Rovaniemi , Finland

Northern Lights by Van

Active

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Breathe in, get a snack with a warm drink and enjoy the natural light show in the dark arctic sky far away from the city lights! This way we increase your chances of seeing Northern Lights in all their beauty - with outdoor open space to make the magic even more exhilarating! The way to our private location will take 40 minutes starting from our Safari Center where you are provided with warm outfits (if needed).
Once at the location, take a seat around the fireplace and learn about the Northern Lights following stories from our guides to the sound of wood crackling in the fire in the background. Patience and a bit of luck - that's all it takes to see the fairy tale come true! Your guide will be happy to offer some help with taking pictures, charge your phone and let the magic happen!

Please note: The northern lights are a natural occurrence and we are unable to guarantee activity, vibrancy or color on the evening of the tour.

Available options

Northern Lights by Van

Pickup included

What's included

Restroom facilities

Sausages & berry juice

Guidance in English

Private northern lights spot on top of the hill with 360° view

Thermal clothing

Pickup and drop-off from designated locations

Detailed itinerary

After the pick up from the designated location, our guide will take you to our Safari Center where you will have an opportunity to get warmer clothes (overalls, boots, woolen socks and gloves) to ensure the comfort during the tour. Then, we drive out from the city and light pollution 40 minutes, to our private location with the fireplace. The location is dark enough and has wide visibility, which with a bit of luck is perfect for seeing aurora.

While waiting for the northern lights to appear your guide will light a campfire and you can enjoy some snacks and hot drinks while listening to stories and facts about the northern lights.

After approximately 1,5 hours at the location, our guide will take you back to our Safari Center so you can change back to your own clothes and drive you to one of the designated meeting points.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please let us know if there are any dietary restrictions, so we can prepare accordingly.

Meeting point

Meeting time at the Wild Nordic Safari Center in is 30 minutes prior to activity starting time. Meeting time for other pick up locations is within 80 minutes prior to the starting time. The time will be informed in the confirmation message, please contact us in case you haven't received one.

Important notes

Please present the voucher/ticket/email confirmation to the driver upon pick-up.

About Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi is the capital of Finland's Lapland region, renowned as the official hometown of Santa Claus. It offers a unique blend of Arctic nature, cultural heritage, and festive charm, making it a year-round destination for families, adventure seekers, and nature lovers.

Top Attractions

Santa Claus Village

A year-round Christmas-themed attraction where visitors can meet Santa Claus and cross the Arctic Circle.

Cultural 2-3 hours €10-20

Arktikum

A museum and science center showcasing the history, culture, and nature of Lapland.

Museum 1-2 hours €12-15

Ranua Wildlife Park

A zoo specializing in Arctic and Nordic wildlife, located about 80 km from Rovaniemi.

Nature Half-day trip €15-20

Must-Try Local Dishes

Reindeer Sausage

A traditional Finnish sausage made from reindeer meat, often served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam.

Main Course Contains meat, gluten-free if served without bread.

Salmon Soup

A creamy soup made with fresh salmon, potatoes, and vegetables, often served with rye bread.

Soup Contains fish, gluten-free if served without bread.

Popular Activities

Dog sledding Snowmobiling Hiking Northern Lights viewing Spa visits Coffee breaks Visit Santa Claus Village Explore Arktikum

Best Time to Visit

December to March (Winter) and June (Summer)

Winter is ideal for snow activities and Northern Lights, while summer offers midnight sun and outdoor adventures.

-15°C to -30°C (Winter), 10°C to 20°C (Summer) 5°F to -22°F (Winter), 50°F to 68°F (Summer)

Practical Information

Language

Official: Finnish, Swedish
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Rovaniemi is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, winter conditions can pose challenges.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of ice and snow on sidewalks and roads.
• Dress warmly and in layers.
• Stay informed about weather conditions.

Getting there

By air

Rovaniemi Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Rovaniemi Railway Station

By bus

Rovaniemi Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and efficient, with frequent services.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Not commonly used, hail on the street or call a taxi company.

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

City Center Ounasvaara

Day trips

Ranua Wildlife Park

80 km from Rovaniemi • Half-day trip

A zoo specializing in Arctic and Nordic wildlife, offering a unique opportunity to see polar bears, reindeer, and other animals in a naturalistic setting.

Pyhä-Luosto National Park

130 km from Rovaniemi • Full-day trip

A stunning national park with hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views, offering a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year.

Festivals

Arctic Lights Festival • February Santa Claus Marathon • First weekend of December

Pro tips

Visit Santa Claus Village early in the day to avoid crowds.
Dress in layers and wear waterproof, insulated boots in winter.
Try local dishes like reindeer sausage and salmon soup.
Book accommodations and popular activities well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Consider visiting in shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and lower prices.