Rovaniemi: Northern Lights Snowmobile Tour

Rovaniemi: Northern Lights Snowmobile Tour

Planning a trip to Lapland and wondering how to make the most of the Arctic night? This Northern Lights Snowmobile Tour offered by Wild about Lapland promises an adventurous ride through snowy forests, with the chance to witness the Aurora Borealis in a wilderness setting. It’s a popular choice for those wanting a genuine Arctic experience, away from city lights, with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and stories.

We like that this tour keeps things intimate with a small group size of just 8 participants, which means a more personal experience and plenty of time for questions. Plus, the scenic route through the Taiga forests sounds like the perfect backdrop for a winter adventure. On the flip side, some travelers might find the icy, hilly paths challenging, especially if their snowmobile skills are limited, and the absence of certain advertised amenities, like the campfire barbecue, could be a minor disappointment.

This experience is best suited for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those eager for a chance to see the Northern Lights in a quiet, natural environment. Just keep in mind that it’s not suitable for children under 18 or travelers with certain medical conditions, and you’ll want to be comfortable with outdoor winter conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Small group experience enhances intimacy and interaction with guides
• Scenic snowmobile ride through Taiga forests offers authentic Arctic landscapes
• Chance to see the Northern Lights in a wilderness setting, weather permitting
• Includes all necessary gear and warm clothing for comfort
• Duration of around 4 hours with outdoor stops and campfire moments
• Suitable for confident drivers with a valid license, not recommended for those with medical conditions or children under 18

An Honest Look at the Rovaniemi Northern Lights Snowmobile Tour

If you’re heading to Rovaniemi and want to add a dash of adventure to your trip, this snowmobile safari could be just what you’re looking for. It’s a 4-hour journey into the Arctic wilderness, designed to be as much about the scenery and the night sky as it is about the ride itself.

The Route and the Experience

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel (if you’re staying outside the city center) or from a designated meeting point. Once you’re equipped with thermal overalls, boots, gloves, helmets, and balaclavas, you’ll be briefed on safety and driving instructions. The actual ride takes you through snow-covered Taiga forests, beyond the Arctic Circle, away from any city lights that might spoil your chance of seeing the Northern Lights.

The trail is set in snowy woods that create a stunning, quiet landscape—imagine towering pines dusted with snow and the crisp Arctic air all around. The group stops several times along the way, giving you chances to enjoy the scenery, take photos, and listen to your guide share stories about the Northern Lights and Arctic life.

What’s Special About the Stops?

During one of these pauses, you can gather around a campfire—though, as one reviewer pointed out, the promised barbecue and snacks might sometimes be missing. Still, the opportunity to warm up with hot drinks and listen to stories adds a cozy touch to the adventure. If luck is on your side and the skies are clear, you might witness the Aurora dancing overhead, which is honestly the highlight for most travelers.

The Guides and Group Size

The guides seem to be knowledgeable and friendly, often praised in reviews for their helpfulness and ability to cater to non-English speakers. The small group size (limited to 8) means everyone gets more attention, and if you’re lucky enough to get a private tour, you’ll have the freedom to explore at a faster pace.

Driving and Skill Level

It’s worth noting that the tour is designed for confident drivers with a valid license, and the driver of the snowmobile assumes liability for any damages. If you want to ride solo, a supplement is available, but most will share the snowmobile with a companion, making for a fun shared experience. The paths are icy and hilly at times, which may pose a challenge for some, so good snowmobile skills help.

What Do the Reviews Say?

One reviewer mentioned, “Great organization and a fantastic guide. We were picked up on time, and everything was translated into German for us,” emphasizing the smooth logistics. However, another pointed out that the paths were very icy and hilly, which made the ride somewhat demanding. The same reviewer also noted that the campfire snack didn’t happen, but the Aurora views made up for it.

Meanwhile, a different traveler appreciated the extensive ride and the ability to “zoom through the landscape at full speed” thanks to a private tour. The guide’s friendliness and helpfulness clearly stood out, making the experience more enjoyable.

Is it Worth the Price?

At $210 per person, the tour offers quite a lot: gear, safety instructions, a scenic ride, a chance to see the Northern Lights, and a cozy campfire. Considering the small-group nature and the outdoor experience, many find this to be good value—especially when compared to pricier options that might not include as much time outdoors or as intimate a setting.

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Practical Tips for Booking and Preparing

• Dress warmly: Even though thermal gear is provided, layering is essential to stay comfortable in the Arctic cold.
• Bring your driver’s license: You need a valid license to operate the snowmobile.
• Check your physical health: Not recommended for those with heart or serious medical conditions.
• Be prepared for outdoor time: It’s about 4 hours outdoors, so proper clothing is key.
• Confirm your pickup details: If staying in the city center, you’ll need to go to the office at Rovakatu 24.

Final Thoughts

This snowmobile tour offers a compelling mix of adventure, nature, and potentially breathtaking Northern Lights views. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it feel more personal, and the scenery along the trail sounds stunning. It’s a solid choice for those who enjoy outdoor winter activities and are comfortable driving in icy conditions.

While it might not be perfect—some reviews mention missing amenities like the barbecue, and challenging paths for inexperienced drivers—the overall experience often exceeds expectations. If you’re craving a true Arctic adventure with the added thrill of possibly witnessing the Aurora, this tour is worth considering.

This experience is especially suited for travelers who want a memorable, active outing in Lapland and don’t mind outdoor winter conditions. It’s a good pick for couples, friends, or solo travelers with a sense of adventure and a desire to explore the wilderness beyond the city lights.

FAQ

Is pickup included if I stay outside the city center?
Pickup is included for accommodations outside the city center, but there is an extra surcharge if you’re staying more than 10 km away.

What should I bring?
You’ll be provided with thermal overall, boots, gloves, helmet, and a balaclava. Still, dressing warmly in layers is recommended.

Can I drive alone on the snowmobile?
Yes, you can pay a single driving supplement of 60 euros if you want to ride solo, but most will share with a passenger.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 18 or those with certain medical conditions.

How long is the tour?
The ride lasts about 4 hours outdoors, including stops and breaks.

Will I see the Northern Lights?
There’s a solid chance, weather permitting. The guide will share tips on spotting the Aurora, but it’s always dependent on conditions.

What is the group size?
Limited to 8 participants, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible.

Are safety instructions provided?
Absolutely. The guide will give detailed safety and driving instructions before heading out.

What happens if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility to fit your plans.

If you’re dreaming of Arctic adventures and the elusive Northern Lights, this snowmobile tour from Rovaniemi offers a pretty authentic slice of Lapland’s winter magic. Just remember to dress warmly, stay safe, and keep your fingers crossed for clear skies!

You can check availability for your dates here: