Northern Lights x Mini Bus Chase

If you’re planning a trip to Tromsø and dreaming of witnessing the elusive Northern Lights, you might have come across this Northern Lights x Mini Bus Chase tour. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a more intimate, personalized experience, and with a solid 4.5-star rating from nearly 200 reviews, it seems to deliver on that promise. Whether you’re a seasoned aurora chaser or just starting to get excited about the idea, this tour offers a pretty compelling package.

What really stands out for us are the small group size—limiting to just 15 guests—and the personalized approach to finding the best viewing spots. Plus, the chance to sit around a cozy bonfire with sausages, s’mores, and warm drinks adds a human touch that many larger tours miss. On the flip side, a potential drawback is the small minibus, which some travelers found a little cramped, especially when bundled up for the Arctic night. If you’re claustrophobic or prefer more space, that’s worth keeping in mind.

This tour feels ideal for those who want a more intimate experience with knowledgeable guides, and who don’t mind a slightly unpredictable adventure in exchange for a better shot at seeing the Northern Lights. It’s also a good pick if you’re interested in professional photos of the Aurora to remember your trip by. If you’re traveling with kids aged 7 and up, this could be a manageable option, provided they are comfortable in winter gear and with the cold.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group size maximizes comfort and interaction.
• Expert Guidance: Guides offer Northern Lights forecasting and photography tips.
• Comfort & Warmth: Heated minibus, warm suits, and hot drinks keep you cozy.
• Flexible Location: The driver and guide actively seek the best spots, avoiding light pollution.
• Photo Opportunities: Professional photos are taken and emailed afterward.
• Duration & Price: About 6 to 8 hours at $187.81 per person, offering good value for a night adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour is designed to make the most of your evening, providing a lot of thoughtful touches. For $187.81, you get a knowledgeable guide and certified driver, warm suits, and a heated minibus. Plus, you’re treated to a home-cooked meal, hot drinks, and complimentary tripod rental—all crucial for capturing those Northern Lights photos. The professional pictures taken during the night will arrive in your inbox within 72 hours, giving you stunning images without lifting a finger.

One aspect to consider is that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point at Kirkegata 1 in Tromsø. While that might be an inconvenience for some, the meeting point is near public transportation, making it accessible. Also, be aware that crossing the border into Finland might happen, so bring your passport.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off at 6:00 pm from Kirkegata 1, with a maximum of 15 travelers. From there, your guide and driver will set out in a modern 15-seater minibus, heading toward areas with the highest chances of seeing the Aurora. The flexibility of a minibus is an advantage, as the driver can adjust the route based on weather conditions and aurora forecasts.

Your first stop will be in Tromsø, where you’ll be introduced to Northern Lights forecasting and photography. The guide will share tips and best practices, and you’ll have a complimentary tripod to help stabilize your shots. It’s clear from reviews that the guides are passionate—they’re not just drivers but real enthusiasts eager to share their knowledge.

Once you arrive at a suitable spot, the group will gather around a bonfire—a delightful break from the cold—where you’ll enjoy sausages, s’mores, and warm drinks. This setup creates a cozy atmosphere and plenty of opportunity to chat, relax, and soak in the moment. The guides often take photos during this time, which are later sent to you, adding a memorable touch.

Depending on the weather and cloud cover, your guide might drive to different locations in search of clearer skies. Several reviewers noted how local knowledge and forecasting apps help maximize the chances of seeing the Northern Lights, even when the forecast isn’t perfect. A few travelers mentioned that the weather wasn’t always ideal—overcast or rainy conditions did hamper visibility for some, but that’s part of the adventure.

The tour lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, allowing plenty of time for patience and multiple viewing opportunities. The experience wraps up back at the meeting point, usually around midnight or later.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Many reviews highlight the quality of the guides. One reviewer mentioned, “the guide and Nico (the driver) were both great,” and that they managed to find a spot away from big buses and light pollution. Others praised the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides, with one saying, “Jorgen was the best,” even when the weather wasn’t cooperative.

Some travelers expressed that the small bus meant limited space, especially with winter gear, which might be uncomfortable for those prone to claustrophobia. But overall, most found that the personalized attention and dedicated search for clear skies made up for it. Several reviews also appreciated the professional photos sent afterward, which are a lovely bonus to an already special experience.

On the flip side, a few reviews pointed out that if the weather is poor or the skies are heavily clouded, there’s only so much even the best guides can do. As one said, “It was an overcast night & we had some rain, but I heard of another tour that went inland to try their luck.” This is a reminder that Aurora viewing is unpredictable, no matter how well you plan.

The Price: Is It Worth It?

At just under $188, this tour offers a lot for the price. You’re paying for expert guidance, the comfort of a heated minibus, professional photos, and the chance to see a natural wonder that’s genuinely awe-inspiring. Compared to larger bus tours, the small group size means you’ll get more personalized attention and better chances to ask questions or chat with your guide.

For many travelers, the inclusion of warm clothing, hot drinks, and a meal makes this a good value, especially considering the long duration and the quality of the experience. Seeing the Aurora can’t be guaranteed, but with local knowledge and flexibility in location, your chances improve notably.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best for travelers who value a personalized experience and are comfortable in a small, cozy vehicle. If you prefer more space or are prone to claustrophobia, this might be a tight fit, but the upside is the chance at more intimate engagement with guides who really know their stuff. It’s also well-suited for those eager to get professional photos of the Aurora, as those are included and sent afterward.

Travelers with children aged 7 and up can consider this tour if kids are comfortable in winter gear and with the cold. The experience is relaxed and casual, with plenty of opportunities to warm up around the bonfire.

If you’d rather spend less time traveling and more time waiting in one spot, this might not be the best choice. But if you’re up for an adventure chasing the Northern Lights across the Arctic, this tour offers a solid, authentic experience with a friendly, knowledgeable team.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
No, the tour starts at Kirkegata 1 in Tromsø. You’ll need to make your way there, but it’s near public transportation.

What is the tour duration?
Expect approximately 6 to 8 hours, starting at 6 pm and concluding late at night.

How many people are in each group?
A maximum of 15 guests per tour, making it more intimate than larger bus excursions.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing, your passport (since crossing into Finland might happen), and a positive attitude for the weather variability.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 7 and above can join, provided they are comfortable in winter gear and cold conditions.

What if the weather is poor?
If weather conditions prevent sightings, you might get a different date or a full refund. Guides do their best to find clear skies.

Will I get photos?
Yes, professional pictures will be taken and emailed to you within 72 hours.

Does the tour include food?
Yes, a home-cooked meal, hot drinks, and snacks are included.

Where does the tour end?
Back at the starting point, Kirkegata 1 in Tromsø.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a more personalized Northern Lights experience, this Mini Bus Chase from Tromsø stands out. The mix of expert-guided Aurora hunting, cozy bonfire moments, and professional photos makes it a compelling choice. It’s well-suited for travelers who appreciate small groups, local knowledge, and the thrill of chasing the Aurora across the Arctic landscape.

While the unpredictability of the weather means there’s no guarantee of sighting the Lights every night, the tour’s flexibility and personal attention do improve your chances. It’s a well-rounded, thoughtful experience that balances comfort with adventure. If these qualities sound appealing, and you’re okay with the inherent unpredictability, this tour could give you some truly memorable Arctic moments.

Remember, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so patience and a bit of luck are part of the package. But with experienced guides and a cozy ride, you’ll put yourself in the best possible position to witness one of nature’s most breathtaking displays.