Rovaniemi: Ice Floating Experience with Northern lights

If you’re dreaming of a winter escape that’s both peaceful and a little bit daring, this Ice Floating Experience in Rovaniemi might just be your thing. We haven’t done it ourselves, but from what we’ve gathered, it offers a rare chance to float effortlessly on a frozen lake, wrapped in thermal wetsuits, while gazing up at the vast Arctic sky. For those craving a mix of adventure and tranquility—plus a good chance of spotting the Northern Lights—this activity seems like a solid pick.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines the thrill of floating on icy waters with the calming beauty of Lapland’s night sky. And after your chilly adventure, there’s nothing quite like warming up with a hot drink and cookies. That said, it’s worth noting that this experience isn’t suitable for everyone—participants need to be comfortable in water, in good health, and prepared for outdoor winter conditions.

This tour appears well suited for travelers seeking something unique, peaceful, and a bit off the beaten path. It’s perfect if you love nature, want to try something different, or simply enjoy the quiet charm of Arctic nights. Just make sure you’re comfortable with the physical aspect of floating in water, and dress warmly.

Key Points

• Unique Arctic experience: Float on a frozen lake wrapped in thermal gear and enjoy Lapland’s serene landscape.
• Northern Lights chance: Clear skies might reward you with spectacular aurora displays.
• Post-activity comfort: Warm drinks and cookies are included, making the chilly moment more cozy.
• Small group intimacy: Tours are limited to 9 people, offering a more personal experience.
• Physical requirements: You should be comfortable in water and in good health; not suitable for pregnant women or those with certain health issues.
• Flexible cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, offering some peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Arctic with Wonderlapland’s Ice Floating Tour

Imagine lying back in a thermal wetsuit, gently drifting on a glassy, frozen lake as snow softly falls around you. That’s essentially what the Ice Floating Experience is about—melding the Arctic’s quiet beauty with a feeling of weightlessness. It’s a peaceful activity, but it also has an element of excitement, especially if you’re lucky enough to see the Northern Lights dancing overhead.

The journey begins with a pickup in Rovaniemi, where you’ll travel about 35 minutes by van to reach the floating site. This part of the trip is mostly about anticipation, as you leave the city behind and head into Lapland’s pristine wilderness. Once there, your guide will help you step into a thermal wetsuit—think of it as your Arctic armor—before you hit the ice.

The Floating Experience: What It’s Like

We loved the way this activity emphasizes tranquility and connection with nature. Gently floating on a frozen lake, you’re weightless, yet warm, thanks to the thermal gear. There’s a meditative quality to lying back and gazing up at the star-studded sky. If the night is clear and the conditions right, the Northern Lights might appear—a fleeting, magical spectacle that makes the moment unforgettable.

Many reviewers mention feeling both exhilarated and relaxed. One comment from a traveler was, “It’s surreal to float in the middle of a frozen lake under the vast Arctic sky, feeling completely serene.” This isn’t an adrenaline rush, but rather a chance to slow down and enjoy the stillness of Lapland’s winter.

Post-Float Comfort and Reflection

After about an hour of drifting, you’ll return to the shore and be treated to warm drinks and cookies. This simple gesture adds a lot—it’s a cozy cap on a cool adventure, warming you up and providing a chance to chat about what you’ve just experienced. Many guests say that this moment of warmth and conversation sticks with them long after the tour ends.

What’s Included and What to Know

The tour lasts around 3 hours in total, with about 1.5 hours of floating and 30 minutes for breaks and transfers. The small group size (up to 9 people) ensures a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere. The experience is guided in English, French, or Spanish, which makes communication easy and personal.

You’ll want to come dressed in layers—think thermal underwear, warm socks, hat, and gloves—as the outdoors can be quite cold, even with the wetsuit. Participants should be comfortable in water and aware that this isn’t suited for pregnant women, or those with back or heart problems.

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Value and Cost

While the tour isn’t the cheapest activity in Rovaniemi, it’s priced to reflect the uniqueness of the experience—small groups, guided attention, and the inclusion of warm drinks and cookies. If you value memorable, peaceful moments in nature, the cost likely offers good value. Remember, you’re paying for a chance to do something quite rare—floating in Arctic waters with the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights.

The Downside

The main consideration is the physical aspect—you must be comfortable in water and physically able to handle the cold and floating position. If you have health concerns, especially related to your back or heart, or if you’re pregnant, this tour isn’t suitable. Also, the Northern Lights can never be guaranteed, so it’s best not to base your entire trip on catching them.

Who Will Love This?

This experience is ideal for travelers who:

• Want a peaceful, scenic Arctic activity
• Are interested in the Northern Lights or starry skies
• Enjoy gentle, contemplative outdoor adventures
• Don’t mind cold water and outdoor winter conditions
• Value small-group, personalized tours

It’s less suited for those seeking high-energy activities or who aren’t comfortable in water.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour requires participants to be comfortable in water and in good physical health, so it’s generally better suited for adults. Check with the provider if you’re considering it for teens, but it’s not recommended for young children.

What should I wear?
Bring warm clothing, especially layered outfits including thermal base layers, hats, gloves, and warm socks. The thermal wetsuit provides insulation during floating but staying warm before and after is important.

How cold does it get during the tour?
While the wetsuit helps keep you warm in the water, outside temperatures in Lapland can be quite low, especially at night. Dressing in layers is essential to stay comfortable.

Can I see the Northern Lights during this activity?
Yes, if the weather is clear and the aurora activity is strong, you might witness the Northern Lights while floating or during the sky-gazing part of the experience.

How long is the entire tour?
It lasts around 3 hours, including transportation, floating time, and breaks. The floating itself is about an hour, with extra time for transfers and warming up afterward.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the experience is limited to a maximum of 9 participants, making it more personal and less crowded.

What if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which provides some flexibility if your plans change.

Is this experience good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group format and guided nature make it a comfortable option for solo travelers who enjoy meeting new people or prefer a more intimate experience.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others?
The combination of floating on a frozen lake with the potential for Northern Lights viewing, plus the cozy post-activity treats, creates a memorable balance of adventure and relaxation. The guided, small-group setup ensures a more personalized experience.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a peaceful yet memorable Arctic activity, the Ice Floating Experience in Rovaniemi hits a sweet spot. It’s not about adrenaline or high-energy thrills, but rather about connecting with Lapland’s natural beauty in a way few get to do.

You’ll love the serenity of drifting in the Arctic waters, especially if the night sky rewards you with the Northern Lights. The warmth of the included drinks and the cozy company afterward are the perfect finishing touches. It’s an activity that might be a little outside your comfort zone if you’re wary of cold water, but if you’re up for it, the experience offers a rare perspective of Lapland’s tranquil winter landscape.

This tour is best suited for those who value quiet moments in nature, enjoy gentle adventures, and want a memorable story to tell. It’s not designed for thrill-seekers, but for anyone looking to slow down and soak in the Arctic’s peaceful beauty.

This activity offers a genuinely unique way to connect with Lapland’s winter wonderland, combining gentle adventure with the chance to witness one of nature’s most spectacular light shows. If you’re prepared for the outdoor cold and comfortable in water, it’s a fantastic addition to any Arctic trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: