Experiencing the Northern Lights is a dream for many travelers, and Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland is one of the best places in the world to witness this breathtaking natural phenomenon. With its stunning Arctic landscape, dark skies, and dedicated aurora tours, Rovaniemi offers an unforgettable adventure for those eager to hunt for the elusive Aurora Borealis. However, as magical as it may sound, the reality of standing outside for hours in sub-zero temperatures can be challenging if you’re not well-prepared.
In this guide, we’ll provide practical tips to help you stay warm and comfortable during a Rovaniemi Aurora Tour, from choosing the right clothing to understanding how tour operators ensure your comfort in harsh winter conditions. Whether you’re joining the Best Northern Lights Hunting Tour Rovaniemi or venturing out on your own, these tips will keep you cozy while waiting for the Northern Lights to dance across the sky.
1. Dress in Layers
One of the most important aspects of staying warm during a Rovaniemi Aurora Tour is dressing in layers. The Arctic climate is extremely cold, and temperatures can drop well below freezing, especially at night when you’re out aurora hunting. The key to staying warm is to wear multiple layers of clothing, which trap warm air and allow you to adjust based on your activity level and the outdoor temperature.
Here’s how to layer effectively:
– Base Layer: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer made of merino wool or synthetic material. This will help keep sweat off your skin, ensuring that you stay dry and warm.
– Insulating Layer: Over the base layer, add an insulating layer, such as a fleece or down jacket. This layer traps body heat and provides essential warmth.
– Outer Layer: Finally, wear a waterproof and windproof outer layer, such as a heavy-duty winter parka. The outer layer protects you from the elements, including wind, snow, and ice.
By following the layering principle, you’ll be prepared for any weather conditions, making your Best Northern Lights Hunting Tour Rovaniemi far more enjoyable.
2. Don’t Forget Thermal Accessories
In addition to your layered clothing, it’s essential to wear high-quality thermal accessories to protect your extremities. Fingers, toes, and ears are the first to feel the cold, so make sure you’re well-prepared with the following:
– Gloves or Mittens: Opt for insulated, waterproof gloves or mittens. Mittens tend to be warmer as they allow your fingers to generate heat together. Some gloves even come with hand warmer pockets for extra warmth.
– Thermal Socks: Woolen or thermal socks are a must to keep your feet warm inside your boots. You may also want to wear sock liners for added insulation.
– Hat and Scarf: A woolen or fleece-lined hat will protect your ears and head from the cold, while a scarf or neck gaiter will help keep your neck warm and prevent heat from escaping.
– Insulated Boots: Ensure you have a pair of waterproof and insulated boots that are designed for Arctic conditions. Thick-soled boots are ideal as they offer protection from the cold ground.
With the right thermal accessories, you’ll be able to focus on the beauty of the Northern Lights rather than worrying about frozen fingers and toes.
3. Choose the Right Tour Operator
Joining a reputable tour operator is one of the best ways to ensure a comfortable Rovaniemi Aurora Tour. Many operators in Rovaniemi understand the challenges of Arctic weather and take measures to make the experience enjoyable for guests.
For example, ToTheNorth’s Aurora Hunt with BBQ not only takes you far from light pollution to maximize your chances of seeing the aurora, but also provides warm beverages like Glögi and a traditional Lappish BBQ to help you stay warm during the wait. Additionally, they bring you to three different locations, carefully selected based on the aurora forecast and weather conditions, ensuring the best possible chance of spotting the lights.
Another great feature of the Best Northern Lights Hunting Tour Rovaniemi is the guidance and expertise offered. You will be entertained with stories about the Saami people and Finnish folklore by local guides, and while you get the knowledge of the culture, a campfire will warm you.
4. Bring Hand and Foot Warmers
Even with the best thermal clothing, standing outside in very cold for many hours can be difficult. Give your body an extra kick of warmth by carrying around disposable or rechargeable hand and foot warmers. These small packs of heat can be placed in your gloves, boots, or pocket and are a fantastic way to stay warm when temperatures drop during your aurora hunt.
Some operators, like ToTheNorth, give you warm-up breaks during the Rovaniemi Aurora Tour so you can leave the cold behind in an already-heated vehicle or cabin.
5. Stay Active
While waiting for the Northern Lights, it’s easy to become cold if you’re standing still for too long. Therefore, to prevent this, continue light movements around like walking, stretching yourself, jumping on one spot, among others, since this keeps your blood flowing; and with this, your extremities will not get that cold.
There are some excellent options when you join Best Northern Lights Hunting Tour Rovaniemi, some of which include snowshoeing or snowmobiling, and these will keep you warm and also add excitement to the tour. Staying active is a great way to pass the time while you wait for Lady Aurora to appear.
6. Hot Drinks and meals to Enjoy
Another way to keep you warm during your Rovaniemi Aurora Tour is through hot drinks and meals by your tour operator. Many tours allow a traditional Lappish barbecue with sausages along with a warm glass of Glögi, which is a spiced version of Finnish drinks similar to mulled wine. Thus, these hot refreshments keep not only the hunger out but also warm you from inside.
Whether the groups are vegetarian, gluten-free, or lactose-free, the tour operators respect any dietary restrictions. You can therefore enjoy a hot meal while waiting for the Northern Lights. The Best Northern Lights Hunting Tour Rovaniemi should be fun and memorable and your guide will always make sure you stay safe while chasing the Northern Lights.
Conclusion
The Rovaniemi Aurora Tour is indeed an exciting tour. But you should prepare to embark on this tour well-equipped to face the Arctic cold so as not to make it a miserable experience. Just follow these tips and you’ll be enjoying the wonders of the auroras without any shiver!