Planning a trip to Tromsø for a chance to see the Aurora Borealis? If you’re considering a guided tour, this all-inclusive Northern Lights hunt by Arctic Adventure Tours might top your list. From what we’ve gathered, it’s a well-reviewed experience that balances comfort with adventure, making it appealing for a wide range of travelers.
What we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on providing a comprehensive, worry-free experience — everything from thermal suits to professional photos is included. Plus, it’s designed to keep the group small (limiting to 15 people), which often results in more personalized attention and a cozier vibe.
On the flip side, you should keep in mind that weather conditions can be unpredictable, and the experience may sometimes involve a fair bit of driving as guides search for clear skies.
Very good organization. Our guides monitored the situation in real time. We stopped 3 times. We were also lucky to see the Aurora Borealis.
Our guide Laura was excellent and very knowledgeable. She took us to a number of spots where we could see the Northern Lights while she gave us a commentary about the aurora borealis. It was a fabulous experience and a must do trip. A special mention about our driver too. She was so very charming and sweet and took us around with a smile on her face.
The guide and driver were excellent. The guide told us exactly the situation of the weather and was very knowledgeable. She took us just an hour out of Tromsø and we managed to catch the Northern Lights. Her forecast was really spot on. Managed to catch such incredible show in poor weather. Props to the driver too who took us to a nice cozy place for us to have our dinner with a fire pit. Overall, 10/10 experience.
This tour seems great for those who want a structured, comfortable, and engaging Northern Lights adventure**, especially if you value guides and memorable photos. If you’re after a relaxed yet immersive Arctic experience, this might be just right.
- Key Points
- What to Expect from the Tour
- The Journey and the Stops
- Photography and Viewing
- Duration and Flexibility
- The Experience in Detail
- Comfort and Equipment
- Food and Drinks
- Guides and Personal Touches
- The Search for the Lights
- Value for Money
- Downsides and Considerations
- Who Should Consider This Tour?
- FAQ
- Final Thoughts
- More Tour Reviews in Tromso
Key Points
- All-inclusive package: thermal suits, boots, food, drinks, and photos are included, eliminating extra costs and hassle.
- Small-group setting: limited to 15 participants, fostering a more intimate atmosphere.
- Expert guides: knowledgeable and friendly, with a knack for finding clear skies and sharing stories.
- Comfortable transport: premium Mercedes-Benz Minibus, heated and well-equipped.
- Pro photography: guides help with camera settings and take photos for free.
- Flexible duration: around 7.5 hours, with some variation depending on weather and sky conditions.
What to Expect from the Tour
This experience begins with a friendly briefing where your guides will explain the plan and answer any questions. Once you’re suited up in the thermal gear (which is comfortable and adequate for Arctic conditions), you hop into the luxurious Mercedes-Benz Minibus. The vehicle itself is a real plus — it’s heated, spacious, and makes the journey comfortable even on cold winter nights.
The tour doesn’t guarantee the Northern Lights — weather and sky conditions are always factors out of anyone’s control — but guides do their best to chase the best viewing spots. Some nights, you’ll drive just an hour or so from Tromsø to a secluded location.
Other times, if the sky is particularly cloudy, guides might drive further, even into Finland, to find a break in the clouds. This flexibility is key to maximizing your chances of witnessing the Aurora.
Excellent trip with professional guide and pilot! We got warm clothes, delicious food, wonderful pictures! Our northern light dream just came true! If you are hesitating to pick the trip, please choose this one! Highly recommended!
Arctic Adventures went above and beyond to make the trip extra special. We got to see the Northern Lights within 1/2 an hour of the start of the tour. The guides were very knowledgeable and friendly. Warm gear was provided so we were all warm and cosy. Had a fantastic camp fire and food while the lights still danced above us. The guides pictures were amazing and just topped off the whole tour. 5 stars for this tour!
Northern lights hunt was a great experience. Guides were really trying their best to show us Aurora, and took pictures of us as well. Food and hot chocolate were tasty. Big advantage was drop off at our hotel destination, so we didn’t have to go on foot at night. I would recommend it.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tromso.
