Rovaniemi: Ice Floating in Forest Lake with Aurora Borealis

Imagine drifting peacefully on a frozen lake under a sky alive with shimmering auroras. That’s what Rovaniemi’s Ice Floating experience promises—an opportunity to see the Northern Lights in a way that’s both relaxing and exhilarating. While we haven’t personally floated ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions reveal this tour offers a genuinely special glimpse into Lapland’s winter wonderland.

What we love most? The high-quality insulated suits that keep you warm, the chance to see the Northern Lights even from the water, and the knowledgeable guides who add a friendly, informative touch. On the downside, it’s worth noting that the floating suits can leak slightly, and weather conditions can influence Aurora sightings. This experience suits travelers seeking a peaceful, cutting-edge way to enjoy Lapland’s night sky—especially those who appreciate comfort and a touch of adventure.

Key Points

• Innovative Experience: Float in a dry, insulated suit on a frozen lake for a completely different Northern Lights experience.
• Comfort & Safety: High-quality suits and guided supervision make it accessible and safe.
• Aurora Viewing: While natural, auroras are weather-dependent, so sightings are not guaranteed.
• Additional Warmth: Hot drinks and gingerbread biscuits help warm you after the float.
• Group Size & Flexibility: Minimum of 2 people; booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Location & Convenience: Pickup from your Rovaniemi hotel makes logistics straightforward.

You can check availability for your dates here:

How the Experience Unfolds

Starting with the Pickup and Briefing

Your adventure begins with a hotel pickup in Rovaniemi, often within 10 km of the city center. Guides like Maria, Maura, or Lea are known for their friendly, helpful manner—many reviewers appreciate how they share insights about Lapland’s culture and the Northern Lights. Expect to wait a few minutes in your hotel lobby before heading out to the lake, giving you time to settle in and prepare.

The Floating in Icy Waters

Once at the lake, you’ll be fitted into a high-quality insulated survival suit. These suits are designed to keep you dry and warm, even on the coldest nights. Reviewers say the suits do a good job, with some noting minor leaks, so layering underneath is advised. With the suit on, you’ll gently float in the icy but surprisingly comfortable waters of a forest lake—an experience described as “peaceful” and “like floating in space” by those who’ve done it.

Many guests, like Moriah and Jannelle, mention that the floating itself is surprisingly calming, with some experiencing slight chills on hands and feet after about 10 minutes. Bringing extra thermal gloves and socks underneath seems to be a recurring tip from reviewers. The sensation of weightlessness, combined with the quiet darkness of the forest and the sky above, creates a surreal atmosphere.

Aurora Watching & Photography

The guides often help with capturing photos of the Northern Lights, which many guests find invaluable since the sky can be unpredictable. Some reviews, like Lauren’s, highlight the thrill of seeing auroras dance overhead during their float. Others, like Vanessa and Andrea, mention that even if the lights don’t appear, the entire experience of floating under a clear, starry sky is unforgettable.

Since the Aurora Borealis depends on weather and solar activity, there’s no guarantee of sightings, but guides often make stops for scenic moments or potential aurora views on the way to or from the lake.

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Warming Up with Hot Drinks and Gingerbread

After your float, you’ll return to the lodge or vehicle where hot drinks and gingerbread biscuits await. This comforting touch helps counteract any chill and offers a cozy moment to reflect on the experience.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Duration & Group Size

The tour lasts around 2.5 hours, giving enough time for pickup, the floating experience, and warm-up. A minimum of 2 people is required for the tour to proceed, with some days requiring at least 4 participants. This means it’s best suited for small groups or couples, but it can also be a solo adventure if others join.

Price & Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, reviews point out that the experience is considered good value, especially when factoring in the included hotel pickup, guidance, floating suits, and warm refreshments. It’s not just about the thrill; it’s a well-rounded package that balances comfort, adventure, and cultural insight.

Suitability & Restrictions

This activity is suitable for anyone over 130cm tall, which means children under that height won’t fit into the suits comfortably. It’s not recommended for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues. Also, wear warm, layered clothing underneath the suit, especially if you tend to get cold easily.

Weather & Aurora Dependence

Since the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, sightings are not guaranteed. Cloud cover, snow, and solar activity influence the chances, so patience and a bit of luck are part of the experience. Many reviewers mention that even without seeing the auroras, the floating itself remains a memorable, calming activity.

Authentic Reviews & What They Reveal

From glowing reports like “Had lots of fun floating around the lake” by Moriah, to comments on the calm, space-like sensation of floating, reviews consistently praise guide friendliness (Maria, Lea, Nikki) and the beautiful, starry skies. Several highlight that guides actively assist with photos, making sure guests don’t miss moments of the Aurora or the stunning scenery.

A common tip is to bring extra thermal layers—gloves, socks, and perhaps a dry top—to stay comfortable, as some guests experienced minor leaks or cold extremities. Several reviewers mention that even if the Northern Lights don’t cooperate, the experience of being in such a tranquil, wintry environment makes it worth the price.

Final Thoughts

This ice floating experience in Rovaniemi offers an ideal blend of relaxation, adventure, and awe. The chance to drift in icy waters under the Arctic sky, with expert guides ensuring safety and photo opportunities, makes it a highlight for many visiting Lapland. It uniquely combines the thrill of Arctic waters with the serenity of witnessing the Northern Lights, all wrapped up in cozy suits and warm drinks.

If you’re after a peaceful, memorable way to see the auroras without braving freezing temperatures directly, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for travelers who value comfort, small-group intimacy, and authentic Arctic moments. Do remember that weather can impact Aurora sightings, but even in cloudy conditions, the floating alone tends to be a calming, surreal experience.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be at least 130cm tall to fit into the floating suits. Those under this height aren’t able to participate, and children aged 11 and under need to be accompanied by paying adults.

What should I wear underneath the floating suit?
Warm thermal layers, including gloves and socks, are recommended to stay comfortable, especially since some leaks or cold extremities have been reported.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, the Aurora Borealis depends on weather and solar activity. Clear skies and good solar conditions increase your chances, but sightings can never be guaranteed.

How long is the floating experience?
Guests typically float for about 10+ minutes, but the entire tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours including pickup, briefing, and warm-up.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
Even without auroras, many find the experience of floating under starlit skies and in the Arctic silence to be unforgettable.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off within 10 km of Rovaniemi are included, making logistics straightforward.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers the floating suit, guided supervision, hotel transportation, hot drinks, and gingerbread biscuits to warm up afterward.

Is the activity physically demanding?
Not particularly; it’s more about relaxation and floating. However, you should be comfortable in water and able to handle cold temperatures with proper layering.

This Rovaniemi ice floating tour is a compelling way to connect with Lapland’s winter magic, combining comfort with the thrill of Arctic waters and the chance to glimpse the Northern Lights. Whether you’re a serenity seeker, adventure lover, or aurora chaser, it offers a memorable peek into the Arctic’s quiet, breathtaking beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: