Bardufoss: Snowshoeing and Northern Lights Adventure

Embarking on a snowshoeing tour in Norway’s Bardufoss region to see the Northern Lights promises an experience filled with quiet beauty and Arctic charm. While we haven’t done this specific tour ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions help paint a vivid picture of what to expect.

Three things we love about this experience:
First, the chance to combine outdoor adventure with Northern Lights hunting, which makes the evening both active and awe-inspiring.
Second, the small group size (limited to 10 participants) means you’ll likely get personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.
Third, the inclusion of local storytelling and cultural insights adds depth beyond just chasing lights—making it a richer, more meaningful experience.

One possible consideration is that Northern Lights sightings can never be guaranteed, since they are a natural phenomenon. This means you might not see the green lady, but the effort and setting still promise a memorable Arctic night.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy gentle outdoor activities, have an interest in local culture, and want a cozy yet adventurous way to experience Norway’s winter nights. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided experiences and are prepared for cold weather.

• Authentic Arctic experience with snowshoeing and storytelling
• Small group setting for a personalized adventure
• Northern Lights hunting in a prime location with open views
• Campfire snacks add warmth and local flavor
• Limited to ages 12+, suitable for older children and adults
• Price reflects added value of equipment, guide expertise, and cultural insights

The tour begins at the Målselv Mountain Village, a charming base for your Arctic adventure. Here, you meet your guide, who sets the tone with a friendly welcome and offers a quick rundown of the evening ahead. The group sizes are kept small, with a maximum of 10 people, so you can expect a more relaxed and engaging experience.

Snowshoe rental is included, allowing you to walk comfortably over snow-covered terrain without sinking into deep snow. If you haven’t tried snowshoeing before, don’t worry—it’s straightforward and suitable for most fitness levels, as long as you can walk in a normal hiking shoe.

Once equipped, you’ll start your walk into the Arctic night. The route is typically chosen for its open views toward the northern sky, ensuring prime conditions for spotting the Northern Lights. As you wander, your guide—likely someone with local knowledge and storytelling skills—will share insights about the Aurora Borealis and regional culture.

In reviews, guides like Up in the Arctic’s team are praised for their storytelling abilities, often weaving facts about the Northern Lights with local legends and personal anecdotes. Expect to hear stories about the science behind the lights, the best times to see them, and how Norwegians have traditionally celebrated this natural wonder.

The terrain is gentle, making it accessible for most participants, and the pace is relaxed enough to enjoy the crisp winter air. The walk is designed to last about an hour or so, but that can vary depending on weather and the group’s interest in pausing for photos or stories.

Around halfway through the walk, you’ll reach a cozy spot where a campfire is waiting. Here, you’ll pause to warm up and enjoy a traditional Norwegian hotdog snack—something simple yet satisfying after walking in cold conditions. The hotdogs are served with ketchup and mustard, adding a local flavor to your Arctic adventure.

This break is a highlight for many, not only because of the warmth but also the chance to chat with your guide and fellow travelers. If the night proves especially cold, the guide might suggest a quick visit to the Aurora Hut at Aurora Sky Point—a warm shelter offering a sheltered vantage point for Northern Lights viewing.

While the guide will do their best to find the Aurora, it’s important to remember Northern Lights are a natural occurrence, and sightings depend on weather and solar activity. The surrounding mountains and open skies of Målselv make for excellent viewing conditions, but patience is key.

Reviewers note that the views towards the northern skies are impressive, and the location is considered one of the best in the Bardufoss area for Aurora hunting. Even if the green lady doesn’t appear, the experience of being in the Arctic wilderness at night is unforgettable.

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and is priced at $262 per person. This fee covers snowshoe rental, a local guide, storytelling, the campfire snack, and the optional visit to the Aurora Hut.

Transportation to the meeting point isn’t included, so travelers need to arrange their own way to Målselv Fjellandsby, where the tour begins. Meeting is at the parking lot just below the Welcome Center, a convenient starting point with easy access.

Participants are advised to dress warmly, including layers, thermal clothing, and sturdy hiking shoes. Bringing water is recommended, especially if you plan to stay outside for longer. The tour is suitable for those over 12, as children under this age or travelers with mobility or health issues may find the outdoor activity difficult.

Many reviews highlight the expert guidance and storytelling as a major plus, emphasizing that the guides make the experience both educational and fun. One reviewer noted, “Our guide shared fascinating facts about the Aurora and local Sami stories, making the walk lively and memorable.”

Others appreciated the small group size for its intimate atmosphere, and described the campfire snack as a cozy, authentic touch. A few mentioned that weather conditions can impact visibility, but the overall experience was still rewarding, thanks to the beautiful Arctic landscape and the chance to connect with nature.

Considering the cost of $262, the value lies in the comprehensive nature of the experience—snowshoeing in pristine Arctic surroundings, expert storytelling, and the chance to witness the Northern Lights in a prime location. The inclusion of gear, snacks, and a knowledgeable guide makes this a well-rounded adventure for those seeking a mix of outdoor activity and culture.

It’s a great choice for travelers who enjoy gentle hikes, cultural stories, and are okay with the unpredictability of Aurora sightings. If you’re looking for a more adventurous or high-energy experience, this might feel too mellow. But for those craving a peaceful, authentic Arctic night, it’s hard to beat.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Norway’s winter wilderness, combining the quiet thrill of snowshoeing with the magic of the Aurora Borealis. The cozy campfire, local snacks, and storytelling add charming touches that turn a simple walk into a memorable Arctic adventure.

While the unpredictability of Aurora sightings is the only caveat, the experience itself—immersed in snowy silence, under a vast starry sky—will leave a lasting impression. The small group setting and expert guides create an environment where you can comfortably soak in the scenery and stories.

For travelers who want to combine light outdoor activity with cultural insights and a chance to see the Northern Lights, this tour offers a balanced and authentic experience. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a mix of adventure, comfort, and regional charm.

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, transportation is not included. You will need to arrange your own way to Målselv Fjellandsby, where the tour starts.

What should I wear for this tour?
Dress in warm, layered clothing suitable for cold weather, including thermal layers and sturdy hiking shoes.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including snowshoeing, storytelling, and the campfire snack.

Can children participate?
Children under 12 are not suitable for this tour. It’s designed for older children and adults comfortable with outdoor winter activities.

Is Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, since the Aurora is a natural phenomenon, sightings depend on weather and solar activity. The guide will do their best to find a good viewing spot.

What’s included in the price?
Snowshoes, a local guide, storytelling, a campfire snack (hotdogs), and an optional visit to the Aurora Hut.

What if the weather is very cold or cloudy?
If it’s very cold, the Aurora Hut may be used as a warm shelter, and weather conditions can influence Aurora visibility. The experience remains worthwhile even without a sighting.

Is this experience suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, due to outdoor terrain and walking involved, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or health concerns.

How do I book this tour?
Booking should be done at least 24 hours in advance via the provider’s platform to ensure availability and proper planning.

This snowshoeing and Northern Lights adventure in Bardufoss combines the best of outdoor exploration with cultural richness. Whether you get to see the elusive green lady or simply enjoy the Arctic night, it’s a journey that captures the spirit of Norway’s winter landscape.

You can check if your dates are available here: