If you’re dreaming of witnessing the dancing lights of the Aurora Borealis in Alaska, chances are you’ve come across this popular Northern Lights Aurora Tour with Free Photography in Fairbanks. It’s a well-loved option, boasting a perfect 5-star rating based on hundreds of reviews, and it’s recommended by nearly all who’ve experienced it.
We’ve looked into what makes this tour stand out—and where it might fall short—so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your Arctic adventure.
What we love about this experience is the quality of guides who are clearly passionate about finding the best spots for viewing, and the inclusion of professional-grade photos—a real bonus for those wanting to remember their trip. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the lengthy waiting times in cold conditions, which might test your patience if weather doesn’t cooperate.
This trip was absolutely incredible and truly unforgettable. The team was amazing—very kind, patient, and extremely well prepared. They thought about every detail: choosing the best spots for photos -So exited to see the photos-, allowing time to warm up, providing water and snacks, and even bringing warming bags to keep us comfortable. What impressed me the most was how knowledgeable they were about predicting the auroras. They carefully anticipated the best time to watch them and stayed positive and patient the entire time, which made the experience even more enjoyable and stress-free. Highly recommended!
This was an incredible Aurora experience!! We ended up about an hour north of Fairbanks in the mountains and the Aurora was spectacular! It took a few hours to come out in full force but even the view of only the stars is incredible from that far outside the city. It was insanely cold (-36 degrees) so make sure to dress warm but it is definitely one of the best experiences I have ever been on.
This experience was absolutely incredible! They pick you up at your hotel and drive as far as they need to for a spot with no cloud coverage. For our night we drove to Denali National Park and got to see the lights over the trees and mountains. The guides were lovely and enthusiastic and provided snacks, water, hand warmers during and cake at the end. They take a TON of pictures of everyone throughout. I’d definitely recommend this tour! Dress warm!
This tour suits travelers who are comfortable with late nights, enjoy a cozy ride, and really want a chance to see the Aurora in all its glory, with expert help along the way.
Key Points
- Highly rated and recommended by 98% of travelers, making it a trusted choice.
- Comfortable transportation and small group size (max 15), ensuring a more personal experience.
- Expert guides like Elena and Ed who go above and beyond to chase clear skies and capture stunning photos.
- Flexible itinerary that adapts to weather conditions, offering the best chance for a sighting.
- Includes free professional photography, which many reviews praise for quality and ease.
- Longer nights (8-12 hours) mean you’ll need to be prepared for a late, potentially chilly experience.
Seeing the Northern Lights isn’t just about luck; it’s about having knowledgeable guides, the right location, and patience. This tour makes all three a priority. The experience typically kicks off at 8:00 pm and can last anywhere from 8 to 12 hours. That means you’ll be out late—sometimes into the early morning—so dressing warmly and being ready for a long night is essential.
Transportation and Group Size
The tour uses a comfortable vehicle—likely a van or SUV—designed to seat up to 15 guests. This smaller group size makes for a more relaxed, friendly vibe, and allows guides to give more personalized attention. Many reviewers mention the comfort of the ride, with heat packs provided in colder weather, which makes those hours of waiting much more bearable.
You can also read our reviews of more photography tours in Fairbanks
Itinerary Breakdown
Starting in Fairbanks
The tour begins in the city, where guides will talk briefly about the Aurora and what influences its stunning colors—greens are most common, but purples, pinks, reds, and blues can appear depending on atmospheric conditions. The guides then drive out into the countryside, away from city lights, to maximize your chances of a good view.
Main stops and viewing points
The guides choose spots that are open and free of light pollution, often in high ground locations. One of the best parts? They’re flexible. As one reviewer put it, each Aurora sighting is different—colors change quickly, and the lights can flicker or dance unpredictably. The guides get you to the right spots, often far from Fairbanks itself, to optimize your viewing chances.
Waiting and photography
While waiting for the lights to appear can be a test of patience, many guests appreciate the effort guides put into making the experience memorable. Guides like Elena and Ed go the extra mile, offering professional photography with multiple cameras and even videos. Guests have mentioned receiving their photos via Google Drive about a week after the tour—no fuss, just beautiful images to keep.
A must see. A magical experience with a great touring team. The sky was so bright and beautiful. The light were early for us and remained for some time.
This aurora tour was absolutely outstanding. The guides are incredibly responsible, patient, and highly professional. They truly care about every guest and made sure everyone was comfortable and well taken care of throughout the night. What impressed me most was their expertise in predicting the aurora. Using their own experience and proven methods, they accurately judged the timing of the aurora’s appearance—and it worked! We were able to see the northern lights beautifully. They also thoughtfully prepared snacks, water, and hand warmers for all guests, which made a huge difference in the cold. On top of that, they took professional photos for us with high-quality cameras, so we could f…
We had to cancel because of sickness but the communication was very good. Everything someone called they were very polite.
Food and comfort
Since the tour can stretch into the early morning, snacks and refreshments are provided, helping keep everyone warm and energized. Some reviews mention mini cakes and water, which are small but appreciated touches during the long wait.
The Real Magic: Seeing the Aurora
Several travelers have shared that their patience paid off—sometimes after multiple nights out. The guides are dedicated to chasing clear skies and will go as far as needed. One guest noted that, despite a first night with uncooperative weather, their guides kept trying, and the second night brought an epic Aurora display.
Downsides
The most common concern? The length of time spent waiting in cold conditions—sometimes for hours. If weather doesn't cooperate, the Aurora might stay hidden, which can be disappointing. However, many reviews emphasize that guides are compassionate and do everything to improve your chances.
For $195 per person, this tour offers a balanced mix of comfort, expert guidance, and high-quality photography. Compared to the cost of chasing the Aurora independently—especially factoring in transportation, local knowledge, and professional photos—the value becomes clear. Multiple guests raved about the guides’ friendliness, professionalism, and their willingness to go the extra mile for a good view.
Many reviews highlight the personalized attention and small group setting as significant advantages, ensuring you’re not just another face in a crowd. The possibility of multiple nights out with the same guides also increases your chances of seeing the lights, which is perfect if your schedule allows.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re after a relaxed, guided experience with a focus on photography and safety, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially suitable for those who don’t want to venture out alone into the wilderness, or who want a good shot at witnessing the Aurora without stressing over logistics. Be aware that late nights and cold weather are part of the package—so bring layers, patience, and a sense of adventure.
Northern Lights Aurora Tour with FREE Photography
"This trip was absolutely incredible and truly unforgettable. The team was amazing—very kind, patient, and extremely well prepared. They thought a..."
The Sum Up
All in all, this Northern Lights Aurora Tour with FREE Photography in Fairbanks offers great value for travelers who want to maximize their chances of seeing the Aurora with the help of passionate guides. The combination of comfortable transport, small groups, and professional photos makes it a compelling choice for anyone looking to capture lifelong memories of one of nature’s most mesmerizing displays.
If you’re someone who appreciates expert guidance, doesn’t mind late nights, and wants high-quality pictures to take home, this tour will likely delight you. It’s perfect for travelers who want a hassle-free, well-organized experience that respects the natural unpredictability of the Aurora—while still doing everything possible to make the moment happen.
However, if you’re not comfortable with long waits in cold temperatures or late hours, you might want to prepare accordingly or consider alternative options. Still, for those who are game, this tour offers a wonderful chance to connect with Alaska’s most iconic natural wonder.
How long does the tour last?
It typically lasts between 8 to 12 hours, starting at 8:00 pm and potentially going into the early morning. Be prepared for a long night.
Is it suitable for families or children?
While most travelers can participate, the lengthy hours and cold conditions mean it’s best for older kids or teens who can handle late nights and outdoor cold.
What should I wear?
Dress warmly with layers, including thermal underwear, a good waterproof coat, hat, gloves, and warm footwear. The tour provides heat packs to stay comfortable.
Can I get my photos after the tour?
Yes! The guides take multiple professional photos and videos, which are sent to you via Google Drive about a week later.
Will I definitely see the northern lights?
While guides do their best to find clear skies, the Aurora is a natural phenomenon, and sightings depend on weather and atmospheric conditions. The tour’s flexibility increases your chances but doesn’t guarantee a sighting.
What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 15, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.
What happens if the weather cancels the tour?
If poor weather prevents viewing, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Solo travelers are welcome, and the smaller group size makes it easier to meet others.
How far from Fairbanks do we go?
Guides will drive out into open areas, often far from the city, to optimize Aurora sightings. Exact locations vary depending on weather and Aurora activity.
If you’re chasing the Northern Lights in Fairbanks and want a well-reviewed tour that combines comfort, expert guidance, and quality photos, this Arctic Night Tours option might just be your best bet. Just remember to be prepared for late nights and chilly weather — and keep your fingers crossed for clear skies!
