Tromsø: Northern Lights Chase + Free Professional Photos

Chasing the Northern Lights in Tromsø is a bucket-list experience for many travelers, but how do you maximize your chances and truly enjoy the magic? This tour, operated by Arctic Explorers Norway, promises an intimate, flexible adventure designed to give you the best shot at witnessing the auroras while providing comfort, expert guidance, and memorable photos.

We’ll explore what makes this tour stand out—like its personalized approach, top-tier gear, and rewarding photo package—along with some considerations like its price point. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned aurora chaser, this trip aims to turn a chilly Arctic night into an unforgettable highlight of your Norwegian adventure.

Three things we love about this experience are the expert guidance that adapts to real-time weather conditions, the luxury thermal suits and insulated boots that keep guests warm even in -70°C, and the professional photos included. On the flip side, a potential drawback could be the tour’s price—though many find it worth it for the quality and chance to see the lights.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a guided, comfortable, and flexible Northern Lights experience with a small group, and who value having high-quality photos to remember the moment. It’s ideal if you’re after a personalized, well-organized chase rather than a large bus tour.

Good To Know from the Tromsø Northern Lights Chase Tour

• Personalized, flexible chasing increases your odds of seeing the auroras by adjusting to weather conditions.
• Expert guides use satellite data, forecasts, and local knowledge for the best possible locations.
• High-quality thermal gear and insulated boots keep you warm in extreme Arctic temperatures.
• Professional photos and online galleries let you relive the experience with high-resolution images.
• Small-group size (max 15 guests) ensures personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.
• Inclusive experience with hot drinks, hearty meals, and campfire ambiance enhances the overall adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience: What You Can Expect on This Northern Lights Tour

Meeting Point and Introduction

Your adventure kicks off at Scandic Ishavshotel in Tromsø, a central and convenient location. Here, you’ll receive a detailed briefing from your guide about the night’s plan, weather conditions, and tips for maximizing your aurora-spotting chances. This initial chat sets a relaxed tone and ensures everyone is prepared for the night ahead.

Suit Up for Arctic Conditions

Once briefed, you’ll gear up in expedition-grade thermal suits, insulated boots, and headlamps. Travel in these high-quality suits, rated for temperatures as low as -70°C, is a game-changer—especially when you’re stationary outside, waiting for the lights to appear. Reviewers frequently mention how warm and comfortable these suits make the experience, enabling you to focus on the sky rather than shivering.

The Drive into the Arctic Night

Your guides use the latest weather forecasts, satellite data, and local insights to determine the best locations to view the auroras. The journey involves a comfortable minibus with onboard heating, providing a cozy environment as you’re transported into the Arctic wilderness. The drive can last up to two hours, often crossing into Finland or heading to remote fjord spots away from light pollution.

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Flexibility for Prime Viewing

One of the tour’s strongest points is its adaptability—guides don’t stick to a rigid itinerary. As one reviewer noted, guides like Julian, Jessica, Louis, and Naiara are very committed to finding clear skies, often moving from one location to another. If the weather is cloudy over Tromsø, they’re prepared to drive further into Finland or other areas where the skies are clearer.

This flexibility, combined with real-time updates, dramatically boosts your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. It’s not unusual for guides to spend hours in pursuit, stopping at multiple scenic spots to catch the best display.

Campfire and Food

Weather permitting, a campfire under the stars becomes a cozy centerpiece of the tour. You can enjoy hot chocolate and a hearty expedition meal—some reviewers mention Norwegian dishes or simple comfort foods—perfect for warming up and sharing stories. When the skies are right, the glow of the fire adds to the magic, creating a true Arctic adventure vibe.

Photography and Memories

What sets this tour apart is the inclusion of professional photos. Your guides, often talented photographers, will try to capture stunning portraits and landscape shots of you beneath the auroras. After your trip, you’ll have access to an online gallery featuring high-resolution images, making it easy to relive the moment or purchase prints.

Reviewers like Soniya shared that the provided gear and professional photos made the experience feel premium. One guest remarked, “The best part was that we got to see the lights for several hours and had hot food served around the bonfire when Jessica explained the science behind the lights.”

