Tromsø: Northern Lights Chase with Free Photos

Tromsø: Northern Lights Chase with Free Photos is a well-loved tour designed for those eager to see the Aurora Borealis in Norway’s Arctic skies. Priced at around $181 per person, it lasts about five hours, taking you into the dark outdoors with a knowledgeable guide to hunt for the famed Northern Lights. What makes this experience stand out? First, the dynamic destination choices—your guide shifts locations based on weather and Aurora activity—which greatly improves your chances of witnessing those mesmerizing, dancing lights. Second, the high-resolution photos you receive afterward allow you to relive the magic long after the tour ends.

We love how intimate this trip feels. With a maximum group size of 16 guests, it’s a far cry from crowded bus tours. The small group setting means more personalized attention, better chances to ask questions, and a cozy atmosphere as you wait in the Arctic cold. The hot drinks and biscuits offer comfort while you keep an eye skyward, waiting for the Aurora to perform. One possible downside is the uncertainty of sighting—since Aurora activity depends on weather and solar conditions, there’s no 100% guarantee you’ll see the lights on any given night. But if you’re someone who appreciates a real “hunt” and expert guidance, this tour will suit you nicely.

If you’re traveling to Tromsø and want a balanced experience with expert guidance, flexible locations, and memorable photos, this tour is a great pick. It’s especially suitable for those who value authentic Arctic adventure over just ticking a box, and for anyone who doesn’t mind a late night out in the cold.

Key Points

• Flexible locations increase the chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis.
• Expert guides actively monitor weather and Aurora activity, helping maximize your viewing potential.
• High-resolution photos are included, so you’ll have professional-quality images of your experience.
• Small group size creates a more personal and comfortable atmosphere.
• Rain or shine policy ensures you’re only canceled for dangerous conditions.
• Hot drinks and biscuits keep you warm and comfortable during the wait.

You can check availability for your dates here:

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

When booking a Northern Lights tour in Tromsø, this one by NLT Guide Company offers a mix of personalized service, flexible planning, and memorable photo opportunities. It’s clear that their guides are passionate and well-trained, with reviews highlighting their knowledge and dedication. We’ll explore what you can expect at each step, why certain features matter, and how this tour can turn a cloudy night into a highlight of your trip.

The Itinerary and Locations

The tour begins outside the Tourist Shop on Kirkegata 2, a central Tromsø location. From there, your guide meets you in a comfortable Mercedes Sprinter, which is crucial in the cold Arctic climate. The vehicle’s comfort and reliability are appreciated, especially considering the long drives involved in chasing the Aurora.

Once aboard, the guide will explain the plan—though be prepared for last-minute adjustments. The destination changes night by night, depending on weather forecasts, Aurora forecasts, and cloud cover. Some nights might see you heading towards the coast for clearer skies, while others might find you in the fjord regions or even near the Finnish border—areas known for excellent visibility. Several reviews mention guides actively monitoring weather conditions and communicating with other chasers, which significantly improves your odds.

Why the Destination Matters

The unpredictable nature of the Aurora means that your guide’s flexibility is key. We loved the way guides like Stefan and Jack work tirelessly to find the best viewing spot, sometimes traveling several hours just to get away from light pollution or cloud cover. In fact, some reviews describe trips that took them as far as the Finnish border or Finland itself, all in pursuit of the perfect Aurora dance.

The Waiting Game

Once at the chosen location, your guide will help you set up your camera—an essential step since capturing the Aurora can be tricky without guidance. They’ll also offer tips for adjusting settings, so you can take HD, high-res photos of the lights, which are included for free. This thoughtful touch turns a cold night into a lasting memory, as you walk away with professional-quality images.

While waiting, you’re provided with hot drinks and biscuits, a small but appreciated detail that makes the cold more bearable. The guides often share stories, Aurora folklore, or science facts, creating a more immersive experience.

