Levi Northern lights by snowmobile

If you’re planning a trip to Levi, Finland, chasing the Northern Lights is often high on your wish list. This Levi Northern Lights by Snowmobile tour promises a 3-hour adventure through the Arctic wilderness, combining the thrill of snowmobiling with the hope of witnessing one of nature’s most magical displays. While the reviews suggest a generally positive experience, there are some important details to consider before booking.

What we find particularly appealing about this tour is the expert guiding—you’re in capable hands with guides who are keen to spot and point out the Lights—and the authentic snowmobile ride through pristine, moonlit landscapes. Plus, the inclusion of warm winter gear and transfers helps streamline the experience. That said, the timing of the tour—starting at 8:00 pm—means you’ll be out late, which could be a consideration if you’re not a night owl or traveling with young children.

One potential hurdle is the unpredictable nature of the Northern Lights themselves. As noted by some travelers, poor weather or solar activity can mean no Aurora sightings. This is just part of the chase, but it’s worth keeping in mind so you don’t arrive expecting guaranteed visuals. This tour suits those who love adventure, are okay with late-night excursions, and appreciate guided experiences with the chance to see the Lights in a scenic setting.

Key Points

• Stunning winter landscapes and the thrill of snowmobiling in the Arctic wilderness
• Expert guides actively searching for the Northern Lights and providing a safe environment
• Includes winter clothing and transportation, making it easier for travelers to focus on the experience
• Flexible group sizes (up to 20 people), with options for single drivers
• Unpredictable Aurora sightings, dependent on weather and solar activity
• Late evening start at 8:00 pm, lasting about 3 hours, suited for night owls and adventure lovers

What to Expect from the Tour

When you sign up for the Levi Northern Lights by Snowmobile, you’re signing up for more than just a short ride—you’re entering a winter adventure that offers a true taste of Lapland’s wild beauty. The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, beginning with pickup from your central Levi accommodation or a designated meeting point. Expect to be outfitted with winter gear—overalls, boots, gloves, and a balaclava—so you stay warm despite the chilly temperatures. This is crucial, especially since some reviews mention the cold can be intense.

Once suited up, you’ll hop onto a shared snowmobile (two people per vehicle), with the option for adults to drive solo if you have a valid driver’s license. This is a big plus for those who want a bit more control or excitement during the ride. Your guide will lead the way, navigating through snowy forests, moonlit fields, and icy lakes—scenery that’s truly breathtaking.

The route usually takes you to scenic spots where you can stop and enjoy the silent beauty of Lapland under the stars. Many travelers mention stopping at cozy cabins or on frozen lakes, often with the chance for a hot drink and some snacks in a warm setting. These moments are perfect for warming up and soaking in the tranquility of the Arctic wilderness.

The core of the tour, of course, is the search for the Aurora Borealis. Guides are attentive and enthusiastic, often alerting guests when the Lights appear. One reviewer highlighted that the guide “was very keen to watch out for and point out the Lights when they appeared.” If the Aurora decides to dance across the sky, you’ll get a front-row seat—an unforgettable sight that’s worth the late hour.

The Experience of Snowmobiling in Lapland

Snowmobiling through the snow-covered forests and open fields is a highlight in itself. The gear provided—overalls, helmets, gloves—is designed to keep you comfortable in the freezing air. Many reviews mention how easy the snowmobiles are to handle, even for beginners, making this accessible for most adults. The fact that two people share a snowmobile means you can enjoy the ride with a friend or partner, sharing the experience together.

Guides often go out of their way to create a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. One review describes a “friendly guide, exciting ride,” emphasizing how safe and enjoyable the trip is. For those who appreciate a bit of adventure without overly strenuous activity, snowmobiling is a perfect fit—fast enough to get your adrenaline going, yet manageable even for first-timers.

The ride also offers a chance to truly appreciate the quiet, pristine beauty of Finland’s winter landscape. Travelers frequently mention how the moonlit scenery and starry skies create a magical setting—it’s like being in a winter wonderland with a touch of adventure.

Aurora Hunting: Chance, Not Guarantee

The main lure of this tour is the opportunity to see the Northern Lights, but it’s important to remember that sightings are weather and solar activity-dependent. As one reviewer pointed out, “the Lights activity was very low,” and others expressed disappointment when the Aurora didn’t make an appearance. Still, guides are proactive and will do their best to locate the Lights if they appear—sometimes, the anticipation is almost as exciting as the sighting itself.

The tour’s late start at 8:00 pm coincides with prime viewing hours, but also means you’ll be out until around 11:00 pm or midnight. This timing is typical for Aurora tours, but it’s good to be prepared for the late hours and cold temperatures.

Some travelers mention stopping at cozy cabins or on the frozen lake to watch the skies, which makes the experience more comfortable and memorable. If you’re lucky, you’ll witness the green streaks and dancing lights that make this phenomenon so special. If not, you’ll still have enjoyed a scenic snowmobile ride and an authentic Arctic experience.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of around $185 per person feels fair considering what’s included. You get round-trip transfers from central Levi, which saves you the hassle of figuring out transportation in the cold. The professional guide is also a key part of the experience, offering safety, local knowledge, and a friendly attitude.

The snowmobiling gear—overalls, boots, gloves, balaclava, and helmets—are all provided, so you don’t need to bring your own bulky winter clothing. This convenience is appreciated by many, especially those traveling light or from warmer climates.

Not included are personal items like drinks (aside from the provided hot drinks during stops), photography equipment, and travel insurance. As some reviews mention the importance of bringing a camera, it’s worth noting that no accessories are provided for photos, so if capturing the Lights is a priority, bring your own camera and remember it’s at your own risk.

Group size is capped at 20 travelers, which helps keep things intimate. Many reviewers mention how the guides are attentive and friendly, creating a welcoming environment for everyone.

The Group and Safety Aspects

The group size—up to 20—strikes a good balance between social and personal. Most reviews highlight how guides are friendly, helpful, and safety-conscious. You need a valid driver’s license (class B) if you want to handle the snowmobile yourself. For those less confident, riding as a passenger is easy, and guides are experienced.

In case of accidents or damages, there’s a self-liability of 950 euros per person, but you can purchase additional insurance for 15 euros to reduce this to 150 euros. While no one hopes for mishaps, this is standard for snowmobile activities in remote areas.

The tour is suitable for most adults, but children aged 1-14 are seated in a sledge behind the snowmobile. It’s advised that at least one parent accompanies smaller children in the sledge for safety. Children over 140 cm can sit in the snowmobile as a passenger if they have a full adult ticket.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

What travelers love most are the knowledgeable guides, the breathtaking scenery, and the thrill of snowmobiling. The reviews repeatedly highlight how friendly and attentive the staff are, making even the coldest nights enjoyable. Many describe the experience as “something they’ll remember for a lifetime,” especially if the Lights show up.

On the flip side, some reviews mention organizational hiccups—like delayed pickups or poor communication—highlighting the importance of clear instructions and patience. Also, the unpredictability of the Lights can be a letdown if Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate. But, as one reviewer pointed out, “the trip was nice at all,” even without a sighting.

Pricing-wise, the tour offers good value for the experience provided, especially considering the included gear, transportation, and the guided expertise. But if the Aurora is the main goal, keep in mind that it’s a natural event, so flexibility and a bit of luck are needed.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure seekers who enjoy fast-paced activities and are comfortable in winter gear. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a scenic night ride with knowledgeable guides and the hope of catching the Aurora Borealis. It’s also well-suited for those who prefer a small-group setting, ensuring more personalized attention.

Travelers with children over 140 cm can include them as passengers if they pay full price, but small children (under 14) are seated in sledges, making it more suitable for families with older kids. People who don’t mind late nights and cold weather will find this a rewarding experience. However, if you’re hoping for a guaranteed Aurora or aren’t comfortable driving a snowmobile, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

The Levi Northern Lights by Snowmobile tour offers a blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and the chance to witness the Aurora in a safe, guided environment. The experience is well-organized, with helpful guides and equipment that make the cold manageable. While Aurora sightings are not guaranteed, the journey itself—riding through moonlit forests and icy lakes—is captivating enough to make it worthwhile.

For those who thrive on outdoor activities, enjoy night-time pursuits, and are flexible with weather conditions, this tour delivers a memorable taste of Lapland’s winter magic. It’s a solid choice if you’re after an authentic, adrenaline-fueled Arctic experience, especially when the Lights play along.

FAQ

Do I need a driver’s license to participate?
Yes, a valid class B driver’s license is required if you want to drive a snowmobile. If you prefer to ride as a passenger, no license is needed.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off from Levi, a professional guide, a shared snowmobile for two adults, winter gear (overalls, boots, gloves, balaclava), and a helmet.

Can children join the tour?
Children aged 1-14 are seated in a sledge behind the guide’s snowmobile. Children over 140 cm who wish to sit as a passenger in the snowmobile require a full adult ticket.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at 8:00 pm and ending around 11:00 pm or midnight.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, sightings depend on weather conditions, solar activity, and luck. Guides will do their best to find clear skies but cannot guarantee an Aurora appearance.

What should I wear?
Warm, layered clothing is recommended underneath the provided snow gear. The equipment supplied is designed for extreme cold, but dressing warmly is always wise.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, solo travelers can opt to drive a snowmobile alone for an extra fee, or join with a partner or friend on a shared one.

What if I don’t see the Aurora?
You’ll still enjoy a scenic snowmobile ride in stunning winter landscapes. Some reviews mention disappointment over no Aurora, but most agree the experience is still worth it.

How many people will be in my group?
Up to 20 travelers, making for a manageable, friendly environment.

What happens if the weather cancels the tour?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re after an adventurous night in Lapland with a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights, this tour might just strike the right balance between thrill and scenic beauty. Just remember to stay flexible and enjoy every moment of the snowy landscape and starry sky.