The Journey and the Stops
Throughout the evening, your guides monitor the weather forecast and aurora activity, adjusting plans on the fly. Several reviews highlighted how precise and helpful guides are, with one guest noting, “The guide told us exactly the situation of the weather and was very knowledgeable. She took us just an hour out of Tromsø and we managed to catch the Northern Lights.”
Once in a good spot, you’ll settle around a campfire, which is a real highlight. You can relax on reindeer skins and enjoy a hot stew — the food is hearty and warm, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available, based on requests. Snacks like cookies and energy bars keep everyone fueled during the wait.
Photography and Viewing
One of the biggest advantages of this tour is the professional support. Guides assist with camera settings and have tripods ready, so you don’t miss out on capturing the moment — an aspect many travelers value highly, especially since the Northern Lights are fleeting. After the tour, they send you the photos for free, which is a nice touch and great for sharing memories.
Duration and Flexibility
The tour runs from approximately 6 to 9 hours, depending on the weather and Aurora activity. This length allows for a relaxed pace and multiple stops, increasing your odds of seeing the lights. One review praised the guides’ determination: “They drove us till Finland to make sure we get the best we can that day,” showing how committed they are to giving you a good chance.
We really appreciated our tour because our guide Alex was very knowledgeable and kind. He didn’t measure any efforts to provide us a moment to see the Northern Lights, even with the bad weather. Also, our driver was very nice and drove safely.
Guide was incredibly educated and informative about the scientific and cultural background of the Aurora Borealis and also on the ecology and geography of the region – was able to explain the inner workings to the utmost degree on the trip there. Snowsuits and boots were provided if necessary, as well as hot chocolate and a warm meal, around a campfire sitting on comfy reindeer skins. We managed to see the lights despite terrible weather and cloud cover, they even danced for us 🙂 Our guide was able to predict the opening in the clouds perfectly, highly recommend spending a little bit extra to book this tour on a day where the aurora might be tricky to see !
Great evening. Jessica really knew her stuff and was really friendly and helpful, as was our driver. We saw the lights for about two hours. Excellent food.
The Experience in Detail
Let’s break down what makes this experience stand out, and what could be less ideal.
Comfort and Equipment
Travelers consistently mention the quality of gear — thermal suits, boots, and cozy campfires. Being warm is critical, especially when you’re sitting still for long periods in Arctic temperatures. The Mercedes-Benz Minibus is noted for its comfort and heated interior, which makes the journey much more pleasant than standing outside for hours.
Food and Drinks
The hot stew, produced by Tromsø-based Drytech, receives high praise. It’s a filling, real meal, not just snacks, which makes a big difference in Arctic conditions. The hot chocolate and cookies keep everyone cheerful, even if the sky isn’t cooperating immediately.
Guides and Personal Touches
We loved the way guides share stories, science, and local lore, making the tour educational and engaging. Guests like Anita from India and Jiayi from the Netherlands love their guides’ professionalism and enthusiasm. Several mention that guides go above and beyond: “They took pictures of us and shared their personal experiences,” says another reviewer.
Very well organized, good equipment, excellent food!… Jennifer and Tor are competent and passionate in their work!…
Even though we managed to get a glance of northern lights but what matters is how much efforts were taken by the tour guides. It was their determination and passion to Not send us back empty handed, and hence they drove us till Finland to make sure we get the best we can on that day. Jennifer was a delight, she shared so much of her personal experiences and knowledge helping us understand the science behind those aurora’s. My husband and I had a lovely experience and would recommend them to all my friends and family
Our tour was really nice! Although the northern light activity was low out tour guide was amazing and gave us the best chance to see the lights. Took pictures of us and sent them all the next day. We also had some lovely stew and treats around the fire! Would highly recommend!
The Search for the Lights
While some nights might bring spectacular displays within half an hour, others require patience and a bit of luck. As Zoe from Australia pointed out, guides are excellent at predicting cloud openings, which can sometimes be the key to witnessing the Aurora despite poor weather.
Value for Money
Considering everything included — transport, thermal gear, food, drinks, and free photos — many find this tour to be a good value. It’s especially appealing if you want to avoid extra costs or the hassle of organizing gear yourself.
Downsides and Considerations
No experience is perfect. Weather is unpredictable, and heavy cloud cover means no Aurora, no matter how dedicated your guides are. The drive might be lengthy at times, which could be tiring if you prefer not to be in a vehicle for many hours. Plus, the tour is not suitable for children under 10, so families with younger kids might need to look for other options.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re a traveler who values comfort and convenience, this tour offers a cozy, guided experience with plenty of extras. It’s ideal if you want a small, personal group and appreciate professional photos to remember your trip.
This was such a perfect night, not only because we saw the most magnificent light display, but the tour guides went over and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed!
Our tour guides for and Marilee took us over 2 hours and 45: minutes away to find a gap in the clouds under horrendous weather. We then witnessed the most magical of northern lights dancing in the gap they found, they went above and beyond in order for us to catch a glimpse. We then drove further to catch another gap and camped by a fire had wonderful stew and toasted marshmallow and watched as the lights appeared again. The photo's we have been sent are beautiful as well . Magical night and a must book tour if in Tromso!!!
Very knowledgeable and nice guide, Jessica and driver/guide, Tor. They really knew what they were doing, interpreting several forecasts and managing to give us a great northern lights viewing experience, well beyond our greatest expectations in an unbelievable scenery. Not to mention their constant care for us, building a nice fire and offering hot beverages, marshmallows and hot stew 🙂 On the way back, we really felt like “aurora” chasers making several stops to see the lights. All in one, I can’t think of a better way to enjoy the northern lights, than choosing this tour.
It's particularly suitable for those with a flexible schedule, as the duration can extend up to 9 hours, and weather-dependent plans require patience. If you’re excited about learning about the science and stories behind the Aurora, guides’ storytelling adds a lot of value.
This experience would be a good fit for first-timers or anyone looking for a memorable, well-organized Arctic adventure without the fuss of DIY planning.
FAQ
What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, a hat, gloves, and a camera. The tour provides thermal suits, but layering is always good in Arctic winter.
Is food included?
Yes, hearty hot stew, hot drinks, cookies, and snacks are provided throughout the night.
What if I want photos of the Aurora?
Guides assist with camera settings, take photos for you, and send copies afterward for free.
How long does the tour last?
Expect around 7.5 hours, with some variation depending on weather conditions and Aurora activity.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for ages 10 and up; younger children might find the long hours and cold weather challenging.
What kind of vehicle is used?
A premium, heated Mercedes-Benz Minibus, which is comfortable and well-equipped.
Will I see the Northern Lights every night?
Not guaranteed — visibility depends heavily on weather and sky conditions, but guides do their best to find clear spots.
Do I need my passport?
Yes, in case the chase takes you into Finland.
Tromsø: All-Inclusive Northern Lights Hunt
"Very good organization. Our guides monitored the situation in real time. We stopped 3 times. We were also lucky to see the Aurora Borealis."
Final Thoughts
This All-Inclusive Northern Lights Hunt in Tromsø balances comfort, education, and adventure. With experienced guides, cozy gear, and the chance to document your experience with professional photos, it offers good value for those seeking a reliable way to chase the Aurora.
It’s especially suited for travelers who want a small-group, personalized experience — and who don’t mind some driving if it means better chances of catching the lights.
If you’re after a well-organized, memorable Arctic night, this tour could be just what you need. It’s not a high-adrenaline adventure, but rather a warm, immersive experience that respects the unpredictable nature of nature’s most famous light show. Perfect for those who want to relax, learn, and enjoy a beautiful night under the stars.
Disclaimer: Always check the weather forecast and be prepared for cold conditions. Aurora sightings are never guaranteed, but a good guide can significantly improve your odds.
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