If you’re dreaming of catching the Northern Lights in the Yukon, the Arctic Range Adventure’s Aurora Viewing Tour sounds like a bucket-list experience. Aimed at travelers wanting to see this natural light show, the tour promises a 4.5-hour adventure out of Whitehorse with the hope of glimpsing those vivid green, purple, and red streaks lighting up the Yukon night sky.
What’s immediately appealing? First, the small-group vibe ensures a more intimate experience, plus the local guides are known for being friendly and knowledgeable. Second, they include snacks and beverages—a thoughtful touch after a chilly night outdoors. But it’s worth noting that, like many aurora tours, the experience hinges on weather conditions and aurora activity, which can sometimes be elusive. If you’re flexible and curious about Arctic skies, this trip could be a good fit.
Key Points
- Expert local guides enhance the experience with knowledge and friendly service
- Custom-built viewing locations promise away-from-city-light viewing opportunities
- Weather and aurora activity are unpredictable; no guarantees on sightings
- Snacks, beverages, and warm facilities add comfort during the wait
- Photographers can benefit from guide assistance and tripods for capturing the lights
- Tour operates in all weather conditions but may be canceled if skies are too cloudy
An Honest Look at the Aurora Viewing Experience
The tour kicks off late at night, around 11:20 pm, from the Sternwheeler Hotel & Conference Centre in Whitehorse. From there, you’ll hop onto a cozy minibus, typically with a small group, which feels less like a crowd and more like a shared adventure. This setup is perfect if you prefer a more personal, relaxed atmosphere rather than large, hurried tours.
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The Itinerary Breakdown
The main highlight is the stop at Arctic Range Adventure’s custom Aurora viewing location. Here, you’re taken far from the bright city lights—something that many seasoned travelers will appreciate. The dark skies are essential for seeing the lights clearly, and this spot is specifically chosen for its optimal viewing conditions.
During the roughly 4.5-hour outing, you’ll find that the tour offers more than just waiting for lights. Many reviews mention the warm facilities—such as teepees and yurts—that provide a cozy retreat from the cold, with fire pits and woodstoves adding a welcoming glow. Some travelers noted they could roast marshmallows or simply sit back with hot beverages, which makes the long night more comfortable. As one reviewer put it, “You have access to a place to warm up, beautiful teepees with a fire inside and lots of options to sit down and take in the light show.”
What About the Guides?
Guides seem to be a standout feature of this experience. From multiple reviews, people mention how knowledgeable and friendly they are—often going above and beyond to make the night memorable. For example, guides like Eli and Morgan received praise for their professionalism, humor, and helpfulness, especially with camera settings to capture the lights. One guest said, “They helped us with our camera settings and allowed us to capture really great photos of the northern lights.”
Even when the weather doesn’t cooperate, guides keep guests engaged with storytelling, fire-building, and other activities. They’re also quick to give updates on the aurora’s activity, which is key because the lights can appear suddenly or fade quickly.
The Weather and Aurora Chances
Here’s the tricky part: the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so there’s an element of luck involved. Reviews reflect this, with some guests lucky enough to see a spectacular display, while others didn’t catch the lights due to clouds or rain. One guest pointed out, “It rained and too cloudy to see any lights. Can’t help the weather.”
The tour operates rain, snow, or clear skies, which means you might find some evenings less spectacular than others. They do suggest scheduling more than one night if you’re eager to maximize your chances, especially since some reviews highlight how the guides try to keep guests occupied with activities like roasting marshmallows or storytelling, even if the lights don’t appear.
The Cost and Value
At $123.76 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest, but for what it offers—expert guides, a cozy viewing spot, snacks, and the chance to see one of nature’s most incredible light displays—it seems fair. Several reviewers, including one saying “worth the price,” felt they received good value, especially with the professional photography assistance and the warm facilities.
Just keep in mind, there are no refunds if the weather blocks the view or if the aurora activity is low. The tour’s value depends heavily on clear skies and solar activity, and you should be prepared for possibly paying for an experience that might not deliver the lights.
What Travelers Are Saying
Feedback from past guests paints a mostly positive picture. Many emphasize the friendly, knowledgeable guides—some even call out guides like Akino and Eli as highlights. One traveler shared, “We got a great show! Our guides were so great we kept occupied and enjoyed the experience,” even when clouds covered the sky temporarily.
Others appreciated the additional amenities—warm teepees, fire pits, and hot beverages—which kept the experience enjoyable even if the lights were shy. A guest noted, “The viewing center and staff were amazing. You have access to a place to warm up, and lots of options to sit down and take in the light show (if you’re lucky).”
That said, a few reviews mention communication issues or the unpredictability of the experience. For example, “The tour felt unprofessional, rushed and disorganized,” was one comment, but that seemed to be an exception rather than the rule.
Suitability for Travelers
This tour is best suited for those who are okay with the element of luck involved with seeing the Aurora. If you’re someone who’s eager for a cozy, guided experience with warm facilities and good photography support, you’ll likely find this trip rewarding. It’s also a good pick if you don’t mind late nights and can handle cold weather, provided you dress warmly.
People who value expert guides and don’t mind the possibility of not seeing the lights will appreciate the extra activities and comfort options. This isn’t a tour for those expecting guaranteed sightings, but rather for travelers eager to spend a memorable night under Yukon skies with knowledgeable company.
Final Thoughts
If you’re visiting Whitehorse and want to try your luck at witnessing the Northern Lights, this tour offers a solid, well-organized way to do so. The guides are a real asset, making sure you’re comfortable and well-informed, which can make all the difference in a chilly wilderness setting. The custom viewing spot far from city lights maximizes your chances, and the amenities like teepees and fire pits add a comforting touch to the adventure.
However, keep in mind that seeing the Aurora is never guaranteed. Weather conditions and solar activity play a big role, and you should approach this experience with a flexible mindset. The price is reasonable for the level of service, but be prepared for the chance that clouds might obscure the view or that you might not see the lights on your first try.
Overall, if you’re looking for a friendly, guided experience with good facilities and a chance to see the Northern Lights, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate the combination of natural wonder and comfort, and who are okay with some unpredictability.
Arctic Day: Aurora Viewing Tour | late night
“Akino was very helpful and accomodating. Will recommend this tour to my friends and family. Thank you.”
FAQs
Is the tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, the tour is operated in all weather conditions. However, if the skies are heavily clouded or if it’s raining, the chances of seeing the Aurora are reduced. There are no refunds in such cases, so it’s a bit of a gamble.
What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 11:20 pm, making it a late-night adventure best suited for night owls or those comfortable staying out late.
Are snacks and beverages included?
Yes, the tour includes snacks and drinks, which adds comfort and convenience during the long wait.
Can I take photos of the Northern Lights?
Absolutely. Guides are typically helpful with camera settings, and there are tripods available for capturing the lights. Many reviews mention how helpful the photography support is.
What’s the maximum group size?
The tour has a maximum of 100 travelers, but most reviews suggest it’s a smaller, more intimate experience, likely around a handful of people.
Do I need special clothing?
Yes, dress warmly! It gets very cold at night in Yukon, and standing outdoors for hours requires thermal layers, hats, gloves, and warm footwear.
What happens if I don’t see the lights?
You might not see the Aurora if the weather is cloudy or aurora activity is low. The tour does not offer refunds for no sightings but encourages multiple attempts or other nights to increase your chances.
Is this tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly stated, the experience seems suitable for most adults and older children who can handle late nights and cold weather. No specific family or age restrictions are noted.
How do I cancel if I change my mind?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Canceling less than 24 hours before the tour means no refund.
If you’re eager to try your luck with the Northern Lights in Yukon, this tour provides a friendly, well-organized way to do so. Just keep your expectations flexible, dress warmly, and savor whatever spectacle the Yukon skies deliver.