Rovaniemi: Hunting Northern Lights Bus Tour

If you’re dreaming of catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights in Lapland, a bus tour like this could be a good option to consider. We’ve looked into the details of this experience offered by Nordic Unique Travels, and while it promises a chance to witness the Aurora Borealis, it also comes with some important considerations.

What we like about this tour is the professional guidance—you’re in good hands with knowledgeable guides explaining the science behind the lights—and the scenic stops that maximize your chances of seeing the aurora. Plus, the included hot blueberry juice adds a cozy touch, keeping you warm as you wait in the chilly Arctic night.

On the flip side, the biggest caveat is that Northern Lights sightings depend heavily on weather and solar activity, so there’s no guarantee you’ll see the auroras. Several reviews reflect this reality, and it’s worth going into this experience with realistic expectations.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who want a guided, comfortable way to try their luck in a beautiful Arctic setting. If you’re okay with the unpredictability and value the expertise of guides, you might find this a worthwhile activity.

Key Points

• Sightings are weather-dependent — no guarantees, but the guided stops optimize your chances.
• Expert guides explain the science and help create a meaningful experience.
• Comfort is prioritized with warm drinks and the ability to move between stops and the bus.
• Duration is manageable at 2.5 hours, ideal for fitting into a busy Arctic itinerary.
• Price offers good value considering the guided experience and scenic stops.
• Limited for families or those with mobility issues—not suitable for infants or wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Group Dynamics

The tour kicks off at the Nordic Unique Travels office, located at Maakuntakatu 29-31 in front of the Rosso restaurant. The process is straightforward: you check in, and the guide explains the plan for the night. It’s important to arrive 5 to 10 minutes early so you’re ready to board on time.

The group size isn’t specified exactly, but the tour depends on having at least 2 people on weekdays and Saturdays, or 4 on Sundays and holidays. So, if you’re traveling solo or in a small group, it’s worth confirming availability ahead of time.

Transport and Stops

The core of this experience is a comfortable bus that will take you through the snowy landscapes of Lapland. The bus makes multiple stops at carefully chosen locations—these are spots where the guides believe there’s a better chance of seeing the Lights or where the scenery is particularly stunning.

Each stop allows you to step outside, scan the Arctic sky, and snap photos of the swirling auroras if they appear. If conditions are cloudy, the guides will keep you moving to other vantage points, although, as some reviews point out, weather is a major factor. One traveler noted, “They took us to two places,” which can mean some variation in the experience depending on the night.

The Guide’s Role

The guide is a big part of what makes or breaks this tour. We’ve seen that the guides are generally well-prepared, offering insights into the science behind the Northern Lights and helping you understand what you’re seeing. The added value of an educated guide is that you get more than just a spot in the dark; you get context and stories that make the experience more memorable.

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Included Refreshments

Hot blueberry juice is offered to keep everyone warm and cozy. It’s a simple touch, but it adds comfort during the cold Arctic night. You might find that it makes the waiting a bit more bearable, especially if you’re prone to feeling chilly or if the weather isn’t cooperating.

Sightings and Weather Impact

Here’s where honesty is needed. Many travelers talk about the unpredictability of Aurora sightings. As one reviewer bluntly stated, “They sell you an excursion even knowing that the probability of seeing auroras is 0%,” especially if weather conditions are poor or solar activity is low. Another guest shared, “Unfortunately, it was cloudy, and we couldn’t see it,” which is a common reality in Lapland.

Since the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, no tour can promise they’ll appear. The best you can do is go with a reputable operator, keep your expectations realistic, and enjoy the scenic drive and company.

Value for Money

At $112 per person, this tour offers a moderate price point for a guided experience. Considering the included guide, transportation, and hot drinks, it’s generally fair value—especially if you’re lucky enough to see the Lights. However, if your primary goal is a guaranteed sighting, it’s important to remember this isn’t a guarantee, and some might find the experience less rewarding if the auroras stay hidden.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for travelers who want a guided, comfortable way to experience Lapland’s night sky. If you’re curious about the science behind the Lights and enjoy scenic winter drives, you’ll likely find it enjoyable—even if the Aurora proves elusive.

It’s not ideal if you’re looking for certainty, have limited mobility, or are traveling with infants, as the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users and requires participants to be able to wait outside comfortably.

Final Thoughts

This Northern Lights bus tour in Rovaniemi does deliver an enjoyable way to explore Lapland’s night skies. The knowledgeable guides and scenic stops add value, especially for those keen on learning and photography. But it’s crucial to keep expectations realistic, as the natural unpredictability of the Aurora means some nights may end without the grand show you’re hoping for.

For travelers who appreciate guided experiences, scenic landscapes, and a cozy atmosphere, this tour is worth considering, especially if you’re flexible about the outcome. It’s a practical choice that balances comfort and adventure, with the potential for a magical sighting.

However, if seeing the Lights is your absolute priority and you’re unwilling to accept the chance of being disappointed, you might want to explore additional options or plan your trip around the best Aurora forecasts.

FAQ

Will I definitely see the Northern Lights?
Not necessarily. The tour’s success depends on weather and solar activity, which are beyond anyone’s control. No sighting can be guaranteed.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly with layers, including thermal clothing, hats, gloves, and waterproof gear. The tour involves outdoor stops in cold weather.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, which is enough time to catch some great views or move between different vantage points.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not specifically designed for children, especially infants. Children over 12 are welcome but must be accompanied by paying adults.

What if the weather is cloudy?
The guides will do their best to take you to different locations, but cloudy skies can obscure the auroras. It’s a risk that comes with the territory.

Can I get a refund if I don’t see the Lights?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. But the tour itself does not promise a sighting.

What languages are guides available in?
The main language is English, with other languages available upon request, including German, French, Italian, Spanish, and Chinese.

Where does the tour pick up and drop off?
At the Nordic Unique Travels office, Maakuntakatu 29-31, in front of the Rosso restaurant.

Are drinks included?
Yes, hot blueberry juice is provided, which adds a cozy touch to the chilly night.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users, so consider this if mobility is a concern.

If you’re heading to Rovaniemi and want a flexible, guided way to chase the Northern Lights, this tour could fit the bill—just remember, patience and a bit of luck are your best friends in this adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: