Rovaniemi: Northern Lights Sleigh Ride

If you’re dreaming of catching the Northern Lights in Lapland, you’ve probably come across quite a few options. One of the more popular choices is this Northern Lights Sleigh Ride offered by NordicUnique Travels. We haven’t personally been on this exact tour, but after digging into reviews and details, we can paint a pretty clear picture of what to expect.

What stands out with this experience is its combination of a snowmobile-powered sleigh ride—a quick and exhilarating way to traverse the snow-covered landscape—and the promise of getting away from city lights to better see the Aurora Borealis. Plus, the cozy touch of hot blueberry juice and gingerbread by a campfire really adds to the charm.

On the flip side, a possible snag is that, due to the unpredictable nature of the Northern Lights, there’s no guarantee you’ll see the lights themselves. That’s just how natural phenomena go—sometimes the weather or solar activity doesn’t cooperate. Still, if you’re after a fun, authentic Arctic adventure with knowledgeable guides, this tour could very well hit the spot.

This experience works best for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure and comfort, especially if you prefer not to drive a snowmobile yourself. It’s also well-suited to those who appreciate storytelling, local ambiance, and a chance to enjoy Lapland’s stunning winter scenery.

Key Points

• Includes warm clothing and gear, so you won’t need to pack bulky winter gear.
• Guides are knowledgeable and try to make the experience engaging, with storytelling and local insights.
• The tour’s long enough at 2.5 hours, offering a good balance of excitement and relaxation.
• Seeing the Aurora isn’t guaranteed, but the experience itself offers plenty of memorable moments.
• Ideal for non-drivers or those who prefer to relax while someone else handles the snowmobile.
• Food and drinks—hot blueberry juice and gingerbread—add a cozy touch, especially after the chilly ride.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect from the Tour

When you book this tour, the first thing you’ll notice is the smooth, hassle-free pickup from your Rovaniemi accommodation, typically from Santa Claus Holiday Village or the Nordic Unique Travels office. This convenience means you don’t have to worry about navigating snowy roads or finding your way to a meeting point.

Once you’re picked up, you’ll be kitted out with winter overalls, boots, gloves, and a balaclava—all included in your ticket price. This ease of gear provision is a real plus, especially for travelers who don’t want to lug heavy winter clothes or worry about the cold.

The main activity involves sitting on a comfortable sleigh pulled by a snowmobile. Your guide, driving the snowmobile, will take you through the snow-blanketed landscape, which is a thrill in itself. The ride is quick but offers plenty of opportunities to admire the Arctic scenery—think frozen lakes, snow-laden trees, and wide-open, peaceful vistas.

What makes this tour memorable is the focus on hunting for the Northern Lights. Though sightings are not guaranteed—a fact acknowledged openly by the operator and reflected in reviews—you’re taken to a dark, remote frozen lake, away from light pollution, which is ideal for Aurora viewing if the conditions cooperate.

While waiting for the lights, you’ll enjoy hot blueberry juice and gingerbread, which add a warm and tasty touch to the chilly night. The guides are often praised for their storytelling skills, sharing myths, scientific facts, and local tales that deepen your appreciation of the Arctic environment.

Many reviews mention the guides’ professionalism and friendly attitude, making the overall experience more engaging. One reviewer commented, “The guides were so nice and the tour was a lot of fun,” highlighting how important the personal touch is in these Arctic adventures.

The Highlights: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Snowmobile sleigh ride: You’ll love the speed and adrenaline of being pulled across snowy fields and frozen lakes—without the hassle of driving yourself. It’s a fun way to get into Lapland’s wilderness.

Aurora hunting: Even if the Northern Lights don’t appear, the effort to find them involves venturing into some of the darkest, most scenic spots around Rovaniemi. This gives you a real sense of being out in the wild, away from city lights.

Cultural and storytelling element: The guides share stories and myths about the Aurora, adding depth to the experience. It’s not just about looking up, but also about understanding the cultural significance of this natural phenomenon.

Warm snacks and drinks: The gingerbread and hot blueberry juice are a thoughtful touch, making the chilly waiting period more comfortable and tasty.

