Unlimited Range Northern Lights Hunt with VIP Van

Imagine venturing into the Finnish wilderness in a cozy, luxury van, chasing the elusive Aurora Borealis across hundreds of kilometers. That’s exactly what the Unlimited Range Northern Lights Hunt with VIP Van promises. This tour from Lapin Taivas isn’t just about quick stops and fleeting glimpses; it’s an all-out pursuit designed for true Aurora enthusiasts.

What we love most about this experience is the personalized approach, where guides use real-time weather data to find the clearest skies, maximizing your chances of witnessing the lights. The professional photography included means you’ll come home with stunning images of your Arctic adventure. Plus, the flexibility of driving unlimited distances ensures you’re never stuck in light pollution or cloud cover. On the flip side, some travelers should note that this tour might not be ideal if you have early morning plans afterward, as it can run late into the night.

This tour is suited best for those who want a thrilling, customized chase rather than a fixed itinerary, and for travelers who value comfort, expert guidance, and the chance to see the Northern Lights from remote, pristine spots. If you’re a serious Aurora hunter or love photography, this one’s a strong contender.

Key Points

• Personalized Aurora Hunt: No fixed route, only drive where the skies are clearest.
• Expert Guides & Photographers: Guides use weather data, and professional photos are included.
• Luxurious Transport: Travel comfortably in a spacious Mercedes Pegabus Van.
• Backcountry Focus: Drive up to 300+ KM for the best, light-pollution-free views.
• Highly Rated: Consistently high reviews, with a 5.0 rating from 261 reviews.
• Flexible & Booked in Advance: On average, booked 23 days ahead at $207 per person.

The Experience: In-Depth Review

How the Tour Works: Itinerary Breakdown

Starting at Valtakatu 23 in Rovaniemi, the tour kicks off at 7:00 pm with pickup from your hotel, provided you’re within 15 km of the city center. From there, it’s all about the chase—driving over 50 km, often 120 km one way, into the Finnish or Swedish Lapland’s darkest, most pristine areas.

Unlike typical Aurora tours with predetermined routes, Lapin Taivas’s guides prioritize real-time weather reports, cloud coverage, and solar wind conditions to find the perfect viewing spots. They might visit 2 to 3 different viewpoints across the mapped spots in Finnish and Swedish Lapland, optimizing your chances of seeing the lights. This approach has led to an impressive 86% catch rate in 2024-24 Winter and 92% so far in the current season.

What Makes the Stops Special

The first stop in Rovaniemi is where the adventure begins. Here, your guide—often a passionate photographer like Emin or Chevo—will meet you in a comfortable, warm van. It’s clear from reviews that the guides are genuinely enthusiastic about hunting the Aurora and will go to great lengths—driving up to 300 km if the conditions require—to find clear skies.

One reviewer mentions Emin’s dedication, driving until 5 am to catch the Aurora, and continuously searching until 7:30 am — that’s a level of commitment that really elevates this experience. The guides are also praised for their attentiveness, making sure everyone gets good photo opportunities. Professional photos are included, taken with top-of-the-line equipment like Sony A7III cameras with Sigma astrophotography lenses, and sent to your email within 24-72 hours, giving you stunning keepsakes.

Comfort & Food

Comfort matters when you’re spending hours chasing the lights, and Lapin Taivas’s vans are described as spacious, warm, and equipped with WiFi, power banks, and cables. The tour deliberately avoids setting up unnecessary barbecue or sausages to keep the focus on the lights, but they do serve Finnish Pulla (Dallas Rolls) and berry tea to keep hunger at bay while waiting.

Authenticity & Authentic Experiences

Guests consistently mention guides’ passion and energy. Whether it’s Chevos, Emin, or Gil, the guides’ enthusiasm translates into a more memorable outing. Several reviews highlight how guides are more than just drivers—they’re Aurora hunters, photographers, and storytellers, making the long night feel lively and engaging.

The Photos & Memories

One standout feature is the professional photo shoot included. Guests have shared that the quality of the photos exceeds expectations, thanks to professional gear and guide assistance in capturing perfect shots on your phone or camera. Reviewers like Mary_B mention their photos being uploaded immediately, and the photos are described as spectacular.

The Group Size & Atmosphere

With a maximum of 16 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate, relaxed vibe. Many reviews reference the friendly, motivated guides who are dedicated to helping guests see the auroras, even in challenging weather conditions. The small group size means personalized attention, which is a big advantage in busy Aurora seasons.

The Realities of Aurora Hunting

Despite the best efforts, there are nights when the lights refuse to appear—something no tour can control. Florence_D’s review acknowledges this, noting the cloud cover and limited visibility. But what sets Lapin Taivas apart is their effort and persistence. Several guests commend guides like Emin and Chevo for keeping up the search despite low activity nights, making their dedication stand out.

Price & Value: Is It Worth It?

At $207.38 per person, this tour is priced for an experience that combines luxury transportation, expert guidance, and professional photography. Considering that many Aurora hunts are short, fixed routes, the unlimited driving distance offers a significant advantage, especially when the guide is willing to go over 300 km to find clear skies. Many reviews affirm that this is money well spent—especially for photography enthusiasts or those wanting a high-quality, personalized chase.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure suits Aurora hunters willing to splurge for comfort and flexibility, photographers wanting professional shots, and travelers who appreciate guides with genuine passion. It’s also ideal if you want a tailored experience rather than a cookie-cutter tour. However, if you have early next-day plans, keep in mind that this may run late.

The Sum Up

If you’re serious about catching the Northern Lights and want a comfortable, flexible, and expertly guided experience, Lapin Taivas’s Unlimited Range Hunt hits the mark. The focus on driving where conditions are best, combined with professional photography and passionate guides, creates a memorable Arctic adventure.

This tour is best suited for adventurers who don’t mind late nights, love photography, and seek a personalized Aurora experience. While it may be pricier than some options, the value of flexibility, comfort, and the potential for multiple sightings makes it a worthwhile investment.

For travelers who prioritize authenticity, persistence, and expert guidance, this hunt stands out as a top choice in Rovaniemi.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The package features hotel pickup and drop-off within 15 km of Rovaniemi, WiFi on board, snacks, soft drinks, power banks, free professional photo shoot and delivery, and guides speaking English.

Can I participate if I’m traveling alone?
Yes, solo travelers are welcome. The tour has a maximum of 16 guests, ensuring a personal experience.

What should I wear?
The tour does not include overalls or winter clothing, so dress warmly in layers, including thermal wear, hat, gloves, and waterproof boots.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 7 hours, typically starting at 7:00 pm and continuing until the guides find optimal Aurora viewing conditions.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
While the catch rate is over 85%, no one can guarantee sightings. However, guides are highly persistent and will drive to the best spots based on real-time data.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Absolutely. The double-seated Mercedes Pegabus Van is praised for its spaciousness and warmth, making long drives more comfortable.

What if weather conditions are poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I reschedule or cancel?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Rescheduling options are available depending on weather and availability.

In essence, if you’re after an authentic, flexible, and comfortable Northern Lights experience with professional guidance and photography, this tour in Rovaniemi offers a superb option. Just remember to dress warmly, keep your expectations realistic, and enjoy the Arctic thrill of Aurora hunting.