Tromsø: Premium Northern Lights Chase with Free Photos

If you’ve ever dreamed of witnessing the Aurora Borealis dancing across the Arctic sky, this tour promises an unforgettable night. While we haven’t personally joined this exact trip, extensive reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a carefully crafted adventure that balances comfort, expertise, and a high chance of seeing those elusive lights.

What immediately catches the eye is the combination of small-group intimacy, professional photography, and expert guides who go the extra mile to find clear skies. Add in the cozy thermal suits and the promise of a night around a campfire with hot chocolate, and you’re looking at a well-rounded Arctic experience.

One consideration? Given the unpredictable nature of aurora sightings, it’s wise to book multiple nights if your schedule allows—though with a 93.44% success rate, your odds are quite solid. This tour is best suited for travelers who want more than just a bus ride; it’s perfect for those craving authentic Arctic moments with knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and a touch of luxury.

Good To Know

• Personalized Experience: Small groups (max 15) mean more attention from guides and a more intimate adventure.
• High Success Rate: Over 2,500 positive reviews and a 93.44% chance of seeing the Aurora make this a reliable choice.
• Comfort in the Cold: Expedition-grade thermal suits and insulated boots keep you warm, even at -70°C.
• Photographic Memories: Free professional Northern Lights photos offer a lasting keepsake.
• Flexible Routing: Guides adapt in real-time to weather conditions, increasing your chances of a sighting.
• Additional Perks: Hot chocolate, hearty expedition meals, campfire, and storytelling enhance the experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

Your adventure kicks off at the Scandic Ishavshotel in Tromsø. From there, a short 3-minute transfer by minibus takes you to the main departure point. The journey then lasts around two hours, giving you a chance to settle in and chat with your guides before reaching the Arctic wilderness.

Travel in a premium minibus, which is fully equipped with onboard heating—an absolute necessity for Arctic excursions. The small group size (limited to 15) ensures a cozy atmosphere, plus guides like Georgi, Lea, and Louis make a point to keep everyone engaged and informed.

Arctic Landscapes and Scenic Drives

Once in the Arctic, the route is flexible. Guides use real-time weather tracking and local knowledge to chase the clearest skies, often crossing into neighboring Finland or even Sweden if conditions call for it. This ability to adapt is what makes this tour stand out. Reviewers like Rachel and Nicol appreciated guides’ dedication to finding optimal viewing spots; one even mentioned waiting by a campfire in Finland, only to be rewarded with spectacular lights.

Campfire and Northern Lights Viewing

The tour typically includes a scenic stop where a campfire crackles while hot chocolate and a hearty expedition meal are served. Many reviews mention how relaxing and enjoyable this part is, especially after hours of driving in winter gear. Georgi’s storytelling about auroras and Arctic nature adds a special touch, transforming the wait into an educational experience.

When the lights appear—sometimes dancing faintly, other times in full glory—the group gathers around, with guides often capturing professional portraits of guests beneath the shimmering sky. Several reviewers, such as Soniya and Andrea, highlight how these photos become treasured keepsakes.

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Warmth and Equipment

The thermal suits and insulated boots, provided as part of the tour, are a game-changer. Reviewers like Kym and Nicol raved about how well they worked—keeping everyone warm even at -70°C. If you’re a keen photographer, bringing your own tripod is advised, as the guides’ professional photos are optional but highly recommended.

Duration and Flexibility

The nine-hour tour typically departs in the evening and can extend until as late as 3 AM if the sightings are promising. This flexibility means that even if the lights initially appear faint, guides are willing to wait or change location to improve visibility.

Guides and Reviews

The guides—such as Julian, Jessica, and Claudia—are frequently praised for their knowledge, perseverance, and friendly attitude. Soniya shared a story about guide Julian breaking his femur but still making efforts to ensure the group experienced the lights, which speaks volumes about the level of dedication.

Reviewers also mention that guides keep the mood lively, share interesting stories about Aurora science, and go the extra mile to ensure everyone has a memorable experience.

Practical Details and Value

Price and What’s Included

At $163 per person, the tour offers tremendous value considering the inclusions: expert guides, a cozy, heated minibus, thermal suits and boots, hot chocolate, a nutritious expedition meal, campfire experience, and professional photos. The online gallery allows you to relive the magic without extra cost, making it a smart investment for lasting memories.

What’s Not Included

You will need to arrange your own accommodation in Tromsø, plus bring along personal items like warm base layers, a hat, gloves, scarf, and possibly a tripod for photography. Since the tour crosses into Finland and possibly Sweden, a valid passport is required.

Booking and Cancellation

The tour is popular, so booking early is recommended. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if weather conditions or plans change.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

The tour begins with a brief meet at the Scandic Ishavshotel, followed by a short transfer to the departure point. From there, you’ll embark on a scenic drive through Tromsø’s surrounding landscapes, often into Finland or Sweden, depending on weather conditions.

The drive is part of the adventure—many travelers enjoy the panoramic views of snow-covered forests and frozen lakes—setting the perfect Arctic mood. Once in the right spot, the guides set up a campfire, serve hot chocolate, and tell stories about the Aurora.

This part of the experience is both relaxing and exciting, as you wait for nature’s light show. When the auroras appear, guides typically capture stunning professional portraits of guests beneath the shimmering sky, creating memories you’ll cherish long after your trip ends.

Scenery and Photo Opportunities

Expect to see Arctic landscapes that look straight out of a postcard—frozen lakes, snow-laden trees, and vast, open skies. Many reviews describe the experience of watching the Aurora dance over a frozen lake or in front of a wilderness backdrop as truly mesmerizing.

Flexibility and Success Rate

Thanks to real-time weather updates and skilled guides, the tour adapts to improve your chances. The 93.44% success rate means most guests leave with at least some photos of the lights, often with multiple sightings. Guides like Lea and Julien are praised for their persistence, sometimes driving long distances or waiting hours to catch a glimpse.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This Northern Lights chase is ideal for travelers who want a comfortable, well-organized experience with a high likelihood of success. The small group setting and professional photos make it worth the price for those seeking personalized service and lasting memories.

It’s particularly suited for those who value expert guidance, warm gear, and a mix of adventure and storytelling. If you’re after a reliable, immersive Arctic night that includes hot food, warm suits, and photo keepsakes, this tour fits the bill.

However, if you’re traveling with very young children, in a wheelchair, or prefer a more relaxed, less structured experience, you might want to explore other options or verify specific accessibility details.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting in the evening and potentially returning as late as 3 AM, depending on aurora activity.

What should I bring?
Bring passport, warm clothing, hat, gloves, scarf, tripod if you’re into photography, and thermal layers to wear under the provided thermal suits.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for ages 7 and up. However, it’s not recommended for infants or children under 5 due to the cold and long hours outdoors.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
While the tour boasts a 93.44% success rate, sightings are never guaranteed. Booking multiple nights or combining tours can improve your chances.

Are photos included?
Yes, professional photos of you and the Aurora are included and available via an online gallery after the tour.

Do I need a visa or special documents?
You should bring a valid passport, especially if crossing into Finland, as the tour sometimes ventures into neighboring countries.

Final Words

This tour offers a compelling blend of Arctic adventure, expert guidance, and comfort for those eager to see the Northern Lights. The small-group approach, combined with flexible routing, increases your odds of witnessing the Aurora in all its glory, while the warm thermal suits and cozy campfire make the cold nights much more bearable.

Perfect for travelers who value authenticity and high-quality experiences, this chase provides both stunning visuals and meaningful stories. With glowing reviews emphasizing knowledgeable guides, delicious food, and lasting photos, it’s clear that this tour consistently delivers on its promises.

If you’re ready for a night of Arctic magic, this Northern Lights tour in Tromsø might just be the highlight of your trip.

You can check if your dates are available here: