Pyhätunturi: Northern Lights Hunting Tour with Hot Drinks

If you’re dreaming of catching the elusive aurora borealis in a winter wonderland, this Northern Lights Hunting Tour with Hot Drinks from Pyhä Safaris might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally joined this exact tour, it’s a popular option for travelers eager to witness the night sky’s magic in Lapland’s stunning Pyhä-Luosto area.

What really stands out to us is the small group size, capping at just 8 people, which promises a more personalized, less rushed experience. Plus, the inclusion of warm winter gear and hot drinks means you can focus on the sky rather than your cold toes. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that Northern Lights are inherently unpredictable—so this tour doesn’t guarantee a sighting, only the best chance possible.

This experience seems ideal for anyone who values a cozy, intimate atmosphere and wants expert guidance on where to look for the lights. If you’re okay with the weather and understand that nature’s show isn’t always on schedule, then this could be a good fit. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with a small group or prefer a more relaxed, less commercialized way to see the auroras.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personal and flexible tour.
• Flexible Locations: Visit 1-3 different sites, chosen based on weather conditions for the best chances to see the lights.
• Comfort Matters: Includes winter gear to keep you warm and hot drinks to toast your patience.
• Photography Ready: Bring your own camera to capture the moment, with guidance from local experts.
• Unpredictable but Worth Trying: The Northern Lights are never guaranteed, but the tour maximizes your odds.
• Ideal for Couples or Small Groups: Its intimate setting is perfect for travelers who prefer a more tailored experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

Once booked, you’ll meet your guide and gear up in warm winter clothing—think layers, insulated jackets, hats, gloves, and boots. The tour lasts around four hours, which is enough time to stay out in the cold and have a real shot at witnessing the aurora.

You’ll hop into a cozy minivan and head out into the best spots for viewing that night. The guide’s local knowledge is key here, as they’ll choose between 1-3 locations depending on the weather and cloud cover. These spots are carefully selected for their potential to offer a clear view of the sky, away from city lights and light pollution.

Throughout the night, you’ll stay warm with provided hot drinks, which makes the cold more bearable and keeps your spirits high. If you’ve brought your own camera, this is your chance to get some great night sky shots, with guidance from the guide on how to set your gear.

While the tour doesn’t guarantee seeing the Northern Lights—no aurora tour can—many past reviews mention that the guides are good at pointing out other natural phenomena or just making the experience enjoyable regardless of whether the lights appear.

The Locations and Why They Matter

The chosen spots are dictated by weather, but they’re generally among the best for aurora hunting in the Pyhä-Luosto region. These areas are away from city lights, with wide open skies that maximize your chances of seeing the phenomenon.

The benefit of visiting multiple locations is that if the sky is cloudy or the lights aren’t appearing in one area, the guide can quickly move to another, increasing your odds. This flexibility is a plus, especially in a landscape where weather can change rapidly.

Past guests mention that the locations are scenic—think snow-covered forests and open tundra—adding a magical feel to the hunt. The natural surroundings are part of what makes this experience memorable, even if the auroras play hide and seek.

The Experience of the Guides and Group Size

A big plus here is the small group size. With just a handful of travelers, the experience becomes more relaxed and personalized. Guides are local experts, which means they have a good understanding of the weather patterns and the best spots to try each night.

Guests have found that the guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful, especially when it comes to night photography. If you’re keen to capture the lights, they can offer tips, although you’ll need to bring your own camera.

The small group setting also means that you won’t be part of a noisy bus or large crowd—more like a friendly gathering under the stars.

What’s Included and What Not

Included in the price ($174 per person):
– A small group tour with a maximum of 8 people
– Winter gear to keep you warm during the outing
– Hot drinks to enjoy while waiting for the lights
– Guidance on night sky photography

What you need to bring:
– Your own camera, preferably with a tripod for night shots

Not included:
– Your own camera (or extra batteries/gear to optimize your photos)

Some reviews mention that the cost is reasonable given the personalized nature of the experience and the included gear. However, always consider whether you already own suitable winter clothing and a camera if you want to capture the moment.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Practicalities

This tour is designed for those who want an authentic, relaxed experience rather than a high-paced chase. With a duration of four hours, it’s manageable even if you’re not used to cold nights or prolonged outdoor activities. The timing varies depending on sunset and aurora forecasts, so it’s best to check with the provider about available slots during your travel dates.

The group size of up to 8 ensures you won’t be part of a large bus, which many travelers find more comfortable. Plus, with live guides speaking both Finnish and English, language isn’t a barrier for most visitors.

You don’t need to worry about being cold or hungry—warm drinks are provided, and the winter gear helps keep you comfortable. Still, dress appropriately with layered clothing, waterproof boots, and a hat.

What Past Travelers Say

Reviewers often highlight how attentive the guides are: “They really try to make the most of the night, moving around to find the best spots,” one guest noted. Others appreciated the personalized attention: “It felt like a small, friendly adventure rather than a touristy bus trip.”

However, a few mention the uncertainty of seeing the lights—which is part of the Northern Lights experience. One reviewer summed it up: “We didn’t see the lights, but the guide kept us warm and entertained, which made it worthwhile.”

Overall, many travelers consider it a solid choice for Aurora hunting if you’re okay with nature’s unpredictability and want a cozy, guided experience.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and expert guidance. For those who want a small-group, personalized experience with the chance to photograph the Northern Lights, it’s a compelling option. The inclusion of warm gear and hot drinks adds a layer of comfort that many find essential in winter conditions.

While it’s not a guarantee of seeing the Aurora, the flexibility in location and the local knowledge of guides increase your odds significantly. The experience is best suited for travelers who value a relaxed, intimate outing over a fast-paced chase, and who are prepared for the unpredictability of nature.

If you’re seeking a peaceful, authentic Arctic night with the possibility of a spectacular sky show, this tour could be just the thing. Just remember that patience and a bit of luck are part of the package.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
The experience is designed for small groups and involves outdoor exposure in cold weather, so it might be best suited for older children or teenagers comfortable with winter conditions.

What should I bring?
You need to bring your own camera if you wish to photograph the Lights. Dress warmly with layers, waterproof boots, hats, gloves, and thermal clothing. The tour provides winter gear, but layering is key.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility is handy if weather forecasts change or if your plans shift.

What if I don’t see the Aurora?
Northern Lights are unpredictable, and sightings aren’t guaranteed. However, guides do their best to pick the best locations and maximize your chances.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, starting at different times depending on sunset and aurora activity.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be transported in a minivan to the best viewing spots for the night.

Will I be outdoors the entire time?
Yes, but you’ll stay warm with provided winter gear and hot drinks.

Do I need to be an experienced photographer?
No, but bringing your own camera is recommended. The guide can offer tips on nighttime photography if needed.

Are the locations accessible for people with mobility issues?
The information doesn’t specify; it’s best to check directly with the provider if mobility is a concern.

Is this tour offered in other languages?
Guides speak Finnish and English, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

In the end, if you’re after a cozy, personalized chance to see the Northern Lights with some expert help and warm drinks in hand, this Pyhätunturi tour is worth considering. Just keep your expectations realistic and your camera ready—sometimes Mother Nature surprises us all.

You can check availability for your dates here: