If you’re dreaming of witnessing the elusive dance of the Aurora Borealis in Norway, the Northern Lights chase VIP Private from Svolvaer might be just the experience you’re after. Though I haven’t done this exact tour myself, I’ve looked into it thoroughly and can tell you it offers a carefully curated, intimate way to chase one of nature’s greatest spectacles. The idea of a personalized, private experience with a knowledgeable guide and exclusive access to a secluded, light-pollution-free beach sounds particularly appealing.
What I really like about this tour is how it combines storytelling with practical details—like helping you set up your camera for those perfect shots—and the promise of hot drinks and local snacks. It’s a chance to relax, absorb the Arctic atmosphere, and possibly catch the lights in a cozy setting. The slight downside? Since the Northern Lights are unpredictable, there’s no guarantee you’ll see them, but the tour’s emphasis on conditions and safety means you’re in good hands. This experience probably suits travelers who value a personalized, well-organized outing and don’t mind waiting outdoors in winter for a shot at witnessing the lights.
Key Points
- Private and exclusive arrangement for a more intimate experience
- Expert guide helps with photo setups and shares local stories
- Efficient 3.5-hour window optimized for good viewing chances
- Hot drinks and local snacks keep you warm and energized
- Weather-dependent—northern lights aren’t guaranteed
- Ideal for those who appreciate storytelling, photography, and comfort
What to Expect from the Northern Lights Chase VIP Private Tour
The idea of heading out into the Arctic night to seek the Northern Lights can sound a little daunting—cold, long waits, unpredictable weather. But from what I gathered, this tour manages to make the experience both comfortable and memorable. Starting with a pickup service from Svolvaer, the adventure takes you to a north-facing, light pollution-free beach called Gimsoysand. This spot is carefully chosen for its clear, unobstructed views of the northern sky, which is exactly what you want when trying to catch the Aurora.
Once there, the guide will set the scene with stories about the lights, local lore, and the Arctic environment—creating a cozy, almost magical atmosphere. You’ll be encouraged to take photos, with the guide offering a photo service to help you capture those perfect moments. As you sip hot drinks and nibble on local snacks, the anticipation builds. If the sky clears and the auroras appear, the guide will assist you with camera setup and help to take stunning portraits with the Northern Lights as your backdrop. If the lights don’t appear, you’ll have enjoyed a peaceful, scenic evening filled with stories and warmth.
This stop, lasting around two and a half hours, prioritizes comfort and quality over quantity. The fact that it’s a private tour means your group will be the only ones around, avoiding the crowds often associated with larger tour groups. And, since the entire experience is contingent on weather and solar activity, it’s a good idea to be flexible with your expectations.
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The Itinerary: A Closer Look
The tour’s core is a single, well-chosen location—Gimsoysand. This frozen, north-facing beach is the star of the show. It’s free of light pollution, which is crucial for spotting the Aurora Borealis. The two hours and 30 minutes spent here are enough to give you a real chance at seeing the lights, without long, uncomfortable waits.
During this time, you’ll have access to snacks and hot drinks—simple comforts that make all the difference when spending a chilly evening outdoors. It’s worth noting that gloves, hats, and warm shoes are not included, so dressing appropriately is essential. I’d recommend layering well, given the outdoor wait times.
The focus here is on quality rather than quantity. The guide helps with photo opportunities—a highlight for many travelers—and shares insights into local legends and the science behind the Aurora. Past reviews, like the one from Trivit_D, praise the guide’s professional and informative approach. They specifically mention that they saw the Northern Lights for the first time thanks to the guide’s expertise, which speaks volumes about the value of knowledgeable leadership.
Price and Value: Is It Worth It?
At around $395.62 per person, this tour isn’t exactly cheap, but it’s important to think about what you’re paying for. A private experience means less crowding, more personalized attention, and a better chance to get those memorable photos. The inclusion of snacks, hot drinks, and a photo service adds to the value, especially when considering how much effort goes into ensuring a comfortable, memorable experience outdoors in winter.
Given the small group size and the focus on quality, this tour is particularly suited for travelers who want a more premium, tailored Arctic adventure. If you’re serious about capturing stunning photos or simply want a cozy, guided night out in the Arctic, this could be a worthwhile splurge.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
If you’re someone who appreciates expert guidance, storytelling, and photography assistance, you’ll likely find this tour very rewarding. It’s perfect for those who prefer a private, intimate experience to maximize chances of seeing the lights without the distraction of large crowds. The tour also works well for travelers who don’t mind waiting outdoors in potentially cold weather, as long as they’re dressed warmly.
However, if your main goal is guaranteed Northern Lights sightings regardless of weather or you’re traveling with very young children under 5, you might want to consider the weather-dependent nature of this experience and the outdoor waiting involved. This tour seems best suited for adults and older children who can enjoy the wait and are comfortable in winter conditions.
The Experience Provider: Heart Of Lofoten
The provider, Heart Of Lofoten, has a good reputation for organizing Arctic experiences. With their focus on small, private tours, they seem committed to making the Aurora chase a personalized and memorable event. They also offer flexible options, with cancellations only if weather conditions prevent viewing, and a full refund if the tour is canceled for weather reasons.
Final Thoughts: Is It a Good Choice?
For those seeking a personalized, story-rich experience with a knowledgeable guide, the Northern Lights chase VIP private from Svolvaer offers a compelling package. It’s especially appealing if you want to combine aurora hunting with quality photography help, cozy snacks, and storytelling in a quiet, scenic setting.
While the cost is significant, the focus on privacy and expert guidance can make it worth the investment. The experience is best suited for travelers who value comfort, a little patience, and the chance to create lasting memories of Norway’s most famous natural wonder.
If you’re okay with the weather-dependent nature of Aurora viewing and are prepared for outdoor waits, this tour could be a highlight of your trip to the Arctic.
Northern lights chase VIP PRIVATE from Svolvaer
“Great, the guide is very informative and professional we saw northern light for the first time because of him”
FAQ
Can I book this tour on short notice?
It’s recommended to book at least 16 days in advance, as this experience is popular and subject to availability, especially during peak Aurora season.
What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the private arrangement, snacks, hot drinks, and a photo service. You’ll need to dress warmly yourself, as gloves, hats, and shoes are not provided.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not explicitly stated, but since waiting outdoors in cold weather is involved and the tour is not advertised as family-friendly, it might be better suited for older children and adults.
What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour only proceeds if conditions are suitable for viewing. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, with about two and a half hours spent outdoors at the viewing location.
Will I definitely see the Northern Lights?
Not necessarily. The chances depend on factors like solar activity and weather. The guide will assess conditions and decide if the tour can proceed for a good chance of viewing.
If you’re chasing the Northern Lights and want an intimate, guided experience that emphasizes comfort and storytelling, this VIP private tour from Svolvaer might just be what you’re looking for. Just remember, patience and warm clothing are your best friends in this Arctic adventure.
