Face The Outdoors Private Group Northern Lights Tour

Face The Outdoors Private Group Northern Lights Tour: A Personal Arctic Adventure

Imagine spending an evening in the heart of Alaska, wrapped in warmth and comfort as the sky above dances with swirling green, purple, and red lights. For around $487.50 per person, Face The Outdoors offers a 9-hour private Northern Lights experience in Fairbanks, a city renowned for its spectacular aurora displays. Led by native Alaskan guides, this tour promises a personalized, comfortable, and authentic adventure far from the crowds.

We particularly love the homey lodge setting — large viewing windows, cozy couches, and a warm environment to relax and wait for the lights. The chasing aspect, where guides adjust plans based on weather, significantly increases your chances of witnessing the aurora in its full glory. And for photographers, there’s the added bonus of professional aurora portraits to remember the night.

One thing to keep in mind is that, like any outdoor adventure in winter, weather conditions can impact the experience. If clouds roll in, the guides will do their best to find clear skies elsewhere, but luck isn’t guaranteed. This tour is best suited for those who want a tailored, intimate experience, value comfort, and enjoy learning about the aurora from knowledgeable locals.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: Entire night and aurora to yourself with no crowd disturbance.
• Expert guidance: Native Alaskan guide with extensive aurora knowledge and photography tips.
• Comfort & Convenience: Warm lodge with viewing windows, snacks, drinks, and private transportation.
• Chasing for clarity: Guides actively monitor weather and chase clear skies for optimal viewing.
• Photography & keepsakes: Includes five professional aurora portraits.
• Weather Dependence: The tour is weather-sensitive; if canceled, rescheduling or a refund is offered.

Exploring the Face The Outdoors Northern Lights Private Tour in Detail

The Location and Setting

What makes this tour truly stand out is the lodge-based setting. Rather than battling crowds at crowded viewing spots or standing outside in freezing temperatures, you and your companions will relax in a cozy home that doubles as the guide’s residence. Big windows provide a spectacular view of the night sky, and the warm couches invite you to sit back and soak in the natural light show.

This environment offers both comfort and intimacy — you’re not just another passenger in a bus or part of a large group. Many reviews highlight how this personal touch makes the experience more memorable: “Michael and Faced The Outdoors helped deliver one of the most magical nights of my life,” says a delighted traveler.

The Journey to the Aurora

Your adventure begins with a pickup around 8:00 pm in a 15-passenger van, providing a cozy and private ride through the Alaskan wilderness. The small group size ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, and the journey itself offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

Guides are not only friendly but deeply knowledgeable, often native Alaskans who grew up with the aurora as part of their lives. This local expertise is invaluable, as they understand how to read weather patterns and adapt plans accordingly — a key reason so many reviewers mention their guide Michael’s off-the-charts knowledge.

The Chasing Strategy

One of the key features of this tour is the “chasing”—if the sky is cloudy or the aurora isn’t visible at your initial location, guides will drive to find clear skies. This chase can last up to 4 hours from Fairbanks, maximizing your odds of seeing the lights.

While some nights may not deliver the wow moment, guides like Michael are committed to doing everything possible to help you witness the natural phenomenon. “We don’t give up,” as one review states, “and I really appreciate that attitude.”

The Viewing Experience

Once at the lodge, the large viewing windows create a perfect backdrop for the aurora. You can sit comfortably indoors, sipping hot drinks, while the lights dance overhead. When the lights do appear, your guide will assist with photography tips — and you’ll even receive five professional aurora portraits as a keepsake.

Guests consistently praise the personalized attention: “Michael is an amazing guide, his knowledge of the aurora is off the charts!” Many mention how helpful he was in teaching them how to capture the scene on camera, which is a huge bonus for those wanting more than just a fleeting glimpse.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price are warm drinks (coffee/tea, soda), snacks, bottled water, private transportation, and aurora photography with five professional portraits. Guides chase the weather to improve viewing chances and will stay out for up to four hours if needed.

Not included are camera rentals (though this can be arranged separately), and tips — customarily appreciated for exceptional guides. Given the all-inclusive nature and the focus on personalization, many guests feel the cost is justified, especially with the added value of professional photos.

Practical Considerations

Since this is a private tour, your group has the benefit of privacy and can tailor the experience to your interests. The tour is suitable for most travelers, provided you’re comfortable in cold weather and can stay outside or in a cozy lodge for several hours.

A few reviewers noted that the weather can be unpredictable, and the aurora isn’t guaranteed. But the guides’ efforts to chase clear skies and their local knowledge significantly improve your chances, making this a worthwhile gamble.

Authenticity and Value

While the price might seem high at first glance, it’s crucial to weigh that against the level of personalized service, expert guidance, and comfort you receive. Unlike larger group tours, you’re not just another number; you’re part of a private experience tailored for optimal viewing and enjoyment.

Many travelers who booked this tour mention the value of the professional photos and the personalized attention from guides like Michael, who are deeply familiar with the area and the aurora. The warmth of the lodge combined with the excitement of chasing the lights offers a unique, authentic Alaskan experience that’s hard to match.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who value comfort and privacy, are eager to learn about the aurora from local experts, and want a more intimate experience. It’s perfect for those celebrating a special occasion, photography enthusiasts, or travelers who prefer avoiding large crowds. If you’re open to some weather-dependent unpredictability, this is a fantastic way to make your Alaskan night memorable.

The Sum Up

The Face The Outdoors Private Group Northern Lights Tour offers a personalized, comfortable, and adventure-focused way to experience one of nature’s most breathtaking phenomena. With knowledgeable, local guides and a cozy lodge setting, this is an experience for travelers who want more than just a fleeting glimpse — they want a meaningful, photo-worthy night in Alaska.

The combination of chasing clear skies, expert guidance, and the ability to avoid crowded viewing spots makes this tour stand out. While weather can sometimes be unpredictable, the guides’ dedication and efforts to maximize your chances mean you’re in good hands. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a tailored, authentic aurora experience that emphasizes comfort, learning, and lasting memories.

FAQ

What makes this tour private?
Only your group participates, giving you exclusive access to the lodge and a personalized experience without the distractions of large crowds.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes private transportation, snacks, drinks (coffee, tea, soda, bottled water), five professional aurora portraits, and a guided chase to maximize viewing chances.

How long does the tour last?
It starts at 8:00 pm and lasts approximately 9 hours, with guides chasing the weather for up to four hours from Fairbanks if needed.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, if poor weather cancels your scheduled night, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I photograph the aurora myself?
Absolutely — guides provide tips to help you capture stunning photos, and you’ll receive professional portraits as keepsakes.

What if I don’t see the northern lights?
While the guides do their best to chase clear skies, seeing the aurora depends on weather and solar activity. If canceled due to weather, you’ll get options to reschedule or a refund.

Is this experience suitable for children or older travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for the cold and outdoor viewing. The cozy lodge helps make it accessible.

Do I need to rent a camera?
Camera rentals are available separately, but you are encouraged to bring your own if you want to practice nighttime photography.

In essence, if you’re after a personalized, knowledgeable, and comfortable way to chase the northern lights in Alaska, this tour offers a memorable experience tailored to your needs. It’s best suited for those who appreciate local expertise, value privacy, and want a warm, welcoming environment to enjoy one of nature’s most awe-inspiring shows.