Northern Lights Tour with small group of 8 people

If you’ve ever dreamed of witnessing the elusive Northern Lights, Tromso in Norway is one of the best places on earth to do it. This particular tour, offered by Steam Tours, promises a personalized experience, with a small group of just eight travelers. We’ve gathered everything you need to know to decide if this adventure fits your travel style — from logistics to authentic experiences, and even some insights from recent travelers who have been there.

What we love about this tour? First, the focus on flexibility and small group intimacy means fewer crowds and a more tailored chase for those magical green lights. Second, the inclusion of warm comforts like hot soup, hot chocolate, and thermal suits makes enduring the cold much more bearable. And third, professional photos ensure you’ll have lasting memories of your night under the stars.

A possible consideration? The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so they can’t be guaranteed, and weather conditions play a big role. That said, the guides’ expertise and dynamic approach maximize your chances.

This tour is perfect for travelers who value personalized service, are prepared for an unpredictable winter sky, and want a balance of adventure and comfort. If you’re keen to skip the crowds, enjoy expert guidance, and capture stunning Aurora shots — this might be your ideal Northern Lights experience.

Good To Know

• Small group size enhances flexibility and access to secret viewing spots.
• Expert guides have extensive knowledge of weather patterns to optimize your chances.
• Comforts like hot soup and thermal suits make nighttime cold more enjoyable.
• Professional photography included helps you relive the magic without hassle.
• Flexible location based on weather ensures you’re chasing the clearest skies.
• Price point offers good value given the personalized and well-organized experience.

An Honest Look at the Northern Lights Tour Experience

Starting Out: The Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off in Tromso at Parkgata 27, 9008, Norway, with the guide ready at 5:30 pm. Right from the start, the emphasis on flexibility is clear—you’re not tied to a fixed route but are instead transported where the best conditions are predicted on the night. This is vital because Tromso’s weather can be quite unpredictable, with frequent cloud cover and tricky road conditions. The guide’s job is to interpret forecasts and chase clear skies, which means your journey might take you to various scenic spots rather than sticking to one location.

The group is limited to 8 travelers, boosting the chances of a personal experience and enabling the guide to adapt routes based on real-time conditions. This smaller size is a big plus for those who dislike large tourist buses or feeling like just another face in the crowd.

The Journey: From Tromso to the Aurora Chase

Once on the road, the guides—often Sebastian or Peter—share insights about the Aurora, local weather, and safety tips. The fun of this tour is in its dynamic nature: you’re actively chasing the best spots rather than sightseeing from a fixed point. As one reviewer noted, these guides are seasoned and thorough, explaining how natural phenomena like the Aurora happen and sharing technical tips on capturing photos.

Expect to spend between 6 to 9 hours out in the cold, so bringing warm layers (and trusting the thermal suits provided) is crucial. The guides are attentive, ensuring everyone stays warm and comfortable with hot drinks, including hot chocolate or soup, served around a cozy fire once a good location is found.

Reaching the Perfect Spot: The Highlights

The core of the tour is finding a location with clear, stable skies—the most critical factor for Northern Lights viewing. It’s not just about the destination but also about the conditions at that moment. Guides constantly monitor weather updates and are ready to move if cloud cover or poor visibility threatens the experience.

From reviews, it’s obvious the guides excel at locating these prime spots. One traveler mentioned, “Our guide did his best to give us an amazing Northern Lights experience, even in difficult conditions.” This adaptability really sets apart a good tour from an average one.

Campfire, Food, and Photos: Making the Most of the Night

Once settled in a scenic spot, the atmosphere becomes cozy: a bonfire crackles, and you’re wrapped in thermal suits, sipping hot soup or cacao as you wait for the sky to dance. Many reviews comment on the warm comforts, which help counteract the cold Norwegian night.

The guides also provide a valuable service: professional photography. This means you can relax and enjoy the moment, knowing that high-quality photos of the Aurora will be sent to you afterward. Several reviewers raved about the quality of the images captured, with one stating, “His pictures and videos were very, very good,” highlighting how helpful this perk is for those who want memories without the hassle of technical photography themselves.

The Return: Ending on a High Note

After an often long but rewarding night, you’re driven back to Tromso around midnight or later, with plenty of time to reflect or share your photos. The tour ends where it began, simplifying logistics after a night of chasing lights.

The Pros: Why This Tour Stands Out

Expert Guidance: The guides’ knowledge about weather and Aurora forecasts is evident. Multiple reviews mention guides like Sebastian and Peter by name, praising their friendliness, technical skills, and dedication.

Personalized Experience: Limiting the group to eight ensures everyone has space to move, ask questions, and feel like their night is tailored to them.

Comfort and Convenience: Thermal suits, hot drinks, and a warm fire make the cold Norwegian night much more bearable—and even enjoyable. The inclusion of professional photos adds considerable value, especially since Aurora photography can be tricky without proper equipment and experience.

Flexibility in Location: Instead of a fixed spot, the guides are willing to roam, which means your chances of seeing the lights are higher than on a set itinerary.

High Satisfaction: With a perfect 5-star rating from 13 reviews, travelers consistently express gratitude for the well-organized, memorable experience.

The Cons: What to Keep in Mind

Weather Dependency: The tour’s success hinges on clear skies, which are outside the guides’ control. If the weather doesn’t play along, the trip might be less spectacular, but you’ll be offered rescheduling or a full refund.

Price Point: At roughly $269 per person, this isn’t the cheapest option, but considering the small group, professional photography, and personalized approach, many find it offers good value.

Timing: Starting at 5:30 pm and lasting up to 9 hours means a late night, which could be tiring, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or traveling with young children.

Non-refundable Policy: The booking’s non-refundable and non-changeable policy emphasizes the importance of planning ahead and being flexible with weather-related uncertainties.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re after a small-group, personalized Aurora chase, with a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights, this tour ticks many boxes. It suits travelers who appreciate comfort, professional photos, and knowledgeable guides. It’s ideal for those who don’t mind a late night outdoors and want a flexible, dynamic experience rather than a set itinerary.

Travelers who are serious about capturing the Aurora with quality photos or those who want to avoid large groups will find this tour especially appealing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but young children or those sensitive to cold should be prepared for late hours and outdoor conditions.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transportation, thermal suits, hot drinks (soup and hot chocolate), a cozy fire, and professional Aurora photos sent afterward.

Can I guarantee I’ll see the Northern Lights?
No, because the Lights are a natural phenomenon. The guides do everything possible to find clear skies, but weather conditions can change unexpectedly.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 6 to 9 hours, depending on conditions and the night’s circumstances.

What if the weather is poor?
If the weather prevents Aurora viewing, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, as the experience is weather-dependent.

How do I receive the photos?
Your professional Aurora photos will be sent to you after the tour, allowing you to relive the experience without worrying about camera settings.

Final Thoughts

This Northern Lights tour offers a thoughtfully curated mix of expert guidance, cozy comforts, and personalized chase, all wrapped up in a small group setting. The emphasis on flexibility and quality makes it stand out in Tromso’s competitive Aurora scene. With consistently glowing reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find it worth the investment, especially those who want a more intimate, memorable experience of this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon.

Ideal for adventurous travelers who value quality over quantity, love photography, and want to maximize their chances of witnessing the Aurora in comfort. The tour’s focus on knowledgeable guides and local expertise ensures you’re in good hands—making the dream of a magical Norwegian night under the Aurora a very achievable reality.

Note: Always check the weather forecast before booking and be prepared for a late night outdoors. Remember, the best Aurora experiences often come with patience and a little bit of luck.