Tromso: Northern Lights Tour with Hot Drinks

Planning a trip to Tromso in winter? The chances of catching the Aurora Borealis are high, but it’s not always guaranteed — nature has her own schedule. This Northern Lights Tour with Hot Drinks offers an accessible, well-rounded way to chase those elusive lights with the comfort of warm drinks, thermal suits, and professional guidance.

While it might not be the most luxurious or exclusive experience, it hits a sweet spot for budget-conscious travelers who want to make the most of their Arctic night without breaking the bank. We especially like how it balances practical comfort, genuine local knowledge, and a flexible approach to Aurora hunting. That said, there’s a key consideration: this tour’s success depends heavily on weather conditions and Aurora activity, so patience and a bit of luck are part of the deal.

This tour suits anyone eager for a straightforward, guided Northern Lights experience in Tromso, especially those who appreciate cozy touches like hot chocolate and want a small-group setting for a more personal vibe. If you’re after multiple nights chasing the Aurora or more exclusive photography options, consider other options. But for a fun, relaxed, and budget-friendly experience, this tour really delivers.

Good To Know

• Flexible Timing: Up to 3 hours, with the possibility of returning early if you’ve seen the lights.
• Comfortable Experience: Warm thermal suits and hot drinks provided, with optional campfire setups.
• Photographic Support: Includes a professional picture package or quick shots with an iPhone 15 Pro Max.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 8 participants, making it more personal and manageable.
• Expert Guidance: Guides are knowledgeable about weather and Aurora predictions.
• Budget-Friendly: At $170, it offers a lot of value considering the included transport, drinks, and photos.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This Northern Lights tour in Tromso is designed to be straightforward, engaging, and adaptable. Starting at the Circle K gas station, you’ll meet your guide, typically in the early evening, and hop into a small, comfortable vehicle. The emphasis is on finding the best spots for viewing based on the latest weather and Aurora forecasts, which is crucial in this part of Norway where cloud cover and cold temperatures can make or break your experience.

The Journey and Locations

Once on the road, your guide will navigate through Tromso’s outskirts and into darker, more remote areas away from city lights—crucial for better Aurora visibility. These locations are chosen with care, often based on real-time weather updates, to maximize your chances of seeing the lights. Some nights, the guides might even set up a cozy campfire, adding a touch of warmth and ambiance to the chilly Arctic night.

Warmth and Comfort

One of the highlight features is the availability of thermal body suits for a small extra fee—a real plus if you’re worried about getting cold. These suits are designed to keep you warm while you stand outside waiting for the Aurora to appear. Alongside the suits, hot drinks are freely available — a simple but effective way to stay cozy and enjoy the magic of the northern night sky. If the hot chocolate isn’t to your liking, don’t hesitate to ask the guide to make it stronger; the staff are generally friendly and accommodating.

Aurora Watching and Photos

The Aurora can appear as faint glimmers or spectacular, dancing curtains of light. The guides will do their best to spot the best views, and if the lights are weak, they’ll use a professional camera (a “picture package” is available as an upsell, but often you’ll use your iPhone 15 Pro Max, which does a good job in low-light conditions). Many travelers appreciate being able to receive their pictures instantly via AirDrop, making it easy to share the experience right away.

However, some reviews suggest that the photography add-on isn’t always necessary, as the standard shots with high-quality smartphones can be surprisingly good. Just remember, Aurora visibility is never guaranteed — but the guides are experienced in maximizing your chances.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Duration and Flexibility

The tour lasts up to 3 hours, giving enough time to explore multiple locations if needed. If the Aurora appears early or you’re satisfied, the guide will return you to the starting point sooner, saving you from standing around in the cold longer than necessary. This flexible approach is appreciated, especially on nights when Aurora activity is unpredictable.

The Experience on the Ground

The guides are usually well-versed in the local weather and Aurora forecasts, providing valuable insights into the likelihood of seeing the lights. Their expertise helps in selecting the best spots, which is crucial when cloud cover or wind might obscure the view.

