We’ve reviewed countless aurora tours across the Arctic, and this Northern Lights experience from Northern Horizon stands out for one reason above all others: the guides genuinely know how to hunt for the lights rather than simply sit and wait. The company doesn’t just pick a spot and hope; these folks actively monitor weather systems, cloud coverage, and solar activity throughout the night, willing to drive significant distances—sometimes all the way to Finland—to find clear skies. One reviewer captured this perfectly: “Max was in constant touch with other guides to understand the changing conditions to give us the best chance of seeing them.”
What really impressed us about the reviews is how the tour handles the reality of aurora chasing. You’re paying $259 per person for a genuine chance at seeing the northern lights, and while nature doesn’t always cooperate, the guides approach this with infectious enthusiasm and knowledge that transforms the experience regardless of whether the sky dances. You’ll learn the science behind the aurora, understand what conditions are necessary for viewing, and gain realistic expectations about your chances on any given night.
One consideration worth mentioning upfront: this is a physically demanding experience. You’ll be outside in arctic conditions for several hours, and while the company provides thermal suits and heated beverages, it’s genuinely cold work. The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with mobility issues, and you’ll want to prepare accordingly with proper layering and warm accessories.
Max was phenomenal! He truly chased the skies to find a gap to see the northern lights. Miracle worker trying to find a gap in the clouds on a night with low solar activity. We managed to see the solar lights in 3 different spots. With different tour guides we had only ever gone to one and waited there for the lights. This was a true chase and Max was amazing! Raphael was an amazing driver which allowed Max to constantly monitor the clouds and solar activity – a true partnership.
This was a wonderful evening. Harry and Martin did a fantastic job guiding us to various locations to give us the best views of the aurora. We were lucky enough to see a variety of forms of the lights, and we learned lots about the science and cultural history of the aurora. There was a cozy campfire, beautiful nature, hot chocolate and reindeer sausage. Harry also took plenty of beautiful photos for us! We had a great time and I cannot recommend this tour enough!
We've done several Northern Lights tours with several different companies and this experience was by far my favorite. The guide, Henry, was very personable, a wealth of knowledge about the aurora, and more than willing to do whatever it took to make our tour exceptional. He took numerous high quality photos throughout the trip and was also more than willing to help people take successful shots of the aurora with their own cameras. The sausages were very good (both vegetarian and reindeer) as were the hot beverages and biscuits for dessert. Little things, like having small stools for everyone around the campfire and having thermal suits and boots at our disposal, made the difference between a…
This tour works best for travelers who genuinely want to understand the northern lights phenomenon, appreciate the effort guides put into finding optimal viewing locations, and can embrace the adventure even if the aurora doesn’t perform. If you’re hoping for guaranteed results or prefer maximum comfort over authentic experience, you might want to reconsider.
- Understanding the Value Proposition
- How the Experience Actually Works
- What the Reviews Reveal About Realistic Expectations
- The Guides Make the Difference
- Practical Logistics You Should Know
- What to Bring and How to Prepare
- The Cancellation Policy Matters
- Frequently Asked Questions
- The Bottom Line
- More Tours in Tromso
- More Tour Reviews in Tromso
Understanding the Value Proposition
At $259 per person for a 6-9 hour experience, you’re looking at roughly $30-40 per hour of guided adventure in one of Earth’s most challenging environments. That price includes professional photography services, specialized thermal gear, a traditional Norwegian meal, beverages, and transportation from your hotel. When you stack that against other arctic activities and the general cost of visiting Tromsø, the value becomes apparent.
What makes this particularly good value is what’s included without upcharge. The thermal suits and boots mean you don’t need to purchase expensive arctic gear that you’ll use only once. The professional photographer captures images that would cost hundreds if you hired them separately. The meal isn’t some throwaway provision—reviewers specifically mention enjoying reindeer sausage with traditional lompe (Norwegian potato flatbread), vegetarian options, cookies, tea, and hot chocolate. You’re not just getting fed; you’re experiencing local cuisine.
The company also delivers digital photos via email within 24 hours, which is remarkably fast for a tour operation. If you want higher-resolution images suitable for printing, those are available for purchase, but the web-resolution photos they provide are genuinely nice quality based on reviewer feedback.
Our guide had a clear love of the Aurora and his ability to judge where they would pop up was uncanny! Things that made this tour stand out: 1) We set off earlier than other tours and in doing so, caught an early display which was the best of the night 2) We were a small group so there was the opportunity to get to know each other 3) We cooked locally produced reindeer sausages over a campfire! 4) our guide was a talented aurora photographer and was able to take great pictures for our group including family pictures 5) We were all dropped at our individual hotels at the end of the night This was a really well organised and managed trip. We really enjoyed our experience! Tips: bring foot wa…
Whilst we didn’t get to see any aurora activity, we felt that Max was an excellent guide. He explained the phenomenon of the aurora really well and answered all our technical questions. It was also great to learn about his lifestyle and experiences. He kept us well informed of the plan with an explanation, set up a great campfire with small meal and helped us with our camera settings. The thermal suits worked well – I chose not to use the shoes but definitely should have! The group was also great.
We enjoyed an amazing experience with our fantastic guide Bert and his great driver! Bert is very knowledgeable and exudes so much positive energy!! He went above and beyond to make sure everyone was safe and had a wonderful time. Lady Aurora danced for us and Bert shared his incredible photos. You have a very high recommendation from us!! Cheers from Kellie and Jan. 3/2/25
How the Experience Actually Works
The Meeting Point and Start
You’ll meet at the Magic Ice Bar in downtown Tromsø, located at Kaigata 4. The tour typically starts in the late evening, with pickups arranged from your hotel in the city center. This timing is strategic—the guides want to position themselves for the best possible viewing window, which often means departing once darkness settles fully over the arctic landscape.
The Search Begins
Rather than drive straight to a predetermined spot, your guide will spend the first portion of the tour actively assessing conditions. One reviewer noted that their guide “traveled 2 hours towards the Finnish border for clear skies,” while another group found themselves driving nearly three hours into Finland when Tromsø’s coastal weather wasn’t cooperating. This willingness to go the distance separates this tour from operations that simply drive to the same location every night.
I cannot say enough positive about the tour program. They are super organized and run a first class operation. Our guide Hermann and driver Pietre (sp?) were great. Hermann was knowledgeable and worked hard to find us some open sky to see the Northern Lights. We did get a couple of glimpses of them but the weather refused to cooperate. That was dissappointing but it still was a positive experience, and we are now big fans of reindeer sausage.
It really was a great trip. Wear warm clothes and make sure your batteries are charged. The cold drains phone batteries, so having a battery charger helps.
It was a night where the forecast was expected to be good. So we were expecting to be dazzled. Then Mother Nature intervened. We were to be patient. Our guide Antonio was positive and cheerful throughout. We had confidence that he knew what he was doing. The patience and his spotting skills were so good. We saw mother nature’s dazzling light show. It was spectacular! Antonio made the whole evening such a memorable adventure. My only less than positive comment was that the camp fire wasn’t open and big enough to keep us warm around it and unlike the next day when we went on another tour, the snacks were not as good. The other one gave us sausages to grill over the fire (real camping feel…
Your guide will explain what you’re looking for as you drive—the specific atmospheric conditions, solar activity levels, and cloud patterns that make aurora viewing possible. As one traveler mentioned, “Max explained you need to be able to see the craters on the moon and the stars to be in with a chance of seeing the lights.” This education transforms you from a passive observer into someone who understands the science behind what you’re attempting to witness.
Settling In at the Viewing Location
Once your guide identifies a promising spot, you’ll set up a campfire and settle in for the wait. The company provides small stools for everyone, which might sound like a minor detail but makes a significant difference when you’re sitting outside in arctic conditions. The thermal suits and boots keep you genuinely warm—reviewers consistently praised how well these worked, though one experienced traveler suggested bringing foot-warming pouches as an additional layer.
The campfire serves dual purposes: it provides warmth and creates a natural gathering point for your group. You’ll cook reindeer sausage over the flames (vegetarian options available), enjoying the traditional Norwegian meal with hot beverages. One reviewer described it as having “a real camping feel,” which captures the authentic experience the tour creates.
We knew going in that we may not see the lights but the van for people who have a bad back was the worse because it was so hard and didn’t recline. We would rather of paid double the price and had a comfortable experience and better food. It was thoroughly disappointing the entire experience from beginning to end. The real organization when the turned up to the meeting point “Magic Ice Bar, I will not have any fond memories of this trip with my family unfortunately. We spent a fortune getting to Tromso and staying in Tromso and the tour we ultimately booked was not what we expected. I only wish now I had done a private tour with a comfort van. I give this experience with Viator a 4/10.
No aurora, but an adventure through a snowstorm. Would have been great to see the aurora again, but maybe next time.
Tour started with an on-time pickup from the departure location. We rode for about 1 hour before locating a spot with clear skies. There, our tour guide gave us thermal suits, individual pictures, camp fire, and roasted some reindeer and veggie sausage. The pictures were beautiful that the photographer took. Overall 5-star experience.
The Photography Component
Your guide is also a photographer, and they’ll take pictures of your group against the night sky. If the aurora appears, they’ll capture you with the lights dancing overhead. The guides apparently take this seriously—multiple reviewers mentioned guides helping them with their own camera settings and ensuring they left with quality shots of the phenomenon.