Returning to Tromsø

After hours of chasing and hopefully witnessing a breathtaking display, you’ll head back to the hotel, filled with memories, photos, and the warm glow of a successful aurora hunt.

Breaking Down the Itinerary and Stops

Starting at Scandic Ishavshotel

This central spot offers easy access and a detailed briefing from your guide. It’s an ideal launch point for the Arctic adventure, with the comfort of knowing you’re well-prepared before heading into the cold night.

The Short Drive (3 Minutes) and Longer Journey (Up to 2 Hours)

The initial 3-minute transfer is just a quick move to the bus, but the longer drive into the Arctic can take you across borders into Finland. These longer drives aren’t just logistical—they’re strategic, as guides aim to get as far as needed from light pollution and into areas with the best forecasted Aurora activity.

Scenic Drive and Camp Activities

Once in the wilderness, your guide will choose scenic spots like fjord beaches or open plains. Here, you’ll set up camp, enjoy the campfire, and wait for the lights to dance overhead. The guides’ storytelling about the science and local environment enhances the experience, making each stop both educational and mesmerizing.

Return Journey

After hours of exploration, the trip concludes back at the original meeting point, with plenty of time to review your photos or plan your next night of aurora chasing if you’re staying longer.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Expert guides and Arctic drivers skilled at maximizing your chances of seeing the lights
• Premium minibus with onboard heating and insulation
• Thermal suits, insulated boots, and headlamps
• Access to professional photos and online gallery
• Hot chocolate and hearty expedition meals
• Campfire experience (weather permitting)
• Small-group size (max 15 guests), ensuring personal attention and comfort
• Pickup and drop-off at Scandic Ishavshotel

Not Included:

• Accommodation in Tromsø—which you’ll need to arrange separately
• Personal travel insurance
• Personal gear like tripods or extra warm layers underneath the thermal suits
• Additional meals or souvenirs

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the price point of around $196 per person might seem steep compared to larger bus tours, it’s important to consider what’s included. The professional photos alone add significant value—many travelers cherish their high-quality images as keepsakes. The small-group setting and personalized approach mean you’re not just another face in the crowd, but part of an intimate adventure.

The use of the latest weather data and flexible routing results in a higher likelihood of seeing the auroras, which is the main goal for most guests. Plus, the warmth and comfort provided by top-tier thermal gear make the experience enjoyable, rather than just a chilly ordeal.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who:

• Want a guided, flexible chase with knowledgeable guides
• Seek high-quality photos without extra effort
• Value comfort in extreme cold with premium thermal suits and insulated boots
• Prefer to stay in a small, intimate group rather than large buses
• Are willing to invest a bit more for a better chance at witnessing the Aurora Borealis in comfort

It’s less ideal for those on a very tight budget or travelers with mobility issues, given the cold and outdoor nature of the tour.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 5 years old are not suitable, mainly due to the cold temperatures and outdoor environment.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, warm clothing, hat, gloves, scarf, tripods, and thermal layers to wear underneath the thermal suits for added warmth.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing flexibility if weather or plans change.

Will I see the Northern Lights?
While the tour maximizes your chances through flexible routing and expert guidance, seeing the auroras depends on weather and solar activity—it’s not guaranteed.

Are meals provided?
Yes, a hearty expedition meal and hot chocolate are included, served around the campfire to keep everyone warm and energized.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are provided from Scandic Ishavshotel in Tromsø, making logistics simple.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a well-organized, intimate, and high-value Northern Lights experience that prioritizes comfort, expert guidance, and stunning photography, this tour is a smart choice. The use of advanced weather forecasting, thermal gear, and a flexible route means you’ll have the best possible chance to witness the auroras dance across Tromsø’s Arctic skies.

Ideal for travelers who want more than just a standard bus ride, this small-group adventure promises a personal, cozy, and memorable Arctic night. With professional photos to remember the moment and the warmth of the campfire, it’s a journey that many will cherish for years to come.

Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, this Northern Lights chase offers a blend of science, adventure, and comfort that’s hard to beat in the Norwegian Arctic.

You can check if your dates are available here: