Aurora Borealis Picnic in Rovaniemi

If you’re dreaming of catching the Northern Lights while sitting around a campfire in the snowy wilderness of Lapland, this Aurora Borealis Picnic tour might be just what you’re after. We’ve looked into it thoroughly, and what stands out is its combination of expert guiding, cozy warmth, and the chance to witness one of nature’s most mesmerizing displays.

What we really like about this experience is how accessible it makes viewing the Aurora, especially with warm clothing and hot drinks supplied, and how it offers a genuine feel of the Arctic wild. On the flip side, a potential hiccup is the unpredictable weather—cloud cover can obscure the lights, which might leave you disappointed if luck isn’t on your side.

This tour is well-suited for those who want a relaxed, approachable way to see the Northern Lights without venturing into extreme conditions or long, strenuous outings. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a balance of adventure and comfort, especially if you enjoy cozy, group experiences under the stars.

Key Points

• A Relaxed Northern Lights Experience: It’s all about enjoying the Arctic night comfortably with a small group and hot drinks.
• Expert Guides Make a Difference: Guides seem knowledgeable about the best Aurora spots and are praised for their friendliness and professionalism.
• Warm Clothing Provided: No need to pack bulky winter gear; just show up ready to enjoy the cold without the chill.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: You can reschedule or cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, which offers peace of mind.
• Ideal for All but Weather-Dependent: The Northern Lights are elusive, and cloudy weather can interfere, but the experience remains worthwhile even if the Aurora doesn’t appear.
• Value for Money: At around $109.56 per person, this tour offers a good balance of comfort and adventure—many reviews highlight its worth.

An In-Depth Look at the Aurora Borealis Picnic Experience

When considering this tour, it’s helpful to understand what actually happens on the night and what you’ll get out of it.

Meeting Up & Getting Ready

The adventure kicks off at Safartica’s main office in downtown Rovaniemi, or sometimes from selected hotels. The process is straightforward—you’re greeted and then outfitted with additional warm clothing. This is a big plus, especially if you’re coming from milder climates or want to avoid lugging heavy winter gear. The provided thermal clothes and blankets make all the difference in staying warm during the long night outdoors.

The Journey Into the Wilderness

Once dressed, you hop into a comfortable vehicle, driven out into the frozen tundra. The guides know the best spots for Aurora viewing, which is crucial because the Northern Lights are highly dependent on weather conditions and light pollution. Finland’s unique location within the Arctic Circle, with its open skies and minimal light pollution, makes Rovaniemi an excellent place for Aurora watching.

The Spot for the Show

Arriving at the selected spot, you’ll settle in for a traditional Lappish picnic, which is a delightful way to experience local culture. The food isn’t just a snack—hot beverages, sausages, marshmallows, pastries, hot juice, and hot chocolate keep you warm while you wait. As one reviewer said, guides go above and beyond, offering sausages and even starting fires in the snow.

During the wait, your guides will share insights about the Aurora Borealis—the science behind the lights and what to look for. Many reviews mention how knowledgeable and friendly guides like Edvard, Yasmin, Noah, and Vera make the experience special. They’re not just there to take you to a good spot; they’re also eager to share their expertise and passion.

The Aurora Hunt: Luck & Conditions

The main highlight, of course, is catching the Northern Lights. Some guests are fortunate enough to see the Aurora in all its glory—vivid green ribbons dancing across the sky. Others, like one reviewer, didn’t see much due to clouds but still found the trip worthwhile because of the stunning environment and company.

A couple of reviews mention seeing more than 30 shooting stars and enjoying the clear, starry sky—an added bonus that makes the night memorable regardless of the Aurora. If the lights don’t show, many still praise the experience as “a great night” with friendly guides, cozy atmosphere, and plenty of storytelling.

Returning & Overall Experience

After a few hours, the group heads back to Rovaniemi. Many reviewers mention how relaxed and friendly the atmosphere is, with guides making everyone feel comfortable no matter their experience level.

Cost & Value

At just over $100, this tour is often described as good value, especially given the included warm clothing, hot drinks, and expert guidance. While chasing the Aurora can sometimes feel like waiting for a lottery win, most guests feel that the experience itself—being out in the wilderness, sharing stories, and enjoying the night—is worth the price.

What the Reviews Say

• “Extraordinary amazing” – many rave about the wilderness exploration and Aurora sightings.
• “Great guides” – praise for guides like N, V, Vera, and Yasmin for their friendliness and knowledge.
• “Good food and company” – hot snacks and the social aspect are often highlighted.
• “Weather can be unpredictable” – some say clouds or poor weather prevent Aurora sightings, but they still appreciate the setting.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you’re after a relaxed, comfortable way to see the Northern Lights without sacrificing the Arctic authenticity. It suits travelers who appreciate guided experiences, cozy atmospheres, and cultural touches like the Lappish picnic. If you’re okay with the possibility of a cloudy night, or just want to enjoy a peaceful evening under the stars, this will likely fit your needs.

It’s also a solid choice for those who value expert guides and warm clothing that eliminates some of the guesswork around Arctic outdoor gear. It may not be the best fit if you’re chasing a guaranteed Aurora sighting—cloud cover can still interfere—but many find the journey itself rewarding.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup from centrally located Rovaniemi or selected hotels is included, making it convenient to join the adventure.

How long does the tour last?
The experience takes about 3 hours, giving enough time to travel, enjoy the picnic, and hopefully see the Aurora.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing is provided, so you just need to dress in layers underneath. Think thermal underwear, hats, gloves, and sturdy boots—you’ll want to be comfortable and protected from the cold.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. If the weather looks poor or you’re unable to go, rescheduling is straightforward and free.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
Cloud cover or poor weather can interfere, but many reviews mention enjoying the night regardless—stargazing, socializing, and soaking up the Arctic ambiance.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed nature and group setting suggest it can be suitable for older children, especially if they’re comfortable in cold weather. Child discounts are available when sharing with two paying adults.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price includes transportation, warm clothing, a traditional Lappish picnic, hot beverages, and guidance. It’s a good package that minimizes extra costs.

Wrapping It Up

If you’re heading to Rovaniemi in winter and craving an authentic Northern Lights adventure that balances comfort with wilderness charm, this Aurora Borealis Picnic is worth considering. The combination of knowledgeable guides, cozy outdoor setting, and the chance to glimpse the Aurora makes it stand out as a memorable Arctic experience.

While the unpredictable weather means there’s no 100% guarantee of seeing the lights, most guests find the journey enriching—whether or not the Aurora makes an appearance. It’s a laid-back, friendly outing that offers the magic of Lapland in a way that’s accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of travelers.

This tour is especially suited for those who want a guided, well-organized experience with plenty of opportunities for storytelling, local culture, and hot comfort in the cold. If you’re happy to go with the flow and appreciate the quiet beauty of winter nights in the Arctic, this could be a highlight of your trip to Lapland.