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Rovaniemi

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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

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

1%

There is a 1% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Rovaniemi area (forecast for 28 April 2025 at 11:16am UTC)

Kp 0.67

The Kp-index is a scale used to measure geomagnetic activity. It ranges from 0 to 9, with higher values indicating greater geomagnetic activity.

0-2 (Very low) Far north, quite dim, and not very active.
3-5 (Moderate) Can be seen further south, with increased brightness and activity. Chance of good viewing conditions nearer the pole.
6-7 (High) Visible in many northern regions, with vibrant displays.
8-9 (Extreme) Widespread visibility, often seen in areas much further south than usual, with intense and colorful displays.

Bz -1 nT

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.

Density 3.73 p/cm³

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.

Speed 396.1 km/s

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.

Snow

7°C Feels like 3°C

High: 8°C
Low: -5°C

Precipitation: 100%
Cloud cover: 20%
Wind: 5 km/h
Snow: 1mm

Moon

Waxing crescent

Sun rises at: 4:41am
Sun sets at: 9:47pm
Moon rises at: 4:01am
Moon sets at: 2:00am

Book an amazing adventure in Rovaniemi

Free cancellation

Northern Lights Rovaniemi: Guaranteed Viewing & Unlimited Mileage

4.9 (1600)

8 hours From £173.22

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.
Free cancellation Likely to sell out

Rovaniemi Husky Safari & Campfire BBQ – 6‑10 km Self‑Drive

4.9 (64)

4 hours From £225.45

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.
Free cancellation

Unlimited Time & Mileage - Aurora Hunting Pro Tour

4.8 (504)

4 - 12 hours From £164.52

This is for you who wants to MAXIMISE the chances to see the northern lights and minimise the need of the luck! Our Aurora team have years of experince and we are ready to do ANYTHING to find the lights every night possible! Main goal is to capture this Northern lights and people in PICTURES with our professional cameras. We have no time or mile limit to ensure you have the best chances of witnessing the Aurora Borealis. We might even venture as far as Sweden or Norway for an unforgettable adventure. Total duration of tour is usually 6-8 hours depends on conditions of the day. We have experience in countless places around Lapland and we choose the destinations carefully according to the day's forecast and weather. Small Groups max 8 per group. For those reasons we have over 95% succeess rate on this Pro Tour.
Free cancellation

Ice Floating in Forest Lake with Aurora Borealis

4.3 (68)

2 hours 30 minutes From £94.88

Join us for a truly unique experience watching the Northern Lights. Let's float in a warm and dry survival suit in one of the Lapland's frozen lakes! Enjoy Lapland's Northern Lights while floating in the icy lake dressed in a survival suit, keeping you warm no matter the temperature outside. There are many ways to see the Northern Lights, but this is the most unique and relaxing way to view it. Departure time may vary. Please check the email the local provider sends for the exact pick-up time.
Northern Lights Snowmobile Driving Safari

4.5 (33)

5 hours From £152.24

Experience a nice and memorable trip in the dark wilderness by driving a snowmobile. Now you can combine these experiences driving a snowmobile and hunting the Northern Lights. The safari is arranged on the best possible place – great small mountain facing north.
Free cancellation

Husky and Reindeer Experience With Snowmobiling

4.0 (51)

6 hours From £172.35

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.