Tromsø: Northern Lights Chase with Photos and Guide

Imagine sitting in a warm bus, miles away from city lights, with a steaming cup of hot chocolate in hand, as the sky above dances with shimmering green and purple lights. That’s the essence of the Northern Lights Chase with Photos and Guide in Tromsø. For $102 per person, this tour offers more than just a chance to see the aurora borealis — it combines comfort, expert insight, and memorable photography in a package perfect for travelers craving an authentic Arctic experience.

What truly stands out are the carefully selected locations that maximize your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights, and the professional photographer guiding who captures those fleeting, magical moments. We also love the cozy treats — hot drinks and cookies — that keep you warm while you gaze skyward. The only caveat? You’re relying on weather and solar activity, which are unpredictable, so a cloudy night might limit your viewing. Still, this tour is ideal for those who want a well-organized, informative, and comfortable way to chase the lights without the hassle of figuring out where to go themselves.

If you’re traveling to Tromsø and want a blend of guidance, comfort, and genuine chances to see the Northern Lights, this tour suits you best — especially if you appreciate good photography and don’t mind paying a moderate price for a quality experience.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation: Modern, smooth bus rides help you relax during the journey.
• Expert guidance: Guides are knowledgeable, sharing stories and tips about the aurora.
• Optimal spots: Locations are chosen based on weather and solar forecasts to improve your chances.
• Photo memories: A professional photographer captures your experience, with photos shared afterward.
• Warm snacks included: Hot drinks and fresh cookies help you stay cozy in the chilly night.
• Flexible booking: Keep plans adaptable by reserving now and paying later, with full refunds available if canceled in time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at the Magic Ice Bar, a lively and visually striking meeting spot in Tromsø. From there, you’ll board a comfortable, modern bus that promises a smooth and warm ride into the Arctic wilderness. The choice of vehicle matters — a cozy coach means you can relax, chat with fellow travelers, and focus on the sky rather than fighting the cold or bumps.

The ride itself is a highlight, as guides often share stories about the Northern Lights, local culture, or tips on photography. They aim to make the journey as enjoyable as the destination. The group size usually keeps things intimate enough for personal attention but lively enough to share the anticipation.

Carefully Selected Viewing Locations

Once you’ve traveled away from Tromsø’s city lights, the guides scan weather and solar activity forecasts to pick the best spots. The goal? To avoid clouds and light pollution, giving you the clearest view possible of the aurora borealis. Some stops might be closer to the fjords or on quiet hilltops — places that offer open skies and minimal light interference.

Reviews highlight that these locations make a real difference. Jacqueline, who enjoyed the tour, mentioned that the “northern light display at the lavvu was hindered by local town on the opposite side of the fjord,” which underscores how crucial location selection is. The guides’ ability to adapt based on conditions can mean the difference between a stunning show and a missed opportunity.

The Magic of the Aurora

When the lights finally appear, you’ll marvel at their dancing, shifting patterns — flashes of green, purple, and sometimes red or yellow — that seem almost alive. The guides are experienced in helping you understand what you’re seeing, explaining the science behind this breathtaking natural phenomenon.

We loved the way guides shared stories and legends about the lights, enriching the experience beyond just gazing upward. They’re also skilled at capturing the moment, using professional cameras to photograph everyone under the aurora. These photos are then shared with you after the tour, giving you high-quality memories without needing to fuss with your own camera or phone.

Warmth, Snacks, and Comforts

Cold hands and feet are the biggest challenge in Arctic nights. Luckily, this tour includes hot drinks and freshly baked cookies, so you can keep warm and enjoy the view longer. Several reviews praise the “delicious hot drinks” and the opportunity to relax without rushing, which enhances the overall experience.

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The Photographic Experience

One of the main draws is the presence of a professional guide and photographer. They not only help you focus your camera but also give tips on how to get the best shots. The photos they take are high quality and shared with you afterward, making it easy to remember your Arctic adventure.

Many travelers, like Vitor, said they were “very happy with the tour” and appreciated the professional photos, which added a special touch to the experience.

Duration and Group Size

Typically, this tour lasts about 3 hours, giving enough time to travel, find good viewing spots, and enjoy the lights. The group sizes are moderate, striking a balance between intimacy and camaraderie, which helps keep the atmosphere relaxed and friendly.

Pricing and Value

At $102 per person, this tour sits comfortably in the mid-range for Arctic Northern Lights excursions. Considering transportation, expert guidance, warm snacks, and professional photos, the value feels fair, especially if seeing the aurora is a once-in-a-lifetime goal. However, it’s important to remember that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and sightings cannot be guaranteed. Weather and solar activity are outside the tour operators’ control, which is worth keeping in mind.

Real Traveler Insights

While most reviews are glowing, a few travelers like Christian noted that poor weather or poor spot choice can hinder the experience. He mentioned that “guides were not local and didn’t know the area as well as they could,” leading to less optimal viewing. This highlights the importance of weather conditions and the guides’ local knowledge.

Conversely, others praised the organization and professionalism. Stephane, for example, called this “the most well-organized” of three tours he’d taken, emphasizing the quality of the photos and the friendly guides.

This Northern Lights tour in Tromsø is perfect for travelers who want a comfortable, guided experience with a good chance of seeing the aurora. It’s especially suited if you value professional photos of your trip and enjoy learning about the science and stories behind the lights. The inclusion of hot drinks and snacks makes it ideal for those who prefer a cozy night out rather than rugged, cold adventures.

However, if your main goal is guaranteed sightings or a more adventurous, self-guided pursuit, you might want to consider other options or prepare for the possibility of cloudy skies. This tour balances professionalism with the unpredictability of nature — a fair trade for most travelers.

For around $102, this Northern Lights chase offers a well-organized, comfortable way to experience one of nature’s most incredible displays. The combination of expert guidance, carefully chosen locations, warm refreshments, and professional photography delivers a memorable Arctic adventure. It’s a great choice for those who want to maximize their chances of seeing the lights without sacrificing comfort or quality.

If you’re traveling to Tromsø and want a relaxing yet immersive way to see the aurora, this tour is worth considering — especially if it’s your first time and you’re eager for expert insights and beautiful photos. Just remember, patience and a bit of luck are still required — the skies might be cloudy, but if they’re clear, you’re in for a treat.

What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour begins at the Magic Ice Bar, a popular and visually striking meeting spot in Tromsø.

How is transportation arranged?
You’ll travel in a comfortable, modern bus that ensures a smooth and cozy ride into the Arctic wilderness.

What’s included in the price?
Your package includes the bus trip, hot drinks and cookies, and a professional guide and photographer who will capture the moment.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but hot drinks and cookies are provided to keep you warm and satisfied.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if weather or plans change.

Will I definitely see the Northern Lights?
Since the aurora is a natural phenomenon, sightings are not guaranteed, especially if weather conditions are poor.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, including warm shoes, since you’ll be outside for viewing in Arctic temperatures.

Are there any age restrictions?
The provided data doesn’t specify age limits, but generally, such tours are suitable for most ages comfortable in cold weather.

How are the photos shared?
The professional photographer will share high-quality images with all participants after the tour, so you can relive the experience.

This tour balances comfort, expert guidance, and a fair chance to witness the Northern Lights in one of Norway’s most stunning landscapes, making it a solid choice for Arctic travelers seeking a memorable, well-organized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: