If you’re dreaming of catching the aurora borealis while in Tromsø, Norway, this northern lights tour might just be on your radar. We haven’t personally signed up for this specific trip, but from what we’ve gathered, it’s designed for anyone eager to increase their chances of seeing the lights while enjoying a comfortable, well-organized experience.
What really pulls us in about this tour? First, the small group size (max 19 people) means a more intimate, less rushed outing. Second, the expert guide’s knowledge about the science and myths behind the aurora adds a layer of depth many tours skip.
But, there’s one notable thing to consider: Northern lights sightings are never guaranteed. Weather conditions and solar activity play a big role, so patience and some luck are part of the package.
Incredible experience as the sky was filled with Northern Lights! This was one of the best organized tours that I have been on. Everything was on schedule and ran smoothly. The organizers knew exactly where to take us for prime viewing of the Northern Lights! They also made sure we stayed warm and had access to restroom facilities. As an added bonus, we stopped at the Tromso Cathedral on the way home to take in the New Years firework show from a dramatic viewpoint! Thank you for a magical evening!
I decided to go for one of the cheaper Northern Lights hunts in Tromso. But my experience with Polar Travel wasn't the best. I've been on Northern Lights tours multiple times before in other countries and I was left disappointed by this one. First I'll say, yes we did see the Northern Lights briefly, on a night where the weather was bad and it was very cloudy. So the 3 star review isn't for lack of seeing them entirely, as you cannot predict the weather – so we were lucky to see them at all. The problems were other factors. 1) The bus arrived a few minutes late, (the bus was just white and unmarked) and beforehand all the guests weren't sure they were in the right place and were asking othe…
Great view of the northern lights! The guide gave us a scientific explanation and some history behind the northern lights. The ride there and back was a bit bumpy with extremely loud music on the way back which is the reason for 4 stars. Otherwise, great tour!
If you’re someone who values a personalized experience, good storytelling, and cozy amenities like hot drinks and snacks, this could be a great fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a balance of adventure and comfort, without feeling lost in a large crowd. Now, let’s walk through what makes this tour tick, what to expect, and whether it’s worth your time and money.
Key Points
- Intimate Group Setting: With only up to 19 travelers, you get more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Expert Guidance: Guides share insights about the science, mythology, and Norwegian culture, adding educational value.
- Prime Viewing Spots: Multiple stops at carefully chosen locations increase your chances of seeing the lights.
- Comfort and Warmth: Inside the minibus, hot drinks, snacks, and an outdoor bonfire keep the chill at bay.
- Weather Dependency: Like all aurora tours, sightings aren’t guaranteed; weather and solar activity are unpredictable.
- Good Value for the Price: For around $170, you get transport, food, WiFi, and expert knowledge—solid for what’s included.
What to Expect on the Tour
This tour kicks off at 7:00 pm from Kaigata in Tromsø, and from there, you’ll hop into a cozy Mercedes Sprinter minibus. The ride itself is part of the charm—you’ll travel through some of Tromsø’s most stunning Arctic landscapes, with snow-capped mountains and shimmering fjords providing the perfect backdrop for the night sky.
Transport and Group Size
Traveling in a small group is a big plus. Unlike those massive bus tours, this one keeps things intimate, which means more flexibility in chasing the lights and a more personal rapport with your guide. The vehicle is comfortable, and WiFi is included, so you can share your experience in real time or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.
Stops and Viewing
Throughout the night, multiple stops are planned at various ‘prime’ viewing locations. The guides aim to move you to spots with the best chance for clear skies and aurora visibility—a smart move since weather in Tromsø can be unpredictable. Reviews indicate that these stops are carefully chosen based on weather updates, which is crucial.
The guides were lovely, and knowledgeable. If you're looking to get away without a large group, this is a great way to do it. It was quiet, the setting was beautiful, and the aurora was incredible.
We started the tour in Tromsö having rain and a cloudy sky and our expectations were quite low. Nevertheless after an one hour drive our guide Katrin and driver Tom took us to a great spot north of Tromsö, where we saw stars and some northern ligths. Accompanied by soup, hot chocolate/tea and cookies and a bonfire we had a wonderful start in Tromsö.
Pack warm clothes! Camera tripod equipment was provided! Guide was very knowledgeable and hospitable!
Expert Insights and Cultural Stories
Your guide isn’t just driving you around—they’re sharing fascinating stories about the science behind the aurora, as well as myths and Norwegian cultural tidbits. We loved the way many reviews highlighted guides who made the experience both fun and educational.
Food and Warmth
Hot drinks like tea and coffee are included, along with snacks and a choice of soup (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options available). These added touches turn what could be a cold, uncomfortable night into a cozy adventure. You’ll also get to enjoy a bonfire outside, which is a great way to warm up while sharing stories.
Photography and Memories
While professional cameras aren’t provided, the guides take photos for you, which they air-drop later. Travelers have raved about the quality of these photos, adding a nice memory without lugging around extra equipment.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tromso.
The Real Experience: Pros and Cons
The Highlights
Many travelers mention how smoothly everything runs. One reviewer said, “Everything was on schedule and ran smoothly,” which is a relief when chasing the unpredictable northern lights. The small group size gets a big thumbs up, making it easier to move around and find spots with the best view.
We had an amazing time on our trip, the guide was knowledgeable about the lights and told us a lot of information about how they're formed and the history of them and Norway. We had a lovely experience on the beach with a campfire, hot drinks and soup that catered to lots of dietary requirements. Our group got lucky enough to see the lights and it really was a magical experience!
Wifi bus was amazing! Friendly guides! So glad I booked with a small company. Other big tour busses looked miserable. With small group we were able to to adjust quickly and move to spots w best lights!
Henrik was a great driver and very accomodating. Our ship parked at the northern port 3.5 miles away from the meeting point. He took us back to our ship. Catherine was an excellent guide. She moved us around until we were able to see the most fabulous lights. We saw them dancin across the sky very fast. She was able to video the lights and air dropped pics and video for us. I would recommend this team again!!
The Guides’ Knowledge
The stories and explanations about the aurora’s science and tales are much appreciated. One reviewer noted: “The guide gave us a scientific explanation and some history behind the northern lights,” making the experience richer than just waiting in hope.
Comfort and Amenities
Having WiFi, hot drinks, snacks, and a bonfire makes this tour stand out. Being warm and well-fed during a long, chilly night makes a big difference, especially when standing outside waiting for the lights.
Weather and Aurora Sightings
This is where things get tricky. Like all aurora tours, success depends on the weather and solar activity. Several reviews mention faint lights or short sightings, and some tours had to cut short due to worsening weather. One reviewer said, “The Northern lights had been faint because of low solar activity,” which is an honest reminder that nature doesn’t always cooperate.
Handling Disappointments
A few reviews point out less-than-ideal moments—delays, faint lights, or weather cancellations. For example, one guest mentioned a late departure due to snowy conditions, which is part of Arctic travel. The company’s communication in such cases is generally good, with clear explanations and flexible options.
We had a wonderful experience on this excursion. The day before we had done a big bus tour and enjoyed this one much more. They took us to better area with beautiful scenery and showed us what to look for to spot the Northern Lights. I also liked being with a smaller group. They offered plenty of hot drink options and soup. And of course seeing the Northern Lights was amazing!!
The tour was really lovely, as we all know the northern lights is temperamental but the guides really did everything and drove far and beyond and we got really lucky to see them dancing. The tour guide was really lovely and so was the driver, both very friendly and told us some great stories about Norway, folk tales and sami culture. The minivan was comfortable and you’ll be given hot drinks which is comforting in the cold. Absolutely recommend this 🙂
Friendly and experienced tour guide. Able to see te myjestic Northern light beautifully under the sky. Food and hot drinks provided. They even bring us to the church after the tour for New Year fireworks!
Value for Money
At around $170 per person, this tour includes transportation, food, WiFi, and guides. Considering the personalized service, the comfort, and the potential for a memorable sighting, many find it a fair deal. Plus, the included amenities make it more than just a drive into the cold.
The Itinerary in Detail
Departure and Scenic Drive
Your night begins at 7:00 pm at Kaigata, where you’ll meet your guide and hop into the minibus. The drive out of Tromsø is an experience itself—crisp air, snowy landscapes, and fjord views. This journey sets the mood and builds anticipation.
Multiple Stops at Prime Locations
Throughout the night, your guide will make several stops at handpicked spots. These are chosen based on weather forecasts and aurora activity. According to reviews, these locations provide stunning nighttime scenery with enough darkness and minimal light pollution to catch the lights.
Inside the Minibus
Once parked, you’ll stay warm with hot drinks and snacks, chatting with fellow travelers. The guide shares insights and stories, sometimes even taking photos for guests. This social element adds to the overall enjoyment.
We had great time on this tour. The guides were friendly and knowledgeable. We went on New Year's Eve and they even stopped at a place for us to watch the fireworks.
It was very good and we saw the aurora even though we were changed Enterprise due to driver and guide illness and placed in a group that was on bus with more peopleAuto-translated
Tolle Tour in kleiner Gruppe. Ausreichend Zeit vor Ort. Guide hat auf Wunsch auch Fotos mit Gästen im Hintergrund mit Nordlichtern gemacht. Auf jeden Fall empfehlenswert.
Bonfire and Outdoors
If the weather allows, a bonfire outside provides a cozy atmosphere. Some reviews mention how the fire and the cold night sky make for a magical experience, even if the lights are faint.
Return and Reflection
The tour wraps up around midnight, after about 5 to 7 hours of chasing the lights. Many travelers report feeling satisfied even if the auroras weren’t a showstopper, thanks to the overall experience and the effort made by guides to find the best viewing spots.
Is This Tour Worth It?
For travelers seeking a personalized, comfortable, and educational northern lights adventure, this tour offers a lot. The small group approach means you won’t be lost in a crowd, and the guides add value through storytelling and photo-taking. The included WiFi, hot drinks, and snacks help make the long Arctic night enjoyable.
However, it’s essential to remember that aurora sightings are never guaranteed. Weather changes fast in Tromsø, and solar activity varies. If your main goal is to see the Northern Lights at all costs, be prepared for some possible disappointment, and keep your expectations realistic.
The price reflects a well-rounded experience—not just a bus ride but a thoughtfully curated adventure with comfort, culture, and chances to see one of nature’s greatest spectacles. It’s most suitable for those who appreciate a balance of exploration and coziness, and who value guides who can educate as well as entertain.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?
This northern lights hunt is best suited for travelers who want a small, intimate experience with expert guides and good amenities. If you’re looking for a laid-back but well-organized outing that maximizes your chances of seeing the lights while staying warm and comfortable, this is a solid option.
It's also great if you enjoy learning about local culture and science, and if sharing the experience with a small group sounds appealing.
That said, if your primary concern is guaranteed aurora sightings or you prefer a more adventurous, outdoor-only experience, you might want to consider other options or be prepared for the possibility of faint lights or weather cancellations.
Northern light hunt in Tromsø. WiFi included
"Incredible experience as the sky was filled with Northern Lights! This was one of the best organized tours that I have been on. Everything was on ..."
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 5 to 7 hours, starting at 7:00 pm and usually ending around midnight.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at Kaigata 4, 9008 Tromsø, Norway.
Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but you should bring warm hats and gloves. If you need a thermos suit, let the provider know—they offer these for free.
Does the tour include WiFi?
Yes, WiFi is included in the minibus, which is handy for sharing photos or staying connected.
What food is provided?
Hot drinks, cookies, and a choice of soup (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options available) are included to keep you warm and energized.
Will I get to take photos?
Photos are included, but professional cameras are not used. Guides will take photos for you, which are air-dropped later.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on weather conditions. If poor weather causes cancellations, you'll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.
What makes this tour different from others?
Its small group size, guides, and cozy amenities like hot drinks and WiFi set it apart.
Is there a chance I won’t see the northern lights?
Yes, since the lights depend on weather and solar activity, sightings aren’t guaranteed. Still, the tour aims to give you the best chance based on conditions.
Overall, this northern lights tour from Tromsø offers a thoughtful balance of comfort, education, and adventure. While nature’s unpredictability can’t be controlled, the experience itself—small group, expert guidance, cozy amenities—makes it a memorable Arctic night out, especially for those who value quality over quantity.
