Tromsø: Northern Lights Tour with Photos & Snacks

If you’re planning a trip to Tromsø and dreaming of catching the Northern Lights, this tour might be just what you’re looking for. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, we’ve gone through plenty of reviews, details, and descriptions to give you an honest picture of what to expect. What really catches our eye are the professional photos included — such a wonderful way to remember the experience — and the comfortable minibus transport that takes you away from the city lights.

One thing we like is how well-organized and flexible the tour is. The guides use advanced weather technology to chase clear skies, which is crucial in Arctic conditions. That said, it’s important to remember that, because the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, sightings are never guaranteed. Still, the tour offers a solid chance to see this incredible spectacle, especially with the added bonus of snacks and a warm, friendly atmosphere.

A possible consideration is the location of the meeting point — right in front of Polaria, in central Tromsø — which makes the start and end super convenient. But you’ll want to dress warmly and layer up because you’ll be outdoors during the stops. Also, keep in mind, winter boots, gloves, hats, and scarves aren’t included, so plan to bring your own.

This experience suits travelers who want a balanced, guided approach to Northen Lights chasing, especially those who enjoy scenic drives, local stories, and the comfort of a small group. If you’re after a straightforward, reliable tour with photos and snacks thrown in, this could be a great pick.

Key Points

• Professional Photos: Get high-quality pictures of you under the Aurora, a keepsake you’ll cherish.
• Scenic Stops: Two main stops — Ersfjordbotn and Grøtfjorden — offer stunning views and photo opportunities.
• Comfort and Convenience: Pickup from a central location, transportation in a cozy minibus, and included warm drinks and snacks.
• Weather-Driven Flexibility: Guides adjust the route based on weather forecasts to maximize your chances of seeing the lights.
• Informative Guides: Local guides share stories and insights about the Aurora while keeping you comfortable around a campfire.
• No Guarantee: Because northern lights are natural, sightings depend on weather and solar activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Ease of Access

The tour begins at Hjalmar Johansens gate 12, right in front of Polaria. This location is central and close to many hotels, which makes checking in smooth and fuss-free. You don’t have to worry about long transfers or complicated logistics — just show up a little early, and you’re set to go. Many reviews mention that this ease of access is a major plus, especially after a day of exploring Tromsø.

First Stop: Ersfjordbotn

About an hour’s drive from Tromsø, Ersfjordbotn offers a blend of scenic beauty and photo opportunities. Here, you’ll have a chance to snap pictures of the fjord with the Northern Lights dancing above (if visibility allows). The stop includes hot drinks, local snacks, and a cozy moment around the campfire, giving you a break from the cold.

Guests frequently mention the scenic drive on the way there, with reviews noting “beautiful views that make the journey as memorable as the destination.” The guided tour adds context about the area, making the experience more enriching.

Second Stop: Grøtfjorden

Next, the route takes you to Grøtfjorden, another spot renowned for its stunning natural scenery. This stop is slightly longer — about an hour — giving you plenty of time to soak in the views, enjoy the local snacks, and take photos. The guide often provides insights into the Northern Lights phenomenon, making the moment more meaningful.

According to reviews, this stop tends to be the highlight for many guests: “The scenery was breathtaking, and the guides made the experience very personal,” one traveler shared. The combination of peaceful nature and the anticipation of seeing the Aurora above makes this a memorable part of the tour.

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Return to Tromsø and Overall Duration

After the two scenic stops, the bus returns to Polaria. The total tour lasts around 7 hours, which is a good length — not too long to be exhausting, but enough to chase the lights effectively. In winter, the Aurora can be unpredictable, so guides are prepared to stay out longer if needed, patiently waiting for clear skies.

Included Amenities and Extras

• Warm Drinks and Snacks: Hot chocolate, coffee, tea, and traditional Norwegian snacks keep you warm and energized.
• Photographer Service: A professional photographer is on hand to take quality photos of you under the Northern Lights, which many guests rave about as a valuable souvenir.
• Winter Suits: These can be requested in advance if you don’t have suitable winter gear. This is a thoughtful addition, especially for travelers who might not be used to Arctic cold.
• Transport and Comfort: The minibus has chairs and a toilet (though not on the small group option), making it comfortable for the long night ahead.
• Campfire Experience: Sitting around a campfire adds a cozy, authentic touch and allows for relaxed storytelling.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re someone who appreciates reliable, guided experiences with a mix of scenic drives, cultural stories, and comfort, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s suitable for travelers who want photos to remember the trip, enjoy local snacks, and prefer a hassle-free setup with pickup close to their hotel.

However, because winter gear isn’t included, you’ll need to prepare accordingly. This is especially true if you tend to feel cold easily or plan to stay outdoors for extended periods.

Price and Value Analysis

At $152 per person, the price seems reasonable considering the included photos, snacks, and guided service. Professional photos alone can be costly elsewhere, so that adds real value. The scenic stops and personalized route adjustment based on weather forecasts make it a solid choice for those wanting a customized experience.

While the cost might be slightly higher than some budget options, the added comforts and the emphasis on maximizing your chances of seeing the Aurora make it worthwhile. You’ll likely come away with great photos, warm memories, and a better understanding of this natural wonder.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Northern Lights tour from Tromsø is particularly good for travelers who want a reliable, comfort-focused experience. If chasing the Aurora feels like a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and you’d love professional photos as part of the package, this tour delivers. The scenic stops add a scenic, peaceful dimension, making it more than just a lights chase.

It’s also well-suited for those who prefer to avoid organizing their own logistics or dealing with unpredictable weather alone. The local guides’ expertise and flexible planning give you confidence that you’re doing your best to see the lights while staying comfortable.

On the flip side, if you’re a very independent traveler or want to explore on your own terms, this guided tour might feel a bit structured. Also, if winter gear isn’t your thing and you arrive unprepared, you’ll need to plan accordingly, as gear isn’t included.

Overall, if you want a relaxed, scenic, and photo-ready Northern Lights experience from Tromsø, this tour earns our recommendation.

FAQs

Do I need to bring my own winter gear?
Yes, winter boots, gloves, hats, and scarves aren’t included, so it’s best to bring your own or request winter suits in advance.

What is included in the tour?
You get a local guide, an expert photographer, transportation by minibus, hot drinks, snacks, and a campfire experience. Winter suits are available if requested.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at Polaria, just outside Tromsø at Hjalmar Johansens gate 12 — a very central and accessible location.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 7 hours, including scenic stops, so it’s a comfortably paced evening.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, since Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity. The guides use weather technology to improve your chances, but sightings are not guaranteed.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-specific, it’s generally suitable for travelers who can handle outdoor cold and long hours in winter. Very young children under 1 year or those over 95 might not be ideal.

In the end, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, comfort, and professionalism. It’s perfect for travelers who want to prioritize quality photos, local insights, and a smooth experience while hunting for the Northern Lights in Tromsø.

You can check availability for your dates here: