

Do I need special clothing?
Yes, dress warmly and appropriately for Arctic outdoor conditions, as the tour operates in all weather.

Can I take photos of the Northern Lights?
Guides often assist with tips and can help you with your camera setup, but bringing a tripod is recommended for capturing the sky.

In the end, this tour offers a good chance to enjoy the magic of Lapland’s night skies with the comforts of local food and expert guidance. It’s a thoughtful choice for those who want a balanced, atmospheric adventure in the Arctic wilderness.