Aurora chase with minibus, dresses, photos, campfire and snacks.

Discovering the Aurora Borealis with a Tromso Minibus Tour

If you’re dreaming of catching the northern lights in Tromso, Norway, this aurora chase with a minibus offers a practical, well-organized way to increase your chances. While we haven’t done this specific tour ourselves, the detailed reviews, features, and itinerary give a solid picture of what to expect.

What we particularly like about this experience is its focus on comfort — from thermal gear and reindeer pelts to cozy campfires and hot drinks, it’s clear the organizers prioritize keeping guests warm and content in the Arctic chill. Plus, the emphasis on expert guides actively tracking weather and aurora activity is reassuring—this isn’t just a blind chase; it’s a smart one.

A potential consideration is the price point, which is around $200 per person, reflecting the inclusion of gear, photos, and transportation. For travelers who value convenience, expert insight, and a chance to take home memorable photos, this seems a solid investment.

This tour is ideal for those who want a guided experience with personalized touches, especially if photography and comfort are high on your list. It’s suited for adults and older children given the nature of the activity, but families with kids over 6 could also find it enjoyable, especially with the provided warm dresses.

Key Points

• Comfort-focused experience with thermal suits, reindeer pelts, and campfire warmth
• Expert guides who actively monitor weather and aurora forecasts
• Includes professional photos and video of the northern lights as a souvenir
• Round-trip transportation from Tromso simplifies logistics and maximizes time
• Optional extras like winter shoes and hot meals available upon request
• Small group size (max 16 travelers) for a more personalized adventure

An In-Depth Look at the Aurora Chase Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at Magic Ice Bar in Tromso, a fun and scenic meeting point. From there, the minibus whisks you away into the Norwegian countryside, sometimes traveling up to 250 kilometers away from the city lights. This extensive drive is part of what makes the experience worthwhile—your guides know the best spots far from light pollution, where the aurora is more likely to dance vividly overhead.

The round-trip transport ensures you don’t need to worry about navigating or parking, making it a stress-free way to focus on the magic of the Northern Lights. Plus, the small group size (up to 16 travelers) means you’ll have space to relax, ask questions, and enjoy the journey comfortably.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Once away from Tromso’s glow, your guides will focus on finding ideal weather conditions and aurora activity. The guides are described as friendly and knowledgeable, with one reviewer praising Daniel for his “fantastic” instincts in locating the best spots to see the lights. This personalized approach is a big plus—you’re not just following a set route, but actively chasing the best conditions.

Throughout the evening, you’ll be supplied with thermal suits in various sizes, ensuring everyone stays warm, regardless of how cold it gets. The inclusion of reindeer pelts and campfire adds to the cozy atmosphere, giving you a warm spot to sit and wait for the sky to light up.

Photos, Video, and Equipment

One of the biggest draws of this tour is the opportunity to capture stunning photos and videos. The guides provide a tripod for cameras (though not for mobile phones), and they’ll take professional portraits with the northern lights in the background using their Sony a7siii camera. These are shared with you the next day, meaning you leave with more than just memories—you get tangible keepsakes.

If you’re into photography, you’ll appreciate the emphasis on timelapse/video opportunities, which, depending on conditions, can yield breathtaking footage. Plus, you’re given souvenir photos and videos, adding a personal touch to your Arctic adventure.

Warmth and Comfort Measures

The organizers understand that chasing the lights in Norway’s winter can be brutally cold, so they supply thermal winter suits and reindeer skins. You also have access to hot drinks like fruit teas, hot chocolate, and snacks, which keep your energy up during the wait. These thoughtful touches can make a huge difference—waiting outside for hours in freezing temperatures can be daunting without proper gear.

Options like winter shoes with toe warmers and hot meals are available for booking, adding another level of comfort if you want to extend your warmth and satisfaction.

Additional Considerations

While everything is geared toward a cozy, successful aurora sighting, keep in mind that vinter shoes are not included in the standard tour, so if you’re not already equipped, you might want to bring your own or arrange to rent or buy some locally.

The tour lasts about 7 hours, starting at 6:00 pm and concluding at a different location, with flexibility based on weather and aurora activity. The experience is designed to be relaxed rather than rushed, giving ample time to enjoy the scenery and await the lights.

What Past Travelers Say

The glowing reviews speak volumes: “Fabulous Northern lights” is a common phrase from repeat guests. One reviewer highlighted the guides’ knowledge and instincts, which contributed significantly to their success in spotting the aurora. Many appreciate the personalized photos and the warmth of the experience, praising the organizers for making the wait comfortable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who values guided expertise and wants to maximize your chances of seeing the aurora, this tour offers a well-thought-out package. Photographers and those eager to get professional shots will find the tripods and portraits especially appealing.

It’s also suitable for travelers who prefer comfort and convenience—from transportation to warm clothing and snacks, everything is provided. While not specifically tailored for children, kids over 6 with proper gear could enjoy the experience, especially given the cozy atmosphere.

Anyone looking for a relaxed, educational, and photo-friendly aurora chase will likely find this tour a good fit. Conversely, if you prefer a more independent or rugged experience, you might find this setup a little too structured. Still, for most, the combination of local expertise, comfort, and photography options make it a compelling choice.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes snacks (muffins, fruit, hot drinks), warm thermal suits, reindeer skins, a campfire, professional portraits, and photos/videos of the northern lights. Transport from Tromso and round-trip logistics are also covered.

Are winter shoes provided?
No, winter shoes are not included in the standard package. If you don’t have suitable footwear, consider bringing your own or inquire about options before the tour.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, kids over 6 years old can participate, provided you specify their age, height, and weight so suitable sizes of warm gear and child seats can be prepared.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 6:00 pm, with the itinerary flexible depending on weather conditions and aurora activity.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 16 travelers, which allows for a more personal experience without feeling crowded.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group size and inclusive environment make it welcoming for solo travelers.

What about photos?
The tour provides professional portraits and tripod use for cameras. You’ll also get shareable videos and photos to remember your trip.

How far will the guides travel?
They may drive up to 250 kilometers from Tromso to find the best visibility conditions, ensuring you see the northern lights under optimal circumstances.

Final Thoughts

This aurora chase with minibus, warm gear, photography, and campfire hits many marks for a memorable Tromso experience. Its focus on comfort, expert guidance, and memorable photos makes it stand out among northern lights tours. While it isn’t the cheapest option, the value lies in the thoughtful details—professional photos, warm clothing, and a stress-free journey into the Arctic wild.

If you’re after an experience that combines adventure, comfort, and a good shot at seeing the aurora, this tour does a commendable job. Perfect for travelers who want to sit back, relax, and enjoy Norway’s most breathtaking night sky displays without worrying about logistics or staying warm.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just eager to witness the northern lights, this tour provides a balanced mix of guidance, comfort, and opportunity that’s hard to beat.