Northern Lights Hunt with The Green Adventure – photos included

Planning a trip to Tromso and eager to see the Aurora Borealis? If so, you’ve probably come across a range of options. We’ve taken a close look at The Green Adventure’s Northern Lights Hunt, and it’s clear this tour offers a compelling mix of expert guidance, flexibility, and memorable moments. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned aurora chaser, this experience promises a well-organized, personalized hunt for the sky’s most dazzling light show.

What really draws us in are their knowledgeable guides who go the extra mile to find clear skies, and the professional photos emailed afterward—something that turns a fleeting moment into lasting memories. On the flip side, some travelers might find the price a little steep considering the variable nature of weather and aurora activity. Still, for those who want a tailored, intimate experience, this tour fits the bill.

This experience works best for those who value expertise and comfort—and are okay with a bit of unpredictability when chasing the Northern Lights. It’s especially suited for travelers staying in Tromso who want a personalized outing rather than a large bus trip, and appreciate having beautiful photos to remember their night.

Key Points

• Expert Local Guides: They know how to read the weather and optimize your chances of seeing the lights.
• Flexible Locations: They’ll drive up to 200 km around Tromso, even crossing into Finland if needed, to find clear skies.
• High-Quality Photos Included: Professional shots with a small watermark are emailed after the tour, saving you the hassle of capturing and editing your own.
• Warm & Cozy Experience: Thermal suits, a campfire, marshmallows, and warm soup make the night comfortable despite Arctic conditions.
• Small Groups: Max 15 travelers, promoting a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• Pricing & Value: At around $242 per person, the tour offers a lot in terms of guidance, comfort, and memories—though some may find the cost high for the limited time spent actively viewing the lights.

Setting Out for the Aurora Chase

The tour begins at the Scandic Ishavshotel in Tromso, where you meet your guide and fellow travelers. Expect a prompt start, as the guides rely heavily on local weather forecasts and their own experience to plan the route. The goal is to reach areas away from city lights and where the skies are likely to be clear, which can involve driving up to 200 km into the wilderness—sometimes even into Finland.

The vehicle is a comfortable, smaller group transport, capped at 15 guests. This size strikes a good balance—small enough to keep the experience intimate and flexible, but still large enough to share the adventure. Expect a friendly, informative guide who is eager to share insights about the Northern Lights and respond to your questions.

The Drive & the Search for Clear Skies

One of the most appreciated aspects, based on numerous reviews, is the guides’ expertise in navigating weather conditions. As Victoria commented, “This tour blew me away,” even under cloudy skies, because the guides did everything they could to find a gap in the clouds. Sometimes the drive takes you into the Norwegian wilderness, towards the coast, or across into Finland. The goal is to outrun weather disturbances and find the clearest skies.

While the drive can involve bumpy roads—something some guests found a little uncomfortable—it’s all part of the adventure. The guides understand the importance of safety and comfort, and they often make quick stops for restroom breaks, providing some relief during long drives.

The Experience at the Viewing Spots

Once in the perfect location, the focus shifts to patience and anticipation. The guides set up a cozy base with a bonfire, marshmallows, and hot drinks (including vegan options). The warmth of the fire and snacks create a relaxed atmosphere, helping everyone stay comfortable while waiting for the lights to appear.

According to reviews, the wait can vary. Some guests are lucky and see a spectacular display almost immediately, while others spend hours hoping for the aurora to dance across the sky. Several reviews highlight the effort guides put into optimizing viewing conditions—driving far into the wilderness and setting up multiple locations to increase the odds.

As Robert and others mentioned, the guides are also talented photographers. They take professional shots of you and the Aurora with a small watermark, which are sent to you after the trip. These photos often turn out stunning and are a treasured souvenir that captures the moment perfectly.

What to Expect During the Viewing

Expect a mix of anticipation, awe, and some patience. The aurora is a natural phenomenon—unpredictable by nature. The guides will do their best to find the right spots, but weather and solar activity play big roles in what you’ll see. Reviewers like Jinjutha appreciated the effort, mentioning that “they selected locations that gave us the best chance of seeing the lights,” though sometimes the activity wasn’t at its peak.

The atmosphere is relaxed, and most guests find the experience magical, even if the lights are not as vivid as in some photos. The guides’ local knowledge and quick thinking often allow for some incredible views, like the sudden appearance of multi-colored shimmering columns.

Food & Warmth: More Than Just a Drive

The included warm soup—made in Tromso and tailored for Arctic expeditions—adds a comforting touch to the chilly night. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, which is considerate for those with dietary preferences. The marshmallows around the bonfire are another lovely feature, making the experience feel cozy and less like a cold chase.

Guests often mention how much they appreciated the warmth of the thermal suits provided. Even in winter, temperatures can drop sharply, especially in open wilderness, so dressing warmly is essential. The suits, combined with good footwear and thermal socks (advised by the guides), help keep everyone comfortable during the wait.

Insights from Travelers’ Feedback

Many reviews give a clear picture of what to expect. For example, Courtney J raved about the guide Lukas, saying he was “knowledgeable, friendly, and did everything to ensure we had a great experience.” Similarly, Vicente F pointed out that Antonio and Marcin “went far beyond” to find the lights, making the night unforgettable.

On the flip side, some critics found the value a little questionable, especially if the aurora wasn’t very active or the weather was poor. As one review put it, “we saw the lights briefly, but the soup was pretty terrible,” highlighting that food quality and the overall value matter to some travelers.

Most agree, however, that the guides’ effort and local expertise make a huge difference. Their ability to adapt to changing conditions and maximize chances of seeing the aurora is what makes this tour stand out.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who appreciate personalized service and expert guidance. If you’re willing to pay a bit more for the chance to have a guide who really knows how to chase the lights, this is a solid choice. It’s also ideal if you want good photos included without the hassle of setting up your own camera gear, or if you appreciate warm food and cozy environments during long, cold nights.

Those traveling with children over 12, or people who enjoy a relaxed, small-group atmosphere, will find this tour comfortable. Keep in mind that the drive can be bumpy and that weather unpredictability is part of the package—if you’re looking for a guaranteed show, even here, the aurora remains a natural wonder, and no guide can promise an appearance.

Practical Considerations & Tips

• Dress warmly: thermal suits are provided, but good boots, thermal socks, and layered clothing help you stay comfortable.
• Bring water: hydration is important in cold, dry climates—water isn’t included.
• Pick your size early: let the guides know your thermal suit size when booking.
• Be patient: sometimes it takes a few hours of waiting, but guides do their best to find the best spots.
• Photo opportunities: take advantage of the professional photos, which are included and high quality.
• Timing: the tour lasts approximately 6 to 9 hours—be prepared for a long evening.

FAQ

How far will we drive during the tour?
The guides typically drive up to 200 km around Tromso, sometimes into Finland, to find clear skies and the best viewing spots.

Is food included?
Yes, warm soup and snacks (including vegan options) are part of the experience, along with marshmallows around the fire.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing is essential. While thermal suits are provided, layering with thermal socks, boots, hats, and gloves is recommended.

Are professional photos really included?
Absolutely. The guides take high-quality photos with a small watermark, which are emailed to you after the tour.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 6 to 9 hours, depending on weather conditions and aurora activity.

Can I book last-minute?
Most travelers book about 37 days in advance on average, but last-minute availability depends on demand.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be over 12 years old, and should be accompanied by an adult. The tour involves a long drive and cold conditions.

What if the weather is bad?
If poor weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Do I need a passport?
Yes, a valid passport is required as the tour may involve travel into Finland.

Is there a guarantee I will see the lights?
No, since the Aurora is a natural phenomenon, guides do everything possible to find clear skies and maximize your chances, but sightings can never be guaranteed.

In Closing

If you’re after a personalized, well-guided adventure that combines expert local knowledge, beautiful scenery, and memorable photos, The Green Adventure’s Northern Lights Hunt is a solid pick. It offers comfort, flexibility, and a chance to chase one of nature’s most enchanting displays, even if the weather doesn’t always cooperate.

While the price might give some pause, the inclusion of professional photos, warm food, and the small group setting make it a worthwhile investment for most aurora enthusiasts. Just remember to dress warmly, bring patience, and keep your expectations realistic—nature is unpredictable, but with guides like these, you’re giving yourself a very good shot at witnessing something extraordinary.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value expertise and a tailored experience over just a quick, large-group chase. If you’re okay with spending several hours in the cold and potentially traveling into Finland, this adventure could give you one of the most beautiful nights of your trip to Tromso. For those wanting a memorable, well-organized, and photo-worthy encounter with the Northern Lights, it’s definitely worth considering.