How to Plan Your Rovaniemi Aurora Borealis Snowmobile Safari & Campfire BBQ Tour

Are you planning a trip to Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland? Do you want to experience the beauty of the snowy Arctic wilderness and go on a thrilling snowmobile ride under the Northern Lights? Look no further than the Aurora Borealis Snowmobile Safari & Campfire BBQ tour. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan your tour, from booking to itinerary and what to expect.

Booking

Booking your tour is easy and can be done online. Click on this link book the tour here and select your preferred tour date, number of participants, and pick-up location. You will also have the option to add extras such as single driving of a snowmobile for an additional fee. Once you have completed your booking, you will receive a confirmation email with all the details, and your pick-up time and location for the tour. Any cancellations or modifications to your booking can be made up to 24 hours before the tour.

Itinerary

The Aurora Borealis Snowmobile Safari & Campfire BBQ tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Rovaniemi. You will be driven to the snowmobile basecamp, where you will receive your winter clothes, helmets, and snowmobile equipment such as balaclavas and gloves. A guide will give you a safety briefing and instructions on how to operate your snowmobile, and you will be paired with a partner for the shared snowmobile ride. If you have added the single driving option, you will have your snowmobile.

The journey into the wilderness takes you through the snowy forest landscapes, frozen lakes, and hills under the starry skies. You will be riding in the dark, so headlights will guide your journey. The guide will lead the way, and you will follow the group in a line. The snowmobile ride lasts for 1-1.5 hours, depending on the tour you have selected.

The highlight of the tour, of course, is the Aurora Borealis, or the Northern Lights. The best time to view the Northern Lights is during the winter months, and Lapland offers some of the best viewing locations in the world. The guide will take you to a spot with the best visibility of the Aurora, and you will watch the dancing lights in the sky while enjoying a hot drink and snacks.

Another highlight of the tour is the Lapland-style barbecue by campfire. You will enjoy sausages, vegetarians option available upon request, and warm juice by the fire, and bask in the serene surroundings of the Arctic nature. The guide will also take photos of you during the tour, which will be available for purchase.

After the campfire, you will embark on the return journey back to the basecamp and return your equipment. The tour ends with a drop-off at your hotel.

What to Expect

The Aurora Borealis Snowmobile Safari & Campfire BBQ tour is a winter activity, and the weather can be cold and unpredictable. It is recommended to dress warmly in layers, with thick socks and good quality boots, and bring an extra pair of gloves. The winter clothes provided will keep you warm, but it’s always better to be prepared. Wear a hat, as well, to protect your head from the cold.

The shared snowmobile ride requires two persons per machine, and you will take turns driving and riding as a passenger. If you add the single driving option, you will have your snowmobile. The tour is suitable for most people with normal physical fitness and no medical conditions that prevent them from participating in strenuous activities. Pregnant women are not allowed on the tour.

The Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon, and while every effort is made to provide the best viewing experience, it’s not guaranteed. However, Lapland has a high success rate of Aurora sightings, and you can increase your chances by selecting a tour on a clear night with high activity levels.

Conclusion

Rovaniemi is a magical destination in Lapland, and the Aurora Borealis Snowmobile Safari & Campfire BBQ tour is a fantastic way to explore the Arctic wilderness and experience the Northern Lights. Booking your tour is easy, and the itinerary provides a thrilling adventure, alongside the beauty of the Aurora and the warmth of the campfire barbecue. Wear warm clothes, and have a fantastic time exploring the Arctic wilderness!

An Insider’s Guide to Rovaniemi, Finland

If you are planning a trip to Rovaniemi, Finland, you’re in for a real treat. Many tourists that visit Rovaniemi come to experience the stunning northern lights and snow activities, but there is so much more to this city than meets the eye. As a local, I am excited to share some of my insights and secrets about this wonderful city with you.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

While Rovaniemi is known for its beautiful landscapes, there are several hidden gems known only to some of the locals. If you’re interested in history, a visit to the Arktikum Museum and Science Centre is a must, for it showcases the history and culture of Lapland. The Korundi House of Culture, located in a restored post office, offers events and exhibitions like concerts and dance performances. The Pilke Science Center is another gem, and it presents forests in an interactive and fun manner. This science center is perfect for children to learn about Lapland’s unique nature.

Dining Spots: Tasting Local Cuisine

If you want to try some of Lapland’s unique cuisine, you must try the reindeer meat dishes. Popular spots like Nili or Roka offer different dishes prepared with reindeer meat. Make sure to also try the traditional Finnish fish soup or wild salmon. Moreover, you can enjoy Lapland cheese, smoked fish, mushrooms, and berries, which all feature prominently in local cuisine. One must-visit spot is the Arctic Boulevard, known for its artisanal food stands and dining spots with innovative cuisine.

Cultural Experiences: Traditions and Festivals

Finland and, in particular Lapland, have a rich cultural heritage — a mix of Finnish and Sami traditions. These traditions vary from music, dance, and crafting. The indigenous Sami people are known for their reindeer herding, and their vibrant costumes inspire soulful drumbeats, which are a treat for the senses. You can experience traditional Sami culture with a sled ride or visiting a reindeer farm. Lapland’s most famous event is the Rovaniemi Summer Festival that features artists showcasing music, theater, and comedy during the months of July and August.

Local History: Amazing Stories from the Past

Exploring the winter war history of Rovaniemi is an experience that you will never forget. The city was almost completely destroyed by the Germans at the end of World War II, and as a result, it was rebuilt in a modernist style. You can visit the ice breaker Sampo, which collided with the Soviet Union in 1987 on Christmas Eve or learn more about mining history in Operation Katina Mines.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Experiences

Although Rovaniemi is beautiful, visiting the surrounding area offers a unique experience. A perfect example is the Syöte National Park, which is the best place to see the northern lights, hike, or go skiing. Lake Inarijärvi is another off-the-beaten-path experience, offering magnificent scenery for those looking to relax and rest from the city bustle.

Conclusion

Rovaniemi has a lot to offer, from its unique cuisine to its cultural heritage. In essence, spending time in this amazing city is an unforgettable experience that everyone should have. The fun never ends in Rovaniemi, and there is always something new to see, taste, or experience. I hope that this insider’s guide will inspire you to explore the hidden gems of Rovaniemi and will make your visit all the more special.