Tromsø: Premium Northern Lights Chase with Free Photos

If you’re dreaming of catching the Northern Lights in Norway but want to skip the rough-and-tumble of unpredictable weather and crowded tours, this Premium Northern Lights Chase from Tromsø might just be what you’re looking for. We haven’t done this specific tour ourselves, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, it looks like a thoughtfully curated experience that balances comfort, expertise, and a genuine shot at seeing those elusive auroras.

What really draws us to this tour are the small group size—limiting to just 15 guests—and the expert guidance that’s been trusted by over 60,000 guests since 2012. The inclusion of free professional photos is a smart touch, helping you take home a perfect visual memory of your Arctic adventure. Plus, the fact that they chase the auroras across different locations, including into Finland, shows a flexible approach that increases your chances of a sighting.

One point worth considering is the cost—$163 per person for a 9-hour journey—yet when you factor in the all-inclusive gear, the expert guiding, the photos, and the hot food, the value stacks up well. However, if you’re not keen on long drives or if you prefer a more relaxed, less adventurous experience, this might feel a bit intense.

This experience would suit travelers looking for a personalized, well-organized Northern Lights outing, especially those who appreciate a warm, cozy environment and want to maximize their chances with expert help. Families with older children or couples seeking a memorable Arctic night will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Flexible chase with real-time weather updates increases your chances of seeing the auroras.
• Small group size offers more personalized attention and less crowding.
• Expert guides with extensive Arctic experience help navigate tricky weather conditions.
• All-inclusive gear like thermal suits and insulated boots keep you warm in extreme cold.
• Professional photos are included, giving you lasting memories without extra hassle.
• Comfortable transportation with onboard heating makes the long night more pleasant.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

Your night begins at the Scandic Ishavshotel, a familiar and convenient Tromsø base. From there, just a quick 3-minute drive gets you on the bus, and soon you’re heading into the Arctic night. The minibus, fitted with heating and comfortable seats, is a breath of fresh air compared to the sometimes cramped or noisy conditions on less organized tours.

Traveling in a small group means you’re not just another face in a crowd. We loved the way the guides could give you personalized attention, share stories, and quickly adapt the route based on weather conditions. The two-hour drives between locations may seem long, but with the Arctic scenery passing by and guides keeping the mood lively, it’s part of the adventure.

Chasing the Northern Lights

The core of the tour is, of course, the hunt for the auroras. These guides are pros at tracking the weather and aurora forecasts, constantly checking updates and adjusting the route for the best chance of clear skies. The success rate of about 93% backs this up—they know how to read the sky.

Expect to leave Tromsø’s city lights behind and head into more remote, darker areas where the sky’s darkness enhances the auroras’ display. Some reviews mention crossing into Finland, which shows the guides’ flexibility in pursuit of clearer skies. You might not see the lights every single night, but the effort and expertise definitely boost your odds.

Campfire, Hot Chocolate, and Food

Once in a good viewing spot, the experience becomes more than just watching the sky. You’ll enjoy a warm campfire under the stars, with hot chocolate and a hearty expedition meal that provides comfort after a chilly trek. During the campfire, guides share fascinating stories about the science and folklore surrounding the auroras, adding an educational touch.

One reviewer loved how the guides made the experience feel cozy and intimate, even in the middle of the Arctic wilderness. The food and drinks, along with marshmallows roasted over the fire, turn what could be a cold, dark night into a warm, social affair.

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Professional Photos and Online Gallery

A standout feature is the free professional photography. Guides take high-quality shots of you with the auroras dancing overhead, giving you stunning keepsakes without needing to fuss with your own camera gear. After the trip, you’ll gain access to an online gallery where you can download and share your photos—an extra value that many travelers appreciate.

Comfort and Gear

You won’t have to worry about freezing—the tour provides thermal suits rated for -70°C and insulated boots, which are essential for staying warm during hours outside. Many reviews praise the gear, describing it as top-notch, and highlighting how it allows you to focus on the auroras rather than shivering.

