Tromso: Northern Lights Photography Tour by Bus (or miniBus)

If you’ve ever dreamed of witnessing the Northern Lights dancing across the Arctic sky, this Tromsø-based Northern Lights Photography Tour offers a structured, comfortable way to increase your chances. While the aurora borealis remains a natural phenomenon that can’t be guaranteed, this tour combines expert guidance, strategic chasing, and a focus on capturing stunning photos.

From comfortable transportation to insightful explanations about the science behind the Aurora, there’s a lot to love—especially if you’re keen to learn how to photograph the Lights yourself. The tour’s accessibility, with hot drinks and manageable group sizes, makes it appealing for travelers who want a balanced, well-organized experience.

One thing to consider is the unpredictability of the Northern Lights. Even during peak season, weather conditions and cloud cover can limit visibility. However, based on many positive reviews, it seems the guides frequently succeed in finding spots with clear skies, making this a worthwhile option for Aurora enthusiasts.

This experience suits anyone eager for an educational, scenic, and photo-focused adventure—particularly those new to Arctic exploration or photography. If you’re after a reliable, guided chase with added tips on capturing the Lights, this tour ticks many boxes.

Good To Know

• Expert-guided chase: Knowledgeable guides help maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora.
• Photo tips included: Learn how to take great pictures of the Northern Lights.
• Comfortable transportation: Cozy, heated buses or mini-buses take you to the best viewing spots.
• Flexible locations: The route varies based on weather, increasing your chances of clear skies.
• Hot drinks and snacks: Warm up with hot chocolate and cookies during your trip.
• Potential for professional photos: Optional high-quality Aurora portraits are available for purchase.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The main attraction here is the combination of chase and education. Unlike static viewing spots, this tour actively seeks out the clearest skies, often driving several hours to improve your odds. This approach is highly valued, especially when Tromsø’s unpredictable weather can cloud or snow over the northern horizon.

The guides shine in their knowledge and friendliness. Multiple reviews praise guides like Mirko, Marek, and Peter for their professionalism and passion about the Northern Lights. They don’t just focus on driving; they explain the science behind the Aurora, share stories to add context, and give photography tutorials—making the experience both informative and entertaining. One reviewer noted their guide’s patience and detailed advice on capturing the Lights, which greatly enhanced their experience.

Comfort and convenience are also high on the list. The tour lasts a full 7 hours, allowing ample time to explore different locations. The vehicles are generally heated, and the stops are spaced out to avoid long waits in extreme cold, although some reviews suggest that on particularly cold nights, the vehicle can become chilly. Dressing warmly is non-negotiable, and layering is recommended.

The inclusion of hot drinks and cookies offers a cozy touch that keeps spirits high in the Arctic cold. Several reviews mention how these little comforts made the experience even more memorable. For those interested, professional Aurora portraits can be purchased, a neat option for those wanting a high-quality souvenir.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour begins at Northern Shots Tours in Tromsø, where you meet your crew inside the “Booking Point.” From there, you’ll hop onto a comfortable coach that will whisk you away towards the Arctic wilderness. The journey often lasts about two hours before reaching your first viewing spot, typically a fjord or mountain overlook with minimal light pollution—perfect for Aurora spotting.

The stops are carefully chosen based on weather reports and Aurora forecasts. The guides are constantly monitoring conditions, and many reviews highlighted their skill in finding the best locations. During each stop, you’ll have time to enjoy the scenery, learn about the Aurora from your guide, and snap photos. The guides often bring professional-grade equipment for taking Aurora portraits, which can be purchased afterward.

Expect to spend roughly two hours at each main spot, with flexibility depending on the Aurora’s activity and weather. Some nights, you might drive further afield into Finland or other locations. This is especially useful when Tromsø is clouded over, as many reviewers noted success in crossing borders to find clear skies.

Throughout the tour, guides share insights about Arctic landscapes, local wildlife, and the science behind the Aurora. The atmosphere is relaxed, with ample opportunities for questions, photography, and enjoying the stunning natural scenery.

The tour wraps up back at the start point, often around midnight or later, depending on Aurora activity and road conditions. If the Lights are elusive during the night, many reviewers appreciated the guides’ efforts to keep spirits high and their dedication to finding a sighting.

Transportation & Duration

The transportation is a highlight—large, comfortable buses or mini-buses with good heating and wide windows for optimal viewing. The duration is approximately 7 hours, but it can vary due to weather or Aurora activity. The longer the tour, the better the odds of catching the Lights, and many reviews emphasize appreciating the flexibility.

