Private Northern Lights Tour in Rovaniemi as a Gift for Parents: Is It Worth It?
A private aurora hunt is the most comfortable way to see the lights. We explain who it suits, what it costs and how to give it.
Every December we meet visitors who are travelling with parents or in-laws, and the same question comes up: what is the one thing we should do that they will talk about for years?
For many families the answer is a private evening under the aurora. This guide is for anyone considering that as a gift.
The Professional Northern Lights Hunting Tour (Private)5% off · HUNGRYTRAVELFAMILY5 is listed from €1,990 for your party only, with a guide and photographer, and a refund if no aurora photos are captured; type HUNGRYTRAVELFAMILY5 at checkout for 5% off.
Our pick · 5% off with code HUNGRYTRAVELFAMILY5
Professional Northern Lights Hunting Tour from Rovaniemi – Guaranteed (PRIVATE)
Live dates and prices open right here on this page — you book directly with StayLapland and stay on hungrytravelfamily.com. From €1990 per adult.
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Why a private hunt can be a good gift for parents
Most gifts are forgotten within a year. An evening under the northern lights is not. If your parents or in-laws are coming to Lapland, a private aurora tour removes the usual friction: no sharing a vehicle with strangers, no rushing, and a guide who can adjust to their pace.
It is also an honest answer to a common worry. Older travellers often fear cold and long waits. A private vehicle means you can warm up whenever you like and nobody is waiting on you.
The price is not small, and we will not pretend otherwise. The listed starting price is €1,990 for the private tour. For a family sharing the cost it can make sense; for a couple on a tight budget it probably does not. We cover that honestly below.
What the private tour includes
The listing describes a private tour only for your party, with a professional aurora guide and photographer who speaks English, with other languages on request and limited availability. Winter clothing for adults and children is included, plus overalls, boots, gloves and socks, and information about the northern lights.
The start time varies between 17:00 and 21:00 and is confirmed by email. As with the other hunting tours, there is a 100% refund if no aurora photos are captured, so the risk of seeing nothing is partly covered.
Private versus the small group: the real difference
The small group tour is listed from €199 per adult for 2–8 people. The private tour is for you alone. The difference is control: pace, stops, conversation and comfort. For older parents, control often matters more than anything else.
If the budget is limited, the small group is a good compromise, and we explain how the two compare in our private versus small group guide. If you want the quietest experience, private wins.
If you are on the fence, ask yourself: will anyone in the party be uncomfortable sharing? If yes, private.
Sharing the cost across the family
The gift can come from several people. If three siblings chip in, the price per person drops considerably and nobody feels the pinch. Agree beforehand who pays and who books, and keep the confirmation email in one inbox.
Because cancellation is free only until seven days before, decide dates early. If one family member cannot confirm, wait. A refund after the deadline is unlikely.
Type HUNGRYTRAVELFAMILY5 at checkout to take 5% off the whole booking. On this tour that saving is large enough to buy a good dinner.
Comfort and pace for older travellers
Think about three things: how long they can stand, how well they handle the cold, and how late they stay up. Tell your guide in advance in the booking notes if mobility is limited. A private vehicle can often wait nearby, but only the guide can confirm what is possible on the night.
Bring extra layers, a thermos and a seat cushion if allowed. Cold feet end more evenings than cold hands, so thick socks matter. Our guide for older travellers and parents covers a few more tips.
When to give it: Christmas, a birthday or the trip itself
Some families give the voucher in advance as a Christmas present. Others keep it as a surprise during the trip. Just remember the date has to be fixed at booking, and the evening start time arrives only on the day.
If you are travelling during Christmas week, book as early as you can. Our Christmas week aurora guide explains how busy that week gets.
Making a whole day of it
Pair the evening with something gentle in the daytime. A reindeer visit or a short sauna session works well. See our guide to activities in Rovaniemi for ideas and avoid anything strenuous before the hunt.
Frequently asked questions
Is the private northern lights tour really €1,990?
The listing shows €1,990 as the starting price for the private tour. Check the live booking window for what that price covers for your group size.
What is included?
Private tour only for you, a professional aurora guide and photographer, winter clothing in adult and child sizes, overalls, boots, gloves and socks, and information about the northern lights.
What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation up to 7 days before the activity; inside seven days there is a 100% fee. For a gift, make sure the dates are firm.
What if the lights do not appear?
The listing states a 100% refund if no Northern Lights photos are captured during the tour. Read the live listing wording.
Can the tour be given as a surprise?
Possibly, but the start time is confirmed by email by 14:00 on the day, so someone has to receive that message. Plan who knows what.
Does the 5% discount apply?
Yes, type HUNGRYTRAVELFAMILY5 at checkout. On a €1,990 tour 5% is a meaningful amount, so do not forget it.
Our pick: private if comfort matters most
If your parents value comfort and privacy, and the family can share the cost, the private hunting tour is a gift they will remember. If budget is the main constraint, the small group is a strong second. Whatever you choose, use HUNGRYTRAVELFAMILY5 at checkout for 5% off.
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