Being comfortable makes a huge difference, especially if you’re not used to Arctic winter conditions. The guided advice on layering and what to bring (like a tripod and thermal base layers) helps set expectations.

Overall Duration and Schedule

The tour lasts about 9 hours with pickup and drop-off, which means you’re out well into the late night or early morning hours. While some might find the schedule long, the flexible routing and focus on maximizing aurora viewing make it worthwhile. Expect to return around 3 a.m. if the lights cooperate.

What the Reviews Say

Guests are overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the knowledge and enthusiasm of guides like Julian, Lea, and Claudia. One reviewer mentioned their guide Julian’s dedication in monitoring the sky despite challenging weather, which speaks to the commitment behind this tour.

The hot food, storytelling, and especially the photos get frequent shout-outs. Many recall their aurora sightings as absolutely breathtaking, and the fact that guides often go beyond the standard routes to find clear skies really pays off.

Occasionally, guides or drivers might have mishaps (like guide Julian breaking his femur) but what stands out is how the team keeps the experience resilient—shifting to another group or location and still delivering a memorable night.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Price: At $163, you’re paying for a package that includes gear, transportation, guiding, photos, and a warm meal. For all that, it’s a good value, especially considering the personalized approach.
• Group Size: Limited to 15 guests allows for a more intimate experience, which many travelers find enhances the overall enjoyment.
• Location & Duration: Starting at the city center and traveling for about 9 hours, this tour suits those who are comfortable with a long night of Arctic adventure.
• Clothing: The thermal suits and boots are provided, but you’ll want to bring your own warm layers, hat, gloves, scarf, and a tripod if you plan to take photos yourself.
• Age Suitability: It’s suitable for ages 7 and up but probably not ideal for very young children or infants due to long hours outdoors.
• Cross-border Element: Be prepared to carry your passport, as the tour might cross into Finland for better sky conditions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Travelers wanting a well-organized, professional Northern Lights experience will find this a strong choice. If you’re after personalized attention, high-quality gear, and guaranteed weather monitoring, this tour ticks those boxes. Families with older kids, couples, or small groups looking for a cozy, informative adventure will likely love the experience.

It’s also great if you’re keen on photos—the included professional images are a real plus. But if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more relaxed, less structured outing, you might find it a bit pricey.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 9 hours, starting from Tromsø city center and returning around 3 a.m., depending on aurora activity.

What do I need to bring?
You should bring passport, warm layers, hat, gloves, scarf, tripod, and thermal clothing. The thermal suits and boots are provided, so focus on layering for comfort.

Can I see the Northern Lights every night?
While the tour has a 93.44% success rate, sightings depend on weather and solar activity. The guides do their best to find clear skies, but sightings are never guaranteed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for ages 7 and up, but not recommended for infants or very young children due to the long night outdoors.

Will I be crossing borders?
Yes, the tour may cross into Finland, so a valid passport is required.

Are photos really free?
Yes, professional photos taken during the tour are included, and you’ll get access to an online gallery afterward.

What if I don’t see the lights?
The guides monitor weather closely and do their best. If conditions aren’t favorable, the tour might be rescheduled or extended. Remember, seeing the auroras also depends on natural factors outside anyone’s control.

Final Thoughts

This Premium Northern Lights Chase offers a compelling mix of expertise, comfort, and flexibility, making it a standout choice for travelers who want to maximize their chances of witnessing the Aurora Borealis without sacrificing warmth or safety. The small group size, professional guidance, and included photos add an extra layer of value that many visitors find worth the price.

If you’re after a personalized Arctic adventure, enjoy cozy, well-equipped environments, and want to capture stunning memories, this tour is likely to deliver. Keep in mind, you’ll be out late, and Aurora sightings are never 100% guaranteed, but with the careful planning and passionate guides, your odds are definitely in your favor.

In essence, this tour is best suited for those who value quality over quantity, appreciate local expertise, and want a memorable, well-rounded Northern Lights experience that combines adventure with comfort. If that sounds like your kind of trip, you’re probably going to love it.

You can check availability for your dates here: