Aurora Tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing the Northern Lights and considering a tour in Tromsø, Norway, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve reviewed a popular Aurora Tour offered by Amazing Arctic Tours — and while we haven’t personally joined it, we’ve sifted through plenty of reviews, details, and feedback to give you a clear, honest picture of what to expect.

What we love about this experience is how it emphasizes maximizing your chances of seeing the Aurora with a wide viewing area that includes not just Tromsø but also Swedish and Finnish territories. Plus, the fact that guides go above and beyond to make the night memorable — from helping with photography to providing thermal suits — really stands out.

On the flip side, a few travelers have mentioned that the start can feel a bit chaotic, especially during the busy December season, and that some may find the tour a little pricey for what’s essentially a weather-dependent hunt. Still, if you’re after a well-organized, knowledgeable-guided outing and don’t mind the unpredictability of Mother Nature, this trip could be a great pick.

This tour is particularly suitable for those who want a reliable chance to see the Northern Lights, appreciate added comforts like warm gear and snacks, and enjoy an experience led by guides with a reputation for effort and care. It’s less suited if you’re looking for a private or ultra-quiet experience, or if you prefer a specific, guaranteed sighting.

Key Points

• Increases your chances of seeing the Aurora with a broad, multi-national viewing area.
• Includes thermal suits, snacks, and a campfire, making the cold nights more comfortable.
• Guides are experienced and attentive — many reviews highlight their effort and knowledge.
• Weather is the biggest factor; the Northern Lights are never guaranteed, but the guides do their best.
• Small group size (max 21 travelers) fosters a more personal experience.
• Pricing at $0.00 suggests it’s a promotional or included tour, but consider value based on what’s offered.

The Full Experience: What to Expect on the Aurora Tour

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins in the heart of Tromsø’s historic city centre at Kirkegata 2. It lasts roughly 5 to 9 hours, depending on conditions and the night’s success. You’ll be picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle, ready for a night that could take you into Swedish and Finnish territories — a strategic move to increase your chances of a good Aurora sighting.

The Journey and Stops

The tour covers an area about 300 km wide around Tromsø. Unlike some quick bus rides, this is a serious hunt across various scenic spots, giving you multiple potential viewing points. As one reviewer put it, “the guides drove two deep inland to find a prime viewing spot,” which makes sense — the best chance to see the lights often comes from moving away from city lights and finding clear, dark skies.

What’s Included

You’ll get thermal suits to beat the Arctic chill, hot drinks, traditional cinnamon cake, and marshmallows roasted on a campfire. The warmth around the fire is a highlight for many, turning a potentially freezing night into a cozy gathering. The guides also help set up your phone or camera for snapping photos, which is essential since the Aurora is a fleeting and delicate display.

The Guides and Their Efforts

Many reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and proactive attitude. Comments like “Mansoor was very knowledgeable and worked hard to spot the lights” and “he made scenic stops for photos” are common. Guides often go beyond just driving around; they share insights into the lights, help with photography, and make sure everyone stays comfortable.

Photo Opportunities and Personal Touches

Guests frequently mention the bonus of a free Aurora portrait taken by the guide, adding a personal souvenir to the experience. This, combined with warm treats and a bonfire, creates a more engaging and memorable outing.

Weather and Aurora Visibility

The biggest challenge remains the weather. As one guest said, “They did all that was in their hands to make us see the Northern Lights in a super cloudy night.” Even with the best efforts, cloud cover or weak solar activity can mean no Aurora show — but guides tend to be persistent and flexible.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 21 travelers, you’re likely to find a friendly, intimate atmosphere. Many reviews describe guides as courteous, sincere, and attentive — “helping my mother with difficult terrain” or “taking great photos on our phones.” This personal touch makes a difference, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering what’s included — thermal gear, snacks, a campfire, and personalized photos — the value is pretty solid, especially given the effort guides put into finding the lights. Many guests felt they got their money’s worth, with some calling it “worth every penny,” and others appreciating that they saw the lights after a season of uncertainties.

The tour’s price tag, listed as $0.00 here, probably indicates a free or included experience, but the true value lies in the effort and expertise. If you’re after a tour where guides really aim to give you a fair shot at witnessing the Aurora, this one tends to impress.

The Reviews Say It All

Several guests mention the guides’ dedication — “worked extremely hard to make sure we saw the lights” and “helped us take photos and set up for the best shots.” Others highlight the cozy atmosphere, hot chocolate, marshmallows, and the scenic stops along the way.

Of course, not everyone is satisfied. One reviewer called it “overpriced for what you get,” citing “loud music and stressful narration,” but that appears to be an outlier. Most describe the experience as “incredible,” “fantastic,” and “once in a lifetime.”

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Aurora Tour is ideal for anyone who values expert guidance, comfort, and a good chance to see the Northern Lights. It’s especially suitable if you’re okay with some unpredictability because weather and solar activity can vary. The small group size makes it a good choice for those who prefer a more personalized, less commercial experience.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who prefer a bit of a social vibe and enjoy cozy nights outdoors, they’ll likely appreciate the campfire, snacks, and photo opportunities. But if you’re expecting a private, quiet experience or a guaranteed sighting, you might want to explore other options or accept the inherent unpredictability of nature.

FAQs

What is included in the Aurora Tour?
You’ll receive thermal suits, hot drinks, traditional cinnamon cake, marshmallows roasted on a campfire, help with photography, and a free Aurora portrait. Snacks and hot beverages are on the house, making the cold nights more bearable.

How long does the tour last?
The experience typically lasts between 5 and 9 hours, depending on weather conditions and Aurora activity. You start in Tromsø and may venture into nearby territories for the best viewing.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Kirkegata 2 in Tromsø’s city centre and returns to the same spot afterward.

Is it suitable for children or families?
The tour involves outdoor activities in cold weather and walking over potentially difficult terrain, so it’s better suited for older children comfortable with winter conditions. No explicit family restrictions are noted.

What about the weather?
This tour depends heavily on good weather. Cloud cover and solar activity influence the chances of seeing the Aurora. Guides do their best to find clear skies but cannot guarantee sightings.

What should I bring?
While thermal suits are provided, it’s recommended to wear warm clothing underneath, including hats, mittens, and winter boots (not included). Dress very warmly, especially for extended outdoor periods.

How do the guides help with photography?
Guides assist in setting up your mobile phone or camera, offering tips to capture the Aurora. They also take photos of the group during the show, which you can get afterward.

What’s the group size?
A maximum of 21 travelers ensures a relatively small, friendly experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start. Cancellations within 24 hours won’t be refunded, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

If you want to chase the Northern Lights with a seasoned guide who genuinely cares about giving you the best shot and making the night cozy and memorable, this Aurora Tour in Tromsø is worth considering. The effort guides put into finding the best spots, combined with warm gear, snacks, and personal photos, creates a rounded experience that many guests rave about.

It’s best for travelers who understand that the Aurora is a natural phenomenon, unpredictable and weather-dependent, but who value excellent guidance and a comfortable setup. Whether it’s your first time or a return trip, this tour offers a good balance of adventure, comfort, and chance.

For those seeking a reliable, well-reviewed chance to see the Northern Lights with friendly guides and a nice touch of Arctic hospitality, this tour fits the bill. Just keep in mind the weather and book with flexibility in mind — the lights are worth it when they appear.