Chasing Aurora with Photographer – Small Group

If you’ve ever dreamed about catching the elusive Northern Lights in Lapland, this tour might grab your interest. While it’s not a guarantee—since no one can promise a sighting of a natural phenomenon this unpredictable—it does aim to give you the best chance possible. With its focus on expert guiding, multiple chasing locations, and photography support, it’s designed to appeal to travelers who want a thoughtful, well-organized experience.

What we like? First, the small group size really makes a difference—limiting it to just 8 participants means more personalized attention and less time waiting around. Second, the professional Aurora hunters aren’t just guides; they’re trained photographers who help you capture the moment, which is a real plus if you’re hoping for great photos.

A possible drawback? The tour duration is only four hours, which might seem short if you’re really eager to maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora. Also, some reviews mention that the timing of pick-ups could be clearer and that warming up with hot drinks might be better if available sooner.

This experience suits those who appreciate a small-group, guided approach with a focus on photography and local hospitality. If your main goal is to increase your odds of seeing the lights while learning how to photograph them, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Limited Group Size: Small groups (max 8) mean more personal guidance and less crowding.
• Expert Guides: Guides are professional Aurora hunters and trained photographers, helping you shoot great photos.
• Multiple Locations: The tour visits 2-3 different spots, increasing your chances of sighting the Aurora.
• Weather Forecasting: Guides forecast weather to pick the best viewing spots, which is key in such unpredictable conditions.
• Included Comforts: Thermal overalls, hot drinks, and Lappish sausages help keep you warm and comfortable.
• Price Point: At $211 per person, it’s a mid-range experience that offers photography support and multiple stops, which adds value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Experience in Depth

If you’re considering this tour, it’s good to understand what it really involves. For starters, it’s a 4-hour adventure that includes pickup and drop-off from your accommodation (within an 8km radius of Rovaniemi). This kind of logistical detail helps eliminate the hassle of finding transportation in the cold, and it means you get to start the experience without stress.

The core of the tour is chasing the Northern Lights across different locations. The guides use weather forecasting tools and local knowledge to choose spots with the highest likelihood of seeing the Aurora. They’re experienced at reading the sky and conditions, which is critical because, as one reviewer noted, “The guide was good—Luigi, but we did not spot the aurora.” That said, the effort is made to maximize your chances, and visiting multiple sites generally gives you more opportunities.

You’ll also have the chance to bring your own camera gear, with guides offering hands-on assistance to help you adjust settings for optimal photos. Whether you’re a beginner or someone with a DSLR, these tips can turn a chance snapshot into a memorable shot. If you don’t have your own camera, don’t worry—guides will take pictures for you with their own equipment and share the images afterward.

The guides are not only knowledgeable about the Aurora but also seasoned photographers, which means you’re getting guidance based on real experience. That’s a big help because capturing the Northern Lights can be tricky without the right settings and timing.

During the tour, you’ll also enjoy Lappish sausages and hot drinks by an open fire, which adds a cozy, authentic touch to the cold night. Providing thermal overalls at no extra cost is a thoughtful detail, ensuring you stay warm enough to enjoy the experience without shivering.

What the Tour Looks Like: Step-by-Step

Pickup & Early Start: The journey begins with pickup from your accommodation. The timing varies slightly depending on your location, and you’ll receive exact details after your booking. It’s best to be ready a little earlier than the scheduled start so you don’t miss out.

First Location: Once on the road, the guide forecasts the weather and sky conditions and heads to the most promising spot. This might be a quiet, dark area with clear views of the sky.

Second & Third Stops: If the Aurora isn’t visible at the first location, the guide will move to additional sites. This flexibility is helpful, but it also means your chances improve with multiple stops.

Photography & Guidance: Throughout the night, guides help you take photos, and if you have your own camera, they’ll give tips to enhance your shots. If not, they photograph you and share the images later.

Snacks & Warmth: Around a fire, you’ll enjoy hot drinks and sausages—perfect for warming up during extended waits. Thermal overalls are provided, but warm shoes, hats, and clothing are essential on your part.

End of Tour: After roughly four hours, you’ll be dropped back at your accommodation, hopefully with a few photos, some cozy memories, and maybe a story or two about the night’s adventure.

How the Experience Measures Up: The Good and the Not-So-Good

Positives:
The small group size makes everything feel more personal, which is a real plus in cold conditions. The guides’ expertise in both Aurora forecasting and photography means you’re likely to come away with some decent shots, even if the lights play hard to get. The multiple chasing locations increase your odds—an important aspect since the Northern Lights are unpredictable.

Less ideal aspects:
The short duration might leave some wishing for more time, especially if the Aurora appears late or isn’t visible early on. Some reviews mention that the pick-up timing can be a bit unclear and that hot drinks are served at the end, which might not be as warming as some would like during the wait. Still, these are minor considerations considering the overall experience.

Value for money:
At $211 per person, it’s not the cheapest tour, but given the personalized service, expert guidance, and multiple stops, it offers a fair deal—especially if you’re keen on photography. It’s more about the quality of the experience than simply ticking a box or waiting in a bus with a large group.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This is a good pick for travelers who want a tailored, intimate experience with knowledgeable guides. If you’re eager to learn how to photograph the Northern Lights, the guide’s photography tips could be invaluable. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate cozy local touches like sausages and hot drinks around a fire.

However, if you’re traveling on a tight timeline or are extremely persistent about seeing the Aurora on your first night, remember it’s weather-dependent and unpredictable. This tour maximizes your chances but doesn’t guarantee a sighting, so adjust expectations accordingly.

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FAQs

Can I bring my own camera?
Yes. You’re welcome to bring your own camera gear, and guides will assist you with settings to capture the lights. If you don’t have a camera, guides will take your photos with their equipment and share them afterward.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It’s wheelchair accessible, which makes it easier for travelers with mobility concerns to participate.

What should I wear?
Warm shoes, a hat, and thermal clothing are essential to keep comfortable during the outdoor waits. The tour provides thermal overalls and winter boots, but layering is still recommended.

How long is the tour?
Approximately four hours, including pickup, travel, and time at the viewing spots. Be prepared for some waiting outside in the cold.

What if I don’t see the Aurora?
Since the Northern Lights are natural and unpredictable, sightings can’t be guaranteed. However, guides use forecasting tools and local knowledge to improve your chances.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans are uncertain.

Is food included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy Lappish sausages and hot drinks around an open fire, adding a warm and authentic touch to the experience.

Wrapping Up

For those dreaming of the Northern Lights and looking for a personal, photography-focused adventure, this tour offers a compelling package. The small group size and professional guides make it stand out, providing not just a chance to see the Aurora but also to learn how to capture its fleeting beauty. The multiple stops and weather forecasting increase your odds—though, of course, nature’s unpredictability always remains.

While the four-hour duration might feel brief for some, it’s a well-paced experience that balances excitement with comfort. If you’re okay with the possibility of not seeing the lights but want a memorable, guided Arctic outing, this is worth considering. It’s particularly suited to travelers who appreciate expert advice, cozy hospitality, and the intimate atmosphere that comes with small-group tours.

Overall, it’s a neat way to spend an evening in Lapland, chasing the lights with knowledgeable guides, warm snacks, and a good chance to make some great photos—or at least warm memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: