Northern Lights Hunting in Lappish old cottage

If you’re considering a Northern Lights adventure in Rovaniemi, Finland, this tour from Helios Tour offers a relaxed, intimate way to catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis. While it doesn’t promise a guaranteed sighting—nature’s whims always hold sway—it provides an inviting setting that many travelers find memorable.

What really stands out are the personalized guidance from knowledgeable locals and the chance to enjoy fire-cooked Lappish sausages in a rustic, warm cottage surrounded by pristine wilderness. We also appreciate the small-group vibe, which often translates into better service and a more authentic experience.

On the flip side, a bit of patience is needed; if the skies remain clouded or the lights decide to stay hidden, that’s just part of the Northern Lights hunt. This tour is best suited for those who value a relaxed atmosphere, cultural storytelling, and a scenic, cozy setting over high-adrenaline pursuits or guaranteed sightings.

If you’re a traveler who loves a blend of natural beauty, cultural stories, and a warm, friendly environment, this trip could be just right. It’s especially ideal for those who want a more intimate experience without the fuss of large tour buses or aggressive schedules.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small group sizes ensure personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Beautiful Setting: The cottage’s panoramic views across a lake make for stunning scenery, especially if the lights appear.
• Cultural Insights: Guides share legends and science behind the Aurora Borealis, adding depth to the experience.
• Comfort & Warmth: Inside the cottage, you can warm up and enjoy snacks while waiting for the lights.
• Flexible & Weather-Ready: Tours operate in all weather conditions, with a good chance of seeing the aurora if conditions are right.
• Value for Money: For around $100, you get a scenic, culturally rich experience with transport included.

An Honest Look at the Experience

We’re here to give a balanced view of what you can expect from this Northern Lights hunting tour. The itinerary is straightforward but thoughtfully designed to maximize your chances of seeing the aurora without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The highlight is the lappish cottage—a cozy, well-maintained structure with a panoramic view to the north, perfect for spotting the lights reflected on a small lake.

The pick-up is included, which is a big plus; no need to worry about figuring out transportation once you arrive. You’ll be taken to a location that’s carefully chosen for its visibility and natural beauty. The two-hour window allows plenty of time to settle in, chat with your guide, and keep an eye on the sky.

Many reviews emphasize the quality of the guides. One reviewer, Laura, said, “Great hosts, beautiful scenery!” and appreciated the chance to warm up inside while waiting. Guides tend to be well-informed, sharing stories and facts about the aurora—the science and the mythology—making the trip educational as well as scenic.

The Cottage & the Viewing Spot

The cottage itself seems to leave a lasting impression on visitors. It’s described as cute and fantastic, with some reviews mentioning the reflection of the northern lights on the lake—a magical sight if luck is on your side. Inside, you’ll find a warm refuge after spending time outside in the cold, which is a welcome relief for anyone not used to Arctic temperatures.

One review highlighted the fire as a comforting feature and the professional photos taken by the guide, which can be a real bonus if you want good memories without lugging around your camera all night. Keep in mind, however, that capturing the lights does require a good camera; amateur smartphones might struggle if the aurora’s faint or moving quickly.

What the Tour Includes & What You Should Know

The tour lasts about 3 hours, starting at 8:00 pm, making it an ideal evening activity after a day of exploring Rovaniemi. The round-trip transport ensures you don’t need to worry about logistics—just show up, relax, and enjoy the ride.

Pricing is around $100.99 per person, which some might find a bit steep, but when you consider the personalized attention, scenic location, and cultural storytelling, many see it as a fair value. Keep in mind, refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, and the tour operates regardless of weather—though cloudy skies can still mean no aurora.

One thing to note from reviews is that the booking process might be a bit less streamlined—expect to receive an email with pickup details closer to the date, rather than a fixed schedule at booking time. This can mean a little uncertainty, but most travelers find the logistical side manageable.

The Group Size & Atmosphere

This is a small-group tour, with a maximum of 40 travelers, but most reviews mention smaller groups, which make the experience more intimate. You’ll likely be in a group of around 8 to 10 people, and the guides are praised for their dedicated attention—like Andrej, who, according to reviews, was very attentive and helpful.

The personalized service shines when guides take photos for you and share interesting facts. This is a real plus if you’re traveling alone or in a small group and want a more genuine, less commercialized experience.

The Reviews Speak Volumes

Looking at the reviews, it’s clear that guides make or break this experience. They’re often described as nice, knowledgeable, and attentive. One traveler said, “Our guide was excellent. We saw a bit of the lights—nature’s will, nothing the guides can do about that, but they were great.”

The scenery also gets high marks; one person loved the view across the lake and the fire that added to the cozy vibe. Several reviews mention the photos, which many appreciated—the guide’s effort to capture memories makes a difference.

A few critiques mention the cost—some felt it was high for the size of the group or the experience. Also, if the aurora doesn’t dance across the sky, you might find waiting a bit disappointing, but the guides do their best to keep everyone engaged and comfortable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic, and culturally rich Northern Lights outing. It’s perfect if you enjoy cozy environments, storytelling, and scenic views rather than high-energy pursuits.

It’s also a good pick if you’re traveling with a small group or wish to avoid large, crowded tours. If your main goal is to see the aurora and you’re comfortable with the possibility that Mother Nature might not cooperate, this offers a nice balance of comfort, education, and natural beauty.

Final Thoughts

The Northern Lights Hunting in Lappish Old Cottage delivers a warm, personal experience in the Arctic wilderness. You won’t find the adrenaline of snowmobiling or reindeer rides, but you’ll get something more intimate and scenic—perfect for those who appreciate quiet, starry nights and a bit of cultural storytelling thrown in.

The price is reasonable for the quality of the setting and the guidance, especially considering transportation and inside warming options. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a gentle, comfortable hunt for the aurora with plenty of opportunities for photos and learning.

While seeing the lights isn’t guaranteed, the overall experience—beautiful scenery, expert guides, and cozy comfort—makes it a worthwhile addition to your Rovaniemi trip, especially if you’re patient and hopeful.

FAQ

• What time does the tour start? The tour begins at 8:00 pm, giving you a good chance to catch the lights after sunset.

• Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transport is included, so you don’t need to worry about finding your way.

• How long does the tour last? The entire experience is approximately 3 hours.

• What should I wear? Dress warmly and appropriately for cold weather; operating in all conditions means layers and thermal gear are advisable.

• Can I cancel if the weather looks bad? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the tour operates in all weather conditions.

• Is there vegetarian food available? Yes, vegetarian options are available if requested at booking.

• What if we don’t see the lights? Since Aurora sightings depend on natural conditions, guides do their best, but there’s no guarantee. Waiting inside the cottage or warming up by the fire can still be enjoyable.

• Are group sizes large? No, most groups are small, around 8-10 people, which enhances the personal experience.

• Is this suitable for children? While not explicitly stated, the relaxed, scenic nature of the tour suggests it’s suitable for most age groups, provided they’re comfortable outside in cold weather.

• Will photos be taken? Yes, the guides often take photos for guests and send them afterward, which is a lovely bonus.

This tour offers a peaceful, scenic way to experience the magic of the Northern Lights. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a warm atmosphere, expert storytelling, and beautiful Arctic landscapes—just remember, patience is key when chasing nature’s light show.