Small Group Yukon Aurora Viewing offers a chance to witness the stunning Northern Lights away from the crowds, all for about $120 per person. With a duration of around four hours, this tour takes you from Whitehorse, Canada, to a quiet, clear spot in the wilderness, where the night sky might just put on a spectacular show. Led by friendly guides, Kyle and Erin, this experience promises a cozy, intimate outing with snacks, hot drinks, and the kind of personal attention larger tours often neglect.
What we love about this tour is how it prioritizes small group intimacy—limiting to just 10 travelers—which means fewer strangers and more opportunities to chat with guides who are genuinely knowledgeable about the aurora. Another plus: the effort guides put into making sure everyone’s comfortable, with chairs, snacks, and warm drinks readily available. It’s a thoughtful touch that turns a potentially chilly, wait-then-hope night into a memorable outdoor adventure.
A possible consideration? Since the tour depends heavily on weather conditions—clear skies are essential—the success of sighting the Aurora can never be guaranteed. But the guides’ flexibility, offering options to reschedule if the weather doesn’t cooperate, helps mitigate this risk.
This experience suits travelers who value authentic, small-group outdoor adventures. If you’re eager to avoid the big bus crowds and enjoy a more personal, relaxed atmosphere, this tour is an excellent option. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides, stunning natural scenery, and the thrill of possibly seeing one of nature’s most elusive light shows.
Key Points
- Intimate Group Size: Limit of 10 travelers ensures a personal experience.
- Expert Guides: Kyle and Erin go above and beyond to make the night special.
- Comfort & Convenience: Snacks, hot drinks, chairs, and private transport.
- Weather Dependence: Aurora sighting depends on clear skies; flexibility offered.
- Authentic Experience: Opportunity to enjoy the Northern Lights away from crowds.
- Ideal for: Those seeking a relaxed, authentic Arctic adventure.
A Detailed Look at the Small Group Yukon Aurora Viewing Tour
When you first book this tour, you’ll pay about $119.59 per person, which, considering what’s included, offers good value for a memorable Yukon experience. The tour lasts roughly four hours, giving you ample time to escape the city lights and wait patiently for the Aurora Borealis to appear—an experience that often involves a fair bit of patience, but is well worth it.
Planning more time in Whitehorse? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour includes private transportation, snacks, and warm beverages (coffee and/or tea). This means you won’t be left out in the cold without sustenance and comfort, which is especially important in Yukon’s winter chill. Notably, winter clothing isn’t included, so you’ll want to dress warmly—think thermal layers, waterproof boots, hats, gloves, and scarves—before departing.
The Meeting Point and Duration
Starting in Whitehorse, the tour ends back at the same point, making logistics straightforward. The flexible hours (12:00 AM to 11:30 PM) mean you can choose a night that best suits your schedule during the Aurora season from August 15 to April 15.
Transportation & Small Group Atmosphere
Guides use either pickup trucks or vans, depending on the group size and weather conditions, to reach a clear, unobstructed spot in nature. Traveling in a small group of up to 10 people creates an environment where everyone can get comfortable, ask questions, and enjoy the night without the overwhelming vibe of a large bus.
Guides & Authenticity
The reviews commend guides Kyle and Erin for their warmth, friendliness, and attention to detail. Jessica W. highlights how they go the extra mile to ensure guests feel comfortable and that their experience is authentic, noting the serenity of enjoying the Aurora from a frozen lake away from artificial lights. Chandlor L. praises their kindness and helpfulness, which makes the night even more memorable.
The Experience on a Typical Night
While the Aurora is unpredictable, the guides’ efforts often pay off. Despite some cloud cover reported in reviews, guests still appreciated the atmosphere, warm drinks, and engaging conversations, which made even unsuccessful nights enjoyable. As one reviewer put it, “Kyle came prepared with snacks, warm beverages, and chairs for the wait cause mother nature has her own timelines.” This prepared approach significantly enhances the overall experience, making it less about just waiting and more about enjoying the company and the environment.
The Unique Location Advantage
Many travelers love the secluded spots chosen for viewing—whether on a frozen lake or open wilderness—far from the city glow that dulls the Northern Lights in urban areas. These locations often provide better visibility, increasing your chances of catching the elusive green (or sometimes red and purple) ribbons dancing across the sky.
The Value of Small Group Tours
Compared to large bus tours, this experience offers a more personal touch, which many reviewers highly value. The small size means less crowd noise and more opportunity for guides to tailor the experience to the group’s interests and comfort. Jessica remarked, “Erin and Kyle were so welcoming, providing a selection of warm drinks and great chats,” emphasizing the friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
The Challenges & Considerations
Weather remains the biggest wildcard. The tour’s success hinges on clear skies, which can be unpredictable in Yukon’s winter. However, the flexible scheduling and the guides’ professionalism help ensure that, whether or not the Aurora makes an appearance, you’ll still enjoy the adventure. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, you’re generally offered a rescheduled date or a full refund, which adds peace of mind.
Who Should Book This Tour?
If you’re looking for a cozy, intimate experience with knowledgeable guides, this tour fits perfectly. It’s ideal for travelers who want to escape large crowds and enjoy a genuine wilderness night with the chance to see the Aurora in a beautiful, natural setting—especially if you appreciate good company, snacks, and hot drinks while waiting under the stars.
Final Thoughts
This Small Group Yukon Aurora Viewing Tour offers a well-rounded, personal way to experience one of nature’s most breathtaking phenomena. The emphasis on small groups and attentive guides makes it stand out from larger, more commercial tours, providing a more authentic and relaxed atmosphere. The inclusion of snacks, drinks, and chairs enhances comfort, allowing you to focus on the sky and your surroundings rather than worry about the logistics or cold.
The price, while not the cheapest, reflects the quality of the experience—intimate, well-guided, and thoughtfully organized. For those who value authentic wilderness encounters and are eager to enjoy the Northern Lights without the crowds, this tour is a highly recommended choice.
It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a personalized, relaxed experience, and don’t mind the uncertainty of nature. When the sky cooperates, you’re likely to leave with lasting memories of one of the world’s most spectacular light displays—something truly special to share after typical Yukon adventures.
FAQ – Your Questions About the Yukon Aurora Viewing Tour
Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour features private transportation, typically via pickup trucks or vans, to take you away from the city lights to a clear spot in the wilderness.
What should I wear?
While winter clothing isn’t included, it’s essential to dress warmly, layering thermals, waterproof outerwear, hats, gloves, and warm boots—Yukon winters are cold.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about four hours, giving plenty of time to find a good viewing spot, relax, and wait for the Aurora to appear.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes. If the weather is poor, the guides will offer a reschedule or full refund. The Aurora depends on clear skies, so flexibility is key.
What’s included in the price?
Snacks, hot drinks (coffee/tea), chairs, and private transport are included. You’ll need to bring your own winter gear.
What size is the group?
Groups are limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience than large bus tours.
Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.
Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but given the cold and outdoor setting, check with the supplier if you have young children or special needs.
What is the experience like on cloudy nights?
Even if the Aurora isn’t visible, guests still enjoy the serenity of the outdoor location, friendly guides, and warm drinks, making it a pleasant outing regardless.
How do I book?
You can book directly through the provider, North Country Outdoor Adventures, via the Viator link, with confirmation typically provided at booking.
In all, this Yukon Aurora tour offers an inviting, intimate way to chase the Northern Lights, with attentive guides, cozy comforts, and a chance to enjoy the Arctic night in true wilderness style. It’s great for those who prize small-group experiences, authentic natural settings, and the thrill of a possible Aurora sighting—fingers crossed!