Guaranteed Aurora Hunting
Photography Tour

If the northern lights are not visible during your tour — due to cloud cover, low solar activity, or any other factor outside your control — your next Aurora Hunting Photography Tour is completely free of charge. No deposits, no conditions, no arguments. We book you in for the next available date that suits you. This guarantee has held for eight years and we are proud of it.

Not at all. Our guides work with whatever equipment you have — DSLR, mirrorless, compact camera, or even a modern smartphone with manual mode. The key techniques (long exposure, wide aperture, high ISO, manual focus on infinity) apply to all cameras. Many of our best guest photos have been taken on smartphones. If you would like to use a tripod, simply let us know when booking and we will have one ready.

Temperatures in Ruka from October to February typically range from −5°C to −25°C, occasionally colder. Standing still outdoors in the dark means you feel the cold more than when active. We send every guest a detailed clothing guide after booking. The essentials: thermal base layers (merino wool or synthetic — not cotton), mid-layer fleece or down, a proper arctic-rated outer jacket, insulated waterproof boots, warm hat, balaclava, and liner gloves inside thick mitts. Hand warmers are always a good idea.

Departure is between 8:00pm and 9:30pm depending on the time of year — darkness falls earlier in mid-winter. We confirm your exact pickup time 24 hours before your tour. The tour lasts between 4 and 6 hours depending on aurora activity. If the lights are putting on a spectacular show, we stay out as long as you want to. You will be back at your accommodation by around 2:00–3:00am at the latest.

Yes. Private group bookings are available and highly recommended for families, couples, or groups wanting an exclusive experience. A private tour means your guide's full attention, complete flexibility on timing and location, and a truly personalised evening under the Finnish sky. Contact us at bookings@rukanorthernlightstours.com or call +358 465 630 404 for private tour pricing and availability.