Watching the Northern Lights in Norway’s Arctic wilderness is a bucket-list experience that many seek, but few get to see firsthand. This tour by Northernlights Explorer Tromsø promises an evening filled with hope, adventure, and some serious chances to catch nature’s most dazzling show.
From seasoned guides with a knack for finding clear skies to professional photographers capturing your moments, this experience offers a lot of value. We especially appreciate the personalized touch, warm gear, and the cozy hot drinks that make braving the cold more manageable.
However, it’s important to remember that chasing Aurora Borealis is unpredictable; there’s no 100% guarantee you’ll see them. This tour is best suited for travelers who love a bit of adventure, don’t mind the cold, and want a guided, well-organized experience with plenty of photo opportunities.
Good To Know
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, dedicated, and passionate about Aurora hunting.
- Photo Opportunities: Professionally taken, watermark photos included—perfect for memories.
- Comfort & Warmth: Thermal suits, hot drinks, and snacks help beat the Arctic chill.
- Flexible Location: Out-of-town spots, sometimes near Finland, for the best chance to see the lights.
- Group Size: Small groups of up to 8 participants ensure personalized attention.
- Cost & Value: At $215, the tour offers a comprehensive experience with plenty of extras.
An Authentic Arctic Adventure
If you’re dreaming of viewing the Northern Lights, this tour makes it more accessible and enjoyable. It’s not just about ticking the box of “seeing the Aurora,” but about truly experiencing the Arctic environment with expert guidance.
What makes this tour stand out is the dedication of the guides, especially Tom, who many reviewers praise for his relentless efforts in finding the best spots. One guest mentioned Tom as a “Northern-Lights whisperer,” emphasizing his deep local knowledge and intuition—skills that come in handy when weather conditions turn tricky. During snowy, cloud-covered nights, Tom’s experience shines as he navigates to lesser-known locations, often far outside Tromsø to increase chances of clear skies.
The itinerary is flexible; you’re picked up from your accommodation between 7 and 7:15 pm, and then driven in a cozy, heated van to various spots. Some reviewers noted drives into Finnish territory, near the border, for a better view—an added adventure that enhances the thrill of Aurora chasing.
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What to Expect from This Northern Lights Tour
Pickup & Initial Arrangements
The adventure kicks off with a pickup outside the Radisson Blu Hotel in Tromsø, typically between 7:00 and 7:15 pm. Be patient with potential delays, as weather conditions can slow down road travel. The guide, Tom, is known for his friendliness and responsiveness—many guests appreciate how he explains the plan, reassures about the weather, and keeps everyone updated via WhatsApp.
Base Camp & Preparation
The tour begins at the Base Camp, a location equipped with a toilet—though it’s under renovation at the moment, it still functions for emergencies. Here, guests gear up in warm suits provided by the operator, an absolute necessity given Arctic temperatures that can dip well below freezing. Guests are encouraged to bring their own hats, gloves, and sturdy shoes for added comfort, as these are not supplied.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyThe Chase & Scenic Spots
Once on the road, Tom’s skill as an Aurora hunter is evident. He uses local knowledge, weather forecasts, and a keen eye to find the clearest skies. Even when snowstorms or cloud cover threaten, guests praise him for making efforts to find open skies, sometimes driving far into the wilderness or towards Finland, if conditions permit.
Guests have described the journey as a “proper Arctic expedition,” with stops at various scenic locations, each offering a new chance at spotting the Northern Lights. Reviewers often mention that Tom takes the group to spots known only to locals—away from city lights—to maximize the Aurora experience. Several comments highlight that Tom drove us “safely and warmly almost all the way to Finland,” reflecting his commitment.
Food, Warmth, and Photos
Throughout the night, guests enjoy hot drinks and snacks, which provide comfort and energy during the cold hours. Some reviews mention hot chocolate, sausages, and even sausages cooked on a portable stove—a thoughtful touch that turns the night into a cozy feast amid the Arctic wilderness.
A standout feature is the professional photography service. Tom, equipped with a good camera, takes multiple shots of each guest and sends them afterward, usually within 48 hours. These are watermark-ed, watermarked images, and they are free—a real bonus for those wanting high-quality memories without extra cost or the hassle of raw images. Guests repeatedly mention how appreciated these photos are, as they often capture the Aurora and their smiles perfectly.
The Final Experience
While the Northern Lights are unpredictable, many guests report seeing them during the tour, thanks to Tom’s persistence. Some mention seeing the “green lady” or vivid displays, even after initial doubts due to weather. For others, the journey itself—driving through snow-covered landscapes, sharing hot drinks, and taking stunning photos—became as memorable as the Aurora.
The tour generally lasts about 6 hours, ending back at your accommodation. Some guests stayed out late, while others wished for a slightly shorter duration, especially if the Aurora was visible early on. The unpredictability and the long nights are part of the adventure—so patience is key.
Why the Cost is Worth It
At $215 per person, this tour offers a combination of guided expertise, comfort, and professional photography, all of which add up to strong value for those serious about the Northern Lights. Compared to self-guiding, the convenience of hotel pickup, warm suits, and hot drinks make this a hassle-free option, especially in unpredictable winter weather.
Many reviewers felt that Tom’s local knowledge, willingness to drive into remote areas, and the chance to get professional-grade photos made the experience more than just a standard Aurora chase. The small group size ensures everyone gets personalized attention, which is often a challenge on larger tours.
Authentic Arctic Experience
This isn’t just about chasing lights; it’s about the story of Arctic survival, the thrill of the unknown, and the warmth of shared moments in freezing temperatures. Guests often mention Tom’s humor, friendliness, and dedication, which turn what could be an ordeal into a memorable adventure.
The Best Fit: Who Should Book This Tour?
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a well-organized, friendly experience with plenty of photo opportunities. If you’re comfortable with cold weather and eager to explore multiple scenic spots, you’ll find this especially rewarding.
It suits those who value local expertise and don’t mind a bit of unpredictability—remember, Aurora sightings depend on weather conditions. Also, if capturing memories in high-quality photos matters to you, the included professional shots are a big plus.
Travelers seeking a quiet, intimate experience with a knowledgeable guide will appreciate the small group size. However, if you’re after a more flexible, last-minute option or don’t want to be driven far outside Tromsø, confirm with the provider beforehand.
Final Thoughts
This Northern Lights tour by Northernlights Explorer Tromsø offers a compelling mix of expert guiding, cozy comforts, and memorable photo moments at a reasonable price. It’s clear from the high review score of 4.9 out of 5 that most guests leave satisfied—many call it an unforgettable Arctic adventure.
While it’s not guaranteed you’ll see the Aurora, the efforts of Tom and his team significantly increase your odds, and even the journey itself becomes a part of the story. The experience is especially suited for travelers who value professionalism, local knowledge, and the chance to bring home fantastic photos of this natural wonder.
If you’re prepared for cold weather and a bit of patience, this tour will leave you with stories, stunning images, and the true feeling of the Arctic night sky.
FAQ
Is pickup included in the price?
Yes, guests are picked up outside the Radisson Blu Hotel in Tromsø, typically between 7:00 and 7:15 pm.
What should I bring for the tour?
Bring passport, comfortable shoes, hat, gloves, scarf, and warm clothes. The tour provides warm suits, hot drinks, and snacks, but personal layers help.
How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 6 hours, with flexible starting times based on availability.
Will I see the Northern Lights?
There’s no guarantee, as Aurora is a natural phenomenon. However, the guide’s experience and location choices aim to maximize the chances.
What is included in the tour?
Guide service, warm drinks, snacks, warm suits, professional watermark photos, and hotel pickup/drop-off within Tromsø.
Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the small group and outdoor nature suggest children should be prepared for cold weather and long hours outside.
Can I cancel if weather looks bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, allowing you to monitor weather forecasts before committing.
Are there any additional costs?
No, everything listed is included. Hats, gloves, and shoes are recommended to bring, but not supplied.
To sum it up, if you’re after a friendly, well-organized Northern Lights expedition with the added bonus of professional photos and local expertise, this tour delivers. It’s best for travelers who value comfort, personalized attention, and are excited about the Arctic landscape—despite the inherent unpredictability of Aurora sightings.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Guided Tours in Tromso
More Tours in Tromso
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- 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
- Tromsø: Northern Lights Minibus Small Private Tour Group
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