Tromsø: Northern Lights Chase by a comfortable bus

Traveling to Tromsø in winter promises a chance to witness one of nature’s most spectacular shows—the Aurora Borealis. While the Northern Lights are never guaranteed due to their natural unpredictability, this Northern Lights chase by bus offers a practical and cozy way to maximize your chances, combined with expert guidance and excellent photo opportunities.

What we love about this tour is its comfortable transportation, the knowledgeable guides who really know where to find the lights, and the thoughtful touches like hot drinks and freshly baked cookies to keep you warm. Plus, capturing the Lights with a professional photographer’s help elevates the experience from simply watching to creating lasting memories.

One small consideration is that meals are not included, so you might want to plan for a hearty dinner before or after the tour. This experience is perfect for those who prefer a relaxed, well-organized adventure and want to avoid the unpredictability of spotting the Aurora on their own. If you’re visiting Tromsø with a sense of adventure, a love of photography, or simply want a comfortable way to chase the Lights, this tour is a solid choice.

Good To Know

• Comfortable transport ensures a smooth ride through the Arctic wilderness.
• Expert guides and photographers help you find the best viewing spots and capture stunning photos.
• Carefully selected locations maximize your chances of Aurora sightings, away from light pollution.
• Warm drinks and cookies keep you cozy during the long, chilly night.
• No meals included, so plan accordingly.
• Flexible booking options allow you to reserve without immediate payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Tromsø Northern Lights Bus Tour

The Overall Experience

This tour offers a relaxing 7-hour journey that combines the thrill of chasing the Aurora with comfort and expert guidance. Starting from the vibrant city center of Tromsø, you’ll board a modern, cozy bus designed to give you a smooth ride through the winter night. The tour is led by an English-speaking guide who doubles as a photographer, adding a layer of professionalism especially appreciated by those eager to document the Lights in high quality.

The tour’s pacing includes carefully planned stops at locations chosen based on expert weather and solar activity forecasts. This means you’re not randomly driving around but strategically positioned to catch the best chance of seeing the Aurora. Many reviews highlight guides’ local knowledge and ability to find the Lights, with Jacqueline noting that their guide “knew where to find the Northern Lights,” which is crucial given how elusive this natural phenomenon can sometimes be.

The Transport and Timing

The comfortable bus is a major plus—it keeps you off the cold, especially important in Arctic winter. The journey is split into two main drive periods of about 2 hours each, with a substantial 3-hour stop in Tromsø for sightseeing, photos, and perhaps a brief rest. This setup balances travel and observation time, ensuring you don’t feel hurried.

Starting at the Magic Ice Bar, the tour ends back there, making it straightforward to plan your evening around this activity. The flexible scheduling (check availability for specific times) allows travelers to select a start time that suits their itinerary, a thoughtful feature for those with tight schedules.

Locations and Scenery

The stops are carefully chosen for their low light pollution and excellent visibility, often based on live weather and solar data. This strategic approach pays off—Vitor mentions they had a “really good view of the Aurora,” reinforcing the importance of location selection in Aurora viewing.

Reviewers also appreciate the added value of being in the Arctic wilderness, away from Tromsø’s city glow, which enhances the likelihood of seeing the Lights in their full glory. The scenery itself—fjords, snow-covered landscapes, and the dark Arctic sky—is breathtaking and adds to the entire experience.

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Warmth and Comfort

In terms of comfort, hot drinks and freshly baked cookies are provided once at the viewing locations—crucial in a climate where staying warm is a challenge. Many travelers note that this is a thoughtful touch, especially as the Northern Lights displays often last only a few fleeting minutes, so being cozy while waiting makes a big difference. Vanessa praised the organization and the “super nice and knowledgeable” guides, which adds to the sense of reliability and ease.

Photography and Memories

This tour’s standout feature is the inclusion of a professional guide and photographer. You don’t just watch the Lights—you get professional-quality photos of the experience. Reviewers like Vanessa commend the “very qualitative” photos, which often become the highlight of the tour. The guide’s expertise shows in their ability to quickly capture the fleeting lights, making it a valuable addition for photography lovers.

Pricing and Value

At $152 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusions. You are transported comfortably, guided by knowledgeable locals, and receive professional photos—all factors that enhance the overall experience. While meals are not included, the opportunity to see the Lights in a relaxed setting with warm drinks and expert guidance justifies the cost for many.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This Northern Lights chase is ideal for travelers who want a stress-free, comfortable experience with high chances of sightings, thanks to the strategic locations and expert guides. It’s perfect for those who prefer a relaxed evening rather than braving the Arctic cold on their own or joining a more crowded, less personalized tour. Photography enthusiasts will especially appreciate the professional photos shared after the tour.

The Sum Up

The Tromsø Northern Lights Chase by bus offers a well-rounded, thoughtfully organized adventure into the Arctic night. From cozy transportation and expert guidance to strategic location choices and professional photography, this tour prioritizes comfort and quality. It’s an excellent option for travelers who want to maximize their Aurora sightings without sacrificing convenience or warmth.

While the experience relies on natural phenomena, the careful planning and knowledgeable guides greatly increase your chances of witnessing the Lights in all their glory. The inclusion of hot drinks, cookies, and professional photos make it a memorable, hassle-free outing suitable for couples, solo travelers, or small groups.

If you’re eager to see the Aurora but prefer a relaxed, guided experience that minimizes cold exposure and maximizes photo opportunities, this tour is a top pick. Just remember to dress warmly, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare for a night filled with magical skies and unforgettable memories.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You will meet at the Magic Ice Bar at the start, and the tour ends back there, so plan accordingly.

What should I bring?
You should dress warmly in layers and wear insulated shoes. Arctic nights can be very cold, especially when you’re standing outside for extended periods.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, with about 2 hours of driving time, a 3-hour stop in Tromsø, and transportation back.

Are meals provided?
No, meals are not included, but hot drinks and cookies are served during the stops to keep you warm.

Can I cancel this booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
Since the Aurora is a natural phenomenon, sightings cannot be guaranteed. The tour’s strategic location and expert guides significantly improve your chances, but the Lights depend on weather conditions and solar activity.

In sum, this tour offers a comfortable, well-organized way to chase the Aurora in Tromsø. It’s especially suited for those who value expert guidance, cozy comfort, and high-quality photos—making it a memorable highlight of any Arctic adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: