Tromsø: Northern Lights Adventure with Free Photos – An Honest Review
Planning a trip to Tromsø to see the Northern Lights? If you’re considering this Northern Lights tour, you’re in for a treat. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed info, it sounds like a pretty solid option for anyone wanting to chase the Aurora in Norway’s Arctic wonderland.
What we love about this experience is how it balances expert guidance with the chance to enjoy the stunning scenery comfortably. Plus, the inclusion of thermal suits and free professional photos adds real value—especially since capturing the lights can be tricky without proper gear and a good camera.
Not sure what I was expecting, but this wasn’t it. And it’s mainly Mother Nature’s fault as she didn’t cooperate and shine the Northern Lights brightly for us. Our guide tried, but it was very frustrating. We got out and stood on the side of the highway for a while just hoping for something. I think that was the part where I was a bit underwhelmed as, I guess, I assumed the stops would be a bit more coordinated and not just literally side of the road sort of hunting. Again, the guide tried his best. Only thing that could be improved that the tour had control over is the bus ride. There was only about a 5-minute explanation of the northern lights. Then the remaining 2-hour journe…
They will chase the northern lights. We made 3 stops. Snacks were fair. Bon fire was not so great. Photos were not organized. Very chaotic. Tour guides were knowledgeable. Bus driver had skills. Never have I experienced such inconsiderate guests on this tour. If you bring children, bring headphones, if you want to block a passenger in their seat don’t come, flashlights on phones in my face so many times I can’t count. We had a great showing of northern lights. If you want a better tour experience, this is not the tour. I would ha e preferred a smaller group.
Wonderful experience. Guides Kirsten and Vivian were so accommodative and tried their best to get us as many opportunities to see the lights as possible.
On the flip side, the tour’s group size, which caps at 52, might feel a little crowded if you’re after a more intimate experience.
All in all, this tour seems best suited for travelers who want a reliable, well-organized Northern Lights chase, with the added bonus of photo memories. If you’re someone who appreciates knowing you’ll be guided to the best spots with warmth and comfort, this could be a very good fit.
Key Points
- Experienced guides know the best spots for Aurora viewing in Tromsø.
- Thermal suits and snacks make the evening comfortable and cozy.
- Professional photos ensure you leave with high-quality memories.
- The tour is priced at about $87 per person, offering good value for a guided Arctic adventure.
- Duration is roughly 6 to 8 hours, allowing enough time to chase the lights and enjoy the scenery.
- Smaller groups or private options might be limited, but this tour still offers a lively, social atmosphere.
You can also read our reviews of more photography tours in Tromso
Why This Tour Stands Out
Seeing the Northern Lights is a bucket-list experience, but it requires a bit of luck and good planning. This tour’s main strength is the expert guidance that helps optimize your chances of witnessing the Aurora. The guides are locals who know the area well, which is invaluable when you’re trying to find those elusive green and purple streaks dancing across the sky.
Another fantastic aspect is the comfort features—thermal suits are provided, so you won’t freeze while waiting outside. The included snacks, coffee, or tea, and the campfire, create a warm, inviting atmosphere amid the chilly Arctic night. And having a professional photographer on hand means you’ll get high-quality photos, a blessing for those of us who struggle with capturing the Aurora on camera.
The guides were well informed, sincere and helpful. We stopped at 3 different spots during our tour to observe the auroras. They gave us hot drinks and made a campfire. We cooked hot dogs on the fire. The auroras were magnificent. I think we were really lucky that day. One of the best experiences I've had for sure.
No way to predict what you'll see. It depends on how far you are willing to drive. The apps are a good starting point, but no guarantees.
We had the most amazing time on this tour! The weather was not looking the best for northern light conditions but our guides were amazing! They drove us to multiple local locations as the cloud moved, setting base about 40 minutes from the centre within the valley. After about 30 minutes, the lights made an appearance, making a breathtaking experience. A highlight for us is that my partner decided to propose beneath the lights! The staff were nothing but amazing and special, making the effort to capture our special moment and made it a memory for us to remember a lifetime. I would recommend this tour to anyone!
Of course, nothing is perfect. With group sizes up to 52, it’s not exactly intimate, and if you’re looking for a private or small-group experience, this might feel a bit crowded. Also, the tour’s success depends on weather conditions—if the skies are cloudy or snowing heavily, the Aurora might stay hidden, but that’s a risk with any Northern Lights outing.
The Itinerary in Detail
Start Point & Timing
You’ll meet your guide at the Scandic Grand Tromsø at 6:00 pm. This central location makes it easy to get to if you’re already in town, and the tour is scheduled right in the evening, prime time for Aurora hunting.
The Journey & Destinations
From the start, the guide leads the group into the Arctic landscapes, seeking out the best spots for viewing. While the exact locations aren’t specified, the emphasis is on moving to different vantage points with potential for clearer skies or more spectacular displays. This flexibility is key because Aurora sightings can be unpredictable.
Group Size & Atmosphere
Up to 52 people will be on this trip, which suggests a lively, social vibe but might also mean some waiting around outside in the cold. The guide’s local knowledge should help maximize your chances of seeing the lights, regardless of how many fellow travelers are around.
Fantastic tour. Our guide and driver were superb, incredibly informative; had wonderful commentary about the area as well. Great spot found, and incredibly professional with the photography.
I would recommend this tour, Isabel and Kirstin were very good guides and we found a nice spot to see the northern lights even in a cloudy night
Very nice experience. Guide took us to a cabin on a lake with hot drinks and a warm place to go inside when you needed to warm up. Got a very nice show from the Northern Lights that night.
Comfort & Amenities
The thermal suits are a big plus—they keep you warm without having to lug heavy jackets. The tour also provides toilets, a campfire, and snacks, which help make the long night more comfortable. The fire is a great place to chat, relax, and keep your hands warm.
Photography & Memories
A professional photographer accompanies the tour, capturing your moments against the Arctic backdrop. The photos are included, which is a real boon because Aurora photography often requires specific skills and gear. If you’ve ever struggled to get good pictures of the Northern Lights, you’ll appreciate this added service.
End of Tour & Return
The tour wraps up back at the starting point, around 6 to 8 hours after departure. You’ll leave with memories, photos, and hopefully, some spectacular images of the Aurora.
What Travelers Are Saying
One reviewer, Neni_S, called their experience “ memorable,” highlighting how the guide took them to several great spots and that they were lucky to see the Aurora early in the season. That’s a common thread—good guides and the right timing make all the difference.
Lucky we got to see the northern lights! Nicolai was our tour guide/ photographer, so nice and friendly. Thanks to our driver too Maximus and our hosts at our last stop.
A pleasant and well-organized trip that fully met all the conditions stated in the offer. Hot drinks, grilling over an open fire, and biscuits were provided.
Very good, good effort even if we saw lights early. I had 2 tours with different guides and this one was clearly superior in effort and commitment, more sacrifice to achieve the result. Maybe too many people on the bus but tus also a better prepared service.
Many appreciate the guidance and found the experience worth the cost, especially with the included photos. The combination of guides, stunning views, and warm gear creates a relaxed environment where you can just enjoy the moment rather than worry about the cold or missing out.
However, it’s worth noting that the success of the tour heavily depends on weather conditions and Aurora activity, which is typical with such experiences. The flexibility of rescheduling or full refunds if canceled due to poor weather adds peace of mind.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a reliable and guided experience without the hassle of arranging their own chase. If you’re looking for convenience, warmth, and professional photos, this is a solid choice. It’s also a good pick for first-timers in Tromsø, as the guides are experienced and the setup is straightforward.
It might not be ideal for those seeking an ultra-private or small-group adventure, but for most, the lively group setting isn’t a huge downside. Also, if you’re traveling in early autumn or later in the season, your chances of witnessing the Aurora are comparable, based on review comments.
Sometimes the earth and space weather cooperate, sometimes they don't. When we went the did and the Northern Lights were amazing!
The tour was planned well. The guide and driver were informative and friendly. The driver connected with other chasers to find the best spot. They provided a great meal and fire. And we saw a magical light show from the heavens! This was a dream come true.
Very nice company, informative and worked hard to make the experience pleasurable, and also tried hard to find the northern lights for us to see
Price & Value Analysis
At roughly $87 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. It includes thermal suits, snacks, a campfire, and professional photography—all of which add significant value compared to booking individual services.
Given the length of the tour and the expert guidance, it’s an efficient way to spend an evening chasing one of nature's most incredible phenomena. If you consider how costly private tours or photography sessions can be, the included photos and gear make this a good deal, especially since you’re also getting a guide who increases your chances of a good sighting.
Final Thoughts
This Northern Lights tour in Tromsø looks like a dependable, enjoyable way to seek out the Aurora in Norway’s Arctic. The combination of expert guidance, warm gear, and free professional photos makes it appealing for travelers who want a stress-free, memorable experience.
It's particularly well-suited for first-timers, groups, or anyone who values the convenience of organized tours. While it’s not a private experience, the lively atmosphere and the chance to meet fellow travelers can be part of the fun.
If you’re okay with the possibility of weather-dependent success—and eager to leave with beautiful photos—this trip is worth considering. Tromsø’s stunning landscapes and the chance to witness the Northern Lights make for an incredible adventure that you’ll likely never forget.
Tromsø: Northern Lights Adventure with Free Photos
"Absolutely the WORST tour I have ever booked. Boring, cold "tour" guides told us as soon as we boarded the overpacked(60+ passengers, boiling hot b..."
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 6 to 8 hours, giving enough time to chase the Aurora and enjoy Arctic scenery comfortably.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Scandic Grand Tromsø at 6:00 pm, conveniently located in town.
What is included in the price?
You’ll receive thermal suits, snacks, coffee or tea, access to a campfire, and professional photography with photos included.
Are meals provided?
No full meals, but snacks and warm drinks are included to keep you comfortable during the night.
Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, there's free cancellation if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is this suitable for children?
While the tour is generally open to most travelers, it’s best suited for those comfortable outside in cold weather for several hours.
Is group size a concern?
The tour caps at 52 travelers, which may feel large but helps keep costs down and creates a lively atmosphere.
Will I get good photos of the Northern Lights?
Yes, a professional photographer is part of the experience, and photos are included—ideal for capturing the moment without fuss.
If you're after a trustworthy, well-organized Northern Lights adventure in Tromsø that combines warmth, guidance, and memorable photos, this tour checks all the boxes. Just remember to dress warmly and stay flexible with weather conditions—sometimes, luck is what makes or breaks your Aurora experience.
