Northern Lights Chase by Bus in Tromso

Northern Lights Chase by Bus in Tromsø is a popular option for travelers eager to witness Norway’s most famous natural spectacle—the aurora borealis. Priced at around $140, this roughly 8-hour excursion takes you 2.5 hours outside of Tromsø, where light pollution is minimal. The tour is straightforward: hop on a comfortable bus with a knowledgeable guide, hunt for the best viewing spots, and stay warm with hot biscuits and drinks as you wait for the sky to burst with shimmering green and purple ribbons.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how accessible it is—meeting in downtown Tromsø makes it easy to join, and the cozy bus environment with photos and tripods provided helps you get that perfect shot. Plus, the chance to be led by guides like Diego, who have a reputation for determination and hope, provides some much-appreciated human warmth in cold Arctic conditions.

However, it’s worth noting that aurora sightings are weather-dependent. If the sky remains cloudy or snowstorms hit, the tour might end without seeing the lights, which can be disappointing if you’re expecting a guaranteed display. This makes it clear that patience and a bit of luck are part of the experience.

This trip is well-suited for travelers who want an easy, no-fuss way to chase the northern lights, especially if you prefer the comfort of a bus and guided expertise over rugged outdoor adventures. If you’re traveling with family or don’t want to spend hours outside, this tour offers a practical, warm way to try your luck.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation with a knowledgeable guide makes chasing the northern lights accessible.
• Flexible locations help increase the chance of seeing the aurora, as guides choose the best spots based on weather.
• Photo options including tripods and digital photos help you capture memories without lugging your own gear.
• Weather reliance means sightings aren’t guaranteed, so patience and a bit of luck are essential.
• Warm beverages keep you cozy while you wait for the sky to dance.
• Group size is capped at 48 travelers, balancing social atmosphere with manageable groups.

An In-Depth Look at the Northern Lights Chase by Bus in Tromsø

The Basics: What to Expect

This tour is designed for those who want a relaxed, guided experience. For around $140, you get an 8-hour adventure that begins in downtown Tromsø at 6:00 pm. The meeting point is Samuel Arnesens gate 5, a central location that’s easy to find and close to public transport. The group size, with a maximum of 48 travelers, keeps the atmosphere lively without feeling overwhelming.

You’ll sit comfortably inside a bus, which is crucial given the cold Arctic evenings. The guides are English-speaking, making communication straightforward, and they are experienced in locating the best spots for aurora viewing—sometimes traveling over 2 hours outside the city, often toward the border of Finland. Despite the length of the journey, most reviews praise guides like Diego for their hopefulness and persistence, which can turn a cloudy night into a memorable experience.

The Itinerary: What You Will Do

The tour kicks off at 6:00 pm, and after a brief introduction, you’ll board a bus for a longer-than-average chase. Unlike simpler tours that stay close to Tromsø, this experience often involves moving multiple times—up to three or more locations—based on weather and sky conditions.

The main goal is to find clear skies where the aurora borealis can be seen. If the weather allows, your guide will choose the best spot, perhaps in the dark wilderness or near the coast, to maximize your chances. It’s this flexibility that many reviewers emphasize as a major advantage. As one said, guides “worked very hard to ensure that we saw the lights,” sometimes changing locations up to three times.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes hot coffee or tea, which we consider a thoughtful touch—nothing beats a warm drink when standing outside in winter. Digital aurora photos and tripods are provided, helping you get that perfect shot without lugging gear or worrying about camera settings.

Photos are a highlight for many travelers, with reviews noting that guides take “aurora portrait digital photos,” allowing you to revisit the experience visually. This can be especially valuable if the lights are faint or if your camera struggles in low light.

However, dinner is not included, so plan accordingly. Some guests might want to bring snacks or grab something quick beforehand. The tour does not promise a sighting; instead, it offers the best chance, given weather conditions, to catch the lights.

The Weather and Aurora Visibility

Weather is the biggest wildcard. Many reviews mention that guides are hopeful and flexible, changing locations in pursuit of clear skies. One reviewer noted that despite heavy snowstorms, “our guide Diego was hopeful and had the driver head to the border of Finland,” illustrating the dedication to finding a glimpse of the lights.

On the flip side, some reviews express disappointment, like one traveler who said, “aurora couldn’t be seen with the eye,” and another who felt that guides could have “called it earlier” when it was clear no lights would appear. It’s important to understand that aurora sightings are never guaranteed, and your experience depends heavily on weather and solar activity.

The Group Experience: Pros and Cons

The group size of up to 48 travelers can be a mixed bag. Larger groups mean more social interaction, but also more chance of someone walking in front of your camera or crowding your shot. One reviewer suggested that smaller tours might be preferable for more intimate or quieter viewing.

However, most travelers appreciate the shared excitement and the dedicated guides who work to maximize visibility. The bus’s heated interior offers a comfortable base during long waits, which is critical given Tromsø’s winter temperatures.

Value for Money

When considering the cost of $140, this tour offers a reasonable balance between price, comfort, and the chance to see the aurora. Many reviews highlight the guides’ enthusiasm and expertise as a major benefit, which adds value beyond just transportation.

The inclusion of photos and tripods is a nice bonus, helping you take home tangible memories. The disclaimer about no guarantee is honest, but many guests left feeling that the effort and flexibility paid off, especially when the lights finally made an appearance.

What We Liked

We love the ease of logistics—meeting in the city center and hopping into a comfortable bus saves you the hassle of driving or venturing out solo in the dark. The dedicated guides with their experience and hopefulness can transform what might be a frustrating night into an adventure full of stories.

Also, the willingness to chase multiple locations based on weather shows a real commitment to giving you a fair shot at seeing the aurora, which most travelers will appreciate.

Possible Drawbacks to Consider

The biggest potential downside is weather dependence. If cloudy or stormy conditions persist, your chances of seeing the lights diminish, and the tour might end without a sighting. Some reviewers felt that guides could improve communication when the aurora is unlikely, as waiting for no-show nights can be tiring.

Plus, larger groups might mean less personal space or camera-friendly spots, which could bother more serious photographers or those seeking a quieter experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a guided, comfortable experience without heavy outdoor trekking. It’s perfect if you’re happy to stay warm inside a bus, and wish to maximize your chances with a flexible, experienced guide.

If you’re traveling with family, or prefer not to spend hours outside in freezing conditions, this is a solid choice. However, if you’re a serious photographer or craving a more intimate, small-group experience, you might want to look for alternatives.

The Sum Up

The Northern Lights Chase by Bus offers a user-friendly, well-organized chance to see this breathtaking natural phenomenon. With knowledgeable guides, flexible location choices, and helpful photo services, it’s a reliable way to enjoy the Arctic night sky from the comfort of a warm bus. While the unpredictability of weather means there’s no guaranteed sighting, most travelers leave with stories of stunning lights and memorable moments.

This tour suits those who value ease, comfort, and expert guidance, especially if you’re new to aurora hunting or traveling with family. It’s also a good fit for travelers who appreciate shared experiences and don’t mind a bit of patience or weather unpredictability.

If your priority is to maximize your chances with a full-day, guided chase and you’re prepared for the possibility of an overcast night, this tour offers a solid balance of value and adventure in Tromsø’s winter wonderland.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s a comfortable, guided experience designed to suit a broad crowd.

What is included in the tour?
You get an 8-hour aurora sightseeing bus ride, an English-speaking guide, hot beverages, digital aurora photos, and tripods. Dinner is not included.

Can I see the northern lights on this tour?
While the guides do their best to find clear skies, sightings depend on weather conditions. There’s no guarantee, but the team’s flexibility increases your chances.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 8 hours, starting at 6:00 pm and returning to the meeting point in Tromsø.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Samuel Arnesens gate 5 in Tromsø and ends back at the same location.

What if I don’t see the lights?
The tour offers a 50% discount on the next tour if no aurora is seen, but no refunds are given. Most reviews praise the guides’ efforts, making it worthwhile regardless.

Is the tour safe in winter weather?
Yes, the bus provides a warm, stable environment. Guides are experienced in Arctic conditions and will adjust locations based on weather.

What should I bring?
Wear warm layers, bring your camera or smartphone for photos, and consider bringing snacks, since dinner isn’t included.

How is the group size managed?
The maximum is 48 travelers, striking a balance between socializing and comfort. Smaller groups might be available elsewhere, but this size is generally manageable.

Can I book last minute?
Most bookings are made about 20 days in advance, but availability can vary, especially during peak winter season. Confirmations are sent within 48 hours.

This guide should prepare you well for your aurora adventure in Tromsø, making the most of what this tour offers and understanding its limitations. Happy hunting for the northern lights!