Northern Lights Chase

If you’re considering a trip to Tromsø with the dream of witnessing the Northern Lights, this tour might be on your radar. While the aurora is a natural phenomenon that can’t be guaranteed, this experience is designed to give you the best shot at seeing the lights while providing plenty of useful insights and comforts along the way. We’ve gathered lots of reviews, tour details, and practical info to help you decide if this is the right adventure for you.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are the expertise of the guides and their focus on finding the best viewing spots. They seem committed to maximizing your chances, which is crucial given how elusive the aurora can be. Also, the inclusion of helpful photography tips makes it not just a visual experience but one you can take home with you in photos.

One thing to keep in mind is that seeing the Northern Lights is never guaranteed—a fact that’s worth considering when planning your trip. Weather conditions and solar activity all play a role, and sometimes, despite everyone’s best efforts, the lights stay hidden. If you’re flexible and eager to learn about the phenomenon regardless, this tour could still make for a fantastic night out.

This experience is well-suited for travelers who want a guided, knowledgeable chase and are okay with the unpredictability of nature. It’s especially good if you’re interested in professional tips for capturing the aurora on camera or enjoy a cozy, social atmosphere. It might not be ideal if you’re seeking a guaranteed sighting or are traveling with very young children, but for most adventurers, it offers a compelling mix of excitement and comfort.

Key Points

• Maximized chances of seeing the aurora thanks to a dedicated, flexible tour that moves to the best spots.
• Guides are highly knowledgeable and helpful, often sharing insights into the aurora’s science and history.
• Photography support is a highlight; guides help you set up your camera for the best shots.
• Comfort is prioritized with warm snacks, hot drinks, and reflective vests for safety.
• Weather and aurora activity are unpredictable factors, so sightings are never guaranteed.
• Small group sizes (up to 40) keep the experience personal but may mean riding a minibus without a toilet if fewer than 15 travelers.

Exploring the Tour in Detail

What To Expect from the Itinerary

This Northern Lights Chase is designed to give you the best opportunities to see the aurora, no matter how tricky the weather might be. The tour lasts about 6 to 7 hours, which means you’ll be out well into the night, often traveling away from Tromsø’s city lights to find clearer skies.

The guide’s main goal is simple: to take you to the best location at that moment for observing the lights. This means that if the weather is cloudy over Tromsø, they’ll try to find a spot with better visibility, even if it’s farther away—sometimes crossing into Finland or near remote areas.

The Stops: Why They Matter

While specific stops aren’t listed in detail, reviews suggest that locations are carefully chosen for optimal viewing. Guides often coordinate and communicate with each other, aiming for spots with the clearest skies and minimum light pollution. Several reviewers mention visiting areas in Finland or farther out from Tromsø, which increases the odds of catching the lights in all their glory.

What You’ll Do During the Tour

Once at each stop, you’ll be able to enjoy the spectacle in a relaxed way, with hot chocolate and snacks provided so you can stay warm. Guides also help with photography—an especially nice touch if you want to get those perfect aurora shots. Many reviews highlight how helpful the guides are, with some going the extra mile to assist with camera settings or even lending tripods (which you can rent if needed).

The Group and Transportation

The tour keeps the group size under 40 travelers, which is manageable and allows for a more intimate experience. Depending on the number of participants, you might be in a larger bus or a smaller minibus—note that if fewer than 15 people book, the trip might be in a minibus without a toilet onboard. This isn’t a dealbreaker but good to keep in mind for comfort.

Transport is included, and the guides are experienced in navigating the terrain and weather conditions, which is key when trying to chase the lights across varied landscapes.

Weather and Aurora Activity

Since the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, weather plays a critical role. Clouds, snow, or light pollution could obscure the view, and despite the guides’ efforts, sightings depend on solar activity and atmospheric conditions. One reviewer summed it up well: “Every night is unique, and we try to do our best. Sometimes the weather is not in our favor.” This honesty is refreshing and helps set realistic expectations.

Snacks and Warmth

The tour includes hot drinks, hot chocolate, snacks, and reflective vests for safety. The snacks and hot drinks are especially appreciated after hours outside in the cold, and the vests help keep travelers visible when moving around in darker areas.

Photographs and Memories

The guides take photos during the tour, and many reviews mention the quality and helpfulness of these pictures. However, some travelers experienced delays or issues with photo uploads, which the tour provider is transparent about and willing to address if contacted.

The Value of This Tour

At around $132 per person, this tour offers a good combination of expert guidance, transportation, and extras like snacks and professional photo support. Considering the effort to find the best viewing spots and the small-group experience, many feel this is a worthwhile expense.

What really sets this tour apart is the guides’ dedication and knowledge, which several reviews emphasize. Their willingness to chase clear skies and help with photography elevates the experience beyond just a bus ride into the Arctic night.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This Northern Lights Chase is ideal if you’re looking for a guided experience with a good chance of seeing the aurora. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy learning about natural phenomena, want tips to capture the lights on camera, and prefer a cozy, social atmosphere with hot drinks.

If you’re traveling with small children (over 3 years old, and with informed arrangements), the tour can be suitable, but keep in mind the outdoor nature and potential slippery spots. It’s not tailored for mobility-challenged travelers, given the nature of the stops and walking involved.

Travelers who value professional guidance and are okay with the unpredictability of the lights will find this tour well worth the investment. Conversely, if your main priority is guaranteed sighting, it’s important to understand that no tour can promise the aurora, only maximize your chances.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, beginning in the evening and continuing into late night, aiming to catch the best aurora viewing conditions.

What is included in the price?
Snacks, hot drinks like coffee, tea, hot chocolate, photos taken during the tour, reflective vests, transportation, and an English-speaking guide.

Are tripods or thermal suits provided?
Tripods and thermal suits are not included but can be rented at the tour offices, which is helpful for better photos and staying warm.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing is essential, plus your own camera if you prefer professional pics. The tour provides reflective vests, but wear sturdy, slip-resistant shoes as stops can be slippery.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children over 3 years old can participate if arrangements are made, but the activity isn’t recommended for those with reduced mobility. Be sure to specify the age of children when booking.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour depends heavily on clear skies and aurora activity. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I expect to see the Northern Lights every night?
No, sightings depend on natural factors beyond anyone’s control. The guides do their best to find clear skies, but no guarantee exists.

How do the guides help with photography?
They offer tips on camera settings, help set up your camera, and sometimes take photos for you, capturing the lights in their full glory.

What is the group size?
Up to 40 travelers, which allows for a more personalized experience but can vary if fewer people book, possibly resulting in a smaller minibus.

Final Thoughts

This Northern Lights Chase in Tromsø offers a well-rounded, guided approach to one of nature’s most stunning displays. With experienced guides, flexible routing to maximize your chances, and helpful tips for capturing the moment, it’s a tour that balances adventure with comfort. While the unpredictability of the aurora remains, the effort and expertise involved make it a solid choice for most travelers eager to chase the lights.

It’s especially suited for those who value professional guidance, want to learn about the phenomenon, and appreciate a warm, friendly environment after hours outside in the cold. If you’re prepared for the possibility that the lights might stay hidden, this experience still promises plenty of fascinating stories, beautiful scenery, and a chance to connect with other travelers under the Arctic sky.