Northern Lights Tour vs. Northern Lights Hunting in Lapland

As someone who calls Lapland home, I know firsthand how magical our Northern Lights can be.

As know millions of travelers world wide, and thats why Lapland is filled with travelers all around the clobe all winter to try to hunt the magical auroras.

There are already probably hundreds of companies and individuals in Lapland offering various different ways to go see northern lights.

Northern Lights tour and Northern Lights hunting can make a big difference in your experience.

Northern Lights Tours

Often Fixed Locations:

• These tours usually stick to specific, well-known spots with a good track record for Northern Lights sightings.

• Some tours might take you to just one place, while others will hop around a few locations.

Local Tip: While these locations are usually good, the weather in Lapland can be unpredictable. Even if conditions are better just 20 km north, these tours often won’t go there due to limited time and distance constraints.

Guided Experience:

• You’ll have a guide who shares interesting stories about the Northern Lights, local folklore, and photography tips.

• Many guides know the area well and can tell you about the best viewing spots.

Note: With the increase in tourism, not all guides are experts. Some might have limited local knowledge, so it’s worth checking reviews or asking locals for recommendations!

Convenient Transportation:

• Tours typically provide transportation in comfortable, heated minibuses. Some offer unique options like reindeer sleighs, husky sleds or snowmobiles.

Pro Tip: If you choose a tour, go for the unique transport options. Riding through a snowy forest in a sleigh or snowmobile is magical, even if the lights don’t show up. Prices are often pretty close to normal minibus tours.

Amenities and Extras:

• Many tours offer hot drinks, snacks, and warm clothing to keep you cozy.

• Some include stops at traditional Finnish structures like a kota (teepee) or a cozy cabin for a warm-up break.

Group Setting:

• Tours often involve groups of travelers, but you can book private tours too.

• Group sizes vary, and some larger groups can feel a bit crowded.

Local Insight: Even on a private tour, you might end up at popular spots with many other tourists. For a quieter experience, look for tours that visit less-known locations.

Find your Northern Light Tours here*! *Affiliate link. With no extra cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase.

Northern Lights Hunting (Or hunting Tour)

Dynamic Locations:

• Hunting involves actively searching for the best spots to see the lights, rather than staying at fixed locations.

• Hunters might drive long distances, even hundreds of kilometers, to find clear skies.

Fun Fact: Hunters use real-time data and weather forecasts to choose the best viewing spots, which boosts your chances of a sighting. You might start the hunt from Finland and end up in Norway.

Personalized Experience:

• Hunts are often in smaller groups or private, offering a more intimate experience.

• Guides tailor the hunt to your preferences and make decisions on the go to find the best views.

Did you know? There is actually many aurora hunters who will offer you money back quarantee if you dont see the northern light while hunting with them. (Ofc these hunters will cancel the trip if there is 0% change to see northern light in any reasonable distance.)

Adventurous Spirit:

• Be prepared for long drives and possibly challenging weather conditions. It’s ideal for those who love a good adventure.

• If you’re okay with a bit of discomfort of what might be a looong journey for a better chance at seeing the lights, this is your best bet.

Self-Reliance:

• Some hunts provide everything you need, but others might require you to bring your own snacks, drinks, and warm clothing.

Find your Northern Lights Hunting Tours here*! *Affiliate link. With no extra cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase.

Final Thoughts

Both Northern Lights tours and Northern Lights hunting offer unique experiences, but as a local, here’s my honest take:

If I myself were visiting Lapland for a once-in-a-lifetime trip, I’d choose Northern Lights hunting to maximize my chances of seeing the lights.

But no matter what you choose, Lapland’s beauty and magic will make your trip unforgettable. Just do not make all the plans around auroras, you never know what the weather might be.

For the BEST Chance to See the Lights:

• Go for the Northern Lights hunting. It’s more flexible and adapts to real-time conditions, giving you a higher chance of catching the lights even if it means driving a bit further.

For a Unique and Memorable Experience:

• Choose a Northern Lights tour with special activities like snowmobiling in the middle of wilderness. Even if the lights don’t show, these experiences are truly magical and worth every penny.

Budget Considerations:

• Hunting can be a lot pricier, especially in peak season, but it’s often worth the investment. If your budget is tight, look for tours that offer unique experiences to get the most out of your trip.

• You can totally go Northern Light hunting solo!
  • Renting a car can be a much more cost-effective way to hunt for auroras with your family. You’ll need an aurora app on your phone, an app to check cloud coverage, and maps to find good spots near lakes and opean areas. Just remember, not all roads are maintained in winter, so if a road looks small and snowy, don’t drive there—you’ll likely get stuck. Stick to main roads with one or two-digit numbers.
  • You can also hunt for the Northern Lights on foot. If the aurora forecast is good, head to the nearest lake or any dark area!
  • Read more tips for Northern light hunting here.

Last Notes

Different people and companies may name these tours differently. Sometimes, a tour labeled as a “Northern Lights tour” might actually be a hunting tour. This terminology is not standardized, but tour or hunting is becoming quite common. So, when you’re looking for the best option for yourself, always read the full description!

Psst! If you want to keep up with how often I casually spot the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi, follow me on Instagram @heiagain! I have a highlight called ‘AURORA’ where I’ve been sharing every aurora I’ve seen this season.