Aurora Tour

Experience the Aurora Borealis in Tromsø with this thoughtfully designed tour, led by knowledgeable guides like Mansoor and Adil. For around $0, you’ll venture into the Arctic night in a comfortable, climate-controlled vehicle, exploring areas spanning 300 km around Tromsø, even crossing into Swedish and Finnish territories. This tour, lasting 5 to 9 hours, is tailored to give you the best shot at witnessing the Northern Lights while enjoying warm treats, a campfire, and expert photography tips.

What we really love about this experience is the dedication of guides like Mansoor, who go above and beyond to find clear skies and great viewing spots, and the small group size (max 21), which keeps things intimate and manageable. The inclusion of thermal suits means you won’t freeze while waiting in the Arctic chill, and the free aurora portrait is a lovely memento.

A potential consideration is the unpredictable nature of Aurora sightings—no tour can guarantee a display, especially with weather being a constant challenge in the Arctic winter. Also, note that winter boots, hats, and mittens are not included, so packing your warm gear is still essential.

This tour is best suited for travelers willing to brave the cold with warm layers and looking for a well-organized, flexible Aurora chase. If you’re keen to maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights with knowledgeable guides and don’t mind some waiting or variable weather, this experience could be a highlight of your trip to Tromsø.

Key Points

• Maximized Aurora Viewing: The tour covers a broad area, increasing your chances to see the lights.
• Comfort and Warmth: Thermal suits, hot drinks, snacks, and a campfire help you stay cozy.
• Expert Guidance: Guides like Mansoor are skilled at spotting the lights and helping with photography.
• Authentic Arctic Experience: Snow-covered landscapes, local treats, and a bonfire create a true Northern Norway atmosphere.
• Flexible and Inclusive: Free cancellation and small groups make for a personalized experience.
• Weather Challenges: Aurora sightings depend heavily on weather conditions, which can be unpredictable.

The Complete Review

What makes this Aurora Tour stand out?

This tour offers a practical, well-rounded way to chase the Northern Lights in Tromsø. It’s run by Amazing Arctic Tours, a company with a solid reputation—346 reviews averaging a 4.5-star rating, with 93% recommending it. The focus here is on maximizing the chance to see the Aurora, which is no small feat given the Arctic’s fickle weather. You’re transported in an air-conditioned vehicle (crucial for comfort), covering a 300 km wide area that extends into Swedish and Finnish territories—more ground, more opportunities.

What we love is the personal touch. Guides like Mansoor and Adil are praised for their sincerity, knowledge, and friendliness. They don’t just drive you to spots—they actively help with photography, making sure you leave with great pictures of the lights. Several reviews mention how guides are “well prepared,” “sincere,” and “helpful,” making the experience more memorable and less stressful.

The inclusion of thermal suits is particularly thoughtful. You’ll be protected from the Arctic cold, allowing you to stand outside longer and enjoy the spectacle. The bonfire, hot chocolate, and marshmallows are small but meaningful touches that turn waiting into a cozy, communal experience.

What does the itinerary look like?

The tour begins in Tromsø’s historic city center. From there, the guides drive you into the Arctic wilderness, making several scenic stops—not just for Aurora hunting but also for enjoying the landscape. Some reviews note the chaos at the start, especially during the busy winter season, with over 100 people waiting in the cold. Once the group is assigned to a smaller sub-group, the experience becomes more personalized.

You’ll be told what to look for and how to photograph the lights, with guides often helping to set up phones and cameras. This is especially appreciated, as many travelers leave with stunning images that they might not have been able to capture on their own.

The campfire is a highlight for many, where you can relax, enjoy traditional snacks like cinnamon cake, and share stories under the Arctic sky. Guides often give updates on Aurora activity, and some guests mention how guides worked hard to find clear skies, sometimes driving deep inland or to less cloudy areas. The hot chocolate, marshmallows, and the chance to see reindeer or moose further enrich the outing.

The pros of this tour

Knowledgeable guides are repeatedly praised for their efficiency and friendliness. Their ability to spot the Aurora and help you take better photos is a real plus. Several reviews highlight their hard work and dedication, even on nights when the Aurora is shy or obscured by clouds.

The large viewing areas and multiple stops mean you’re less likely to sit in one spot for hours without sightings. Plus, the thermal suits and hot drinks ensure you’re not left shivering, which can be a real risk during long Arctic waits.

The small group size (max 21) enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized attention, and the free Aurora portrait is a lovely souvenir.

The cons or considerations

The biggest uncertainty with Aurora tours is the weather. Cloud cover, snowstorms, or lack of solar activity can mean nights go by without a sighting. As one reviewer mentioned, patience is key. The tour’s success often hinges on luck, especially during cloudy or stormy nights.

Another point is that winter gear like boots, hats, and mittens are not included. Travelers should plan to bring or rent adequate warm clothing. While thermal suits help, proper boots and gloves are still necessary to avoid frostbite or discomfort.

Some reviews also mention initial chaos or delays—particularly during busy seasons when many companies operate from the same starting point in Tromsø. However, once you’re out in the wilderness, the experience tends to shine.

Who is this tour best suited for?

If you’re someone eager to see the Northern Lights and are willing to brave the cold, this tour is a strong choice. It’s perfect for travelers who value expert guidance and authentic Arctic scenery. The tour’s flexibility and inclusions make it ideal for those who want to balance comfort with adventure.

However, if you’re highly sensitive to weather conditions or prefer guaranteed sightings, you might want to consider the inherent uncertainty of Aurora chasing. Still, with dedicated guides and multiple viewing spots, your chances are as good as they get.

Final Thoughts

This Aurora Tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience with knowledgeable guides, cozy amenities, and a broad search radius that significantly increase your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights. The inclusion of thermal suits, hot drinks, and a campfire helps make the Arctic night more comfortable and memorable. The small group size and personalized photography tips elevate the experience beyond just a sightseeing trip.

While no tour can promise a sighting due to nature’s unpredictable nature, this one’s dedication and effort shine through in the glowing reviews. It’s a solid choice for adventurous travelers who want a balanced mix of comfort, authenticity, and expert help in their quest for the Aurora Borealis.

If you’re prepared for the cold, patient enough to wait, and eager for a genuine Arctic experience, this tour could be a highlight of your trip to Tromsø. It’s especially well-suited for those who value guided expertise and want a more personal, relaxed atmosphere rather than a rushed or crowded chase.

FAQs

Will I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
While no tour can guarantee a sighting because of weather and solar activity, this tour’s wide coverage and expert guides greatly improve your chances of seeing the Aurora.

What should I wear on the tour?
The tour provides thermal suits, but you should still bring warm winter boots, hats, and mittens. Pack layers to stay comfortable during long waits outside.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 5 to 9 hours, with most trips beginning in the evening and extending late into the night to catch the Aurora at its best.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins in Tromsø’s historic city centre at Kirkegata 2 and returns there at the end of the evening.

Is food or drink included?
Yes, hot beverages, snacks like cinnamon cake, and marshmallows around the campfire are included. You can also participate in roasting marshmallows and enjoying the warmth of the fire.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 21, ensuring a more personal experience and better interaction with guides.

This Aurora Tour in Tromsø offers an excellent blend of adventure, comfort, and expert guidance. For those eager to witness the Northern Lights with a trusted team, it’s a highly recommended choice—especially if this is your first time chasing the Aurora or you’re traveling during the peak winter months.