Group size varies, but most trips seem to be large enough for a lively atmosphere, yet spacious enough to avoid feeling crowded. Some reviews mention the benefit of being able to get personalized advice from guides, even in bigger groups.

Pricing at around $181 per person is reasonable considering what’s included: transportation, expert guides, photography tutorials, and hot drinks. The optional professional photos add a cost but are often praised for their quality, especially since guides help with camera settings during the trip.

The Experience of Chasing the Aurora

Many travelers describe the feeling of driving through the Arctic night, watching the landscape change as they seek the perfect viewing spot. The anticipation builds as guides interpret weather data and Aurora forecasts, making the experience feel like a fun and interactive adventure rather than just a passive tour.

The guides’ expertise is often highlighted—several reviewers mention their guides’ thorough explanations of the science behind the Lights, as well as their tips for photography. For example, one guest raved about how their guide didn’t just focus on finding the Aurora but also took the time to give camera advice, enhancing their photos significantly.

The success rate of seeing the Lights is high, but it’s worth remembering that nature is unpredictable. Many reviews mention that even when clouds roll in or weather worsens, guides keep trying different locations, and their efforts often pay off.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Photography Tips & Opportunities

If capturing the Lights on camera is your goal, you’re in good hands. The tour includes a photography tutorial tailored to Aurora photography, which is invaluable for beginners. Guides often assist with camera settings and positioning, making sure you leave with decent shots.

Some reviewers appreciated the optional professional portraits, which are taken with higher-end equipment. While these can come at an extra cost, they often turn out to be a memorable keepsake of the trip, especially since guides help with composition and settings in real-time.

Many guests find that bringing their own tripods or sturdy phones helps improve their photos, but guides’ assistance ensures even novices can photograph the Lights effectively.

Weather and Clothing Considerations

Given the Arctic location, dress in warm layers. Several reviews mention that the bus is generally heated, but on especially cold nights, it can cool down, making layering essential. Accessories like gloves, hats, and thermal clothing are recommended.

Weather conditions can shift rapidly. You might find yourself in snowstorms or clear skies, which is why the tour’s flexibility and the guides’ knowledge are such assets. The tour runs regardless of adverse weather, but if roads are unsafe, it could be canceled or rescheduled.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for first-timers in Tromsø wanting a guided, reliable way to see the Aurora. It also suits photography enthusiasts eager for tips and professional shots. If you prefer a balance of comfort, education, and adventure, this tour delivers.

Travelers who enjoy Arctic landscapes, storytelling, and cozy group settings will find plenty to savor. However, those seeking a completely private or ultra-luxury experience might find this more casual and group-oriented.

Final Thoughts

For around $180, this Northern Lights Photography Tour offers a combination of expert guidance, scenic drives, and chances to learn how to photograph one of nature’s most incredible displays. The focus on flexibility, with stops tailored to weather forecasts, helps maximize your chances of witnessing the Aurora.

While the Lights can’t be guaranteed, many reviews highlight the guides’ dedication and their success in finding clear skies. The included hot drinks, comfortable transport, and optional professional portraits make this a well-rounded, value-for-money option for anyone serious about seeing the Aurora Borealis.

It’s a tour that balances adventure and education, with ample opportunity for memorable photos and Arctic scenery. Whether you’re a photography newbie or an eager Aurora chaser, this trip will likely leave you with stories—and photos—that last a lifetime.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, but the duration can vary depending on weather and Aurora activity.

Are the buses heated?
Yes, the vehicles are normally heated, though on especially cold nights, they might cool down gradually. Dressing warmly is advised.

What is included in the price?
Transportation, guide, photography tutorial, hot drinks, and cookies are included. Professional Aurora portraits are available for purchase.

Can I get professional photos of the Northern Lights?
Yes, guides sometimes take high-quality Aurora portraits with professional equipment, which you can buy afterward.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing, passport or ID, water, snacks, gloves, flashlight, charged smartphone, and thermal layers.

What happens if the Northern Lights are not visible?
The tour runs regardless of weather. If the Lights don’t appear, you might receive a 50% discount on a future tour, but refunds are not provided. Guides will do their best to find clear skies.

This Tromsø Northern Lights Photography Tour balances comfort, expert guidance, and opportunities for stunning photos, making it a smart choice for your Arctic adventure. Just remember: dress warmly, stay patient, and keep your camera ready!

You can check if your dates are available here: