Chasing Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) Tour with PHOTOGRAPHY

Exploring the Northern Lights with a Photography-Focused Tour in Fairbanks

Imagine gazing up at a dark, star-studded sky suddenly alive with the swirling, dancing colors of the Aurora Borealis. For many travelers heading to Fairbanks, this natural show is the main reason for their trip. This tour offers a 4-hour chase into the night, targeting the best chances to see the northern lights — all for $179 per person. Led by knowledgeable guides who double as professional photographers, this experience is designed to maximize your chances of witnessing and capturing this elusive phenomenon.

What we especially love about this tour is its convenient pickup from downtown Fairbanks, removing the hassle of arranging transport late at night. Plus, the inclusion of a dedicated photography service means you’ll leave with stunning images—an invaluable souvenir when nature puts on a show. On the downside, aurora sightings are never guaranteed — weather and solar activity control the sky’s spectacle. Still, if you’re a traveler eager for an authentic, well-organized northern lights experience with a focus on capturing memories, this tour is a strong contender.

This tour suits those who value expert guidance and want to avoid wasting precious time fiddling with camera settings in the cold. It’s also perfect for photography enthusiasts eager to get professional-quality photos and those who appreciate a hassle-free experience with pickups and drop-offs. If you’re traveling during peak aurora season and comfortable with a group of up to 18 people, this adventure offers both comfort and authenticity.

Key Points

• Expert Guides & Photographers: Guides like David and Abigail are praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and dedication to finding the best viewing spots.
• Flexible Locations: The tour visits multiple spots in and around Fairbanks, increasing your chances to see the aurora, weather permitting.
• Photo Service Included: Professional photographers take high-quality images during the tour, which are shared digitally afterward.
• Weather Dependent: Aurora sightings depend heavily on clear skies and solar activity, so sightings aren’t guaranteed.
• Convenience & Comfort: Pickup from downtown Fairbanks and small group sizes maximize comfort and personalized attention.
• Value for Money: At $179, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that balances guided expertise, photography, and convenience.

A Deep Dive into the Northern Lights Experience in Fairbanks

The Location and Starting Point

The tour begins in the heart of Fairbanks, a city with roots dating back over a century. Your pickup is arranged from the Hyatt Place Fairbanks, a central spot likely familiar to many travelers. From there, the guides drive you out into the cold, dark night, to regions with the best chance of clear skies and minimal light pollution. The fact that the tour is based in Fairbanks is key: it’s one of the most reliable places in the world for aurora viewing, thanks to its latitude and stable weather pattern.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, starting at 10:30 pm, a time when the aurora is typically most active. The exact stops vary depending on weather conditions, but the guides are experienced in moving to different locations to optimize your chances. Reviews highlight that guides like David and Abigail are passionate and knowledgeable, often driving to multiple sites — sometimes three or more — to find clear skies and a clear view of the dancing lights.

The Journey & Spots Visited

Your journey involves a comfortable vehicle, with small groups of up to 18 travelers, so everyone has space to relax and enjoy the ride. The stops are usually picked for their dark skies and scenic surroundings, perfect for aurora viewing. Some travelers reported that guides are quick to adapt, pulling over at the perfect moment when the sky begins to show signs of activity.

The Aurora Chase

The thrill of this tour is the chase — guides like David are skilled at spotting the faintest signs of aurora activity and are relentless in their pursuit. As one reviewer put it, “he chased the lights until he found them — twice.” On overcast nights, guides do their best to get you to cloudless regions, but as multiple reviews mention, weather is beyond their control.

The Photography Service

This tour shines with its dedicated photography service. Professional photographers accompany the group, taking high-quality images of everyone under the aurora, from various angles. These photos are then shared digitally a few days afterward, allowing travelers to relive the experience with stunning clarity. Reviewers frequently mention how great the photos turned out, and how much they appreciated having high-quality memories—something they say they wouldn’t have been able to capture alone.

The Experience of Watching the Aurora

Many reviews describe the moment of sighting as almost surreal. “There it was dancing in the sky,” one reviewer recalls, highlighting how guides are quick to respond when the aurora appears. Others mention that the lights can be faint or fleeting, but guides are persistent and attentive. Several travelers note that even with cloudy nights, guides do everything they can to maximize their chances, from changing locations to adjusting timing.

The Value of the Tour

At $179, this tour offers impressive value. It includes hotel pickup, guidance, multiple viewing stops, and a professional photography service. The convenience of being picked up from downtown Fairbanks saves the trouble of late-night parking or navigating unfamiliar roads. Plus, the photos are a big bonus—a rare gift of professional images under the northern lights, often at no extra cost.

The Group Size & Comfort

Groups are limited to 18 travelers, which makes for a more personal experience. Many reviews highlight how guides like David and Abigail go above and beyond to make sure everyone is comfortable, even checking if seniors or those with mobility issues are doing okay. This personal touch really enhances the overall experience, especially in the chilly night air.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for travelers who value expert guidance and want to maximize their chances of seeing the aurora without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s ideal for photographers or those eager to get professional-quality photos. If you’re comfortable with being part of a small group, and understand that nature’s schedule can be unpredictable, this experience offers genuine value. It’s especially suited for those staying in Fairbanks and looking for a comfortably organized, photography-centered night out.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re after the thrill of witnessing the northern lights and want a guided experience that combines expert knowledge, multiple viewing spots, and professional photos, this tour is a solid choice. It offers peace of mind with hassle-free pickup, the chance to chase the lights across different locations, and the opportunity to bring home high-quality images of one of nature’s most beautiful displays.

However, keep in mind that Aurora sightings depend on weather conditions and solar activity. Sometimes, despite the best efforts of guides, the sky stays cloudy or quiet. But even if you don’t see the lights, the professional service, small group size, and local expertise make this a worthwhile addition to any Fairbanks itinerary.

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate guided convenience, photographers eager for professional shots, and anyone eager to make the most of their northern lights opportunity—especially during peak season.

FAQ

How early should I book this tour?
Most travelers book about 47 days in advance, which is wise considering the popularity of northern lights tours in Fairbanks.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee of $179 includes hotel pickup in downtown Fairbanks and the photography service. It doesn’t cover extras like coffee or phone camera setup assistance, so bring your own snacks and be prepared to handle your device yourself.

What if the weather is cloudy or poor?
Since aurora sightings depend on clear skies, the tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour accommodates up to 18 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
While most travelers can participate, guides do their best to make accommodations, and the tour begins from a comfortable vehicle. If unsure, it’s best to contact the operator directly.

Will I get the photos immediately?
No, the professional photos are typically shared a few days later via digital download, giving you time to relive the experience.

Are there other similar tours in Fairbanks?
Yes, there are several aurora tours available, some offering hot springs or additional activities, but this one is celebrated for its professional photography and guide expertise.

In the end, this tour offers a genuine chance to chase and capture the northern lights in a comfortable, guided setting. It’s a solid choice for those who want more than just a fleeting glimpse — they want memories and photos to last a lifetime.