Rovaniemi: Snowmobiling under Aurora+Kota Salmon & Photos

If you’re dreaming of chasing the Northern Lights while feeling the thrill of Arctic snowmobiling, this tour might catch your eye. Though we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, the way it combines adventure, local cuisine, and a bit of Aurora magic makes it worth considering.

What we really like is how this experience balances adrenaline-packed snowmobiling with the warm comfort of a traditional Finnish Kota and the chance to capture stunning photos of the Northern Lights. Plus, the inclusion of a salmon dinner in a cozy setting feels authentic and adds a lovely, relaxed end to the adventure.

One thing to note is that this tour has specific age and licensing requirements, meaning it’s not suitable for minors without a driver’s license, and young children under 3 probably won’t fit into the experience comfortably.

This experience seems best suited for adventurous travelers who want to combine outdoor activity with cultural bites and memorable photos—especially those eager to see Aurora Borealis if conditions cooperate.

Key Points

• Active Arctic adventure: Snowmobiling through the Arctic Circle offers a genuine thrill.
• Authentic Finnish experience: Warm up with a traditional salmon dinner in a Kota hut.
• Photo opportunities: Professional photographer captures your moments, perfect for sharing.
• Flexible booking: Fully cancellable up to 24 hours before, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
• Limited for minors: Children under 3 and those without a driver’s license can’t participate.
• Seasonal variability: Aurora sightings depend on weather and sky conditions, so no guarantees.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

This tour is a pretty well-rounded way to enjoy the Arctic outside of just viewing the Northern Lights from a distance. It starts with a convenient pickup from either Santa’s Hotel Santa Claus or Santa Claus Village, both well-known spots in Rovaniemi. The transport is a short 30-minute ride to the base in the Lappish forest, setting the scene for a true Arctic adventure.

Snowmobiling Through the Arctic Forest

Once at the base, you’ll get a safety briefing, along with the necessary gear — helmets and gloves — which are essential for comfort and safety in the cold. If you’re sharing a snowmobile, you’ll take turns driving, so don’t worry if you’ve never done it before. The guides are experienced, and the ride itself lasts about 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the snow-covered landscape.

From reviews, we know that many find the snowmobiling to be a highlight of the experience. The chance to glide through Arctic forest landscapes at speed is exhilarating, especially when surrounded by snow and potentially under a clear sky. Some reviews mention the ride as “amazing,” with others noting the guides’ professionalism and friendliness.

Aurora Watching and Photos

One of the main draws is the hope of catching the Northern Lights. The tour guide’s expertise in photography is a bonus, as they will help you capture the Aurora if it appears. Of course, Aurora sightings are weather-dependent, and there’s no guarantee they’ll be visible every night. But knowing that you have a professional photographer with you increases the chances of getting some great shots.

Finnish Salmon Dinner in a Kota

After the snowmobiling, you’ll head to a traditional Kota hut—a cozy, wooden shelter typical in Lapland. Here, you’ll warm up around a fire while enjoying a delicious salmon dinner. The menu features smoked or grilled salmon, with bread and hot blueberry juice, which sounds like a simple yet satisfying Arctic feast. Reviews highlight how warm and authentic this part of the tour feels, adding a genuine Finnish flavor to your night.

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The Practical Side

The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, making it a substantial evening outing without being overly long. It’s designed to be flexible—departing at different times depending on the season and booking volume—and it ends with a convenient drop-off back at your hotel or Santa Claus Village.

What’s Not Included and Important to Know

You’ll need a valid driver’s license if you want to take the wheel, and children under 3 are not allowed. The minimum age for drivers is 18. Also, the tour has some minimum group size requirements: two people on weekdays and Saturdays, and four on Sundays and holidays, so it’s not ideal if you’re traveling solo during off-peak times.

Arriving early (about 10 minutes before the scheduled start) is recommended to ensure a smooth start. Keep in mind, there’s no refund if the Northern Lights don’t appear, which is typical for Aurora tours—just something to be aware of when making your plans.

What the Experience Feels Like

We imagine it’s a mix of adventure, anticipation, and cozy comfort. Driving through snow-blanketed forests under a darkening sky offers a real sense of freedom, and if luck is on your side, the Aurora dancing overhead will make it all unforgettable. The warm salmon dinner in the Kota, with its crackling fire, provides a lovely contrast to the cold outside and leaves you with a sense of satisfaction after an active evening.

From user reviews, the overall impression is positive: the snowmobiling is fun and well-managed, the dinner is hearty and authentic, and the photo service is a thoughtful addition. Some mention the experience as a “once-in-a-lifetime” kind of event, especially if the Aurora makes an appearance.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Since the tour is guided in multiple languages including Chinese, English, and Finnish, it caters to a diverse group of travelers. The group size tends to be manageable, so you’ll get personal attention, but it’s not overly intimate. That’s not necessarily a downside, as it adds a lively, social aspect if you’re traveling with others.

Is it Worth the Price?

Considering the inclusion of transportation, snowmobiling gear, professional photography, dinner, and the chance (though not guaranteed) to see the Aurora, the price offers decent value. It’s a full, curated experience that combines thrills and culture. If you’re looking for a memorable Arctic night that’s more than just Northern Lights viewing from a distance, this hits the mark.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurers who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable in cold weather. It’s also good for those who want a taste of traditional Lapland cuisine and like the idea of professional Aurora photos to remember their trip.

However, it’s not suitable for unlicensed drivers, very young children, or those who prefer a more relaxed, less active evening. If you’re after a quiet, contemplative Aurora viewing, you might prefer a different kind of tour. But for anyone craving a lively, engaging night with a good dose of Arctic authenticity, this is a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I participate if I don’t have a driver’s license?
No, a valid driver’s license is required if you wish to drive the snowmobile. If not, you can still ride as a passenger and share driving duties.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 3 are not allowed, and minors need to be accompanied by a paying adult with a license. It’s mainly designed for adults or older teenagers.

What should I bring?
Just bring your driver’s license. The tour provides helmets and gloves, but dressing warmly in layers is always smart in Arctic conditions.

Can I cancel if I change my plans?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Keep in mind, there’s no refund if the Northern Lights don’t show.

How long is the snowmobiling ride?
You’ll spend about 1.5 hours snowmobiling, with time for breaks and photo stops.

Is the dinner in a real Kota?
Yes, the dinner takes place in a traditional Finnish Kota hut, which offers a warm, authentic setting.

Will I get good photos of the Aurora?
Professionally taken photos are included, but Aurora visibility depends on weather and sky conditions—no guarantees.

Are the group sizes large?
The tour has minimum group size requirements—two people on weekdays and Saturdays, four on Sundays and holidays—so it might not run solo during off-peak times.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded Arctic experience, blending adventure, culture, and the chance to photograph the Northern Lights. It’s particularly suited for those who want more than just a quick glimpse of Aurora and enjoy active outdoor pursuits. The dinner and photo service add thoughtful, authentic touches that make it feel special.

If you’re after a memorable night in Lapland with a dash of adrenaline and cozy tradition, this could be just the adventure you’re looking for. Just remember, Aurora sightings are always a bit of a gamble, so it’s best to go with an open mind and an appreciation for the Arctic landscape.

Happy travels, and may your Arctic night be filled with lights and laughter.

You can check availability for your dates here: