Fairbanks Aurora Borealis Night Tour

Experience the Northern Lights in Fairbanks: What You Need to Know About the Aurora Borealis Night Tour

Planning a trip to Alaska and dreaming of catching the elusive Northern Lights? The Fairbanks Aurora Borealis Night Tour promises a chance to see this natural masterpiece. But, as with many aurora excursions, it’s not a guarantee—cloud cover, weather, and timing all play a role in the experience. We’ve looked into this tour to help you decide if it fits your travel style.

What we like about this tour is the convenient hotel pickup—no fuss about getting to a meeting point—and the focus on photography support, which can be a huge help if you’re keen to capture the Lights. Plus, their handpicked viewing locations away from city lights often promise better chances of seeing the aurora in all its glory.

However, a notable consideration is the mixed review about the atmosphere and communication. One traveler mentioned that the guide’s microphone wasn’t used, making it harder to hear explanations, and also noted the weather didn’t cooperate. So, while the concept is promising, the actual experience can vary quite a bit depending on conditions.

This tour is likely best suited for those who are flexible, eager for a chance to see the aurora, and don’t mind the unpredictability of outdoor northern lights viewing. If you’re someone who values comfort but is okay with waiting and potential weather issues, it might still fit your plans.

Key Points

• Flexible viewing locations increase chances of seeing the Aurora, weather permitting.
• Guidance on photography can help you capture the Lights effectively.
• Group size is limited (max 14 travelers), which can make for a more personalized experience.
• Weather dependency is a real factor—cloudy skies can mean waiting in vain.
• Timing is late (starts at 10 PM), which suits night owls but might be tiring.
• Cost of $159 per person is reasonable but doesn’t include a guarantee of sighting.

Why You Might Consider This Tour

If you’re seeking a straightforward, guided way to chase the Northern Lights with some helpful photography tips, this tour covers the basics without overpromising. It’s particularly good if you’re staying in Fairbanks and want a simple, organized experience that includes hotel pickup and drop-off. The warm, comfortable van helps you stay cozy during the chilly night hours—an important perk in Alaska’s winter.

But it’s worth noting that the experience hinges on weather conditions and aurora activity, which no tour can control. If the sky is cloudy or the aurora is faint, you might find yourself waiting in silence, as one reviewer described: “All we did was sit and wait,” with little to no explanation or entertainment. That’s a chance you take, especially in winter when weather can be unpredictable.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Fairbanks

Your adventure kicks off with a hotel pickup at Hyatt Place Fairbanks around 10 PM. From there, the guide takes you into the wilderness in a heated van with WiFi onboard—helpful if you want to check your photos or share your experience in real-time.

The Journey Into the Wilderness

The drive itself is part of the fun, as you leave the glow of Fairbanks behind and head to some of the tour’s “secret” viewing spots. These locations are carefully chosen based on aurora forecasts each night, aiming to maximize your chances of witnessing the Lights.

Viewing and Photography

Once at the spot, the guide will help you set up your camera, offering tips and tricks to photograph the Aurora. We loved that they support aurora photography—this can be the highlight for many travelers wanting to take home memorable snapshots.

The Experience

You’ll spend approximately three hours at the viewing location, giving enough time for the Lights to potentially appear and for you to get some decent photos. But remember, if the sky remains cloudy or the aurora is weak, all you might get is a dark sky and some waiting.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes:
– Expert local guide
– Aurora photography support
– Hotel pickup and drop-off
– WiFi on board
– Double-Pane Anti-Fog Viewing Windows

This setup offers some comfort and convenience, but it’s important to keep expectations realistic. The guide’s role is to help with photography and share knowledge, but the actual sighting depends greatly on conditions.

Considering the Price

At $159 per person, this tour is fairly priced for a four-hour experience that includes transportation, guidance, and photography support. For travelers who value the chance to see the Aurora without the hassle of arranging their own logistics, it’s a reasonable option. Still, the price doesn’t guarantee a sighting, so it’s worth considering it as part of an overall Alaska experience, rather than a once-in-a-lifetime promise.

What Reviewers Say About This Tour

The only published review is quite critical, citing cloudy weather and poor communication—”not the driver’s fault, but I couldn’t hear anything he said.” Coughing in the van was also mentioned, which could be distracting or uncomfortable. It’s clear that weather can severely impact the experience, and the guide’s ability to communicate is important, especially late at night.

On the upside, the tour’s concept of heading away from city lights to prime viewing spots is sound. The focus on photography is also a bonus, particularly for those wanting to capture the Lights professionally or semi-professionally.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a stress-free way to chase the Northern Lights with some guidance and the comfort of a heated van, this tour could suit your needs. It’s a good choice if you are content with the possibility of waiting and understand that aurora sightings are never guaranteed—especially with weather unpredictability in Alaska.

Travelers who prioritize flexibility, good equipment support, and being picked up from their hotel will find value here. However, if you’re hoping for a guaranteed sighting or are sensitive to delays and weather-related disappointments, you might want to explore other options or book with flexible cancellation policies.

This experience works best for those who are adventurous, patient, and prepared for the unpredictability that comes with Aurora hunting. Overall, it offers a decent chance to witness the Northern Lights in a comfortable setting—just keep your expectations realistic.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, starting at 10 PM and returning to the hotel afterward.

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your Fairbanks hotel, making it more convenient.

What if the weather is cloudy or the aurora is not visible?
The tour is weather dependent. If the weather isn’t clear or the aurora isn’t active, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund or alternative date offered.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and the small group size (up to 14) makes for a more intimate outing. Just be prepared for late-night hours and cold weather.

Can I take good photos of the Aurora with this tour?
Yes, the guide offers photography support, helping you set up your camera and give tips, which can be especially helpful for capturing the Lights.

Is there a guarantee that I will see the Aurora?
No, sightings depend on weather and aurora activity, which can vary unpredictably.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes an expert guide, photography support, hotel pickup/drop-off, WiFi on the vehicle, and the use of anti-fog viewing windows. It does not include meals or additional activities.

This tour could be a good fit if you’re flexible and seeking a straightforward way to try and catch the Northern Lights with some guidance. Keep your expectations realistic, and you may find yourself lucky enough to witness a truly memorable spectacle.