Located right on the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi is a captivating destination that perfectly merges the enchantment of the northern lights with the charm of winter wonderland experiences. Known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi offers travelers a unique blend of festive spirit, stunning natural beauty, and thrilling activities, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to witness the aurora borealis.
From September to March, Rovaniemi serves as a prime location for experiencing the northern lights. With clear skies and minimal light pollution, your chances of witnessing this celestial display are outstanding.
Credit: Marc Wieland
Credit: Martin Vemödalen
Credit: Fatih Turan
Credit: Fatih Turan
Credit: Marc Linnemann
Credit: Robert Tjalondo
There is a 18% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Rovaniemi area (forecast for 2 August 2025 at 11:02pm UTC)
The Kp-index is a scale used to measure geomagnetic activity. It ranges from 0 to 9, with higher values indicating greater geomagnetic activity.
Bz refers to the north-south orientation of the magnetic field embedded in the solar wind. It is measured in nanoteslas (nT).
When Bz is negative (southward), it allows solar wind particles to penetrate the Earth’s magnetic field more easily. A strong negative Bz is often associated with increased chances of seeing the Northern Lights.
Conversely, when Bz is positive (northward), the Earth’s magnetic field tends to block the solar wind, resulting in reduced auroral activity.
Solar wind density refers to the number of charged particles in a given volume of the solar wind, typically measured in particles per cubic centimeter (p/cm3).
A typical solar wind density is around 2.76 p/cm3.
The density of the solar wind affects how many particles reach the Earth’s magnetosphere. A higher density means more particles are available to interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. When these charged particles collide with the gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, energy is released in the form of light that we see as the aurora.
Solar wind speed refers to the velocity at which charged particles are ejected from the Sun’s outer atmosphere, known as the corona.
A typical solar wind speed is about 375 km/s. When both speed and density are high, the energy transferred to the Earth’s magnetosphere increases, enhancing the chances of seeing vibrant auroras.
22°C Feels like 22°C
Waxing gibbous
4.9 (1617)
8 hours From £177.05
Unparalleled Northern Lights Tour: Unlike conventional tours that limit their guests to a single location, we take you on an exhilarating chase to follow the northern lights wherever they may appear. Our commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences is deeply rooted in our history, as one of the owners proudly represents the 20th generation of their family in Lapland, Finland, with roots stretching back to the 1600s. Our expert guides employ their extensive experience and up-to-the-minute technology to track and locate the celestial show, maximizing your chances of witnessing this awe-inspiring phenomenon. At our tour, we prioritize the true purpose of your visit - to behold the northern lights in all their splendor. We don't distract you with barbecued sausages or unnecessary detours; our sole mission is to provide you with an unforgettable experience of the aurora, ensuring every moment counts.
4.0 (51)
6 hours From £176.16
Experience an action-packed arctic journey where you get to ride snowmobiles through stunning wilderness, meet enchanting reindeer, and energetic Alaskan Huskies. Our guides will provide winter clothing and snowmobile training before taking off on a 1 hour long snowmobile adventure through Arctic Circle forests. After the snowmobile journey, visit the husky and reindeer farm, where you can enjoy a 500m ride on your own reindeer sledge and receive a reindeer sledge driver’s license. Next, make your way to the Alaskan Huskies and experience them in action on a 800m long sleigh ride. Listen to the local reindeer herders as they tell you more about the herding lifestyle and how it is to be a reindeer herder in the 21st century.
4.7 (114)
7 hours From £212.64
-Experience Your Own Fast & Furious in Arctic Forest with Arctic Huskies! -Meeting Authentic Santa Reindeers and enjoy your own reindeer ride there in Santa Village. Surely, if you a big little animals fan, Santa's Pets must be the right place for you!!! -Best time of your life being with Arctic wild nature: breathing fresh air, walking a bit on the Arctic frozen lake & feel the Lappish cold! -Enjoying a super stunning Aurora-Dancing Show under a million of stars & pray for the best! -Two different locations So please join us & together witness the miracle of Aurora-Show!
4.6 (68)
3 hours From £151.25
This is the only reindeer farm visit and sled ride in Rovaniemi that includes professional photographer and photos sent to you after the tour. You will visit authentic reindeer farm and take ride through the snowy forests of Lapland. You meet the reindeer herder family and hear more about their everyday life in the farm.
No reviews
3 hours From £93.42
At our company, honesty comes first. We are a professional snowmobile tour operator, and we never make false promises about the Northern Lights. This is a night snowmobile tour, and while there’s always a chance to see the Northern Lights if the skies are clear and conditions are right, we do not market it as a “Northern Lights safari.” We believe in being transparent with all our guests. If the Northern Lights do appear during the tour, we’ll gladly extend the experience at no extra cost so you can enjoy this magical moment to the fullest.
4.9 (66)
4 hours From £230.43
Looking for an unforgettable adventure in the winter wonderland of Lapland? Look no further than our Husky Safari Tour! Our commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences is deeply rooted in our history, as one of the owners proudly represents the 20th generation of their family in Lapland, Finland, with roots stretching back to the 1600s. Our tour takes you on a thrilling journey through the breathtaking scenery of Finland's arctic wilderness, as you ride a team of friendly and energetic huskies through the snow-covered forests and across frozen lakes. You'll feel the wind on your face and hear the crunch of snow beneath the sled as you glide through the quiet, pristine landscape. But this isn't just any old sled ride - our huskies are more than just transportation. They're our furry companions and partners in adventure. And with our photographer on hand, you'll have the opportunity to capture stunning images, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
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Aurora ForecastPlanning Your Northern Lights AdventureNorthern Lights PhotographyScience Of The AuroraNorthern Lights Playlist
Paha Kurki Rockhouse is a Bar and Rock Club at Koskikatu 5 (Valtakatu), 96200 Rovaniemi, Suomi
4.7
Awesome place, great Company, good beer - Peetu P
3 December 2013
A very nice place but kinda small! :) - Belowzero S
9 January 2017
Kahden tähden jallu. Boom! - Paulus O
3 March 2012
The booz, people en rock music. You feel at home easily! - ElisabethCato
28 February 2022