From reviews, we learn that these guides often have a good mix of professionalism and friendliness — some travelers mention that guides like “Gunnar” or “Ingrid” made the experience more personal and engaging through their knowledge and relaxed attitude.

The Atmosphere and Comfort

Despite the cold, the tour’s emphasis on comfort — hot drinks, thermal suits, and the occasional campfire — helps keep the experience enjoyable. One reviewer noted, “It’s a budget-friendly tour, but they really try to create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, even in the Arctic darkness.”

However, not every trip is perfect. One traveler shared a less favorable experience where they felt the guide’s focus was more on driving than helping guests see the lights, and no hot drinks or photos were provided. This highlights the importance of choosing reputable providers and managing expectations — Aurora sightings are never guaranteed.

The Price & Value

At $170 per person, this tour is reasonably priced for a guided Arctic experience that includes transport, hot drinks, and photos. Considering that some other tours charge more for similar services or longer durations, this offers good value, especially for first-time visitors or those on a tighter schedule.

Extras like thermal suits are available for an additional fee, which could be worthwhile if you’re sensitive to cold. The small size of the group (limited to 8 people) means more interaction, personalized attention, and better chances to spot the Aurora.

Why it’s Worth It

You essentially pay for a guided, flexible night trip that increases your chances of experiencing the Aurora without the hassle of planning your own remote drive. Plus, the inclusive hot drinks and quick photo service add a level of comfort and convenience often missing from DIY options.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This Northern Lights tour is ideal for travelers who want a cost-effective, guided experience in Tromso, especially if they value small groups and cozy touches like hot drinks and thermal suits. It’s perfect for those who prefer to leave the logistics to the experts and are happy with a 3-hour window rather than longer, more intense excursions.

It’s not suited for wheelchair users or travelers seeking a guaranteed Aurora — as with all Aurora tours, weather, and solar activity are outside the operator’s control. If you’re a photography enthusiast, consider whether the included photo package meets your needs or if you’d prefer a dedicated Aurora photography tour.

The Sum Up

This Tromso Northern Lights Tour with Hot Drinks offers a balanced, practical approach to Aurora chasing. It combines the essentials — transport, guidance, hot drinks, and photos — in a small-group setting that enhances the overall experience. While the success of spotting the Aurora depends on weather and solar activity, the guides’ local expertise and flexible approach significantly improve your odds.

It’s best suited for budget-minded travelers who want a comfortable, intimate night out without the fuss of larger, more expensive tours. If you’re looking for a straightforward, friendly, and affordable way to try catching the Aurora, this tour provides a solid value. Just remember, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so patience and a bit of luck are part of the journey.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for older children, but it’s best to check with the provider regarding age restrictions, especially because of cold temperatures and outdoor conditions.

What should I wear?
Warm clothes are recommended, and thermal suits are available for an extra fee if you want extra warmth. Layering is advised to stay comfortable during the outdoor waiting periods.

Can I see the Aurora every night?
No, Aurora sightings depend on weather, solar activity, and cloud cover. The guides monitor forecasts closely to choose the best locations.

What if I don’t see the lights?
Aurora is unpredictable; the tour cannot guarantee sightings. However, guides do their best to find suitable viewing spots, and the experience itself—being outdoors in Arctic Norway—is rewarding.

How long is the tour?
Up to 3 hours, with flexibility to return earlier if you’ve seen the Aurora or conditions aren’t optimal.

Are hot drinks included?
Yes, hot chocolate and other warm drinks are free during the tour, and guides are happy to adjust the strength if requested.

Is transport provided?
Yes, transport is included, taking you to remote dark locations away from city lights for better Aurora viewing.

What photography options are available?
Standard photos are taken with an iPhone 15 Pro Max, and a professional picture package can be purchased if preferred.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak English and German, making it accessible for many travelers.

Can I cancel if the weather looks bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option in case of poor conditions.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Aurora chaser, this tour offers a practical, friendly, and reasonably priced way to chase Norway’s most famous night sky spectacle. Prepare for cold weather, bring your patience, and enjoy the Arctic magic.

You can check if your dates are available here: