Whitehorse 4 Day Aurora Tour Wildlife Preserve and Hot Springs

Imagine watching the night sky dance with shimmering green curtains of the aurora borealis, all while enjoying close-up encounters with North American wildlife and relaxing in natural hot springs. That’s exactly what this Whitehorse 4-day Aurora Tour promises. For about $1,117 per group, you’ll explore the northern wilderness of Canada’s Yukon, with itineraries packed with unforgettable sights and experiences. The tour’s blend of city highlights, wildlife, and natural relaxation feels like a well-balanced sampler of everything this rugged corner of the world has to offer.

What makes this tour especially appealing is the focus on authentic experiences—seeing animals like bison and moose at the wildlife preserve, and soaking in the Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs with impressive Yukon scenery as your backdrop. Plus, the chance to witness the aurora borealis up close, with multiple viewing nights included, truly sets this trip apart. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that this tour requires some level of physical comfort and the ability to handle potentially cold nights outdoors. Still, if you love nature, wildlife, and starry skies, this is a solid choice. It’s best suited for travelers who are eager for a mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic northern culture.

Key Points

• Aurora Viewing: Multiple nights under the Northern Lights, with hot beverages and professional photography.
• Wildlife Encounter: Close-up look at North American animals like bison, moose, and reindeer at the Yukon Wildlife Preserve.
• Relaxing Hot Springs: Enjoy the Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs with open-air baths and stunning Yukon scenery.
• City Highlights: A guided tour of Whitehorse’s most iconic sites, like the SS Klondike and Old Log Church.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Includes admission to wildlife preserve and hot springs, hotel transfers, and professional guides.
• Small Group: Limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal and flexible experience.

Exploring Whitehorse: The Gateway to Northern Lights Magic

Whitehorse isn’t just a jumping-off point for Yukon adventures; it’s a destination in its own right. Sitting beneath the auroral belt, Whitehorse averages over 200 nights of aurora activity each year, making it one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. This tour capitalizes on that fact, combining city exploration with natural wonders and outdoor pursuits. The short, direct flight from Vancouver makes it accessible for North American travelers, and the crisp, clear winter air promises excellent visibility during the aurora viewing nights.

The city tour on Day 1 offers a quick but informative overview of Whitehorse’s history and culture. Highlights include the SS Klondike, a historic sternwheeler, and the Old Log Church, which speaks to the Yukon’s pioneer days. Our guide, if named, is usually quite personable—sharing stories that help you appreciate how this northern town evolved from a gold rush hub to a modern outpost. It’s a nice primer before heading into the wilderness.

Day-by-Day Breakdown: What to Expect

Day 1: Arrival, City Tour, and Aurora Night

After arriving at Whitehorse International Airport, a friendly guide will meet you, holding a sign—easy to spot after your flight. The 24-hour pickup service means your arrival time is flexible, easing travel stress. Once settled, you’ll enjoy a two-hour guided tour of Whitehorse, visiting key landmarks like the statue of Whitehorse, the SS Klondike, and the Old Log Church. These spots give a glimpse into the Yukon’s vibrant history and the city’s blend of old and new.

In the evening, at Grey Mountain Road, your guide takes you to a nearby aurora viewing site around 10 p.m.. Here, you’ll experience the thrill of the Northern Lights in the company of fellow travelers, hot beverages in hand, and the photographer’s dream of capturing those shimmering curtains. The hot snacks and drinks help keep you warm, especially if temperatures dip well below freezing.

Day 2: Wildlife Preserve and More Aurora Viewing

The day starts with a visit to the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, where we loved the chance to see animals rarely accessible in Japan, like bison and moose. The guided tour within the preserve is a highlight—an opportunity to learn about these creatures’ lives in the wild. The preserve is well-maintained, and the guide makes sure everyone gets a good look at each species, explaining their habits and habitats.

Later, around 10 p.m., another evening aurora excursion takes you to the Yukon River. The different setting offers new perspectives on the Northern Lights, with hot drinks helping you stay cozy as you watch the skies dance overhead.

Day 3: Hot Springs and More Aurora Nights

Relaxation hits its peak today at the Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs, which is designed to evoke a traditional Japanese onsen experience. The three open-air baths, each with a unique theme, are the perfect way to unwind after days of outdoor exploring. We loved the view of Yukon’s wilderness from the baths—truly spectacular. The sauna options add to the relaxation, and the experience feels both luxurious and authentic.

The evening, once again, offers a chance to see the Aurora. The 4-hour night trip to Grey Mountain Road is a highlight, with snacks and beverages adding comfort to the outdoor adventure.

Day 4: Departure

On your final day, a hotel transfer will take you to the airport, wrapping up this whirlwind Yukon experience. It’s a short, stress-free goodbye to a region packed with natural beauty and extraordinary sights.

The Value of This Tour

At just over $1,100, this package covers admissions, guided tours, hot springs, city highlights, and aurora viewing—a comprehensive package. The inclusion of professional photography during aurora nights is especially valuable, as capturing the lights can be tricky without experience. The small group size (up to 20) ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience, which many travelers appreciate.

However, the price does not include flights or winter clothing—the latter available for rent at CAD 120 per person. Given the cold nights, renting gear may be wise if you’re not dressed appropriately. The tour’s focus on outdoor activities means you should be comfortable with cold weather and outdoor conditions, especially during the aurora nights.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure lovers eager to witness the Northern Lights in a setting that balances city comforts and outdoor wilderness. It’s ideal if you’re interested in wildlife, as the preserve offers a rare chance to see animals in naturalistic enclosures. The hot springs component appeals to those who enjoy relaxing in nature’s pools after exploring Yukon’s raw beauty.

Travelers who appreciate small-group tours will find this an intimate, engaging experience. While the price may seem high, the value is clear when you consider all included activities, admissions, and the quality of guides. If you’re after a well-rounded Yukon adventure that combines culture, wildlife, and natural wonder, this tour will meet your expectations.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for a balanced Yukon experience—with city sights, wildlife encounters, relaxing hot springs, and multiple nights of Aurora viewing—this tour delivers. The small-group setting makes it more personal and flexible, and the focus on authentic experiences ensures you won’t just be a passive observer.

While it’s not a cheap adventure, the comprehensive itinerary and included features provide solid value for those wanting a full Yukon immersion. Be prepared for cold nights outdoors and pack or rent appropriate clothing. If you’re a nature lover, photography enthusiast, or someone eager to chase the Northern Lights, this trip will leave you with memories worth treasuring.

FAQ

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, a guide will meet you at Whitehorse International Airport with a sign, and there’s 24-hour pickup service based on your arrival time.

What does the city tour include?
The city tour covers Whitehorse’s main sights like the Whitehorse Statue, SS Klondike, Old Log Church, Visitor Centre, and Old Train Station, giving you a quick overview of the town’s history.

How many nights will we see the Aurora?
You’ll have at least two dedicated nights for Aurora viewing, with hot beverages and snacks provided, increasing your chances of witnessing the lights.

Are hot springs included?
Yes, the Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs visit is included in the itinerary, offering open-air baths with Yukon scenery and sauna options.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most travelers can participate, but be aware that outdoor cold temperatures and wildlife activities may require some physical comfort, so check if your family is prepared for winter conditions.

What is the group size?
The tour limits to 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and better interaction with guides.

What should I bring or rent?
Winter clothing is recommended—if you don’t have suitable gear, you can rent it for CAD 120 per person. Warm layers, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots are essential.

In summary, this Whitehorse 4-Day Aurora Tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic northern culture. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to see the Northern Lights, encounter Yukon wildlife, and enjoy natural hot springs—all with the comfort of guided, small-group travel.