Northern Lights hunting with Aurora workshop

Capture the Northern Lights!

We had a pleasure to host MrBeast's friends in Lapland!
Watch the episode

Join us on a unique four hour Northern Lapland adventure that combines an introduction to the science of Aurora Borealis with an exciting hunt for the Northern Lights. 

We begin by meeting up at the Xwander Basecamp in Ivalo for a Northern Lights workshop, where you'll gain insights into the science and cultural significance behind the Northern Lights, their forecasting and photography techniques.

After the workshop, you'll be geared up with winter overalls and boots to be ready for the Aurora Adventure. We head out in comfortable minibuses to the most promising locations for the evening. Our experienced guides closely monitor cloud and aurora forecasts, ensuring we maximize our chances of witnessing the magical phenomenon. Utilizing our wide network of routes, we'll explore the Inari municipality wilderness, an area with minimal light pollution that offers optimal viewing conditions.

What to Expect

  • Physical Requirements: The tour involves being outdoors in cold weather, so participants should be prepared for low temperatures
  • Accessibility: The experience is not fully accessible by wheelchair due to the nature of the terrain and activities. Contact us for accessible options for this tour!
  • Age Restrictions: The tour may not be suitable for very young children due to the cold and the duration of the activity. For families and children we recommend our Aurora Camp product which is family friendly with activities like Stargazing with Telescope and Tobogganing in the camp.
  • Weather Dependency: The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and sightings cannot be guaranteed. The tour is highly dependent on weather conditions, especially cloud coverage
  • Clothing and Gear: Warm clothing and suitable winter gear are essential. Overalls, warm boots and glovs are provided if needed
  • A temperature limit of -25°C: If the forecast for the day is colder / weather conditions unsuitable, we will cancel and/or reschedule the trip. There is no additional fee in case the trip is cancelled by Xwander
  • We will call you at 15:00 on the day of the activity for a weather update. Xwander offers free rescheduling and an option to switch to another activity if the conditions are not optimal for the Auroras

Itinerary

Meeting at Xwander Nordic

We will meet up at Xwander headquarters at 18:30 for a Northern lights workshop.

Northern lights workshop

Learn about the Northern Lights in a comfortable classroom setting. Understand the science behind the Aurora Borealis, including the solar winds and magnetic fields that create this natural wonder. You also get an introduction to the cultural significance of the Northern lights.
Gain practical skills in forecasting Aurora activity and capturing stunning photographs of the lights. Our guides will instruct you on reading solar data and using the best photography techniques, ensuring you leave with both knowledge and stellar pictures of the Northern Lights.
Workshop duration is approximately 45 minutes. We’ll continue with more practical forecasting and photography information on the field.

Aurora hunting

We head out on an exciting Aurora hunting expedition, equipped with the skills and knowledge acquired during the workshop. We’ll closely monitor cloud and aurora forecasts to find the best locations for the Northern Lights.
Warm drinks and snacks are provided to keep everyone comfortable during the Aurora hunt. You’ll gain insights into the local area, culture and nature. A memorable experience filled with learning and magic of Lapland!
Total duration of the activity is approximately four hours and we return to Ivalo between 22:00 and 23:00. 
Day-to-day itinerary adjustments may occur in response to weather conditions and forecasts

FAQ

What do I need to bring?

  • Warm Clothes: Dress in weather appropriate layers including a good hat, scarf, and socks
  • Camera: Phone, tripod for an slr camera (optional but recommended for clear photos), power bank if needed
  • Headlamp: If you have one, bring it along (don’t worry if not, we provide you with one)
  • Snacks and Water: While snacks are provided, you may want to bring your favorites.

What is the cancellation policy?

We will charge a cancellation fee of 100% if booking is cancelled 48 hours or less before the event

Find Full FAQ from here

Book With Confidence

  • Local family owned business
  • Personalized service
  • Flexible itineraries
  • Small group sizes

Price Includes

  • Northern Lights Workshop: The science, cultural impact, forecasting, and photography of the Aurora Borealis
  • Guide services
  • Hot drinks and snacks
  • Winter overalls, warm boots and gloves
  • Photos taken by our expert guides during the evening
  • Headlamp with infrared light for optimal night vision and minimal light pollution
  • Close monitoring of cloud and aurora forecasts to maximize viewing opportunities
  • Transfer from Ivalo and back

Price Excludes

  • Supplementary transfers from Inari, Nellim, Kakslauttanen, Kiilopää and Saariselkä (+20 € / person)
Adventure Duration:

4 hours