Rovaniemi: New Year’s Eve Special Aurora Safari

If you’re dreaming of ringing in the New Year under the shimmering dance of the Northern Lights, this Rovaniemi Aurora Safari might just be the adventure you’re looking for. While I haven’t done this trip myself, I’ve looked into it closely and talked to travelers who have — and I can honestly say it’s a unique, memorable way to experience Lapland’s winter magic.

What I love about this tour? First, the remote forest setting ensures you get away from city lights, giving a real shot at seeing the auroras. Secondly, the authenticity of grilling BBQ snacks over an open fire in a traditional kota hut makes it feel truly special. One thing to keep in mind is that, since the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, there’s no 100% guarantee you’ll see them — but the guide’s expertise maximizes your chances. This experience is well-suited for those seeking a relaxed, atmospheric evening with a dash of adventure, especially if you’re keen on combining nature, culture, and a festive New Year vibe.

Key Points

• Remote forest location offers optimal conditions for aurora viewing.
• Guided insight includes myths, science, and photography tips.
• Authentic Arctic BBQ grilled on open fire adds to the experience.
• Flexible timing allows continuation of New Year celebrations at Santa’s Cuisine.
• Moderate duration of 4 hours makes it a manageable outing.
• Weather-dependent: no guarantee on Northern Lights, but the setting enhances your odds.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting The Scene: What Is This Tour All About?

This New Year’s Eve Aurora Safari is designed as a magical, outdoor celebration far from city lights, taking you into the heart of Lapland’s winter wilderness. The experience begins at 19:00 and wraps up around 23:00, with optional continuation afterward at Santa’s Cuisine Restaurant. The tour is hosted by Christmas House Safaris, a provider rated quite highly at 4.6, which suggests most travelers found it worth the experience.

The focus is twofold: maximize your chances of spotting the Northern Lights and creating a cozy, festive atmosphere. Since the excursion is just four hours, it balances adventure with enough time to relax and enjoy the surroundings. If you’re someone who appreciates a mix of natural beauty and cultural storytelling, this tour can hit the spot.

How Does the Tour Work?

You’ll be picked up from either Santa’s Hotel Santa Claus or Santa’s Holiday Village around 30 minutes before the start time. The small group is then whisked away in a van for about 30 minutes into the forest, away from light pollution — the kind of setting that’s crucial for aurora viewing.

Once at the cabin, a knowledgeable guide will set the scene. Expect them to share Finnish myths, stories about the auroras, and modern scientific explanations. They’ll also give helpful tips on capturing your experience with cameras or smartphones, which is a nice touch for those wanting to document the moment.

The core of the experience involves waiting in the cosy kota hut—a traditional open-air shelter—where you can keep warm by the open fire. Here, you’ll be handed BBQ snacks and encouraged to grill them yourself over the crackling fire. If you prefer indoors or are traveling with little ones who might get chilly or sleepy, you’re welcome to stay inside the heated log cabin as long as you like.

The Northern Lights: A Natural Wonder

Seeing the auroras is always a bit of a gamble, as it depends on solar activity and cloud cover. The guide will do their best to help you spot them if they appear, but they aren’t guaranteed. That said, the rural location and the guide’s experience significantly boost your odds, and many guests report witnessing the dancing lights during their trip.

Guests who have experienced this tour often comment on the stunning views and the sense of awe that comes with watching the natural spectacle. Even if the lights remain elusive, the experience of being in the Arctic wilderness, grilling snacks under the stars, and soaking in the crisp winter air makes it worthwhile.

Dining & Nighttime Extras

One of the tour’s highlights is the BBQ snacks grilled over a fire, which adds a hearty, authentic touch. The snacks are simple but flavorful, and the open fire setting feels genuinely festive. If you’re craving a true Arctic experience with a bit of warmth and camaraderie, this hits the mark.

After the safari, if you want to keep the celebration going, you’re free to head to Santa’s Cuisine Restaurant in Santa Claus Holiday Village, open until 01:00. It’s a nice way to extend your New Year’s festivities with a special menu in a lively, thematic setting.

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Transportation & Group Size

Transport is handled smoothly with pickups from designated locations, and the van ride into the forest is short and comfortable. Since the group usually isn’t very large, it feels intimate enough to relax and chat with your guide or fellow travelers.

Cost & Value

At its price point, this tour offers a good balance for the experience you get — scenic setting, expert guidance, warm food, and the chance to see the Northern Lights. While it’s not a luxury experience, the authenticity, and the convenience of having everything arranged makes it a solid choice for those wanting a memorable Arctic adventure without overpaying.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This safari is especially great for travelers who love outdoor winter experiences, are interested in learning about local myths and science, and want a relaxed, atmospheric evening rather than a high-energy chase. It’s suitable for couples, friends, or solo travelers looking for a cozy, cultural encounter in the Arctic.

However, if your main goal is guaranteed Northern Lights sightings or you prefer a more action-packed adventure like snowmobiling or reindeer rides, this might not be your best fit. Still, for those craving a peaceful, authentic Arctic evening with the potential to witness nature’s light show, it’s a charming choice.

The Bottom Line

This Rovaniemi New Year’s Eve Aurora Safari offers a warm, atmospheric way to celebrate New Year’s in Lapland. Its remote forest setting is perfect for avoiding light pollution, giving you a real shot at seeing the dazzling Northern Lights. The blend of storytelling, cultural insight, and the simple pleasure of grilling snacks over an open fire creates a genuinely cozy, memorable experience.

While the Northern Lights remain unpredictable, the thoughtful organization, beautiful setting, and festive vibe make this tour worth considering if you’re after an authentic Arctic celebration. It’s especially suited for travelers appreciating the combination of nature, culture, and a peaceful evening under the stars.

If you’re a fan of understated, atmospheric experiences and want to kick off the new year immersed in Lapland’s winter magic, this safari could be a highlight of your trip.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be picked up and dropped off from designated locations, typically Santa’s Hotel Santa Claus or Santa’s Holiday Village.

Can I continue my New Year’s celebrations afterward?
Absolutely. The tour includes an option to stay and celebrate at Santa’s Cuisine Restaurant until 01:00, which is perfect if you want to extend your festivities.

What should I wear?
Since the experience takes place outdoors in winter, dress warmly in layers, including a good insulated jacket, hat, gloves, and thermal footwear.

Will I see the Northern Lights?
While many guests do see the auroras, they are a natural phenomenon and can’t be guaranteed. The guide will do their best to help you spot them.

Is this experience suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for all ages, especially those who enjoy outdoor winter activities. Just keep in mind the outdoor setting and cold weather.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 4 hours, from 19:00 to 23:00, offering a relaxed pace with enough time to enjoy the setting and the lights if visible.

All in all, this safari offers a genuine taste of Arctic life, topped with the thrill of the Northern Lights and a warm fire. It’s a cozy, cultural, and scenic way to ring in the New Year — worth considering for your Lapland adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: