From Yellowknife: Aurora Borealis Tour with Cozy Cabin Base

Planning a trip to see the Northern Lights in Yellowknife? If so, chances are you’re after an experience that combines comfort, local charm, and the best chance to witness the Aurora’s dance in the sky. This Aurora Borealis tour with a cozy cabin base promises exactly that. We haven’t personally done this tour, but after reviewing the details and glowing reviews from travelers, it looks like a thoughtfully designed adventure suited for anyone wanting to enjoy the Lights without sacrificing comfort.

What makes this experience stand out is the warm, inviting setting of the cabin — perfect for staying cozy while waiting for those elusive Aurora bursts. Plus, the inclusion of a hearty fish chowder and bannock, along with high-quality photos captured by guides, adds a special touch. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the weather — as with any Northern Lights experience, seeing the Aurora isn’t guaranteed.

This tour seems ideal for those who value comfort and good company, and prefer a more relaxed atmosphere than chasing the Lights on a bus or in a crowded setting. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike could find this a memorable way to experience the North’s most famous natural wonder.

Key Points

• Warm and Comfortable Setting: The cozy cabin keeps you warm throughout the night, avoiding the cold discomfort of standing outside.
• Small, Intimate Groups: With a maximum of 20 guests and an average of 16, you’ll get a more personal experience.
• Good Food and Warm Drinks: Fish chowder, bannock, and hot chocolate provide comfort and energy.
• Expert Photography Included: Guide with a good camera phone takes photos during the Aurora show, giving you lasting memories.
• Flexible Viewing Time: If the Aurora stays out longer, the guides are happy to stay longer.
• Local Knowledge: Guides like Tracy are friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience more engaging.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

The Journey to the Cozy Cabin

Starting in Yellowknife, the drive to the cabin is just about 15 minutes — short enough to keep travel time minimal but long enough to feel like escaping the city lights. Once you arrive, you’ll find the cabin in the woods, with plenty of space to spread out for photos or just relax. The setting in the bush offers a perfect backdrop for Aurora viewing away from city glow, which is key to seeing the Lights more clearly.

The Cabin Atmosphere

Inside, the cabin is described as always toasty warm. This is an important feature, especially when waiting through the long, cold winter nights. The host, Tracy, goes the extra mile by providing extra amenities like warm coats, fur parkas, and even an outhouse with a comfortable seat — details that help make the whole experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

Food and Drinks

One of the standout features is the late lunch of fish chowder and bannock, served warm from the oven with jams. Travelers consistently mention how tasty and satisfying this meal is, providing the energy needed to endure the cold outside. After lunch, there’s a variety of teas and hot chocolate to keep you warm and cozy while waiting for the Aurora.

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Aurora Hunting Strategy

The guides keep a close eye on the sky, checking for Aurora activity every few minutes. The focus is on hunting for the Aurora from the cabin, which means you won’t be outside all night but instead have the chance to step out periodically to check the sky. When the Aurora appears, guides will take photos using high-quality phone cameras, aiming to capture at least 3-4 stunning images of the Lights and guests under the spectacle.

Photography and Sharing

Guides like Sim, the photographer, are praised for getting great shots of everyone. The photos are then transferred back to guests via email or messaging apps, so there’s no need to worry about trying to take pictures yourself in the freezing cold. This service is especially appreciated by travelers who want beautiful, professional-looking images but don’t want to fuss with cameras in the dark.

Flexibility and Comfort

The tour allows flexibility — if the Aurora stays out late, guides are happy to extend the experience. Conversely, if guests want to leave early, they can do so with the group’s consensus. For those feeling cold or tired, there’s the option to nap on the coach, which stays warm all evening. This level of attention to individual comfort is rare and helps make the experience more relaxed.

The Value of the Experience

At $103 per person for about four hours, this tour offers quite a lot. You’re getting hotel pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable guide, a hearty meal, hot drinks, warm clothing, and professional photos. The small group size means a more intimate experience, and the cozy setting ensures you’re comfortable regardless of the weather outside.

The tour’s focus on comfort and local insight makes it well worth the price — especially considering the quality of amenities and personalized touch praised in reviews. Many travelers note that guides like Tracy are friendly, informative, and dedicated to making the night special. The inclusion of warm clothing, a good meal, and good photo opportunities means you’re not just paying for a chance to see the Aurora but for a well-rounded, memorable night.

The Atmosphere

What we love is the atmosphere Tracy has cultivated — a welcoming, friendly vibe that makes you feel like you’re visiting a friend in the North rather than just going on a tour. The cabin setup, with ample space for photos and a warm, inviting environment, is perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed, cozy experience rather than braving the cold outside for hours.

The Downsides

Of course, the biggest caveat is that Aurora sightings cannot be guaranteed — this is true of any Aurora tour. You’ll want to keep your expectations realistic and understand that weather and solar activity play major roles. Also, since the tour is based in the woods with a max of 20 guests, it might not be ideal for those seeking a more energetic, outdoor adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a comfortable, relaxed way to see the Northern Lights. If you’re traveling with a small group or family, or simply prefer not to stand outside freezing, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s suited for those who enjoy good food, warm drinks, and a friendly atmosphere while waiting for nature’s show.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Yellowknife Aurora Borealis Tour with Cozy Cabin Base offers a well-rounded, high-value experience. The combination of warm, friendly service, excellent food, and the chance to capture beautiful Aurora photos makes it a memorable choice. It’s particularly appealing if you’re after comfort, intimacy, and a bit of local charm in your Northern Lights adventure.

While it’s not the cheapest option, the quality of amenities, the small group setting, and the warm atmosphere give it a strong edge over more impersonal or outdoor-only tours. It seems like a perfect fit for those who want to enjoy the Aurora in a relaxed, welcoming environment, especially if you’re visiting during cold winter nights and want to maximize your comfort.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly stated, the warm and relaxed atmosphere makes it suitable for most travelers, but it’s always good to check with the provider if you’re traveling with very young children. The tour’s focus on comfort and warmth is beneficial for all ages.

What should I bring?
Bring weather-appropriate clothing. The tour takes place in any weather, so dressing for cold outdoor conditions is important, even with the provided warm coats.

Can I leave early if I’m tired or cold?
Yes, the tour is flexible. You can leave early if needed, and the guides will accommodate your wishes, especially if the Aurora is still visible.

How are the photos taken?
Photos are taken with high-quality phone cameras by the guide. Expect at least 3-4 good shots, with options to get more if the Aurora stays out longer.

What’s included in the price?
Your fare covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a guide, a warm meal of fish chowder and bannock, hot drinks, warm coats, tripods, and the photos taken during the night.

Will I see the Aurora?
While the Aurora is the main focus, sightings depend on weather and solar activity. The guide checks the sky regularly, but there’s no guarantee.

If you’re after a comfortable, intimate, and well-organized Northern Lights experience in Yellowknife, this tour seems like a solid choice. It combines the magic of Aurora viewing with the warmth of a cozy cabin, making it a night to remember without the usual cold discomfort.

You can check availability for your dates here: