If you’re dreaming of catching the Northern Lights in a setting that balances comfort with adventure, this tour in Kemi, Finland might be just what you’re looking for. It’s a relatively short experience—about four hours—but it promises a chance to see one of nature’s most extraordinary displays in a spot carefully chosen for its dark, high vantage point.
What we really like about this trip is how it combines the chance to see the Aurora with a warm, welcoming environment—think cozy facilities with a fireplace, drinks, and snacks—making it accessible even if you’re not used to the cold. Plus, the professional photography service ensures you’ll have a full-resolution memento to take home without any fuss.
However, a potential downside is that, like many Northern Lights tours, success depends heavily on weather conditions. The clear, starry sky is crucial, and if the weather’s uncooperative, the experience might not meet expectations. Still, the organization and amenities generally make this a solid option for anyone wanting a comfortable, well-supported chance to witness the lights.
This tour is ideal for travelers who value both the spectacle of the Aurora and a cozy, well-equipped setting. It’s suitable for groups of all sizes and those who appreciate having professional photos taken of their experience. If you’re after an easy, enjoyable way to connect with northern nature without roughing it, this could be a great pick.
Key Points
- Prime Viewing Location: The site is 100 meters above sea level in Keminmaa, offering expansive views of the night sky.
- Comfortable Setup: Cozy facilities with a fireplace, drinks, and light snacks make waiting for the Aurora more enjoyable.
- Professional Photos: You’ll get full-resolution images sent directly to your email, helping you relive the experience.
- Accessible and Group-Friendly: The site is suitable for both large and small groups and is accessible for all.
- Weather-Dependent: Success hinges heavily on weather conditions; clear skies are essential.
- Short but Sweet: The four-hour tour packs in transportation, viewing, and relaxation, making it a manageable evening activity.
What to Expect from the Northern Lights Tour
This experience begins with a pickup from one of two locations—either Kemi or Tornio—making logistics straightforward. From there, a roughly 40-minute transfer takes you to the scenic high point in Keminmaa, which is at an elevation of about 100 meters. This altitude isn’t just a random detail; it’s chosen specifically to maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora through a vast, unobstructed view of the sky.
Once at the site, you’ll find it designed for comfort and practicality. The cozy space with a fireplace invites you to relax while waiting for nature’s show. As the night progresses, if conditions are right, the Northern Lights might appear—colors swirling across the starry backdrop, a truly mesmerizing sight.
The tour also includes the opportunity to take professional-quality photos. A dedicated photography service is on-site, so you won’t need to worry about capturing the Aurora yourself. Instead, you’ll receive your stunning full-resolution images straight to your email after the event, making for impressive souvenirs.
Throughout the experience, you’ll be surrounded by the natural beauty of northern Finland—silent, cold, yet incredibly peaceful. The clear, starry sky framing the Aurora creates a scene that feels almost otherworldly. It’s a reminder of how vast and untouched the Arctic landscape truly is.
Planning more time in Kemi? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary and Experience Breakdown
Pickup and Transfer: Starting from either Kemi or Tornio, the journey to the Aurora viewing site lasts around 40 minutes. This is a good time to settle in, perhaps chat with fellow travelers or simply enjoy the scenery as you head towards the dark, high spot.
Arrival and Relaxation: Once at the location, you’ll have about two hours to soak in the atmosphere. The facilities are designed to be accessible and cozy, with a fireplace that provides warmth and comfort, especially important given the cold Finnish nights.
Sightseeing and Photo Stop: While the main goal is to see the Northern Lights, the location itself is worth appreciating. Its high vantage point offers wide, unobstructed views of the starry sky.
Photographic Service: During the tour, a professional photographer will be on hand to take high-quality pictures of the Aurora. Several reviews highlight how well this service works—travellers have appreciated getting their photos the same evening, which adds to the overall value.
Drop-off: After the experience, you’re transported back to your original pickup point, completing a seamless and well-organized outing.
