Fairbanks is one of the best places in the world to photograph the Northern Lights. With its low light pollution, expansive winter skies, and well-organized tours, it’s a photographer’s paradise. We especially like tours that combine expert guidance with ample time and stunning locations—like the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis Viewing) Chasing with Photography in Fairbanks, which offers a small-group experience and professional photos. The thrill of chasing the elusive aurora while having your camera setup guided is hard to beat. Plus, expert guides who keep you warm and entertained make all the difference. Fairbanks truly shines as a destination for capturing this natural wonder.
Quick Overview
Fairbanks offers a variety of Northern Lights tours that cater to different styles and budgets, including shorter 4-hour chases, longer flexible expeditions, and cozy cabin experiences. Many of these include professional photography services and tips, ensuring you leave with memorable images. For those interested in fully personalized instruction, private workshops are also available. Now, let’s explore each of these highly-rated options to find the best fit for your trip.
1. Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis Viewing) Chasing with Photography in Fairbanks
This tour takes you deep into rural Alaska to chase the Northern Lights, with the added bonus of a guide who captures your photos. For around $279, you’ll spend about four hours traveling in a small group with hassle-free hotel transfers. The guide’s experience helps locate the best spots with minimal light pollution, giving you a real shot at seeing the dancing aurora. Reviewers rave about how guide David shares his knowledge and takes free photos, making the experience both relaxing and memorable. This experience is perfect if you want someone else to handle the tricky lighting while you focus on marveling at the sky.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want expert guidance, professional photos, and a personalized small-group atmosphere.
2. Northern Lights Aurora Tour with FREE Photography
Spending 8 to 12 hours on a hunt for the Northern Lights, this tour combines flexibility with comfort. For just $195, you’ll travel in a comfortable vehicle, stopping at prime spots with little light pollution. Guides are passionate about helping you maximize your chances of seeing the aurora and will provide free photos if you’re lucky enough to witness the glow. Many reviews highlight how guides like Ed and Elena go above and beyond, adjusting plans to avoid bad weather and find clear skies.
Bottom Line: A longer, flexible tour that offers the best chance of seeing the aurora, perfect for those who don’t mind a full night out.
3. Best Alaskan Cabin Aurora Viewing with Photography @Aurora Camp
For a cozy experience, this 4-hour tour at a hillside cabin on Murphy Dome offers a warm, relaxed setting to watch the skies. Priced at only $99, it includes snacks, hot drinks, and the chance to request karaoke or watch movies. The guide assists with photography while you enjoy unlimited snacks and hot chocolate. Reviews praise the friendly service and the chance to see the aurora from large windows or the open sky.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want comfort, a relaxed atmosphere, and flexibility in viewing the Northern Lights.
4. From Fairbanks: Northern Lights Aurora Tour with Photography
This full-day tour offers a different approach: chasing the aurora with a local guide and returning home with professional photos. It’s especially suitable if you prefer a more relaxed, less rushed experience and want to explore beyond just the sky. The flexible schedule increases your chances of catching the lights, and the tour is well-reviewed for its knowledgeable guides.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers looking for a full-day adventure with professional photography included.
5. Chasing Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) Tour with PHOTOGRAPHY
This four-hour tour is all about finding the dancing lights in style—plus having your guide help with photos. The small group, round-trip transfers, and expert advice make it stand out. Reviewers mention that guides like David and Joy are very knowledgeable and keep everyone warm and comfortable, even with partly cloudy weather. The tour provides photos afterward, so you can relive the experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a shorter, yet well-organized night out with guided photography help.
6. Lucky Bear Aurora Lodge Viewing with Photography
This 5-hour tour takes you to a high-elevation lodge with multiple viewing platforms, increasing your chances of seeing the aurora. For just $89, you can cozy up by the fire with hot chocolate and snacks, then head out with a guide to spot and photograph the lights. Reviewers appreciate the flexibility to move to clearer skies and the help from friendly guides like Stella.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a combination of comfort, flexibility, and a chance to see the lights from a high vantage point.
7. Aurora Chasing tour with Free Photography
A five-hour adventure, this tour emphasizes chasing the best aurora spots around Fairbanks. Guides use their expertise to find clear skies, and with hotel pickup included, it’s very convenient. The tour is praised for its flexibility and the high-quality photos provided afterward, which many guests say they treasure.
Bottom Line: Suited for travelers who want guided, flexible chasing with professional photos included.
8. Fairbanks: Northern Lights Adventure with Photos & HOT PIZZA
A unique mix of photography and fun, this 6-hour tour includes learning how to photograph the Northern Lights, plus indulging in gourmet pizza in a heated shelter. For $300, you get to take home landscape and portrait photos, plus enjoy hot cocoa and snacks. Guests love the personal instruction and the opportunity to learn camera techniques while waiting for the aurora.
Bottom Line: Perfect for photography enthusiasts who want to improve their skills and enjoy a relaxed, tasty break.
9. Murphy Dome and Cleary Summit Aurora Tour FREE Photography
Led by an 8-year experienced guide, this 5-hour tour guarantees aurora sightings. It visits top locations like Murphy Dome and Cleary Summit, offering free aurora portraits. Reviewers note the professionalism and the excellent spots visited. The tour offers a tailored experience with expert knowledge.
Bottom Line: Best for serious photographers seeking guaranteed views and professional portraits.
10. Half Night Personalized Aurora Chase and Photography
This flexible, 5-hour private tour is perfect if you want a personalized experience. It’s ideal for those short on time or with specific schedules, offering tailored chasing and photography. It’s a good choice for couples or small groups wanting exclusivity and customized attention.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers preferring a private, customizable aurora experience.
11. Northern Lights Aurora Tour with Photography
This 4-hour tour takes you to some of the most exclusive, off-the-beaten-path locations near Fairbanks. Guides focus on maximizing visibility and include professional photography. The small group size and personalized approach make it stand out, especially after rescheduling due to weather.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those seeking a private, high-quality viewing with expert photo assistance.
12. Luxury RV Small Group Aurora Chasing Tour with Photography
Travel comfortably in a spacious RV during this 5-hour tour, which includes hot chocolate and snacks. Guided by an experienced host, this tour offers a relaxed atmosphere with good chances of witnessing the aurora. Guests love the combination of comfort and expert guidance.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who prioritize comfort and a laid-back but effective aurora chase.
13. Private Full Day Photography Workshop of Fairbanks
A full-day, private workshop focusing on improving your photography skills in the scenic surroundings of Fairbanks. For serious photographers eager for personalized instruction, it offers tailored lessons in a private setting, with no large groups to worry about.
Bottom Line: Best for aspiring photographers wanting intensive, personalized training.
$625.00 per person
14. Fairbanks Private Photography Workshop
This 4-hour private workshop caters specifically to individuals or private groups. With personalized attention, it’s perfect for those who want to learn or sharpen their skills in a relaxed environment, ensuring hands-on guidance.
Bottom Line: Suitable for small groups or couples looking for a private, focused photography experience.
$300.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Photography Experience in Fairbanks
Picking the best tour depends on your budget, time availability, and specific interests. For budget-conscious travelers, the Best Alaskan Cabin Aurora Viewing offers cozy viewing at a low price. If you’re seeking the highest chance of seeing the lights, consider flexible options like the Northern Lights Aurora Tour with FREE Photography, which extends your window for sightings. For those eager to learn photography, the private workshops (Full Day Photography Workshop) provide tailored instruction.
Timing is key—winter months from December to March are best for aurora viewing, but booking early is recommended, especially during peak season. Think about whether you want a guided chase, a cozy cabin experience, or private instruction—each offers a different way to capture Alaska’s stunning night skies.
Final Thoughts
Fairbanks offers a diverse lineup of Northern Lights tours, from high-end private workshops to relaxed cabin experiences. If you’re after professional photos and expert guidance, tours like the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis Viewing) Chasing with Photography are hard to beat. For a cozy, budget-friendly evening, the Alaskan Cabin Aurora Viewing offers warmth, snacks, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Overall, your choice should match your curiosity level, budget, and how much you want to learn or simply marvel at the sky. Whichever tour you pick, early booking is wise—Fairbanks is a popular spot for aurora photography and fills up quickly in peak season. Now, pack your warm clothes and camera gear—Alaska’s night sky is waiting to be captured.