What to do during Autumn in Rovaniemi?
The Arctic nights of endless sunlight is followed by fresh autumn breeze and romantic dark nights. In Rovaniemi, autumn months of late-August and September are statistically great months for seeing the Northern Lights. In Finland, autumn is time of many activities before the snow arrives. Here are some tips for fulfilling autumn trip.



The Thing in Rovaniemi’s Autumn: Foliage
The Thing in Rovaniemi’s Autumn: Foliage
Fall foliage, “ruska” in Finnish, is the process of leafs turning various shades of yellow, orange, red and brown. It’s the northern equivalent of the famous Japanese Hanami, that starts normally in September. To take the advantage of foliage, go to nature! One hour drive from Rovaniemi city center, Auttiköngäs is a popular destination in autumn due to it’s colorful nature, taiga forests and one of the greatest’s waterfalls in Finland. There are daytrips available to Auttiköngäs.
Autumn brings back the Northern Lights
Autumn brings back the Northern Lights
The Aurora season in Rovaniemi starts late-August when the nights are dark again after bright summer nights. There are many ways to experience the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi. Try for example:
Reindeer and husky tours
Reindeer and husky tours
Beautiful animals of Lapland can be seen in by participating a tour at the reindeer farms and husky kennels in the area. You can choose from simple farm visits or try a sleigh ride activity. In autumn, the huskies run with wheel carts & the mushers teach you how to ride it. For animal welfare reasons cart tours are offered only weather permitting, weather being cold enough.
Autumn in Rovaniemi: Epic Hiking Time
Autumn in Rovaniemi: Epic Hiking Time
In Lapland, autumn is a famous hiking time with its colorful foliage. You’ll find many hiking trails around Rovaniemi. The closest one’s are in walking distance from the city center, such as Ounasvaara’s trails and Koivusaari. Rent a bike from some of your providers and discover Ounasvaara’s trails by a mountainbike or e-mountainbike! Arctic Circle Hiking area with scenic rapids of Vikaköngäs and Vaattunkiköngäs are easy and family-friendly daytrip destinations.
Find Forest’s Treasures – Go Harvesting!
Find Forest’s Treasures – Go Harvesting!
The Finns go wild about berries and mushrooms that are ready to be picked in autumn. Starting already in late-July and lasting early October, berries such as blueberry, lingonberry and cloudberry are ready to eat and various mushrooms pop out in forests. Join a tour and let a guide lead to discover forests treasures at their best, in best possible locations.
More Tips for your Autumn Holiday
A Guide to a Responsible Northern Lights Experience in Rovaniemi
Find Your Northern Lights Activity
Public transportation
1. Local bus routes and timetables around the city 2. Other public transportation connections 3. Other transport services 4. Important…
10 Northern Lights Experiences
Aurora Borealis are visible from late August until end of March or beginning of April
Harvesting Season in Rovaniemi
Autumn activities in Rovaniemi
Late Night Ride with Finnhorses
Night rider’s dream
Northern Lights Tour At The Campfire
Enjoy the peace and quiet of our private forest location to watch the northern lights. Includes an enclosed Teepee for roasting snacks over the campfire + our winter clothing.
Summer Excursion to the Amethyst Mine in Luosto
Embark on a Day Trip to Amethyst Mine in Lapland’s stunning Pyhä-Luosto region, dig for your own lucky gemstone and hear fascinating stories from locals!
Autumn Delight – Visit to reindeer, husky and Santa Claus
Discover the secrets of Santa Claus and visit the husky and reindeer farms
Private Northern Lights photography tour
On this private Northern Lights hunting tour we will take you to best locations to experience and photograph the amazing Auroras. Guaranteed best chance to witness the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi!
Northern Lights Tour in Atmospheric Cottage
Feel the heritage and natural beauty of Finn-Lapland at the atmospheric cottage. Enjoy +100 years old traditional Finnish cottage located by a lake and a Laavu and explore the beautiful landscape.
Private Unlimited Northern Lights Guarantee Tour with Photographer & Unlimited Mileage/Time – Private Tour
Join Rovaniemi’s Original Aurora Hunters—20 generations since 1600s. Guaranteed Northern Lights, fully private tour with your own guide & photographer, premium 2025 luxury 4×4 van, unlimited mileage, professional photos & 24/7 Aurora tracking!
Private Island Horse Experience
Discover Lapland’s river archipelago on horseback with a guided ride across a private island. Includes a scenic boat transfer, local refreshments by the fire, and a peaceful island experience.