The Aurora Tour – VIP trip for northern lights, aurora borealis

A Honest Look at the Aurora Tour in Tromsø

If you’re dreaming of catching the Northern Lights in Norway, the Aurora Tour promises a VIP experience in Tromsø. While the actual experience might not fully match the grand expectations set by the description, it’s still a solid option for those who want a guided, cozy, and somewhat personalized Aurora adventure.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines the chance to see the lights with a warm, inviting atmosphere—think regional snacks, hot drinks, and a campfire setting. Plus, the added bonus of professional photos means you’re not just hoping to get a good shot, but actually walking away with quality images of this celestial spectacle.

That said, one potential downside to keep in mind is that some reviews suggest the “VIP” aspect might be a bit exaggerated. Some guests experienced cramped transportation and longer waiting times, which may not feel as exclusive as the name suggests.

This tour works best for travelers who appreciate guided experiences, are willing to pay a premium, and want a more comfortable, photo-ready Northern Lights outing. If you’re okay with some unpredictability and want a blend of comfort and adventure, this could be worth considering.

Key Points

• Comfort and ambiance: The tour offers a cozy campfire setting with regional snacks and drinks.
• Photo opportunities: You get professional photos of the Aurora, which is a huge plus for memory-keepers.
• Guide expertise: Guides are praised for their helpfulness and dedication to ensuring guests see the lights.
• Variable experiences: Some reviews mention unfulfilled expectations about the VIP label and transportation comfort.
• Weather dependency: Like all Aurora tours, success depends heavily on clear skies.
• Price point: At around $1,387 for a group of up to 4 people, it’s a pricier option, but includes many amenities.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off at 7:00 pm in Tromsø with pickup included, making logistics easier. The entire experience lasts roughly 4 to 6 hours, giving you ample time to hunt for the Aurora and enjoy the surroundings. The group size is limited to your private party, which means more personalized attention from the guide.

Transportation and Comfort

The reviews shed some light here—while the tour claims to be VIP, some participants felt the transportation could be a bit cramped, especially if you’re squeezed into a small vehicle for over three hours. That’s worth noting if you’re sensitive to space or prefer a more relaxed ride. The vehicle quality seems good, but the seating and comfort might vary.

The Itinerary – What’s Included?

Your first stop is Tromso Fjords, where you’re greeted with a warm, campfire vibe. Here, you’ll indulge in regional treats like hot drinks, wine, sweets, and fresh fruits, all served in a cozy setting with specialized clothing to keep you warm. The inclusion of local snacks and wine adds a touch of luxury to the experience, making it more than just a lights chase.

Then, the guide shares stories of Tromsø and the Aurora Borealis, setting a context that enriches the experience. This is especially enjoyable if you enjoy learning about the place you’re visiting.

The Aurora Viewing and Photography

The highlight, of course, is trying to see the Northern Lights dancing overhead. The guide will assist with professional photos, ensuring you leave with high-quality images to cherish. One reviewer appreciated how helpful the guide was with their iPhones, which is reassuring if capturing good shots is important to you.

However, a couple of reviews mention that the Aurora was only visible through cameras, not directly to the naked eye, which is common in Aurora viewing but good to keep in mind. Remember, skies need to be clear, and nature can be unpredictable.

Food and Drinks

Expect hot chocolate, tea, coffee, water, and some light snacks like sweets and chicken rolls. The quality seems decent, and the wine adds a nice touch for those seeking a bit of comfort. The food and drinks help keep everyone warm and in good spirits, especially in the chilly Arctic evening.

Guide and Customer Service

Many guests praised the guides, describing them as attentive, helpful, and eager to make the experience memorable. One guest specifically highlighted Martin making a birthday extra special, and another singled out Daniel’s effort to help with photography.

That said, some guests felt the experience could have been more authentic or less commercial, especially given the discrepancy between the VIP label and actual conditions.

Pricing and Value

At $1,387.73 for a group of up to four, this is a premium-priced experience. Given that it includes transportation, professional photos, local snacks, and a guide, the price isn’t out of line for a private, guided Aurora tour in Tromsø. Still, some may find the cost steep, especially if the Aurora doesn’t show or if the transportation feels less luxurious than expected.

If capturing the lights with high-quality photos and enjoying a warm, guided experience are your priorities, the price could be justified. But if you’re mainly after a budget-friendly Aurora hunt, there are other options out there.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who value comfort, guided expertise, and a cozy setting. If you’re after professional photos and appreciate a relaxed, intimate environment, this tour offers those features. It also appeals to those willing to pay a premium for a more personalized experience.

However, if you’re more flexible on the luxury aspect and don’t mind longer drives or less exclusive labels, you might find better value elsewhere. Also, if your main goal is just to see the Aurora with minimal fuss, this tour might feel a bit overhyped.

The Sum Up

The Aurora Tour in Tromsø offers a well-rounded experience blending Aurora hunting with comfort, good food, and professional photos. The guides’ dedication and the cozy campfire environment are definite highlights, making it a memorable outing for many. Yet, the reality may not fully match the VIP promise, especially regarding transportation and exclusivity, according to some reviews.

This tour is a good choice if you want a guided, cozy, and photo-ready Northern Lights adventure, and you’re comfortable paying a higher price for these comforts. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a bit of luxury and personalized service but are okay with the inherent unpredictability of Aurora viewing.

If you’re seeking a straightforward, budget-friendly Aurora hunt, or if you prefer a more adventurous, less structured experience, you might want to explore other options. But for those who want to combine comfort, guidance, and a celebration of the Arctic night sky, this tour can deliver a satisfying experience.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour is generally open to most travelers, it’s best suited for those who can handle chilly outdoor conditions and the length of the tour. It’s not specifically tailored for children, but if your family enjoys guided outdoor experiences and cold weather, it could work.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, a private guide, regional snacks, hot drinks, wine, and professional photos. It also includes pickup and drop-off at your preferred address.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 6 hours, giving you a good window to chase the Aurora and enjoy the amenities.

What if the weather is poor?
Since the Aurora depends on clear skies, poor weather could mean the tour is canceled or rescheduled. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What makes this tour different from other Aurora excursions?
It claims to be a VIP experience with amenities like regional snacks, wine, and professional photos. The small group/private setting also aims for a more personalized experience.

Are the photos really professional?
Yes, guides assist with capturing high-quality images, and many guests praise the quality of the photos they received.

Can I get a refund if I change my mind?
No, the experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.

If you’re looking for a guided, comfortable way to chase the Northern Lights in Tromsø with a good chance of memorable photos, this tour could be worth the price. Just keep in mind the reviews’ mixed feedback about transportation and the actual VIP experience. Happy Aurora hunting!