Northern Light Safari by Snowmobiles From Levi

Exploring the Northern Lights by Snowmobile in Levi: An Honest Look

If you’re dreaming of seeing the Northern Lights and want to add a dash of adventure, the snowmobile safari from Levi might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve looked into it closely, and it’s clear that this experience offers a unique way to chase the Aurora Borealis under the dark Finnish sky. The chance to glide through snowy forests, combined with the thrill of snowmobiling and the comfort of warm drinks by a fire, makes it appealing for many travelers.

What I really like about this tour is how it balances adventure with comfort. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off means you won’t have to worry about logistics, and the guided aspect ensures you’re in good hands, especially if you’re new to snowmobiles. Plus, the reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides can make or break the experience—something to keep in mind. On the flip side, a few reviews point out that the tour’s timing and stops can sometimes feel a bit rigid, with some feeling that the length of snowmobiling could be more evenly spread out.

This safari is best suited for travelers who want to enjoy a guided night adventure, appreciate the beauty of the Finnish wilderness, and perhaps have a bit of luck seeing the Northern Lights. If you’re a first-timer behind the wheel or seeking a relaxed yet exciting excursion, this could be a good fit. Just keep in mind that the northern lights are unpredictable, and weather conditions can impact visibility.

Key Points

• Guided Experience: The tour includes a knowledgeable guide, making it suitable even for those unfamiliar with snowmobiling.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and winter clothing are included, smoothing out logistics.
• Natural Beauty: You’ll travel through snowy forests and beside a river, with chances to admire the starry night and moon.
• Aurora Chances: While sightings depend on weather and solar activity, the tour aims to maximize your chances.
• Authentic Finnish Experience: Roasting sausages over an open fire and enjoying hot tea adds a cozy, authentic touch.
• Mixed Reviews: Some guests loved the scenery and guide, while others felt the time on snowmobiles was less than expected.

The Experience in Detail

The Starting Point and Timing

The tour begins at Zero Point Rental in Sirkka, Finland, with a scheduled start at 7:00 pm. The meeting point is conveniently located, and the tour lasts about three hours. The timing is great for darkness, which is essential for Aurora viewing, and it offers a good balance of activity and relaxation.

What the Tour Includes

The package covers snowmobile instructions and the actual safari, which can cover around 20-30 km. You’ll be provided with thermal overalls, boots, gloves, woolen socks, a scarf, and helmets, making sure you stay cozy in the cold. The guides speak English, and they’re there to ensure you understand how to operate the snowmobile safely.

The Snowmobile Ride – What to Expect

The ride itself is the core of the experience. You’ll be driving through snow-covered forests and along a river, with the dark woods illuminated by the moon, stars, and hopefully, the Aurora Borealis. It’s a nighttime adventure, so be prepared for darkness and chilly conditions. According to reviews, some participants appreciated the opportunity to try snowmobiling for the first time, with one saying, “First time driving snow mobile with excellent guide.”

Stops and the Campfire Experience

Throughout the safari, there are multiple stops, which some guests found to be a highlight. These pauses give you a chance to enjoy the quiet beauty of the Finnish wilderness, snap photos, and take in the peaceful surroundings. One reviewer noted that the tour involved “stop, stop, stop,” which some felt made the experience feel a bit rushed or disjointed, especially if the stops felt more frequent than necessary.

After the snowmobiling, you’ll gather around a bonfire to roast sausages and drink hot tea, a cozy way to warm up and discuss the sights. This part of the experience is often praised, with guests describing it as “truly memorable” and “genuinely unique.”

Aurora Viewing – A Gamble?

The Northern Lights are notoriously unpredictable. The tour’s success in catching the Aurora Borealis depends heavily on weather conditions and solar activity. Some reviews mention that the lights weren’t visible due to the brightness of the moon or the weather, but others were fortunate enough to witness an especially spectacular display. As one guest said, “There was no guarantee that we would see the northern lights but we were fortunate to witness an especially spectacular display.”

The Cost and Value

At around $189 per person, the tour isn’t the cheapest option but includes quite a few elements: guidance, snowmobile rental, safety gear, snacks, and hotel transfers if needed. Considering the experience, many view it as a fair price for a night of adventure and potential Aurora sightings. The included warm clothing saves you the hassle of packing bulky gear, and the guided nature ensures safety and better chances of a meaningful experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is ideal for those new to snowmobiling, since instructions are provided, and safety gear is included. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy being outside, appreciate a guided experience, and are okay with the unpredictability of Aurora hunting. Families with older children (over 15 or tall enough to ride as passengers) might find it suitable, but always check the specific age and height restrictions.

Final Thoughts

This Northern Lights snowmobile safari from Levi offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and nature. It provides a chance to experience the Finnish wilderness at night, with the possibility of catching the Aurora Borealis, which adds an unforgettable element. The guides seem to be a standout feature, with many guests raving about their helpfulness and knowledge.

While some travelers have felt the ride time was shorter than expected or experienced too many stops, overall, the experience appears well-organized and enjoyable if you’re prepared for the cold and the element of chance involved in Aurora viewing. The cozy fire, roasted sausages, and hot drinks add a special touch that makes nights in Finnish Lapland so memorable.

If you’re looking for a guided, nature-focused adventure that combines snowmobiling with the hope of seeing the Northern Lights, this tour could be a solid choice. Just keep in mind that the Northern Lights are never guaranteed, but the experience itself is likely to be worth it—especially if you love snow, night skies, and a dash of adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if your hotel is located outside of Levi’s city center, the tour offers pickup and drop-off, making the experience more convenient.

What should I wear for the tour?
The tour provides thermal overalls, boots, gloves, woolen socks, and helmets, so you just need to dress warmly underneath. Layers are recommended to stay cozy.

Can I drive a snowmobile if I’ve never done it before?
Absolutely. The tour includes snowmobile instructions, so even beginners can participate. Just make sure you have a valid driving license and meet the age and height requirements.

How long does the snowmobiling part last?
You’ll drive approximately 20-30 km, with several stops along the way, during the roughly 3-hour tour.

Is there a chance I won’t see the Northern Lights?
Yes. The Aurora depends on weather and solar activity. The tour maximizes your chances but can’t guarantee sightings.

What is included in the cost?
The price covers snowmobile rental, guiding, safety gear, snacks, hot drinks, and hotel pickup/drop-off if necessary.

Is this suitable for children?
Children over 15 or those taller than 140 cm can ride as passengers on snowmobiles if booked at the adult price. Younger kids will ride on a sled behind the guide.

All in all, this tour offers a genuine shot at experiencing some of the best winter scenery Finland has to offer, with the added thrill of snowmobiling and the hope of catching the Northern Lights. If adventure and nature are your priorities, and you’re okay with a bit of luck, it’s worth considering.