Real Traveler Insights
The mix of reviews paints a nuanced picture. Evangelia from Germany called it an “absolutely overwhelming experience,” praising the friendly staff, breathtaking location, and well-organized activities like ice fishing, salmon soup, and snowmobiling, in addition to the Aurora. She emphasizes this as a “once-in-a-lifetime adventure,” which highlights how memorable this experience can be when everything aligns.
On the other hand, Ionel Stefan from Romania was less enthusiastic, giving only two stars due to what he describes as poor organization and staff professionalism. It’s worth noting that such reviews are outliers and may reflect specific issues or expectations, but they remind us to remain flexible with expectations, especially with tours relying on weather and other variables.
Maik from Switzerland appreciated the professionalism, especially the photography service, but noted that drinks and snacks weren’t included as advertised. Still, he considered the experience “great,” especially seeing the Northern Lights and capturing lasting memories.
Travelers from France and Peru shared glowing reviews, with one mentioning how the team was highly involved to ensure they saw the Aurora, even in less-than-ideal conditions. Several reviews emphasize the quality and promptness of the photos received, which is a big plus if you want memories without extra hassle.
Practical Details and Considerations
Duration and Timing: The tour lasts about four hours, including transportation, so it’s a manageable evening activity. Check the availability and starting times, as they can vary.
Price and Value: While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the inclusion of professional photos and a comfortable setup adds good value. It’s not just about viewing the Aurora but also about having a relaxed environment and lasting keepsakes.
Accessibility: The site is accessible for groups of all sizes and suitable for those with mobility requirements, making it inclusive and convenient.
Weather Dependency: Remember, seeing the Northern Lights is never guaranteed. Clear skies are essential, so it’s wise to keep an eye on weather forecasts and be flexible with your plans.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is perfect if you’re looking for a comfortable and stress-free way to chase the Northern Lights. It suits travelers who want more than just a fleeting glimpse—they’re after good photos, a cozy environment, and the chance to connect with the northern landscape. It’s great for small groups, couples, or even those traveling solo who want a reliable, well-organized outing.
If you’re someone who values professional photography and doesn’t want to spend hours outside in the cold trying to capture the Aurora yourself, this tour is a real winner. However, if your main priority is a high-adrenaline adventure, or if weather conditions aren’t clear, be prepared for the possibility of a less spectacular night.
FAQs
How long does the tour last?
The experience takes about four hours, including pickup, transfer, time at the viewing site, and return.
Are drinks and snacks included?
Light snacks are provided, but some reviews note that drinks and snacks aren’t always included as advertised—check the details when booking.
Is the site accessible for everyone?
Yes, the location is accessible, suitable for both large and small groups.
Can I get my photos immediately?
Yes, a professional photographer will take your pictures, and you’ll receive full-resolution copies sent to your email the same day.
What if the weather is cloudy or rainy?
Since viewing depends on clear, starry skies, poor weather can impact your chances of seeing the Aurora. The experience relies heavily on weather conditions.
Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-specific, the facilities are cozy and accessible, making it a feasible activity for groups with children, provided they can handle the cold and stay still during the wait.
Northern Lights Trip to a magical place
Final Thoughts
If catching the Northern Lights in a relaxed, comfortable setting sounds appealing, this Kemi tour offers a compelling blend of natural beauty and thoughtful amenities. The high vantage point, professional photos, and cozy environment make it stand out among many Arctic experiences, especially for those who prefer not to brave the cold for hours on end.
The experience seems best suited for travelers who value convenience, good organization, and memorable keepsakes. While weather can always be a wildcard in Aurora chasing, the effort and comfort offered here make it a worthwhile option to consider for your winter trip to Finland.
In the end, this trip isn’t just about seeing the lights; it’s about making the most of a fleeting natural spectacle in a setting that feels both magical and manageable. If you’re after a warm, well-coordinated adventure with beautiful photos and stunning views, this tour might just be the perfect addition to your Arctic itinerary.
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