One traveler who didn’t see the lights still praised the guide for his efforts: “He was incredibly knowledgeable…set up a great campfire with small meal and helped us with our camera settings.” This speaks to guides who see their role as creating a complete experience, not just searching for the lights.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tromso.
What the Reviews Reveal About Realistic Expectations
The review breakdown tells an important story: out of 561 reviews, 550 are five-star ratings, nine are lower ratings, and only two are one-star. That’s a 99% recommendation rate, but the negative reviews deserve your attention because they highlight real considerations.
Brilliant trip: Dominic was a terrific driver in very challenging conditions; Herman was so passionate and knowledgeable about the Northern Light and determined to give us a great experience! He found two spots where we enjoyed the most amazing light show would highly recommend.
We had the most magical experience on our Northern Lights tour. We couldn’t have lucked out with a better tour guide. Harry was so amazing is every way possible. He was extremely knowledgeable about the science about the lights and taught us so much. He set realistic expectations but was vigilantly working the whole time to find the best area to take us. We ultimately decided on a spot that was not too far from the Finland border. It could not have been more picturesque. We were surrounded by by mountains and a lake which set the scene. And after a short time of waiting the sky came alive. We got the show of a lifetime. The lights came out strong and danced for hours. Every time…
A great tour though we weren’t lucky enough to see the lights as was too cloudy. Max did everything he could to get us to a good spot but sadly couldn’t control the weather. He was in constant touch with other guides to understand the changing conditions to give us the best chance of seeing them and was incredibly knowledgeable. The reindeer hot dogs were really yummy as was the hot choc and tea. Would def recommend but try to book on a clear night. Max explains Ed you need to be able to see the. Eaters on the moon and the starts to be in with a chance of seeing the lights.
The single one-star review came from a traveler frustrated about not seeing the lights and feeling their time was wasted. This reviewer suspected from the start that conditions weren't favorable and would have appreciated an option to cancel rather than spend seven hours in the cold. This is valuable feedback because it shows that some people genuinely don't want to take the risk—and that's completely valid.
A three-star review mentioned discomfort with the van's hard seating and wished they'd paid more for a comfortable experience with better food. This suggests that while the tour excels at its core mission (hunting for auroras), it's not designed around maximum comfort, and some travelers prioritize comfort over authentic experience.
The vast majority of five-star reviews, however, reveal a pattern: travelers who appreciate guides that work hard to find clear skies, who value the educational component about aurora science, and who embrace the adventure regardless of whether they see the lights. One particularly telling review came from someone on their seventh northern lights tour attempt: "I believe that it was Max's dedication and preparation, that made the trip successful...After an hour, the sky cleared almost completely and a breathtaking aurora appeared!"
Another reviewer who didn't see the lights still gave five stars: "Although nature did not let us see the dancing Aurora as we wished, we did see the lights. Harry was welcoming and great tour guide...Both he and Wojtek were great." This shows that guides who maintain enthusiasm and provide genuine value beyond just the aurora viewing earn strong recommendations.
The Guides Make the Difference
Reading through the reviews, certain guide names appear repeatedly: Max, Harry, Herman, and several others. Each receives glowing praise for different qualities, but common themes emerge. These guides are described as "true aurora hunters," "passionate and knowledgeable," and genuinely dedicated to their work.
One reviewer described watching their guide work: "He was always on the weather forecasts, cloud coverage updates, contact with other guides, etc. I believe that it was Max's dedication and preparation, that made the trip successful." This level of engagement suggests guides who aren't just clocking hours but are genuinely invested in providing an exceptional experience.
Multiple reviews mention guides explaining the science behind aurora formation, sharing folklore and cultural stories about the lights, and helping travelers understand what they're witnessing. This educational component transforms the tour from a simple sightseeing excursion into something more meaningful.
Practical Logistics You Should Know
Duration and Timing
The tour runs 6-9 hours, which accounts for driving time, setup, waiting, and potential relocation if initial spots don't work out. You should expect to be outside for several hours, so mental preparation matters as much as physical preparation.
Group Size
The tour operates with small groups, which reviewers consistently mentioned as a positive. One traveler noted: "We were a small group so there was the opportunity to get to know each other," and another appreciated being "dropped at our individual hotels at the end of the night." Small groups mean more personalized attention from your guide and driver.
Transportation and Comfort
You'll travel in a minibus or van, with pickup and drop-off at hotels in Tromsø's city center. One reviewer mentioned the experience of their van getting stuck in snow and needing to be pushed out—which they described as part of the adventure rather than a problem. This suggests the company uses appropriate vehicles for arctic conditions, though comfort levels may vary based on the specific van.
Booking Timing
On average, this tour is booked 53 days in advance, suggesting popular dates fill quickly during peak aurora season. If you're planning a Tromsø visit during winter months, booking well ahead makes sense.
