Face The Outdoors Private Group Northern Lights Tour

If you’re dreaming of catching the Northern Lights in Alaska, chances are you want more than just a crowded bus or a busy lodge. That’s exactly what the Face The Outdoors Private Group Northern Lights Tour offers—a tailored, intimate experience designed to give you the best shot at witnessing this natural wonder in comfort and style. We’ve looked into what makes this tour special, and honestly, it sounds like a genuine gem for anyone serious about seeing the aurora.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its private setting—no noisy crowds, no competing groups, just you and your people. Plus, the guide’s local knowledge and dedication to maximizing Aurora viewing chances really shine through. On the flip side, the non-refundable booking policy might give some people pause, especially if weather or luck isn’t on your side. Still, if you’re after a personalized, flexible experience with high hopes of seeing the lights, this could be just what you’re looking for.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort, personalized attention, and expert guidance. If you’re a photography enthusiast, you’ll love the professional Aurora portraits and tips. For those who want a cozy, authentic Alaskan experience without venturing out into the cold alone, this tour ticks a lot of boxes.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Experience: You’re the only group on this tour, ensuring a quiet, personalized setting.
• Expert Local Guides: Guides are Alaska natives with extensive Aurora knowledge, increasing your chances of a sighting.
• Comfortable Lodge Setting: The lodge offers cozy viewing windows and a homey vibe, perfect for relaxing while waiting for the lights.
• Weather-Chasing Flexibility: They’ll chase the Aurora for up to four hours, moving to clear skies when needed.
• Photography Support: Includes tips from a guide experienced in Aurora photography, plus five professional portraits.
• Value for Money: At $487.50 per person, you get a tailored experience with extras like snacks, drinks, and photos.

An Honest Look at the Experience

This tour is all about creating an environment where you can relax and focus on the magic of the Northern Lights without the distractions of big crowds or impersonal group tours. For many travelers, the appeal lies in the personalized nature—you’re with just your group, making it a more intimate experience. The lodge setting is thoughtfully designed with large viewing windows and comfortable couches, allowing you to sit back and soak in the sky’s display in a warm, inviting space.

The guide’s local knowledge is a major plus. As one reviewer put it, “Michael is an amazing tour guide, his knowledge of the aurora is off the charts!” Having someone who grew up in Alaska and truly understands the area gives you an advantage—whether it’s reading weather patterns, knowing the best spots to chase clouds, or sharing insights about the Aurora itself.

The chasing aspect really sets this tour apart. They don’t just wait at one spot; they actively pursue clear skies, even if that means traveling for hours. This flexibility is key because the Northern Lights are notoriously elusive and weather-dependent. The fact that the tour might chase for up to four hours demonstrates their commitment to maximizing your chances of a sighting.

The Lodge and Viewing Experience

Imagine sitting on a comfy couch, sipping coffee or tea, with a panoramic view of the night sky. That’s what you get at this lodge—a cozy, welcoming environment that’s both practical and authentic. On cloudy nights, your guide will take the initiative to chase the aurora, loading up your group into their van and heading to spots with the best weather conditions. Several reviews highlight this proactive approach, with one saying, “Michael loaded us all up in the van and took us to clear skies when needed.” It’s a clear sign they’re serious about helping you see the lights.

The lodge’s large viewing windows are designed to maximize your viewing potential without having to brave the cold outside. And if the Aurora does appear, your guide will help you capture that perfect shot. They even provide professional Aurora portraits, which are great keepsakes from your night—something many travelers appreciated, especially photographers or those wanting a beautiful photo to remember the experience.

The Logistics: Who, When, and How

The tour kicks off at 8:00 pm, typically lasting around 9 hours. That’s a substantial chunk of time dedicated solely to chasing and viewing the Aurora, with flexibility built into the program. The group size is limited to just your party, which means fewer distractions and more personalized guidance.

Transportation is via a 15-passenger van, a cozy ride that’s both practical and comfortable. The route takes you to remote locations, away from city lights and light pollution, giving you the best possible chance of seeing the Aurora in its full glory.

