If you’re dreaming of catching those elusive Aurora Borealis scenes in Lapland, you might have stumbled across this Northern Lights Photography Tour & BBQ. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, based on detailed reviews and official info, I can help paint a clear picture of what you can expect.
What immediately caught my eye are the chance to see the Northern Lights in a prime location and the expertise of a professional photographer guiding your shots. I also like how the tour combines a traditional Lappish BBQ with storytelling, giving it that authentic Arctic vibe.
On the flip side, a key thing to consider is the unpredictability of the Northern Lights—weather and solar activity can always be a gamble. This tour is likely best suited for those who are flexible, curious about photography, and eager to experience Arctic culture. If you’re after a memorable night out with good food and the possibility of seeing the Aurora, this might be a good fit.
The tour was great and well organised, pick-up location is in the city centre which was a 2 minute walk from my apartment. The BBQ included- reindeer sausages or corn and marshmallows and ginger cookies, they also provided hot juice. We had a clear night but the aurora activity was looking low, however we waited and managed to see and capture the northern lights. The photographer did a great job capturing memories for everyone. We definitely stayed longer than advertised which ensured everyone got photos. The price was great, and the tour guides are very friendly thanks to Irene, Simona and Alex. Special thanks to Eva for capturing our memories you did an amazing job! Highly recommend this t…
⸻ We had an excellent experience on the Rovaniemi Northern Lights Photography Tour with BBQ. Overall, we were extremely satisfied with every aspect of the tour. The service was outstanding—staff were professional, friendly, and attentive throughout the journey. Transportation was very comfortable, making the trip enjoyable and relaxing. The winter clothing provided was warm, well-fitted, and suitable for the Arctic conditions, allowing us to focus fully on the experience. The BBQ meal was delicious and well-prepared, adding a warm and pleasant touch to the evening. Most importantly, the aurora experience exceeded our expectations—the Northern Lights were vibrant and truly spectacular, …
Had a great tour last night with Andrea, Juan and Dylan. They were excellent in every way. Pick up from the hotel was convenient and the blueberry juice and reindeer sausage was great also. Jaun got some brilliant photos of me proposing to my now finance and we had a great night. A very good team and a superb tour. Thank you very much
- Key Points
- What You Can Expect from the Tour
- The Journey and the Stops
- The Photography
- The Lappish BBQ
- Group Size, Timing, and Price
- How the Experience Feels
- What Could Be Better?
- Who Is This Tour Best For?
- Final Thoughts
- FAQs
- More Photography Tours in Rovaniemi
- More Tours in Rovaniemi
- More Tour Reviews in Rovaniemi
- Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Rovaniemi we have reviewed
Key Points
- Prime Aurora Viewing: The tour takes you away from city lights for a better chance to see the Northern Lights.
- Professional Photography: A skilled guide helps you set up your camera, and they take photos for you.
- Authentic Food and Culture: Enjoy a traditional Lappish BBQ, including reindeer sausage and hot blueberry juice.
- Expert Storytelling: Guides share stories about the Aurora and local legends, enriching your experience.
- Flexible Booking & Refunds: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and book now, pay later.
- Weather Dependent: Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity, so there’s no guarantee you’ll see the lights.
What You Can Expect from the Tour
This experience is a well-rounded introduction to Arctic night skies and Lappish culture, ideal for travelers craving a mix of adventure, learning, and good food. The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, starting with a pickup from your hotel—just be ready a little in advance, about 10 minutes before your scheduled time.
Once you’re on the move, your guide will take you 10 to 60 miles into the forest, away from the glow of Rovaniemi. This kind of distance is critical if you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of the Aurora, as light pollution from the city can dull the sky’s natural display. The guides are experienced in finding good viewing spots, which is reassuring since weather can change quickly in the Arctic.
You can also read our reviews of more photography tours in Rovaniemi
The Journey and the Stops
During the drive, your guide will talk about how the Northern Lights are formed and share captivating tales from local and Lappish traditions. This storytelling adds a layer of cultural appreciation often missed in more commercial tours.
Your stops are chosen for their visibility and scenery, often at lakes or open areas with minimal light pollution. The guides are well-versed in photography and will offer practical tips on camera settings, shooting angles, and compositions. Many reviews mention that guides are genuinely passionate and knowledgeable, which makes a significant difference when trying to capture that perfect shot.
The Photography
Perhaps the most appealing part is the professional photographer who joins the trip. They’ll take photos of you under the Northern Lights—an invaluable memory, especially since many travelers find it hard to get clear shots themselves. After the tour, your photos will be emailed to you at no extra charge, so you can relive the experience without hassle.
The Lappish BBQ
As the night progresses, you’ll gather around a campfire to enjoy a traditional BBQ. The menu usually involves reindeer sausage and hot blueberry juice, which are cozy Arctic staples. Some reviewers felt the BBQ was simple but tasty, and appreciated the opportunity to warm up by the fire after braving the cold.
Picked up directly from hotel, we travelled to various locations to find best spot to view Aurora. We had Reindeer sausage with marshmallows on campfire. We managed to see the Northern lights as well and some excellent photos taken and sent to us, some great memories on an wonderful evening out. Our tour guide Giselle was excellent guide for whole tour.
One of the best nights of my life, went in March 2023 and Im still telling everyone about it! It wasn’t looking like we were going to see the northern lights because of cloud but luckily (miracle!) we got to see them a few times that night! The guides even kindly offered to take us out the next night on half price to make up for the fact the lights weren’t as clear. The food was amazing and the blueberry tea was really comforting. 10/10 experience would recommend to anyone
The guide/photographers team was amazing, ensuring everyone was comfortable and having a good time. The tour was meticulous planned and enjoyable
While the BBQ generally receives positive comments, a few noted that the offerings could be more varied, but overall, the food adds a nice cultural touch that complements the whole experience. The guides also take photos of guests by the fire, further helping you remember this special night.
More Great Tours NearbyGroup Size, Timing, and Price
The tour's group size varies depending on the day—on weekdays and Saturdays, at least 2 people are needed, while Sundays and holidays require at least 4 to run the trip. This setup helps keep things intimate but can also mean that if you’re traveling alone or in a small group, you might share the experience with strangers.
Duration-wise, it’s a short but intense 3.5 hours—enough time to chase the Northern Lights, enjoy some food, and get some photos. The cost is generally considered fair, especially when you factor in the transportation, expert guidance, food, and professional photos.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Rovaniemi
How the Experience Feels
Many travelers, like those in reviews, describe this tour as "meticulously planned" and "enjoyable," with guides who are friendly, passionate, and helpful. The fact that you’re driven to scenic spots away from city lights is crucial; it boosts your chances of seeing the Aurora, which is a core part of what makes this tour special.
What Could Be Better?
A few reviews point out logistical hiccups—like pick-up issues or larger crowds—that can detract slightly from the experience. Also, since Aurora sightings are weather-dependent, some guests might end up disappointed if the sky stays cloudy or if solar activity isn’t high enough. The tour recognizes this possibility and offers re-join options at a discount within a week, which is a thoughtful touch.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
If you’re keen on photography and want guided assistance in snapping Northern Lights photos, you'll love this tour. It's also perfect if you're seeking an authentic Arctic experience—complete with storytelling, local delicacies, and a good chance to see the Aurora if conditions cooperate.
However, it’s less suitable for those with mobility issues or those expecting guaranteed sightings, since weather and solar conditions can always interfere. It's a flexible option for couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers who want a manageable, well-organized evening in Lapland.
Final Thoughts
This Northern Lights Photography Tour & BBQ offers a nice blend of nature, culture, and photography. The guides are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, making your night more meaningful. The chance to get high-quality photos and enjoy traditional Lappish food makes it worth considering for your Arctic adventure.
While no Aurora tour can promise a sighting—thanks to the unpredictable nature of the lights—the experience itself is designed to maximize your chances and make the most of your evening in Rovaniemi.
In the end, if you're looking for a well-organized, culturally rich experience with the possibility of capturing stunning photos, this tour could very well be your highlight in Lapland. Just remember to stay flexible and enjoy the story-filled journey, even if the sky remains cloudy.
Rovaniemi: Northern Lights Photography Tour & BBQ
"The tour was great and well organised, pick-up location is in the city centre which was a 2 minute walk from my apartment. The BBQ included- reinde..."
FAQs
How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 3.5 hours, including transportation, stops, and the BBQ.
What should I wear?
Dress warmly, as you'll be outside in Arctic conditions. Layers, thermal clothing, and insulated boots are highly recommended.
Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, sightings depend on weather and solar activity. The tour organizers acknowledge this and offer re-join options if conditions aren’t right.
Will I get photos of the Northern Lights?
Yes, the professional photographer will take pictures of you and the Aurora, which will be emailed to you at no extra cost.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Rescheduling or re-joining within a week at half price is also possible if conditions aren’t favorable.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult paying full price. Keep in mind that the experience involves cold outdoor conditions.
Is this tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Unfortunately, this experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to terrain and activity limitations.
If you’re after a balanced mix of Arctic adventure, cultural insight, and the hope of witnessing the Northern Lights with some professional help, this tour ticks many boxes. Keep your expectations flexible, dress warmly, and enjoy the magic of Lapland’s night sky.
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