Northern Lights Adventure By Snowmobile

Discover the Northern Lights Adventure by Snowmobile in Alta, Norway

Imagine hurtling across pristine snowfields on a powerful snowmobile, your breath visible in the crisp air, as the mysterious Northern Lights shimmer and dance overhead. For those seeking an authentic Arctic experience, this 4-hour snowmobile tour in Alta offers just that—an adventure packed with stunning scenery, expert guides, and a good chance to witness the elusive aurora borealis.

Priced at around $317 per person, this trip is well-regarded, with 30 glowing reviews and a perfect 5-star rating. It’s a carefully crafted experience that balances thrill and tranquility. What we love most is how the guides are clearly knowledgeable—many reviews praise their friendly attitude and rich explanations—and the way the landscape unfolds in all its winter glory. One highlight is the ride along the old postal road up to the Finnmarksvidda—a truly atmospheric setting far from city lights.

However, it’s worth noting that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so clear skies aren’t guaranteed. You’ll want to be prepared for unpredictable weather, and this tour is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness and a valid B class driver’s license if you plan to take the wheel. It’s perfect for adventure seekers, families, or anyone eager to combine adrenaline with Arctic beauty.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Snowmobiling in remote winter landscapes offers a genuine taste of Norway’s wilderness.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Rodger and Thomas are praised for their knowledge and safety-conscious approach.
• Scenic Stops: Viewpoints at Gargia Lodge and Beskades mountain are highlights, with breathtaking panoramic vistas.
• Weather-Dependent: Northern Lights sightings are never guaranteed; overcast skies may mean no auroras but still a fun ride.
• Warm Gear Provided: Guests receive thermosuits, boots, and gloves, making the cold manageable.
• Group Size: Limited to 17 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

Your adventure begins at the Æventyr Adventure Store in Alta’s city center, where you meet your guide 5-10 minutes before departure. From there, a short drive—about 25 km—takes you out into the tranquil Gargia Valley, a location often praised for its peacefulness and natural beauty. This initial transfer helps set the tone, leaving behind the city’s lights for the vast, snow-covered wilderness.

The Welcome at Gargia Lodge

Upon arrival at Gargia Lodge around 6:30 pm, you’ll meet your guide and receive a comprehensive briefing about the trip. Here, the warmth of the thermosuits, boots, and gloves is all-important—they’re designed to keep you comfortable despite the sub-zero temperatures. Many reviewers comment on the quality of the gear, noting that it makes a significant difference in how much you enjoy the experience.

Snowmobiling Experience

At 7 pm, after a safety briefing, everyone gets their helmet and is invited to share a snowmobile with another guest—each person typically gets to drive for about half the trip. This setup is great because it allows you to enjoy the thrill of controlling the snowmobile while sharing the experience. If you hold a valid B driver’s license, you can drive yourself; otherwise, you’ll be a passenger, which many find equally fun and less stressful.

Many travelers comment on the well-maintained snowmobiles and thorough instructions they received. Guides like Thomas or Vegard are noted for their patience and safety-awareness, making even first-timers feel at ease. As one reviewer pointed out, guides “stop at every challenging point and tell you what to do,” which is reassuring for less experienced drivers.

Reaching the Mountain Range: Beskardes

The highlight of the ride is reaching the Beskardes mountain range, where you’ll pause to enjoy the panoramic views—a perfect photo opportunity. Many say this stop offers a breathtaking scene of snow-covered peaks and expansive winter skies, often with the chance to see stars if the weather cooperates. Even when the Northern Lights don’t appear, the landscape’s still a captivating winter wonderland.

Sky Watching and Aurora Chances

The core hope—seeing the Northern Lights—hinges on clear skies. Several reviews mention overcast nights or blizzard conditions, which can obscure the auroras. Yet, even on cloudy nights, guests rave about the fun of snowmobiling in Arctic conditions and the stunning night sky full of stars if visibility allows.

One reviewer shared, “Rodger, our guide, was very knowledgeable and after hours of sky-watching, he guided us to Aurora Bliss.” This demonstrates that guides are attentive and ready to move if they spot a clear patch, maximizing your chances of a sighting.

Return and Reflection

Around 9:15 pm, you’ll head back to Gargia Lodge, with a final look at the night landscape. The drive back often includes opportunities for photos and sharing impressions. The tour wraps up around 10 pm, returning you to Alta’s city center, where many finish feeling exhilarated and grateful for the unique Arctic adventure.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While not cheap, this tour’s value lies in its combination of adventure, professional guiding, and scenic authenticity. Many reviewers feel it’s worth the price, especially seeing how guides share their knowledge and ensure safety. The equipment provided is high quality, allowing even beginners to feel confident on the snow.

Several guests express their enjoyment despite the weather—highlighting that the snowmobile ride itself is an adventure, regardless of whether the Northern Lights sparkle. For some, the experience of riding through Norway’s winter landscape is unforgettable enough, making it a worthwhile investment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure lovers who want to combine snowmobiling with the chance to see the Northern Lights. It’s also perfect for families or groups that enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable with moderate physical effort. If you hold a driver’s license and enjoy a bit of speed and wilderness, you’ll find this trip rewarding.

However, those solely seeking guaranteed Aurora sightings should be aware that nature is unpredictable. Still, even without a sighting, many say they left with stories of a fun, adrenaline-filled night in the Arctic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a driver’s license to participate? Yes. Only holders of a valid B class driver’s license can drive a snowmobile in Norway. Guests without a license will be passengers.

What should I wear? The tour provides thermosuits, boots, and gloves, but you should wear warm layers underneath, especially thermal underwear, wool socks, and a hat. The gear is designed to keep you comfortable despite the cold.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours, starting around 5:55 pm and returning by 10 pm.

Can I see the Northern Lights? That depends on weather and solar activity. Clear skies increase your chances, but sightings are never guaranteed.

What is the group size? The tour is limited to 17 travelers, which helps ensure more personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Is the snowmobiling suitable for beginners? Yes, guides provide a safety briefing and instructions. The ride can be shared, and the pace is set to match the group’s comfort level.

What if the weather is bad? The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable (like overcast skies or a blizzard), the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund offered.

How far do we travel? The snowmobiling route takes you along the old postal road to the mountain range of Beskardes, covering scenic winter terrain and stopping at viewpoints.

Is this experience family-friendly? Many reviews mention enjoying it as a family adventure. Children or teens with a driver’s license will be able to participate.

Final Thoughts

This Northern Lights Snowmobile Tour in Alta offers a compelling mix of adventure, stunning scenery, and expert guidance. Whether you’re lucky enough to see the aurora or not, the ride through Norway’s winter landscape provides a memorable experience. It’s particularly suited for those seeking a thrilling outdoor activity combined with authentic Arctic views.

Travelers who value well-organized tours with good gear and knowledgeable guides will find this excursion worthwhile. It’s a great way to spend an evening under the Arctic sky, feeling the true spirit of Norway’s winter wilderness. Just remember, patience and a bit of luck are your best allies for catching the Northern Lights, but the thrill of the ride alone makes it worth every penny.

In summary, if you’re after an active, scenic adventure in Norway’s Arctic, don’t miss this snowmobile tour. It’s fun, well-reviewed, and offers a real taste of the wilderness—plus the chance (weather permitting) to witness one of nature’s most beautiful displays. Perfect for adventure lovers, families, and curious travelers alike.