The price point—$487.50 per person—may seem high, but considering the personalized, private nature of the experience, along with extras like snacks, drinks, and professional photos, it can be seen as good value for those seeking a premium, tailored outing. The tour also includes hot beverages and snacks, making the long night a little more comfortable.

The tour is non-refundable, so be sure to book when the weather forecast aligns, or be prepared for possible rescheduling if weather conditions are poor. Luckily, if the tour is canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

From the Reviews: Authentic Experiences and Real Results

Multiple reviewers rave about the guide’s knowledge and dedication. One said, “Michael and Face The Outdoors helped deliver one of the most magical nights of my life,” highlighting the personal touch and genuine effort put into the tour. Others mention how the guide actively monitored weather conditions, constantly adjusting plans to maximize chances—showing real commitment.

The Aurora, of course, depends on luck and weather. As one reviewer shared, “There were clouds at the start, but the guide moved us to clear skies, proving their dedication.” Not every night will be a showstopper, but the proactive approach gives you a much better shot than just waiting in one spot all night.

Photographers and Aurora enthusiasts alike appreciate the professional portraits and tips provided, making this tour appealing to those who want to go home with more than just memories—they’ll have stunning photos to show for it.

Practical Details to Keep in Mind

• Duration: About 9 hours, starting at 8:00 pm.
• Cost: $487.50 per person, which includes transport, snacks, drinks, and photos.
• What’s included: Coffee, tea, soda, water, snacks, private transportation, five professional Aurora portraits, weather chasing.
• What’s not included: Gratuities and camera rentals (if needed).
• Weather Dependence: The tour is non-refundable if canceled due to weather, but they’ll reschedule or refund if conditions are truly poor.
• Group size: Private, only your party—ideal for those who prefer a quiet, personalized experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want more than just a standard Aurora chase—they want comfort, personalization, and expert guidance. If you’re a serious Aurora hunter, a photography buff, or just someone who prefers a relaxing environment while waiting for the lights, this tour likely fits your style. It’s also a good choice if you value flexibility and want a chance to chase clear skies actively.

It’s less ideal if you’re on a tight budget or if your schedule is inflexible, given the cost and lengthy duration. Also, if the weather turns bad and you’re not comfortable with rescheduling or no refunds, you might want to consider other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed mainly for adults and experienced travelers. It’s a long night with cold weather, so consider your children’s comfort and stamina. The experience is more tailored for adults or older teens comfortable with outdoor winter conditions.

What if the weather is cloudy on the night of my tour?
The guide actively chases clear skies, so if clouds roll in, they will move the group to better locations within the four-hour chasing window. If the weather is truly poor, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour begins at 8:00 pm, with pickup provided from your hotel or designated location in Fairbanks. Confirm your pickup details when booking.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly—layers, insulated boots, hats, and gloves are recommended. The lodge provides a cozy environment, but you’ll need to be outside at times during chasing or viewing.

Can I rent a camera from them?
Yes, camera rentals are available, which could be helpful for capturing the lights if you don’t have your own gear.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its private, personalized nature and dedicated guide’s local expertise set it apart. Plus, the commitment to chasing clear skies and providing professional photography help makes it stand out.

Is this experience worth the price?
If you value comfort, privacy, expert guidance, and a good chance of seeing the Aurora, many reviewers say yes. The included photos and cozy lodge environment add to the overall value.

Choosing a Northern Lights tour in Fairbanks depends on what kind of experience you’re after. If you want a personalized, comfortable, and flexible night with an expert who actively chases clear skies, the Face The Outdoors Private Group Northern Lights Tour offers a compelling package. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a quiet, intimate setting, and want to maximize their chances of witnessing the Aurora with guidance along the way.

While the price is on the higher side, it includes a lot of thoughtful extras—like professional photos, snacks, and the warm lodge ambiance—that make the night special. Keep in mind the non-refundable policy and weather dependence, but if conditions align, this tour could truly be a highlight of your Alaskan adventure.

In the end, it’s about balancing expectations—if you’re looking for a tailored, expert-led adventure in a cozy environment, this tour stands out as a trustworthy option. Just remember to dress warmly, bring your patience, and be ready for a night of awe, whatever the sky has in store.