Northern Lights Tour Yellowknife

Discover the Northern Lights Tour in Yellowknife: An Honest Look

If you’re dreaming of catching the elusive aurora borealis, a tour from Yellowknife might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this particular journey, the reviews tell a compelling story about what travelers can expect. It’s a well-rated experience, backed by hundreds of positive reviews, making it a solid choice for those eager to witness this natural wonder.

What we love about this tour? First, the professional photographer escort ensures that you don’t just see the lights but also come away with stunning photos to remember the night. Second, the stop at three different lakes provides varied backdrops, increasing your chances of catching the Northern Lights in different settings.

One thing worth considering is that this is a weather-dependent experience. If there’s heavy cloud cover or poor conditions, the Northern Lights might not make an appearance, which is a common factor for all aurora tours. So, if you’re after a guaranteed sighting, be prepared for that uncertainty or consider timing your trip during the aurora season where weather might be clearer.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, organized experience, especially those who appreciate the value of good photography and comfortable logistics. It’s ideal for those who don’t want to worry about searching for the lights on their own and prefer having warm drinks and a knowledgeable guide at their side.

Key Points from the Yellowknife Northern Lights Tour

• Professional photography is included, helping you get beautiful images of the aurora.
• Stops at three lakes increase your chances of viewing, offering diverse scenic backgrounds.
• Comfortable amenities like warm beverages and cookies are provided during the trip.
• Hassle-free pickup and drop-off from your Yellowknife hotel or B&B make logistics easy.
• Weather plays a big role—clear skies are essential for a good sighting.
• This is a small-group experience with a maximum of 16 travelers, making it more intimate.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

What the Tour Offers

This Northern Lights adventure spans about four hours, starting late at night around 9:30 pm. The tour begins with a pickup directly from your hotel or B&B in Yellowknife, which is a real plus—no need to worry about transportation, especially in the cold winter months. Once on board, your driver-guide, a friendly professional, takes you out of the city and into the open, away from city lights that can dull the aurora’s glow.

The key highlight? The three designated lakes where you’ll stop to look for the Northern Lights. As one reviewer noted, “We checked multiple locations to get the best view of the Lights,” which means the guides are actively scouting for the clearest skies. Each stop offers a different perspective, increasing your chances of seeing those shimmering ribbons dance across the sky.

The Photography Edge

This tour’s standout feature is the professional photographer accompanying the guide. They not only help you spot the aurora but also take high-quality photos with their professional gear. Several reviews emphasize how valuable this was, with guests saying, “Pei took awesome pics of everyone,” and “her photography skills and camera were excellent.” After the tour, you’ll receive unlimited photos—an incredible perk that ensures you leave with memories captured in stunning detail.

Comfort and Snacks

One of the details we appreciated in reviews is the provision of warm beverages and cookies. Imagine standing outside in freezing weather, eyes fixed on the sky, with a hot chocolate or tea in hand—it’s a surprisingly simple yet effective way to stay cozy. Multiple guests mention enjoying these little comforts, which make the late-night outing more enjoyable.

Logistics and Small Group Feel

The tour operates with a maximum of 16 travelers, so it doesn’t feel crowded or impersonal. The bus itself seems comfortable, with some reviews noting it’s bigger than expected—probably fitting over 20 people—but still cozy. Punctual pickup and drop-off are key, as travelers appreciated the professionalism of the guides and drivers.

Price and Value

At around $73.42 per person, this tour offers good value considering what’s included: multiple stops, professional photos, warm drinks, and the reassurance of a guaranteed departure. The reviews suggest that many felt it was worth the cost, especially since they got to see the lights and take home quality images.

However, it’s essential to understand that this is a nature-based experience. If the weather is cloudy or if the aurora isn’t visible, the tour can’t guarantee a sighting. As some reviews point out, this isn’t a flaw of the tour but a reality of chasing the Northern Lights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates a well-organized, relaxed experience with the added bonus of professional photos, this tour suits you. It’s especially good if you’re traveling solo or in a small group wanting a more intimate outing. Also, if you’re willing to spend a bit for peace of mind and good photos, it’s a strong choice.

On the flip side, if weather conditions are poor, your chances of seeing the aurora diminish, so patience and a bit of luck are necessary. This tour probably isn’t ideal if you expect a guaranteed show—but it’s excellent for those who want to maximize their chances with multiple stops and expert input.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start with Hotel Pickup

The tour begins with a prompt pickup from your hotel or B&B, which makes it stress-free. The guide provides plenty of info about the Northern Lights and Yellowknife itself, setting the stage for the night ahead.

The Drive out of Town

Once on the bus, you’ll leave Yellowknife’s city lights behind, heading onto the Ingraham Trail. The journey itself is part of the experience—seeing the outskirts of town blanketed in snow, with the anticipation building.

Three Lakes, Three Views

The main stops are at three lakes outside Yellowknife. Each is chosen for its potential for clear skies and good viewing conditions. Guests say this variety improves the odds of a sighting, and the different locations also make for great photos. One reviewer mentioned, “We were taken to four lakes to get a different view,” showing how the guides go the extra mile.

Photo Sessions and Warm Drinks

At each spot, the professional photographer takes multiple shots, capturing the lights and your group. Meanwhile, guests can sip hot chocolate or tea, which is particularly appreciated in the cold. The photos are provided afterward, often via email, and guests rave about their quality.

Return and Drop-off

After a few hours of Aurora hunting, the guide returns you to your hotel or B&B, hopefully with some unforgettable photos and memories of a spectacular night under the stars.

Real Travelers’ Experiences: Highlights and Cautions

Many reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the staff. Guests often mention Pei, the guide, as being “very considerate for our convenience and safety,” and “a pro in photography.” Such positive interactions make a difference, especially late at night in freezing conditions.

The weather’s role can’t be overstated. While some guests happily report seeing the Aurora multiple nights, others, like Rick and Jean-Claude, faced cloudy skies or rain, making sightings impossible. As one reviewer pointed out, “It rained essentially all day, then it was mostly cloudy all evening and night,” which can be disappointing but is part of the natural unpredictability.

A small portion of reviews also mention bus issues, like diesel exhaust leaks making the experience uncomfortable. This seems to be a minor flaw in an otherwise well-organized operation, but it’s worth noting if you’re sensitive to such things.

Finally, there are some critical voices—like the reviewer who called the tour “a scam,” but these are usually linked to poor weather and expectations. It’s important to realize that Northern Lights tours are not guaranteed; they’re about maximizing your chances under the right conditions.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This Northern Lights tour from Yellowknife offers a well-rounded, reliable way to chase the aurora. It’s great for travelers who want the convenience of hotel pickup, professional photos, and a relaxed pace. The stops at three lakes give you different scenic opportunities, and the warm drinks and friendly guides make it feel like a special night rather than just a tour.

If your main goal is to capture stunning images and enjoy a comfortable night out, this experience really delivers. The small group size and knowledgeable staff help make it feel intimate and personal, even for solo travelers. Plus, the honest approach to weather dependence means you’re not overpromised, and you’ll be satisfied if the skies cooperate.

However, if you’re visiting during a period of consistently cloudy weather or expecting a guaranteed show, understand that nature plays a big role—so keep your expectations flexible. The tour is a good investment to increase your chances, but the aurora remains unpredictable.

All in all, if you’re open-minded about the weather and want a thoughtfully organized experience with the benefit of professional photography, this Yellowknife Northern Lights tour offers excellent value and memorable moments.

FAQs

Does the tour include hotel pickup? Yes, it’s included. The pickup is from any hotel or B&B in Yellowknife, making it super convenient. Just make sure to be ready at the scheduled time.

How long does the tour last? It’s approximately 4 hours, starting around 9:30 pm. That gives you plenty of time to hunt for the aurora, take photos, and stay warm.

Are warm drinks provided? Yes, guests consistently mention hot beverages like hot chocolate, tea, or coffee, along with cookies, which help keep everyone comfortable.

Can I expect to see the Northern Lights every night? Not guaranteed. Visibility depends on weather and sky conditions. If clouds are thick or it’s rainy, the lights might not appear even if you’re out on the tour.

What about the photography? A professional photographer accompanies the tour, taking high-quality pictures with their gear. You’ll get unlimited photos afterward, which is a big bonus.

Is this suitable for families? The reviews don’t specify, but given the late-night nature and winter conditions, it’s best for travelers comfortable in cold weather and late hours. No specific age restrictions are mentioned.

What should I wear? While the tour provides many comforts, remember to dress warmly—think layers, insulated boots, hats, and gloves. Some reviews mention that proper footwear is crucial for comfort.

This Yellowknife Northern Lights tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to chase the aurora, especially if you want professional photos and a stress-free outing. Just keep your expectations in check with the weather, and you’re likely to come away with some incredible memories.