Convenient pickup and drop-off: The included transportation from central Rovaniemi simplifies logistics, especially if you’re short on time or unfamiliar with the area.

What Could Be Better?

While the tour offers many positive aspects, it’s worth noting that Northern Lights sightings cannot be guaranteed. This is purely dependent on weather conditions and solar activity, both of which are out of the operator’s control. Multiple reviews reflect this, with some guests saying they saw the lights “behind the clouds” or not at all, yet still enjoyed the overall experience.

Another consideration is that the tour is somewhat close to the city, which some travelers feel might diminish the chance of optimal Aurora viewing—many suggest that going farther away from city lights could boost chances.

The tour’s group size requirements—minimums of 2 people on weekdays and Saturdays, and 4 on Sundays and holidays—means if you’re traveling solo or in a smaller group, you might need to find others or be flexible with dates.

Finally, children under 3 are not recommended, and the experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, which might limit options for some travelers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed, guided Arctic adventure that balances fun, scenery, and cultural storytelling. It’s great for non-drivers, as the snowmobile is operated by guides, and it’s equally appealing for those who want a cozy, atmospheric experience rather than an intense outdoor activity.

If your primary goal is to see the Northern Lights, keep in mind that the tour’s success depends heavily on weather and solar conditions. Still, many guests find that even without a guaranteed Aurora sighting, the overall experience—being out in the quiet Arctic night, the cozy campfire, the storytelling—makes it worthwhile.

This experience also suits travelers who appreciate good value for money. At $112 per person, it includes all necessary gear, transport, and snacks, making it a straightforward, no-hassle option.

On the other hand, those craving a more remote, off-the-beaten-path Aurora experience might prefer tours that operate further from city centers. Also, families with very young children or travelers with mobility needs might want to consider alternatives, since the activity isn’t suited for very small kids or wheelchair users.

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FAQs

Is there a guarantee I will see the Northern Lights?
No. The lights depend on weather and solar activity, so sightings aren’t guaranteed. Many guests still find the experience rewarding regardless of seeing the aurora.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers pickup and drop-off, winter gear (overalls, boots, gloves, balaclava), the sleigh ride, and hot blueberry juice with gingerbread.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2.5 hours, giving you ample time for the ride, waiting, and enjoying the snacks.

Can I drive the snowmobile myself?
No, the guides operate the snowmobiles, making it a suitable option if you prefer not to drive or don’t have a driver’s license.

Is it suitable for children?
Children under 3 are not recommended, and children under 11 need to be accompanied by paying adults.

What should I wear?
All winter gear is provided, but it’s good to wear warm, layered clothing underneath for extra comfort.

Is this activity accessible for wheelchair users?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of the activity and terrain.

What if I don’t want to pay upfront?
You can reserve and pay later, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

What should I do if I book but the weather looks unfavorable?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, so keep an eye on the forecast and communicate with the provider if needed.

Final Thoughts

For travelers aiming to experience Lapland’s icy charms with a good dose of adventure and local storytelling, this Northern Lights Sleigh Ride offers a friendly, accessible way to explore the Arctic night. The combination of guided snowmobile rides, cultural tales, and warm snacks creates a cozy, memorable outing—even if the elusive Aurora isn’t always visible.

While it’s not a guaranteed Aurora chase, many guests note that the overall experience—beautiful snowy scenery, friendly guides, and a warm campfire—makes it worth the price. The tour’s simplicity and inclusiveness make it particularly suitable for those who prefer to relax and enjoy the wilderness without the pressure of self-driving or intense outdoor activity.

If your goal is to leave with stories and experiences, not just photos of the Northern Lights, this tour could be a highlight of your Lapland trip. Just be prepared for some luck with the lights, and you’ll be rewarded with a genuine Arctic adventure.

Remember: The magic of Lapland isn’t just in a single sighting but in the peaceful darkness, the quiet crunch of snow underfoot, and the warmth of shared stories beneath the night sky. This tour encapsulates that spirit beautifully.

You can check availability for your dates here: