Imagine witnessing one of nature’s most breathtaking displays—the dancing, shimmering Northern Lights. That’s what many travelers seek when booking a Northern Lights tour in Yellowknife. We haven’t personally been on this tour, but based on extensive reviews and detailed info, we can help you decide if it’s the right fit for your Arctic adventure.
What appeals most about this experience are the expert guides who chase the lights across different spots for the best viewing chances, and the hassle-free logistics like hotel pickup and included photos. On the flip side, some reviews mention unpredictable weather and logistical hiccups, which are common risks with aurora viewing. If you’re someone who values knowledgeable guides and a comfortable, organized outing without hassle, this tour might suit you well. It’s especially appealing for those new to aurora hunting or travelers who prefer a structured, all-in-one experience.
Key Points
- Expert guides increase your chances of seeing the Aurora and enrich the experience with local knowledge.
- Multiple viewing stops mean better odds, rather than sticking to a single spot.
- Inclusive photos and hot drinks add comfort and help you remember the trip without extra gear.
- Weather unpredictability can impact visibility; be prepared for the conditions.
- Group size is capped at 24, ensuring a relatively intimate experience.
- Cost around $66.72 per person offers good value, especially with included transportation and expert guidance.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour
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What’s Included and Why It Matters
For around $66.72, this tour packs a good punch in terms of value. It offers hotel pickup and drop-off, so you won’t need to worry about finding your way in the dark or braving cold weather on your own. The mini coach transportation ensures you’re comfortably moved between spots, which is important because the best views often require traveling outside Yellowknife’s light pollution.
The tour includes beverages, snacks, hot drinks like coffee or tea, and professional photos. These little touches matter—they keep you warm, energized, and give you high-quality images to remember this once-in-a-lifetime experience. As some reviews highlight, guides often take numerous pictures at each site, so you don’t need to fuss with your camera unless you want to.
The Itinerary: What You Can Expect
The tour kicks off in the evening, between 9:00 PM and 10:00 PM, and lasts approximately 4 to 6 hours. The first stop is labeled “The Aurora Borealis Experience,” which is a broad term for the core of the tour. During this time, your guide takes you to several different viewing spots—some might be lakes, forested areas, or open fields—each chosen for its potential to offer clear skies and good aurora activity.
Traveling across the countryside away from city lights is a major plus. Several reviews mention guides actively seeking out the best spots based on weather and aurora forecasts, sometimes even moving locations if clouds or weather conditions shift. One reviewer pointed out that their guide “drove east for an hour based on aurora analysis,” which was instrumental in finally seeing the lights despite bad weather earlier.
The Guides and Their Role
Reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm. Sheldon, Julian, and others are recognized for their professionalism, friendliness, and dedication. They not only chase the aurora but also share scientific insights about why the lights dance in the sky. This educational aspect adds depth to the experience and keeps the journey interesting, especially for those curious about the science behind this natural spectacle.
Viewing Experience
The main highlight, of course, is the Northern Lights. The tour offers multiple chances to see them, sometimes over several hours, increasing your odds. Reviewers often mention the different shapes, colors, and movements of the aurora, with some witnessing hours-long shows. One reviewer even described it as a “breathtaking aurora dance,” which perfectly captures the magic.
That said, the experience is weather-dependent. Clear skies are crucial, and some guests have had nights where clouds blocked their view, even after hours of driving and waiting. A few pointed out that luck plays a role, but the guides do their best to maximize chances—moving to different locations, checking weather forecasts, and interpreting visual cues.
The Pros and Cons: What to Keep in Mind
Pros:
– Well-organized with pickup, drop-off, and transportation included
– Knowledgeable guides who actively seek the best viewing spots
– Multiple stops increase your chances of seeing the aurora
– Photos and hot drinks included make the experience more comfortable
– Good value for the price, especially considering the length and service quality
Cons:
– Weather can be unpredictable; clouds may block the view
– The tour operates in all weather conditions, so be prepared for cold or wet nights
– Some reviews mention communication issues or logistical hiccups—these do happen with outdoor tours
– No dinner included, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry beforehand
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This Northern Lights tour in Yellowknife suits those who want a guided, well-organized experience with good chances of seeing the aurora without worrying about logistics. It’s ideal if you prefer to leave the driving and planning to experts and are comfortable with moderate physical activity (standing outside in cold weather).
It’s also great for travelers wanting professional photos and some educational insights into the science of the aurora. If you’re traveling with a small group or prefer fewer people, the maximum of 24 participants keeps it relatively intimate.
However, if you’re highly sensitive to weather conditions or have very specific expectations about seeing the lights, keep in mind that nature is unpredictable. You might want to book multiple nights or have flexible plans, as seeing the aurora depends heavily on clear skies.
Final Thoughts
This tour offers a solid mix of convenience, expert guidance, and scenic variety that many travelers find worthwhile. The price point is reasonable given the included transport, snacks, and professional photos. The experience tends to be memorable thanks to guides’ efforts and the inherent beauty of the lights.
You’ll love the way the guides proactively seek out the best spots, and the multiple viewing opportunities mean your odds of witnessing the aurora are high compared to static, single-location outings. The included photos are a big plus, especially since capturing the lights with a phone can be tricky.
That said, patience and a bit of luck are essential—cloudy nights can limit visibility, and since the tour operates in all weather, be prepared for cold or damp conditions. If you’re flexible with your schedule and want a reliable, educational, and scenic Aurora experience, this tour is a good choice.
Northern Lights Tours
“Wonderful experience, Sheldon the driver and tour guide was excellent. He was funny, educated and enthusiastic throughout. He literally took us hun…”
FAQ: Northern Lights Tours from Yellowknife
Can I cancel or change this tour?
No, the booking is non-refundable and cannot be changed. If weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
What is included in the cost?
You get transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, beverages, snacks, hot drinks like coffee or tea, and professional photos taken during the tour.
Is dinner included?
No, dinner isn’t included, so plan to eat beforehand or bring snacks.
What about the weather?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, but poor weather like heavy clouds may prevent seeing the lights. Guides do their best to find clear skies.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 6 hours, starting late evening and ending around 2 am in some cases.
Do I need my own camera?
No, you don’t need your own camera—photos are included, taken by the guides.
How many people are on the tour?
Groups are limited to 24 travelers, which helps keep the experience more personal.
Is this suitable for children?
While not specifically tailored for families, the tour is open to any traveler comfortable standing outside in cold weather.
What if I don’t see the lights?
Seeing the aurora is dependent on weather and solar activity. Some reviews mention nights with no aurora visible, but guides work hard to increase your chances.
How do guides find the best spots?
Guides use local knowledge, weather forecasts, and aurora predictions to select locations with the highest potential for clear skies and active lights.
All in all, if you’re after an organized, guided, and reasonably priced way to chase the Northern Lights from Yellowknife, this tour is worth considering. It balances comfort, expert insight, and the thrill of potentially witnessing one of nature’s most mesmerizing sights.