Chasing the Northern Lights: My Finnish Adventure

Seeing the Northern Lights for the first time is nothing short of magical. For me, this dream came true during a trip to Finland. The journey started in Rovaniemi, where I had envisioned the elusive auroras dancing in the sky. But as luck would have it, our first night turned into a downpour. Despite the rain, I couldn't shake the excitement, and we decided to drive around the outskirts of Rovaniemi, hoping for a break in the clouds. The air was crisp, and we even stopped at a camping spot to light up a bonfire—a moment of calm, warmth, and silent hope for the sky to clear.

The next night, we got a quick glimpse of the lights, a small taste of what was to come. It was a brief, enchanting view, but the real show awaited us in Levi. Arriving at the glass igloos in Levi was like stepping into another world. The clear sky stretched above, and it felt like nature was on cue.

As darkness fell, the Northern Lights appeared—first in soft swirls and then growing into a vibrant green and purple display that filled the entire sky. Unlike the fleeting glimpse from the night before, this time the lights stayed with us, illuminating the glass ceiling as we lay in awe. They danced and glowed all night, a reminder of the magic that still exists in the world when we least expect it.

It’s one of those memories that doesn’t just stay with you; it becomes part of you. This journey, marked by adventure, anticipation, and awe, made my first sighting of the Northern Lights an unforgettable experience.

Suggested Itinerary for a Finnish Adventure and Northern Lights Experience

If you're inspired to chase the Northern Lights and explore the beauty of Finland, here’s a recommended itinerary based on my journey. This schedule balances urban sightseeing in Helsinki, the thrill of a Northern Lights tour, and the unforgettable experience of staying in glass igloos under the arctic sky.

My Itinerary

  • Day 1

    • Arrival: Helsinki, Finland

    • Stay: Radisson Blu Seaside Hotel, Helsinki

  • Day 2

    • Stay: Radisson Blu Seaside Hotel, Helsinki

  • Day 3

    • Departing Flight: Helsinki to Rovaniemi

    • Stay: Arctic Light Hotel, Rovaniemi

    • Activity: Northern Lights Tour

  • Day 4

    • Activity: Santa Claus Village Tour

    • Stay: Arctic Light Hotel, Rovaniemi

  • Day 5

    • Stay: Levin Iglut Golden Crown Glass Igloos, Levi

  • Day 6

    • Stay: Levin Iglut Golden Crown Glass Igloos, Levi

    • Departing Flight: Rovaniemi to Helsinki

    • Stay: Radisson Blu Seaside Hotel, Helsinki

  • Day 7

    • Departing Flight: Helsinki, Finland

This itinerary allows you to experience Finland's rich culture in Helsinki, the magic of the Arctic Circle in Rovaniemi, and the unique thrill of sleeping under the Northern Lights in Levi's glass igloos. Each day is crafted to capture Finland's wintry charm and the beauty of the auroras. Safe travels and clear skies!