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The Chance of Seeing the Aurora

It’s important to understand that Aurora sightings are never guaranteed. The Northern Lights depend on solar activity and weather, making each night unique. Reviews are full of accounts of near-misses but also of spectacular displays that made the long night worthwhile. For instance, one reviewer said, “We saw some spectacular lights after a late exit from Tromsø,” and others mentioned “beautiful auroras dancing across the sky, even when the weather was cloudy in town.”

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a limit of 16 guests, the atmosphere remains intimate. This setup allows guides to give personalized advice and take high-quality photos of everyone. Many reviews emphasize the friendly, enthusiastic guides like Stefan, Katarina, and Jack, who are willing to answer questions and share their knowledge.

The Practical Side: Duration, Cost, and Cancellation

The tour lasts about five hours, typically ending around 12:30 AM, though the timing can extend if the Aurora is late or the weather is tricky. The price of $181 is reasonable considering the included HD photos, thermal suits, hot drinks, biscuits, and transportation in a comfortable vehicle. When you compare this to the cost of trying to chase the Lights solo or booking a shorter, less personalized trip, it’s a solid value.

This tour runs rain or shine, only canceled if conditions are unsafe. Flexible payment options—reserve now, pay later—allow you to lock in your spot without immediate commitment, which is a smart feature in unpredictable Arctic weather.

What to Bring and What Not to Expect

Dress warmly, ideally in multiple layers, since you’ll be outside for extended periods. The guides provide thermal suits, but packing your own warm gear is advisable, especially gloves, hat, and insulated boots. Remember, alcohol and drugs are not allowed, and children under 8 or wheelchair users are not suitable for this activity.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a traveler who values expert guidance, flexible plans, and professional photos, this tour will resonate strongly. It’s ideal for those who want to maximize their chances of seeing the Aurora, appreciate small-group intimacy, and don’t mind a late night in return for a potentially unforgettable experience. It’s particularly suited for adventurous, weather-willing visitors who relish the idea of an Aurora “hunt” with knowledgeable guides.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The combination of dynamic location choices, personalized attention, and free professional photos makes this tour stand apart from many other options in Tromsø. The guides’ active monitoring of weather and Aurora activity shows a genuine dedication to giving guests the best chance of experiencing the Northern Lights. Many reviews mention guides going above and beyond, sometimes traveling long distances just to find clear skies.

On top of that, the small group setting creates a friendlier, more authentic Arctic adventure. It’s not just a sightseeing trip but a shared journey into the thrill of Aurora hunting, where patience, expertise, and a bit of luck are key.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  No, children under 8 years old are not recommended for this activity.

• What should I wear?
  Dress in warm clothing, including layers, gloves, hats, and insulated boots. Thermal suits are provided but bringing extra warm gear is advisable.

• Can I cancel the tour?
  Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• What if the weather is bad?
  The tour runs rain or shine but will only be canceled if weather or driving conditions are dangerous.

• Are photos included?
  Yes, high-resolution photos of the Northern Lights are provided for free after the tour.

• How long does the tour last?
  Approximately five hours, ending around midnight, but sometimes longer if Aurora activity persists.

• What’s the group size?
  Maximum 16 guests, ensuring personalized attention.

• Does the tour go to specific locations?
  Locations vary nightly, often including coastlines, fjords, or regions near the Finnish border, depending on weather and Aurora activity.

• Is transportation comfortable?
  Yes, transportation is in a modern Mercedes Sprinter van, comfortable for Arctic conditions.

• What is the cost?
  Around $181 per person, including guides, photos, thermal suits, hot drinks, and biscuits.

This Northern Lights chase in Tromsø offers a carefully curated experience that balances expert guidance, flexible planning, and authentic Arctic adventure. If you’re eager to see the Aurora and enjoy a personal touch with professional photos, this tour is a smart choice. Just remember, patience and luck play a role, but the guides’ dedication significantly boost your chances of witnessing this natural wonder.

You can check availability for your dates here: