Aurora trip and Snowshoes in Lake Rautusjarvi

Aurora trip and Snowshoes in Lake Rautusjarvi: An Authentic Arctic Experience

Many travelers dreaming of Lapland’s icy wilderness seek out the chance to see the elusive Northern Lights. This tour by Keo Wilderness offers a balanced blend of adventure, comfort, and education, all amid the stunning backdrop of Lake Rautusjarvi. While there’s no guarantee you’ll catch the aurora, the carefully curated experience makes the odds worthwhile — and the journey memorable.

What caught our eye are the knowledgeable guides, the beautiful natural setting, and the opportunity to snowshoe on a frozen lake. These elements combine to create a genuine Lapland outing that’s more than just a quick snapshot of the lights. The only consideration? The tour’s focus on nature means weather can influence the experience, so flexibility is key.

This experience is perfect for those who love outdoor adventures, enjoy learning about local legends, or simply want a cozy, authentic night under the stars. If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed evening with chances for stunning photos, this tour is worth considering.

Key Points

• Expert guides prioritize safety and find the best viewing spots for the Northern Lights.
• Snowshoeing on Lake Rautusjarvi offers a fun, immersive way to enjoy the Arctic wilderness.
• Hot drinks and a fire help keep guests warm while waiting for the aurora.
• The small group size (max 15 travelers) ensures a personalized experience.
• The free photos provide a lasting memory of the night’s magic.
• Flexible cancellation policy allows for peace of mind.

An In-Depth Look at the Aurora and Snowshoe Adventure

Setting the Scene: Levi and Rautusjarvi

Starting from Levi, a popular winter destination, the tour takes you about 15 kilometers away from town, on the shores of Lake Rautusjarvi. This distance is ideal—it moves you away from city lights and pollution, increasing your chances of seeing the aurora in a dark, clear sky. Reviewers rave about the peacefulness of this spot, with Melissa_W recounting how standing on the frozen lake and gazing at the stars was “out of this world.” The vast openness of Rautusjarvi offers an unobstructed view of the northern sky, making it a perfect location for aurora hunting.

The Journey: Transport and Group Size

The tour provides private transportation, which adds comfort and convenience. The small group size (up to 15 guests) means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and guides can tailor their advice and assistance. According to reviews, the guides—whose names aren’t specified but are described as “lovely and very knowledgeable”—are a highlight, making the experience engaging and informative.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Köngäs Village
While the main focus is Lake Rautusjarvi, the tour begins or includes a brief stop at Köngäs, a tranquil village in Northern Ostrobothnia. Here, travelers can appreciate Finland’s quiet, forested landscapes. It’s a peaceful introduction to the surroundings, setting the tone for the wilderness adventure ahead.

Main Event: Rautusjärvi and Snowshoeing
Once at the lake, guests are equipped with snowshoes—a fun way to traverse the frozen landscape. This is more than just a walk; it’s an active way to connect with the environment and get closer to nature. One reviewer, Nawal_B, mentioned that warm drinks and marshmallows helped ease the cold while waiting, highlighting the thoughtful touches that add comfort.

Snowshoeing on the lake not only provides a unique perspective but also offers fantastic opportunities for stunning photos of the star-filled sky. Melissa_W shared how standing on the frozen lake and seeing the stars was “out of this world,” emphasizing how memorable this part of the tour can be when the weather cooperates.

Chasing the Aurora: The Magic and the Reality

The core reason for choosing this tour is the hope of witnessing the Northern Lights. The guides do their best to position guests in the best spots based on weather and solar activity. According to reviewers, the guides’ expertise is valued, with one saying, “the guides made everything run like clockwork,” which is important when chasing a phenomenon as unpredictable as the aurora.

However, it’s crucial to remember that aurora sightings are never guaranteed. Even with perfect conditions, luck plays a significant role. The tour includes an educational component about Lapland’s legends and the science behind the lights, enriching the experience beyond just sighting the aurora.

The Cozy Touches: Fire, Hot Drinks, and Photos

While waiting for the lights, guests gather around a fire in the wilderness—a simple, effective way to stay warm. The tour includes hot drinks and cookies, which reviewers appreciate, especially in the cold. Melissa_W mentioned how hot juice and the fire were “very welcome” after snowshoeing.

Plus, the guides take professional photos during the evening, and guests receive their top five images for free—a nice bonus that helps preserve the memories without the hassle of taking photos themselves.

Duration, Cost, and Value

The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, making it a manageable outing that fits well into a larger trip schedule. The cost is listed as $0.00, likely indicating that the booking process is free, but the tour itself is paid—perhaps as part of a package or included in another arrangement. Based on reviews, the value comes from the expert guidance, stunning scenery, and memorable moments, making it a worthwhile investment for many.

Practical Details and Tips

Weather and Clothing:
The tour emphasizes the importance of dressing warmly. Reviewers like Nawal_B found that warm drinks and marshmallows helped, but you’ll want thermal clothing, hats, gloves, and insulated boots for comfort. The tour notes that thermal clothing is not included, so plan accordingly.

Physical Fitness:
Participants should have moderate physical fitness, as snowshoeing on a frozen lake can be physically engaging but not overly strenuous.

Booking and Cancellation:
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if weather conditions turn unfavorable or if your plans change.

Additional Options:
Private tours are available for an extra cost, perfect for special occasions or those seeking a more personalized experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for adventurers and nature lovers who want an authentic Arctic experience, complete with snowshoeing and storytelling. It’s also perfect for families with children, as many reviewers found it suitable for kids, citing guides’ engaging approach. If you’re keen to capture stunning photos of the Northern Lights and enjoy a cozy, outdoor atmosphere, this tour checks many boxes.

However, travelers with mobility impairments might find the snowshoeing and outdoor terrain challenging, and those seeking a guaranteed aurora might want to consider this as part of a broader trip plan.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic Lapland experience that balances outdoor activity with cultural storytelling and comfort. The expert guides, the beautiful setting of Lake Rautusjarvi, and the chance to snowshoe on the ice make it an appealing choice for those seeking a memorable Arctic adventure.

While the aurora is never guaranteed, the combination of stunning scenery, cozy fires, and professional photography ensures you’ll leave with incredible memories—regardless of whether the lights make an appearance. It’s a thoughtful, value-rich experience that captures the magic of Lapland and its legendary skies.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides private transportation from Levi, making it convenient and comfortable.

What should I wear?
Dressing warmly is essential. Although thermal clothing isn’t included, packing layers, insulated gloves, hats, and waterproof boots will help you stay comfortable.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 3 hours, which is enough time to enjoy snowshoeing, hot drinks, and the chance to see the Northern Lights.

Is it suitable for children?
Many reviews mention family groups and kids as young as 7 or 9, so it’s suitable for children with moderate physical fitness and proper clothing.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, the tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If weather cancels the activity, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Are photos included?
Yes, the guides will take professional photos and send you your top five shots for free, a lovely bonus to remember the night.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
Seeing the aurora depends on solar activity and weather. The guides do their best to find the best viewing spots, but the lights are never guaranteed.

Is this a good value?
Considering the guided expertise, transportation, equipment, and photos, many reviewers find the experience to be a worthwhile investment for a unique Arctic night.

Do I need any special physical fitness?
A moderate level of fitness is recommended for snowshoeing, but it’s generally accessible for most travelers in good health.

Are there options for private tours?
Yes, private tours are available at an additional cost. Contact the provider for more details.

In essence, if you’re after a genuine, well-organized Arctic adventure that combines snowshoeing, storytelling, and the hope of witnessing the Northern Lights, this tour offers a memorable experience in Finland’s winter wonderland.