Ounasvaaran huippu : Rovaniemi : Seek The Aurora

Rovaniemi

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
Credit: Sam Williams
Credit: Dylan Shaw
Credit: 66 north

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

Many factors contribute to your likelihood of viewing the aurora in Rovaniemi. Geomagnetic activity, cloud cover and the amount of ambient light all play a big part. Check the forecasts for how good the viewing conditions are today.

Aurora Probability and Atmospheric Conditions

There is a 0% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Rovaniemi area (forecast for 21 February 2026 at 6:30am UTC)

Kp 4.33

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.

HPI 15 GW

The Hemispheric Power Index (HPI) is a vital measure used to assess the strength of auroral activity at the poles. It estimates the total auroral energy input, with values above 20 GW indicating an aurora-active state. When the HPI reaches levels of 100 GW or more, it signifies a very significant geomagnetic storm, which can lead to spectacular auroral displays.

Bz 9 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 aurora activity.

Bt 12 nT

Bt measures the overall power of the Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF) from the Sun; higher numbers (e.g., above 20 nT) mean more energy available for aurora.

Density 2.27 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 centimetre (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 521.4 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.

Light Levels

Moon

Waxing crescent 28%

Sunrise 8:03am

Sunset 4:58pm

Moonrise 7:37am

Moonset 2:00am

Weather Forecast for Rovaniemi

Snow

-9°C Feels like -15°C

High: -5°C
Low: -13°C

Chance of precipitation 100%
Cloud cover 100%
South-Easterly winds 4 km/h gusts of 13 km/h
Snow 3 mm

Book an amazing adventure in Rovaniemi

Explore this selection of tours and activities to make the most of your visit to Rovaniemi.

Free cancellation

Northern Lights Rovaniemi: Guaranteed Viewing & Unlimited Mileage

4.8 (2344)

8 hours From £177.26

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 Special offer

Rovaniemi: Northern Lights Group Tour - Guaranteed View

4.8 (614)

4 - 6 hours From £95.40

Northern Lights Group Tour – Guaranteed View (4–6 hours) Join Rovaniemi’s most reliable aurora tour — with a 100% MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE IF NO NORTHERN LIGHTS ARE SEEN. Unlike standard tours, we don’t follow fixed routes. Our LOCAL EXPERT GUIDES use real-time weather and solar data to find the best skies — even deep in the wilderness. Every tour is unique and based on live conditions. Guided by a PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER, you’ll receive AURORA PHOTOS BY EMAIL after the tour — captured with pro-level gear. This experience is for those who want the GROUP ENERGY, but still expect QUALITY, COMFORT AND RESULTS. ✅ 4–6 hour tour, route changes nightly ✅ GUARANTEED AURORA VIEW or full refund/rebooking ✅ PHOTOS INCLUDED ✅ VARIABLE GROUP SIZE ✅ CENTRAL MEETING POINT IN ROVANIEMI Whether it’s your first time or not, this is your best shot at the lights — a real adventure, no fluff.
Free cancellation

Rovaniemi: Northern Lights Pro Guaranteed - Unlimited Distance

4.9 (764)

4 - 12 hours From £177.26

This is for those who want to MAXIMIZE their chances of seeing the Northern Lights — and MINIMIZE the role of luck. Our Aurora team has years of experience and is ready to go ANYWHERE it takes to find the lights on every possible night. The main goal of the tour is simple: To capture you and the Northern Lights in stunning photos, taken with our professional DSLR cameras. There are no time or mileage limits — we’ll drive as far as needed, even into Sweden or Norway, to escape clouds and city light. Tours usually last 6–8 hours, depending on weather conditions. Each night, we choose locations based on accurate local forecasts and real-time aurora data. No fixed route – just pure aurora hunting. - Small group size – max 8 guests per tour - 100% money-back guarantee if we don’t find the Northern Lights - Photos delivered to your email within 24–72 hours Join the tour that takes your dream seriously — and gives you real results or your money back.
Free cancellation

Husky and Reindeer Experience With Snowmobiling

4.1 (70)

6 hours From £176.37

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.
Free cancellation Special offer

Rovaniemi: Guaranteed Northern Lights - Small Group & Photography

4.9 (133)

4 - 10 hours From £133.94

Join us on a professionally guided Northern Lights expedition starting from Rovaniemi, designed to maximize your chances of witnessing the Aurora Borealis in real Arctic conditions. You will travel in a small group with an experienced local guide who continuously monitors aurora forecasts, cloud coverage, solar activity, and geomagnetic conditions throughout the night. Routes and locations are adjusted in real time to position you under the clearest skies possible. Professional photography is included, using high-quality DSLR camera to capture your experience while you focus on the moment. We operate with a 100% money-back guarantee — no Northern Lights, no payment. There are no limits on time or distance. If needed, we will drive 350+ km across Lapland to reach optimal viewing conditions. The tour typically lasts 4–10 hours, but the duration is always flexible and depends on weather and aurora activity. Pickup time usually falls between 17:00 and 19:00
Free cancellation

The Husky Forest Escape - 10KM Husky Safari

5.0 (8)

2 hours From £178.15

Join our small, family-run company for a unique husky sledding experience in the heart of nature! Drive your own sled with guidance from professional mushers, enjoy friendly dogs, and warm up with hot drinks and cookies after the ride. Our family-friendly tours are perfect for all experience levels, letting you navigate the stunning Arctic landscape on an unforgettable adventure

Places to check out around Rovaniemi

Angry Birds Activity Park (Angry Birds leikkipuisto)

Playground
Arktikum

Museum
Cafe & Bar 21

Café
Choco Deli

Dessert Shop
Frans & Chérie

Bistro
Gustav Kitchen & Bar Rovaniemi

Gastropub
Kauppayhtiö

Burger Joint
Koivusaaren luontopolku

Hiking Trail
Könkäänvaara

Mountain
Korkalovaaran luontopolku

Hiking Trail
Korundi

Museum
Koskenranta

Waterfront
Monte Rosa

Steakhouse
Nili Ravintola

Scandinavian Restaurant
Ounasvaaran huippu

Mountain
Ounasvaaran luontopolun laavu

Hiking Trail
Paha Kurki Rockhouse

Bar
Pure Pizza

Pizzeria
Rockravintola Grande

Bar
Roka Street Bistro

Scandinavian Restaurant
Rovaniemen Oluthuone

Beer Bar
SaiGon Noodle Bar

Vietnamese Restaurant
Sky Ounasvaara

Scandinavian Restaurant
Uitto Pub

Pub

Explore more nearby Rovaniemi

Credit: VALO Hotel & Work

Ranua

65°55'46"N, 26°30'57"E

Aurora probability in Ranua: 0%

Ranua, a charming town in Finnish Lapland, is renowned for the Ranua Wildlife Park, where visitors can observe Arctic animals in their natural habitats, including polar bears, lynxes and reindeer, making it a must visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Credit: Benjamin Genz

Kemi

65°44'8"N, 24°33'56"E

Aurora probability in Kemi: 0%

Located on the shores of the Bothnian Bay in Finnish Lapland, Kemi is known for its iconic Snow Castle, a magnificent structure built entirely of snow and ice each winter, as well as its rich maritime history and beautiful coastal scenery.
Credit: Ximonic (Simo Räsänen)

Kemijärvi

66°42'48"N, 27°25'45"E

Aurora probability in Kemijärvi: 0%

A picturesque town in the stunning natural surroundings of Finnish Lapland. Nestled amongst pristine lakes and dense forests, that make Kemijärvi a popular destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking and skiing.