Unlimited Time & Mileage – Aurora Hunting Pro Tour

If you’re dreaming of catching the elusive northern lights in Rovaniemi, Finland, this tour might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t taken it myself, I’ve gathered plenty of insights from travelers who have, and the overall feedback is glowing. What makes this experience stand out is its unlimited time and mileage, giving you a real shot at seeing the aurora without feeling rushed or cramped.

Two aspects that truly appeal are the small group size of just 8 people, which promises a more intimate and tailored adventure, and the professional photography included, ensuring you leave with stunning images of the sky’s dance. On the flip side, some may find that the cost is a tad on the higher side for a tour, especially considering it’s not guaranteed you’ll see the lights every night. Still, if you want a flexible, personalized hunt with knowledgeable guides, this tour is likely to meet your expectations.

This experience is ideal for travelers who value personalized attention, have some patience, and are willing to invest in a high-quality chance to witness the northern lights in a comfortable, hassle-free setting. It’s less suited for those expecting a quick, cookie-cutter trip or who are on a tight budget, but for those seeking a premium aurora adventure, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Unlimited Time & Mileage: No rush or restrictions on how long or how far you travel to see the lights.
• Small Groups of 8: Ensures a more personalized, less crowded experience.
• Expert Guides and Local Knowledge: Guides are locals who know the best spots for viewing.
• Flexible Scheduling: The tour adapts to weather forecasts, rescheduling if necessary.
• Professional Photography Included: Unlimited shots, with photos sent to your email within two days.
• Multiple Locations & Borders: Potential to visit three countries, maximizing your chances.

An In-Depth Look at the Aurora Hunting Pro Tour

What’s the Booking and Planning Like?

One of the biggest perks about this tour is how much it offers in terms of flexibility. You’ll want to book at least 25 days in advance, which indicates how popular it is, and it’s wise to do so since the tour adjusts to weather forecasts. The tour is available for 4 to 12 hours, depending on conditions and what the guides decide is best, giving you the chance to stay out as long as it takes to see the lights.

The tour starts at 7:00 pm from Rovakatu 29, right in Rovaniemi. They pick you up within a 10 km radius of the city center, making it super convenient if you’re staying nearby. The small group size — capped at 8 — means you won’t be just another face on a crowded bus; instead, your guide can focus on your needs, helping with photos and sharing insights.

How the Itinerary Works

The tour centers around real-time meteorological observations and solar wind monitoring, which means they don’t just wander aimlessly hoping to stumble upon the aurora. Instead, guides actively chase the best conditions, traveling across borders if needed, to find the optimal spots. You might explore Lapland in Sweden, head to Levi, or visit other secret spots chosen each night based on weather and solar activity.

This dynamic approach means your experience is different every night, tailored to current conditions. The stops are carefully thought out to give you the best shot at witnessing the dancing lights, and you’ll move swiftly if the forecast predicts a good display elsewhere.

What’s Included and What Costs Extra

You get quite a lot for the $219 price tag. Unlimited photos mean you can take as many as you like, and the professional guide will help you capture the perfect shot. Hot drinks and cookies are provided to keep you warm, which is a plus given how cold northern nights can be.

Transport is in an air-conditioned vehicle, and all fees and taxes are included. If you don’t have winter clothing, you can rent it for an additional $10. The tour also offers metrological observations, which are part of the effort to maximize your chances.

The Experience on the Night

From reviews, it’s clear that the guides are highly praised. One reviewer noted that their guide, Elias, was very willing to drive anywhere to find the aurora, making the experience very special. Others appreciated how guides like Paul and Aslak went above and beyond, patiently waiting and repositioning for the best shots, sometimes even seeing the lights at two different locations.

The tours often last into the early morning, sometimes hours past the scheduled start, but travelers report that the patience and effort are well worth it. One reviewer mentioned that hours of driving paid off — and they got to see the aurora twice in different spots.

The Real Value of the Tour

While the price might seem steep at first glance, the value lies in the flexibility, personalized service, and the high success rate (around 95%) for seeing the northern lights. The fact that the tour actively monitors conditions and moves around for the best shot is a game-changer compared to fixed-route or standard tours.

The Downsides

The main concern for some travelers is that seeing the aurora isn’t guaranteed, which is true for most tours. However, this tour’s approach of unrestricted time and space increases your chances significantly. Also, a few reviews mention issues like late start times or less attentive guides, so choosing a reputable guide (like the ones with glowing reviews here) can make all the difference.

Another consideration is the cost. Some might wish for a lower price, but it’s important to weigh this against the personalized experience, professional photography, and flexible scheduling.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Aurora Hunting Pro Tour is perfect for those who prioritize quality and flexibility over budget. It’s well-suited for travelers who want to maximize their chances and don’t mind spending a bit more for a tailored experience. If you’re a photography enthusiast, the included unlimited photos and guidance will definitely appeal.

It’s also good for travelers who are patient and understand that nature’s show is unpredictable. The small group size and local guides make this a more intimate, customized adventure, ideal if you want to avoid crowded buses or tour groups.

Who Might Not Love It?

If your main goal is a guaranteed aurora with a refund, you might prefer a tour specifically offering that. Also, if you’re on a tight budget, this tour could stretch your travel funds. And if you’re not comfortable with long waits or hours of driving, it’s worth considering whether you’re okay with the unpredictable nature of aurora hunting.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The duration can range from 4 to 12 hours, depending on weather and solar activity. It’s designed for flexibility to give you the best chance.

Where does the tour start?
It starts at Rovakatu 29, 96200 Rovaniemi, Finland, with pickups available within 10 km of the city center.

What’s included in the price?
You get professional photography with unlimited photos, hot drinks and cookies, transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, and all fees and taxes.

Can I rent winter clothing?
Yes, winter clothing is available for an additional fee of $10 per person.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour monitors weather conditions and will reschedule to the next suitable day or give a full refund if no suitable days are found.

What if I don’t see the aurora?
While the success rate is about 95%, it’s not guaranteed. The tour’s flexible approach maximizes your chances but still depends on natural conditions.

Are hot drinks provided?
Yes, hot drinks and cookies are included to help stay warm during the night.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum is 8 travelers per guide, which helps ensure a more personal experience.

Will I get my photos after the tour?
Yes, photos will be emailed within two business days. Make sure to provide your email address when booking.

Wrapping Up

If you’re after a personalized, flexible, and high-success chance to see the northern lights, this tour offers a compelling package. The small group size, expert guides, and unlimited photography make it stand out among aurora hunts. The willingness to chase the lights across borders and adapt to weather conditions means you’re giving yourself the best shot possible.

This experience will suit travelers who appreciate attention to detail, patience, and a desire for high-quality memories of their Arctic adventure. While it’s not the cheapest option, the combination of personalized service, expert guidance, and the potential for unforgettable images makes it a worthwhile investment for many.

If you’re prepared for the unpredictability of nature and want to maximize your chances with a knowledgeable team, this tour could be one of your most memorable Arctic experiences.