What to Bring and How to Prepare
While the company provides thermal suits and boots, reviewers consistently recommend additional preparation. One experienced traveler suggested: "Bring foot warming pouches. Layer up! Be prepared to use nature's toilet when you're out in the wild."
Another noted: "Wear warm clothes and make sure your batteries are charged. The cold drains phone batteries, so having a battery charger helps." These practical tips from people who've done the tour are worth heeding.
The thermal suits and boots provided work well, but they're most effective when worn over proper base layers. Think merino wool or technical fabrics rather than cotton. Hand warmers, good socks, and a warm hat all make the experience more enjoyable.
The Cancellation Policy Matters
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience is a significant advantage. If the company cancels due to poor weather, you'll receive a different date or full refund. This protection is important because you're booking for a weather-dependent activity, and conditions can change dramatically in the arctic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What if we don't see the northern lights?
Based on the reviews, you're still likely to have a positive experience. Multiple five-star reviews came from travelers who didn't see the aurora but praised their guide's knowledge, enthusiasm, and effort. The educational component about aurora science, the campfire meal, and the overall adventure seem to create value beyond just the lights. That said, if seeing the aurora is your only goal and you have limited tolerance for disappointment, this tour carries inherent risk.
Q: How far might we have to travel to find clear skies?
Several reviews mention traveling 2-3 hours toward the Finnish border or into Finland itself when Tromsø's coastal weather wasn't cooperating. One reviewer noted they "drove almost 3 hours into Finland" for clear skies. Budget mentally for the possibility of significant driving time in search of optimal viewing conditions.
Q: Is the food actually good, or is it just survival provisions?
Multiple reviewers specifically praised the reindeer sausage and traditional Norwegian meal. One traveler mentioned "The reindeer hot dogs were really yummy as was the hot choc and tea." Another said "The sausages were very good (both vegetarian and reindeer) as were the hot beverages and biscuits for dessert." The food appears to be genuinely enjoyable rather than just functional.
Q: Will we actually be warm enough in the thermal suits?
Most reviewers reported the thermal suits worked well, though one experienced traveler suggested bringing additional foot warmers. The suits seem adequate for the arctic conditions, particularly when worn over proper base layers. One reviewer who initially chose not to wear the thermal boots later regretted the decision, suggesting you should use all provided gear.
Q: How quickly will we receive the photos?
The company delivers digital photos via email within 24 hours, and one reviewer noted they received theirs "even before we woke up the next day." These are web-resolution images suitable for sharing and viewing digitally. Higher-resolution prints are available for purchase.
Q: What's the group size like?
Reviews mention small groups, with one traveler appreciating that the small size "gave the opportunity to get to know each other." This isn't a large-scale tour operation; you'll be with a handful of other travelers rather than a full bus.
Q: What if I have mobility issues?
The tour is explicitly not recommended for travelers with mobility issues. You'll be getting in and out of a van multiple times, walking to and from the campfire location, and standing outside for extended periods. This is a physically active experience.
Q: How far in advance should we book?
On average, this tour books 53 days in advance, suggesting popular dates during peak aurora season (September-March) fill quickly. Booking 2+ months ahead increases your chances of getting preferred dates.
Q: What happens if weather forces cancellation?
The company will offer you a different date or full refund if poor weather makes the tour impossible. Free cancellation is also available up to 24 hours before the experience, giving you flexibility if your plans change.
Northern Lights Tour from Tromsø
"Max was phenomenal! He truly chased the skies to find a gap to see the northern lights. Miracle worker trying to find a gap in the clouds on a nigh..."
The Bottom Line
This is one of the few northern lights tours that genuinely prioritizes finding the aurora over simply going through the motions. Your guides actively hunt for clear skies, communicate with other operators about conditions, and demonstrate real knowledge about what they're doing. You're paying a fair price for professional guides, specialized gear, a traditional meal, and photography services—but you're also accepting that nature doesn't guarantee results.
The 99% recommendation rate from 561 travelers isn't inflated—it reflects genuine satisfaction with how the company operates, even when the aurora doesn't perform. The guides create value through their enthusiasm, knowledge, and willingness to work hard on your behalf. You'll learn something about the science behind the lights, experience authentic arctic adventure, and enjoy a proper campfire meal under the northern sky.
Book this tour if you genuinely want to chase the northern lights rather than passively hope for them, if you appreciate guides who work hard for your experience, and if you can embrace the adventure even if nature doesn't cooperate. It's worth the $259 investment for the quality of the guides, the professionalism of the operation, and the authentic experience it provides. Just go in with realistic expectations, prepare yourself physically for the cold, and bring a spirit of adventure to the arctic night.
