The Best Aurora Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Yellowknife and dreaming of catching the elusive northern lights, chances are you’ve come across a few tour options. We haven’t personally done this tour, but based on the info and reviews, it’s shaping up as a solid choice for travelers seeking a straightforward, well-organized aurora experience.

What we like: the tour’s focus on increasing your chances of seeing the lights—with a knowledgeable guide choosing the best spots—and the thoughtful touches like warm drinks and photography assistance. On the flip side, there’s the unavoidable reality that cloud cover can spoil the show, no matter how well planned. This tour tends to suit those who are flexible, curious, and eager to chase the auroras without breaking the bank.

If you’re someone who loves the idea of a hassle-free trip to witness nature’s light show, especially if you’re visiting Yellowknife for the first time, this experience could be a good fit. But if you’re set on seeing the lights come rain or shine, or if you prefer more luxury, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Focus on Aurora Viewing: The tour aims to boost your chances of seeing the northern lights by choosing the best spots and offering flexibility.
• Comfort and Convenience: Pickup from your hotel or airport, warm drinks, snacks, and clean washrooms are included.
• Photographer Friendly: Guides offer help with capturing the lights, making it easier for you to get those memorable shots.
• Weather Dependency: As with all northern lights tours, cloud cover can prevent sightings—be prepared for unpredictable skies.
• Affordable Pricing: At around $92.79 per person, it offers good value, especially considering the included extras and transfers.
• Group Size: Most tours can accommodate up to 300 travelers, which means some nights might be busy, but guides try to give personalized attention.

An Honest Breakdown of the Aurora Experience

Introduction to the Tour

This Yellowknife Aurora Tour is designed for travelers who want to experience the northern lights without fuss. The tour is approximately four hours long and starts late at night, around 10:30 pm, which aligns well with prime aurora viewing times. With a cost of roughly $92.79 per person, it’s accessible for many budgets, especially given the inclusive nature of pickup, warm drinks, and snacks.

What makes this tour stand out is its promise to improve your chances of seeing the aurora with a guide who actively selects the best locations. Plus, the option to get photography help at your request makes it appealing for those wanting to preserve their memories of this rare spectacle.

Why We Think It Might Be Worth It

The reviews suggest this tour is well-regarded for its knowledgeable guides and scenic locations. For example, one reviewer praised guide Wendy for her efforts in ensuring they took the best pictures and stayed outdoors as long as possible—an indication of guides genuinely committed to making the night special. Another reviewer, Luke, appreciated how the guides took them to several spots, maximizing their chances to spot the lights, which is a smart approach given how unpredictable the auroras can be.

The Itinerary and Stops

The tour kicks off in Yellowknife, where guides start by introducing and tracking the aurora activity. This initial phase is useful because it helps set expectations and gets everyone tuned in to what to look for. The main activity happens at a cozy campsite, where you can relax around a fire, sip warm drinks, and wait for the show to begin.

If the weather isn’t cooperative—which can be pretty common—you might be taken to other locations to chase the lights. This flexibility is a big plus, as it means you’re not locked into one spot and can adapt based on predicted conditions.

What You Can Expect at Each Part

Start in Yellowknife: The guides will introduce how they track aurora activity, so even if you’re new to this, you’ll quickly get a sense of how to read the sky. You’ll likely spend most of your time in a comfortable campsite with facilities, which adds a layer of convenience.

Chasing or waiting: If the lights are shy or clouds roll in, guides will aim to relocate to better spots. This can mean more driving, but it’s a common strategy in aurora hunting. On clear nights, you’ll simply enjoy the serene landscape, with the possibility of catching the auroras dancing overhead.

Snacks and photography: During the tour, your guides serve hot drinks and snacks, creating a cozy atmosphere. They are also available to help you get the best photos, which is crucial because capturing the lights can be tricky without guidance.

The Role of Weather and Cloud Cover

Several reviews highlight the unavoidable truth that weather is a major factor. One reviewer mentioned that clouds covered the sky, preventing any aurora sighting, but appreciated the guides’ efforts. Others noted that the nearby lights from industrial areas sometimes distracted from the natural display, suggesting that location choice matters.

Cloud cover can turn a promising night into a miss, which is frustrating but outside the guide’s control. The best strategy is to stay flexible and understand that the northern lights are a natural phenomenon—sometimes, despite all efforts, they don’t make an appearance.

Customer Experience and Guide Quality

Multiple reviews commend the guides’ dedication and friendly attitude. For example, Momo was described as “amazing,” and Jimmy as “super knowledgeable and friendly.” Guides not only help with photography but also make sure everyone is comfortable and warm, which is crucial during those long, chilly nights.

Some reviews highlight the guide’s willingness to stay outdoors as long as possible, even in less-than-ideal weather. This shows their genuine commitment to giving you the best chance of seeing something special.

Group Size and Atmosphere

While the maximum capacity is 300 travelers, most nights will probably be smaller, especially if you book early or during less peak times. The group setting can be lively or quiet, depending on the night, but guides tend to personalize the experience to the extent possible.

Pricing and Value

At under $100, this tour offers a decent value considering the included pickup, snacks, warm drinks, and photography help. It’s not a luxury experience, but it’s practical and focused on the core goal—seeing the aurora. You’re paying for the expertise, convenience, and patience of guides who are trying their best, which many reviews suggest they do.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a straightforward, budget-friendly way to chase the northern lights with good guidance. If you’re flexible about weather and location, and are okay with the possibility of not seeing the auroras (since it’s weather dependent), you’ll find this tour reliable and well-organized. It’s also excellent for those who value photography help and comfort during late-night excursions.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a no-fuss, affordable aurora hunt in Yellowknife, this tour ticks many boxes. The guides seem genuinely committed, and the locations chosen are designed to improve your chances of witnessing the lights. The included amenities make waiting more comfortable, especially in those long, cold nights.

However, keep in mind that nature isn’t always cooperative. Cloud cover can spoil the show, no matter how well your guide plans. If you’re traveling during a period of high aurora activity and are flexible with your expectations, this tour can be a memorable part of your trip.

This experience suits travelers who value simplicity and good guidance over luxury. It’s perfect for those who want to try their luck with the lights without a hefty price tag and enjoy the camaraderie of a small group or even a solo adventure with expert help.

FAQ

Will I see the northern lights on this tour?
While the tour aims to maximize your chances, seeing the auroras depends on weather conditions like cloud cover and solar activity. Guides will relocate if needed, but there’s no guarantee.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers round-trip transfers from your Yellowknife hotel or airport, warm drinks, snacks, and assistance with photography.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 4 hours, starting at 10:30 pm and ending around 2:30 am, making it suitable for night owls and late-night explorers.

Is there a minimum group size?
Most tours can accommodate up to 300 travelers, but actual group sizes tend to be smaller, especially during off-peak times.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly—think layers, hats, gloves—and bring your camera to capture the lights with help from your guide.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, the tour includes hassle-free round-trip transfers from your Yellowknife hotel or airport.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t refunded.

Are children allowed?
Most travelers can participate, but check with the provider if you’re traveling with very young children, as late-night outdoor activity might not suit everyone.

What if the weather is bad?
If the sky is cloudy or conditions aren’t favorable, guides will try to relocate. However, no one can control the weather, so flexibility is key.

All in all, this tour offers a practical, friendly way to chase the northern lights—especially if you’re okay with the unpredictability of nature. It’s a solid option for budget-conscious travelers wanting guidance and comfort, with a good chance to see a truly magical phenomenon.