Overview
If you’re planning a 5-day Northern Lights road trip, starting in Tromsø and ending in Rovaniemi, you’re in for an unforgettable Arctic adventure. This itinerary combines stunning landscapes, thrilling activities, and plenty of opportunities to chase the Aurora Borealis. Here’s a detailed plan to make the most of your journey.
Highlights
- Join expert guides for a thrilling Northern Lights chase, learning about the aurora while enjoying warm drinks under the Arctic sky.
- Glide through snowy trails with a team of huskies, either driving your own sled or riding as a passenger.
- Visit a reindeer camp, enjoy a sled ride, feed the animals, and listen to Sami stories and traditional Joik songs
- Enjoy snowshoeing, fjord cruises, and unwind in a traditional sauna with the option for an icy Arctic dip.
Itinerary for Tromsø – Rovaniemi
Morning: Arrival at Tromsø Airport
- Land at Tromsø Airport and pick up your rental car. Most major rental companies like Hertz or Avis operate here.
- This trip is also possible by bus - reach out for a itineraryby bus
- Drive to your hotel in Tromsø city center (10-15 minutes). Check-in and freshen up.
Afternoon: Explore Tromsø
- Visit the Arctic Cathedral, a stunning piece of modern architecture, and walk across the Tromsø Bridge for panoramic views.
- Stop by Polaria, the Arctic aquarium, to learn about local wildlife and ecosystems (1.5 hours).
Evening: Northern Lights Hunt
- Join a guided Northern Lights tour. These tours take you to prime spots outside the city for the best chance to see the Aurora.
Overnight: Stay in Tromsø.
Morning: Scenic Drive to Lyngen
- After breakfast, drive to the Lyngen Alps, known for their dramatic peaks and fjords. The drive itself is breathtaking, with plenty of photo opportunities.
Afternoon: Snowshoeing or Ice Fishing
- Join a Lyngen Adventure tour for snowshoeing (3 hours) or ice fishing (2-3 hours). Both activities are beginner-friendly and offer a chance to immerse yourself in the Arctic wilderness.
Evening: Northern Lights in Lyngen
- Stay overnight in a cozy cabin or glass igloo in Lyngen. The remote location offers excellent chances to see the Northern Lights right from your accommodation.
Overnight: Lyngen North.
Morning: Drive to Kilpisjärvi
- Head south toward Finland, crossing the border into Kilpisjärvi, a small village near the Finnish-Norwegian-Swedish border. The drive is scenic, with snowy landscapes and frozen lakes.
Afternoon: Snowmobile Safari
- Book a snowmobile tour with Kilpisjärvi Safari (2-3 hours). Explore the snowy wilderness and enjoy the thrill of riding through Arctic terrain.
Evening: Northern Lights in Kilpisjärvi
- Kilpisjärvi is one of the best places in Finland to see the Northern Lights due to its clear skies and minimal light pollution. Spend the evening stargazing or join a guided Aurora hunt.
Overnight: Kilpisjärvi.
Morning: Drive to Levi
- Continue your journey to Levi, a popular ski resort in Finnish Lapland. The drive takes you through pristine forests and snowy plains.
Afternoon: Husky Safari or Reindeer Farm Visit
- Choose between a husky safari (2 hours) with Levi Huskies or a visit to a reindeer farm (2 hours) to learn about Sami culture and feed the reindeer.
Evening: Northern Lights in Levi
- Levi offers excellent Northern Lights viewing opportunities. Join a guided tour or simply step outside your accommodation to look for the Aurora.
Morning: Drive to Rovaniemi
- After breakfast, drive to Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus. The route is scenic, with snowy forests and frozen rivers.
Afternoon: Santa Claus Village and Arctic Activities
- Visit Santa Claus Village, where you can meet Santa, cross the Arctic Circle, and send postcards from the Arctic.
- Try a reindeer sleigh ride or visit the Arktikum Museum to learn about Arctic history and culture.
Evening: Northern Lights in Rovaniemi
- End your trip with one last Northern Lights hunt. Rovaniemi offers guided tours, or you can head to a nearby dark spot to search for the Aurora on your own.
Overnight: Rovaniemi.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
You don’t need to be extremely fit for this itinerary, as most activities are beginner-friendly and adaptable. However, some activities like dog sledding or snowshoeing require basic mobility. Rest assured, our local guide will tailor the program to suit the fitness level and preferences of the group, ensuring everyone can participate comfortably and enjoy the experience. Let us know any specific needs, and we’ll make adjustments!
In March, the chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Tromsø are very good, as the nights are still long and dark. However, sightings depend on clear skies and solar activity, so they’re never guaranteed. Joining a guided tour increases your chances, as they track the best conditions. Be patient and flexible!
