Alaska: Private Northern Lights Viewing Tour

If you’re dreaming of witnessing the elusive dance of the Aurora Borealis in Alaska, this private tour promises an intimate, tailored experience that puts you in prime spots for viewing and capturing the lights. While we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, the reviews and details paint a compelling picture for anyone serious about chasing the Northern Lights with a bit of comfort and expert support.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines personalized attention with multiple viewing locations, increasing your chances to catch the lights in their full glory. Plus, the inclusion of professional photography instruction and free photo downloads makes it stand out — especially if you want keepsakes of your adventure. The potential downside? Because it’s a chase, weather conditions like clouds can still play spoiler, a common challenge in northern lights hunting. This tour is a solid pick for travelers who want a private, flexible experience with a knowledgeable guide, ideally suited for couples or small groups who prefer a more tailored outing.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a private, personalized experience with plenty of photo opportunities, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for those who value comfort — traveling in a comfortable SUV or van — and want expert guidance to maximize their chances of glimpsing the Aurora. It’s also great for travelers who don’t want to worry about logistics or sharing their experience with a large group. Keep in mind, it’s best suited for adults or older children who can handle late-night cold-weather conditions comfortably.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private and Flexible: Perfect for small groups or couples looking for an intimate experience.
• Expert Guidance: Guides are knowledgeable about the best spots for viewing and photography.
• Multiple Locations: The tour hits several spots for the best chance to see the lights.
• Photo Inclusions: All photos taken during the tour are included — no extra charges.
• Comfort and Convenience: Travel is in a cozy SUV or van, with hotel or Airbnb pickup and drop-off.
• Timing: Runs from about 9:00 pm to 2:00 am, ideal for late-night Aurora chasers.

What To Expect on Your Aurora Chase

This tour is designed to optimize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights over interior Alaska, particularly around Fairbanks. It’s a 5-hour adventure that begins late in the evening, when the skies are typically darkest and Aurora activity peaks. After pickup from your hotel or Airbnb, you’ll hop into a comfortable SUV or van and head out on the hunt for the best viewing spots.

The route isn’t fixed; instead, your guide will adapt based on weather conditions and Aurora forecasts, stopping at multiple locations to increase your odds. Some of these spots may be outside the immediate Fairbanks area, such as North Pole or Fox — note that additional fees might apply for transportation to these farther destinations.

The Experience of Chasing the Lights

Traveling at night in Alaska means bundling up — think warm clothing, hats, gloves, and snow gear — especially since you’ll be outdoors for a significant chunk of time. Your guide will not only drive but also assist you with photography. This is a major plus, as you’ll get professional instruction on how to use your phone or camera to capture the Aurora’s fleeting beauty.

Throughout the tour, your guide will take photos of you and your group with the Northern Lights in the background, and these images are included at no extra charge. The photos will be available the next day, giving you tangible memories without needing to fuss over camera settings during the chase.

The Stops and Locations

Each stop is selected for its potential to offer clear, dark skies and good vantage points. While we don’t have specifics on every location, the idea is to cycle through different spots, each with unique features — whether it’s an open field, a hilltop, or a secluded area free from light pollution. This variety helps catch the best display if the Aurora is active.

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Weather and Visibility: The Wild Card

As one reviewer pointed out, weather can be unpredictable. A cloudy sky can dampen the experience, but the tour’s flexibility means guides do their best to find clear patches. The reviewer Kim noted that, even with clouds, they still had fun and appreciated the effort the guide put into finding a good view — a testament to the value of a knowledgeable guide.

Photos and Photography Tips

If you’re into photography, you’ll love the fact that all photos are included. The guide provides instruction on how to shoot the lights, which can be tricky since Aurora photography often requires specific settings. The availability of a tripod adds stability for those long exposures, and even a second camera is accessible for limited use, which helps if you’re trying to get different shots simultaneously.

The Value of This Tour

At $495 for up to 7 people, this private experience offers a lot of value, especially considering the personalized attention, multiple stops, and photo package included. That breaks down to roughly $70 per person for a tailored, guided, and photo-rich night — a fair deal compared to larger group tours.

The price might seem steep for some, but when you factor in the expert guidance, flexibility, and photo inclusion, it’s quite competitive. Plus, if weather conditions aren’t perfect, the guide’s experience can make a big difference in maximising your chances.

The Reviews Say It All

Guests like Kim appreciated the guide’s effort, noting that despite weather challenges, “Niles went above and beyond in the search for the Aurora,” making the experience enjoyable regardless. Peter described the guide as an “expert on where to find the Northern Lights,” which is exactly what you want in a tour like this. These reviews suggest you’re in good hands with knowledgeable guides who genuinely care about giving you a memorable experience.

Final Thoughts

This private Northern Lights tour in Alaska is well-suited for travelers who want a personalized, comfortable, and photography-focused experience. It’s ideal if you’re visiting Fairbanks and want the flexibility to customize your night out with an expert guiding the way. While it’s not a guarantee of seeing the Aurora — as weather plays a big role — the multiple stops and guidance increase your odds significantly.

If you’re someone who values photography or simply wants a trusted local to help chase the lights, this tour checks many boxes. It’s a great choice for small groups or couples who want to keep things intimate and enjoy the journey without the noise and chaos of larger tours.

For those on the fence, consider the benefits of the included photos and expert guidance, which can turn a potentially tricky night into a truly memorable one. Just pack your warm layers and patience, and you’re set for a night of Arctic adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the late-night timing and cold conditions suggest it’s best for older children who can handle the late hours comfortably.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes hotel or Airbnb pickup and drop-off, all photos taken during the tour, professional guidance on photography, a tripod, bottled water, and the private tour experience for up to 7 guests.

Are outside destinations like North Pole or Fox included?
Stops outside the Fairbanks area may require additional fees for transportation, so check with the provider for specific costs.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, hats, gloves, and snow gear — layers are key to staying comfortable outside during the night.

What if the weather is cloudy?
Cloud cover can block the Aurora, but guides will do their best to locate clear patches. Even if the lights aren’t visible, the experience of the chase and the scenery can still be enjoyable.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, starting around 9:00 pm and ending around 2:00 am.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for weather or changing plans.

Is this tour suitable for larger groups?
The price covers up to 7 guests; for more than that, contact the provider directly for arrangements.

All in all, if you’re after a guided, flexible, and photo-ready Northern Lights experience in Alaska, this private tour offers a solid combination of comfort, expertise, and personalization to help you make the most of your Arctic adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: