Rovaniemi: Northern Lights Photography Tour & Small Group Chase

Summary

Chasing auroras in Lapland’s wild silence with local guides

You’ll bundle up in Arctic gear and join a small group led by local guides who know exactly where to chase the Northern Lights near Rovaniemi. Expect warm drinks around snowy forests, real-time tips for your camera or phone, and pro photos included after your night out. The magic isn’t just in seeing auroras—it’s sharing quiet moments under wild Lapland skies.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is how my boots crunched over the snow when we stepped out of the van—so much quieter than I expected, almost like walking on thick felt. Our guide, Olli, handed me a headlamp and gave this little grin, like he knew something I didn’t. He said they’d been tracking the weather since morning and tonight looked promising for a real aurora chase. I was nervous about the cold (I’m from southern Spain, so you can imagine), but they bundled us up in these heavy jackets and boots that made me feel sort of invincible. The air smelled sharp, almost metallic, and there was this hush except for someone quietly zipping their parka.

We drove out of Rovaniemi for what felt like ages—maybe 40 minutes? Hard to tell in the dark—with Olli telling stories about his childhood here and how he still gets excited every time the lights show up. He kept checking some app on his phone, muttering about solar activity. There were only five of us in the group, which made it easy to ask questions without feeling silly. When we finally stopped at one of their “secret” spots (he wouldn’t say exactly where), it was just us and a wall of trees under a sky that looked way too big. Hot berry juice in my hands—never had that before—and then suddenly someone whispered “there!”

I’ll be honest: at first it was just a pale smudge above the pines, not those wild colors you see online. But Olli set up his tripod and showed me how to adjust my camera settings—he even let me use his lens because mine fogged up (rookie mistake). And then… green ribbons started moving across the sky, slow at first, then twisting faster. Everyone got quiet except for one guy who kept laughing every time another wave appeared. My cheeks hurt from smiling. The cold didn’t matter anymore.

On the drive back to Rovaniemi I kept replaying those few minutes when everything went still except for the lights above us. Olli promised he’d send us all his photos—honestly, though, I think I’ll remember most how small we felt out there together in that silent snow. If you’re thinking about a Northern Lights tour from Rovaniemi, don’t stress about perfect photos or forecasts; just go with people who know these woods by heart.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Northern Lights photography tour

• Meet guide and get warm clothing
• Attend briefing on weather and aurora activity
• Travel to exclusive private locations
• Enjoy Northern Lights photography session

Top questions

How long is the Northern Lights photography tour from Rovaniemi?

The tour typically lasts several hours in the evening, including travel time to remote locations outside Rovaniemi.

Is hotel pickup included for this Northern Lights tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included within a 10-kilometer range of Rovaniemi.

What should I wear for an aurora hunt near Rovaniemi?

Warm winter clothing is provided—including jackets and boots—but dress in layers underneath for comfort.

Can I bring my own camera on this photography tour?

Yes, you can bring your own DSLR camera; tripods are available if needed.

Are snacks or hot drinks provided during the tour?

Yes, hot drinks and snacks are included during your time outdoors.

How many people are in each small group?

The group size ranges from 2 to 8 guests per tour.

Is this Northern Lights tour suitable for children?

The minimum age for participants is 10 years old.

Will professional photos be taken during the experience?

A professional photographer will take photos throughout; edited images are shared after your tour.

What’s included

Your evening includes hotel pickup and drop-off within central Rovaniemi, transport by premium minivan to exclusive private locations far from city lights, all necessary warm winter clothing and boots, headlamps and backpacks as needed, hot drinks with snacks while you wait under Arctic skies, use of tripods or smartphone mounts for photography help, plus a collection of professionally edited photos sent to you after your night out together.