Introduction
If you’ve ever dreamed of witnessing the elusive Northern Lights in a setting that combines comfort, culture, and a touch of adventure, this Tromsø Aurora Borealis Chase might be just what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally joined this exact tour, the detailed insights and glowing reviews paint a compelling picture of what’s on offer — a well-organized, immersive experience designed for those eager to see the sky’s shimmering spectacle.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the small group size ensures a personalized experience and plenty of opportunities for camera shots and storytelling. Second, the comfortable transportation and thermal gear keep the chill at bay, making the wait for the lights more enjoyable. Lastly, the local snacks and professional photos add a warm, memorable touch. One thing to consider? Since the sighting of the Aurora is never guaranteed, some travelers might find the wait a bit long without a sighting, but the thorough planning and expert guides significantly increase your chances.
This adventure suits those who love a blend of nature, culture, and comfort — perfect for travelers who want an authentic experience without sacrificing coziness. If you’re after a relaxed, well-paced hunt for the Aurora with knowledgeable guides, this tour is definitely worth considering.
You can check if your dates are available here:Good To Know
- Small group sizes (limited to 15 participants) ensure a more intimate experience.
- Professional photography is part of the package, providing lasting memories without extra effort.
- Comfort is prioritized with thermal suits, hot drinks, and local snacks around a campfire.
- The tour offers interesting stories and facts about the Northern Lights and Norwegian culture.
- The itinerary includes a scenic drive, photo stops, and time to relax around a fire.
- Price point of $191 balances affordability with inclusive extras and expert guidance.
Find more activities and experiences we've covered in Tromso.
What to Expect from the Aurora Borealis Chase
Starting the Adventure in Tromsø
The tour kicks off in Tromsø’s city center at the Prostneset harbor, where you’ll meet your guide for a quick briefing. This is a smart move because it gets everyone on the same page about the evening’s expectations, weather conditions, and safety tips. The guide, often very knowledgeable about local folklore and scientific facts about the Aurora, sets the tone for a relaxed yet informative night.
The Scenic Drive (2.5 Hours each way)
Once the group is ready, you’ll hop aboard a cozy coach for a 2.5-hour ride toward areas with the best chances for clear skies. This part of the trip is where the guides shine, sharing stories about Norse mythology, the science behind the lights, and local culture. The journey itself is often filled with lively conversation or peaceful silence, depending on your preference.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyThe Viewpoint and Photo Stop
After arriving at your carefully scouted location, you’ll have approximately an hour to enjoy the surroundings. This is the perfect time for photos and taking in the landscape. The guides often take professional shots, including one portrait per person, which are available for free on the website within 48 hours. Extra photos can be purchased if you want more memories.
During this stop, you’ll be served local snacks and hot drinks, adding a cozy touch to the chilly night. Some reviews, like Mayka’s, mention her guide going above and beyond by dropping her off at her apartment afterward, hinting at the tour’s flexibility and thoughtful approach.
- The Aurora Tour – Small Group 4 Ppl, Northern Lights
- The Aurora Tour – VIP Trip for Northern Lights, Aurora Borealis
- Tromso: Private City Walking Tour
- Tromso Luxury Sailing Yacht Polar Fjord Cruise With Lunch
- Tromso Fjords With Kvaloya Island Small Group Half Day Tour
- Tromso Private Aurora Photography Adventure With Dinner
The Campfire Experience
Sitting around a warm campfire with thermal suits and hot beverages is a highlight. It’s a chance to chat with fellow travelers, learn more about the folklore of the Aurora, and just relax while waiting for the sky to perform. The atmosphere is friendly, casual, and intimate — a far cry from large, rushed tour buses.
The Return Journey
After hours of waiting, if the Aurora appears, you’ll be delighted by the dancing skies overhead. Guides will often share interesting scientific insights and folklore as you gaze upward. When the night winds down, the driver will drop you back at your hotel in Tromsø, often with a smile and some memorable stories to tell.
The Details That Matter
Duration and Timing
This is a 6-hour adventure, starting around 8:00 PM, which is late enough to maximize your chances of clear skies. The flexible timing allows you to start after dinner, fitting seamlessly into an Norwegian winter itinerary. Since weather is unpredictable, checking availability in advance is essential to align expectations.
Transportation and Group Size
Limited to 15 participants, this small-group setting helps ensure your guide can give individual attention, answer questions, and take professional photos. The coach ride provides comfort and a chance to relax between stops, vital in cold weather.
Included and Not Included
Included in the price are thermal suits, local snacks, hot drinks, and a professional photo. These upgrades to comfort and memories are worth the price, especially considering the cold Norwegian nights. However, you should bring your own snow boots, tripods, and warm clothing—the tour doesn’t provide these, and they’re critical for a successful experience.
Cost and Value
At $191 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusions and the expertise of guides. The experience isn’t just about seeing the Aurora but also about learning, relaxing, and capturing high-quality photos without extra effort. Plus, the option to reserve now and pay later helps keep flexible travel plans.
Potential Drawbacks
While the tour is well-organized, no Aurora sighting can be guaranteed, which is a common caveat with northern lights excursions. Weather conditions play a significant role, and sometimes the skies stay stubbornly cloudy. That said, many reviews, like Mayka’s, express high satisfaction, indicating the guides do their best to find clear skies and optimize your chances.
Authentic Experiences and Reviews
Multiple reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of guides. For example, Mayka Larissa R. praised her guide, mentioning she was even dropped off at her apartment after the tour — a thoughtful touch that shows genuine care. This personal approach makes a difference when you’re out in the cold for hours.
Guests also appreciate the informative storytelling, which turns a simple sky-watching trip into an engaging cultural experience. The combination of local folklore and scientific facts helps deepen appreciation for the natural phenomenon.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
If you’re after a comfortable, well-organized aurora chase with plenty of opportunities for photos, this tour ticks the box. It’s ideal for travelers who value small groups, expert guidance, and local experiences. It’s also perfect for those who prefer cozy accommodations like thermal suits and campfire chats over more hectic, large-scale tours.
However, if you’re traveling with very young children or seniors over 70, you might want to check the suitability, as the tour is not recommended for children under 8 or the elderly. Remember, the northern lights are a natural phenomenon, and patience is part of the experience.
The Sum Up
This Tromsø Aurora Borealis Chase offers a balanced mix of comfort, culture, and adventure. The thoughtful inclusions—thermal gear, local snacks, professional photography—ensure you can focus on the experience rather than logistics. Its small-group format and knowledgeable guides foster an intimate, educational atmosphere, making it a standout choice for anyone eager to catch the elusive Lady Aurora in a relaxed setting.
While the unpredictable nature of the Northern Lights means there’s no 100% guarantee, the careful planning, expert guidance, and flexible options make this tour a very worthwhile investment. Whether it’s your first time or a repeat viewing, you’ll appreciate the effort that guides put into maximizing your chances and creating lasting memories.
This tour suits travelers who want a cozy, culturally rich, and well-organized Northern Lights hunt in Tromsø. If you love an adventure that combines scenic drives, storytelling, and the thrill of the night sky, it’s a fantastic choice.
FAQ
What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour begins at Tromsø’s Prostneset harbor, in the city center, where you’ll meet your guide for a quick briefing about that night’s conditions.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, starting around 8:00 PM, allowing plenty of time to hunt for the Aurora and enjoy the surroundings.
What is included in the price?
The cost covers thermal suits (limited sizes), local snacks, hot drinks, and one professional photo per person. Guides also share stories and provide insights about the Aurora.
Do I need to bring any special clothing or gear?
Yes, you should bring warm clothes, gloves, snow boots (not provided), and a camera for photos. The thermal suits help, but layered clothing is recommended.
Is the sighting of the Aurora guaranteed?
No, the Aurora is a natural phenomenon, so sightings aren’t guaranteed. However, the guides scout locations carefully to maximize chances.
Can I purchase additional photos?
Yes, extra photos are available at discounted rates on the website after the tour.
Are children allowed on this tour?
It’s not suitable for children under 8 years old, and the tour is not recommended for people over 70.
What happens if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking process is flexible with “Reserve now, pay later” options.
Will I be dropped off at my hotel afterward?
Yes, especially if you’re staying in Tromsø; some guests, like Mayka, noted being dropped off directly at their accommodation.
If you’re searching for a cozy, engaging, and well-guided Northern Lights experience in Tromsø, this Aurora Borealis Chase up to Finland offers a memorable way to see the sky’s magic, combine local culture, and create beautiful photographs — all in a comfortable setting.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tours in Tromso
- Tromsø:Northern Lights Tour with Photo and Suits.Local Guide
- Tromsø: Northern Lights Photography Small-Group Tour
- Tromsø: Private City Excursion with a Local
- Tromso: Northern Lights Photography Tour by Bus (or miniBus)
- Tromsø: Private Northern Lights tour, premium 4×4 vehicle
- Tromsø: Northern Lights Chase Minibus Tour
More Tour Reviews in Tromso
Looking for something different? Other Tromso activities we've written about
- Tromsø:Northern Lights Tour with Photo and Suits.Local Guide
- Tromsø Whale Safari with MS Keiser Wilhelm
- Tromsø: Snowshoeing in a small group with free photos
- Tromsø: Snowshoeing with Reindeer
- Tromsø: Spa/Pool with Bath, Sauna and Outdoor Heated Pool
- Tromsø: Reindeer Experience at a Sami Camp
- Tromsø: Northern Lights Photography Small-Group Tour
- Tromsø: Fishing Sea Safari
- Tromsø: Reveal Your Eye Experience at the Iris Galerie
- Tromsø: Aurora Hunt with Citizen Science
- Tromsø: Ski touring (ski de randonnee)
- Tromsø: Private City Excursion with a Local