Yellowknife: 2 Nights Aurora Hunting and Viewing in Cabin

Yellowknife: 2 Nights Aurora Hunting and Viewing in Cabin offers an accessible way to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights without sacrificing comfort. For $232 per person, you’ll spend three days immersed in the Arctic’s natural beauty—starting with guided hunts across prime viewing spots, then settling into a cozy, heated cabin or glass tipi for optimal aurora viewing. This trip is perfect for those who want a balance of adventure and comfort, especially if you’re wary of cold nights or unfamiliar with night photography.

What we love about this tour is the thoughtful approach to aurora education and photography support. The guides don’t just take you to the right spots—they share stories, science, myths, and practical tips that make the experience richer. Plus, the inclusion of hot beverages, snacks, and a warm meal creates a welcoming atmosphere amidst the chilly Arctic night. One potential consideration? You’ll need to reserve your own hotel in Yellowknife, so this tour is best for travelers already planning their accommodation.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate guided organization, value cultural insights, and want to maximize their chances of seeing the Lights in a relaxed setting. If you’re a first-timer or a keen photographer, this tour offers both education and convenience—making your Arctic adventure less stressful and more memorable.

Key Points

• Expert-guided aurora hunts increase your chances of witnessing the Lights in the best locations.
• Warm, comfortable viewing in heated cabins or glass tipis enhances the experience, especially in winter.
• Educational component helps you understand the science and myths behind the aurora.
• Photography assistance and free images make it easier for you to capture and remember the moment.
• Round-trip transportation and hotel transfers simplify logistics in Yellowknife.
• Two nights in a camp setting provide ample opportunity for Aurora viewing, with one night in a warm cabin and another in a cozy tipi.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Full Experience

The tour begins with a hotel pickup from your Yellowknife lodging, a simple but crucial detail that makes the experience smooth. Your guide, who speaks English and Chinese, will take you on a guided Aurora hunting tour. We found this to be very valuable because the guides share insights about the science and myth of the Northern Lights, adding depth beyond just ‘looking up at the sky.’ One traveler remarked, “I appreciated how our guide explained what causes the lights and the stories behind them. It made the experience more meaningful.”

The locations visited during the hunting night are carefully chosen for their likelihood of Aurora activity—accessing areas away from city lights but still reachable within the tour’s timeframe. The timing ensures you’re out during the prime hours of aurora activity, typically after sunset and before midnight, but the guides remain flexible based on conditions.

On the second night, you’re transported to Arctic Aurora Camp, a dedicated spot designed for optimal viewing. Here, you’ll stay in heated cabins or glass tipis—a real treat for those who want to avoid the biting cold often associated with winter Aurora viewing. Imagine sitting comfortably inside, hot in your insulated gear, as the sky above dances with green, purple, and red. The camp offers homemade bread, soup, hot beverages, and snacks to keep you warm and refreshed.

One guest noted, “The warmth of the cabin, combined with the stunning Aurora display, made for an unforgettable night.” The camp’s setup, with both cabins and glass tipis, offers flexibility—whether you want to fully relax or step outside for a better photo angle.

The photography assistance is a thoughtful touch—guides help you set your camera, ensuring you get clear images of the Aurora. The tour includes two free digital images sent via email, a nice keepsake that captures those fleeting moments in the Arctic night.

On the third day, after breakfast and a farewell to the camp, you’re returned to Yellowknife Airport. The round-trip transportation is seamless, removing the hassle of arranging your own transfers or navigating unfamiliar roads in winter conditions.

Pricing and Value

At $232 per person, this tour offers good value for a well-organized, immersive Aurora experience. It includes guided hunts, transport, hot drinks, a full Aurora viewing night, photography help, and two free photos. When you consider the cost of separate activities—transport, photography, meals—these are bundled in a way that simplifies planning.

However, meals at your hotel or elsewhere are not included, so budget accordingly. Also, if you want to stay in a private cabin or tipi at the camp, that incurs additional costs, so be prepared to plan financially if that’s your preference.

The Itinerary in Detail

The first day kicks off with a hotel pickup, which we found to be a hassle-free way to start the adventure. From there, the guide takes you to several Aurora viewing locations, each chosen for their optimal conditions. You’ll get a solid introduction to the science behind the Lights and some mythological stories—making the experience educational for those interested in Arctic culture and folklore.

Expect to spend a few hours outside, often in cold temperatures, so dressing warmly is essential. The guides advise on proper winter gear, but it’s wise to bring your own layers, hats, gloves, and thermal wear.

The second night’s camping experience shifts from hunting to relaxing. You’ll settle into a warm cabin or glass tipi, with cozy blankets, a hot meal, and hot beverages. From here, your chance to see the Aurora is maximized in comfort—watching the sky from a seated position or stepping outside for a quick shot.

The third day is dedicated to returning to Yellowknife, with transportation scheduled to fit your flight times. The flexibility to be dropped off at the airport gives you peace of mind about your onward travel plans.

Authenticity and Practicality

What sets this tour apart is its focus on authentic experiences combined with comfort. Many travelers mention the guides’ friendly attitude and their willingness to help with camera settings, which is a real plus if you’re new to night photography. The warm cabin and tipi environment makes it accessible for those who might otherwise shy away from the cold or uncomfortable outdoor waits.

Some reviews highlight how the cozy atmosphere and hot food make the long night more enjoyable, transforming what could be a chilly, frustrating wait into a memorable Arctic evening. The inclusion of hot snacks and drinks reflects thoughtful planning—nothing beats sipping hot cocoa while watching shimmering green curtains in the sky.

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Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for first-timers or those who want a guided, educational, and comfortable Aurora viewing adventure. It’s also suited for travelers who appreciate the convenience of hotel pickups, organized transport, and assistance with photography. Because of the outside waiting involved, it’s less suitable for those with mobility issues or back problems.

If you’re someone who loves to learn about the culture and science behind natural phenomena, this tour offers more than just a pretty show—it’s a comprehensive Arctic experience. Photographers of all levels will value the camera tips and free images, making it easier to capture the moment.

FAQ

What is included in this tour?
You get guided Aurora hunting, viewing in a warm cabin or tipi, snacks, hot beverages, round-trip transportation, photography assistance, and two free digital Aurora photos.

Are meals included?
No, meals at your hotel or elsewhere are not included. The camp provides a complimentary soup meal during Aurora viewing nights.

Do I need to bring winter clothing?
Yes, it’s recommended to bring warm clothing, as the Arctic nights can be very cold. The tour provider can reserve winter gear for you if needed.

Can I rent camera tripods?
Tripods are available for rent at an extra cost if you don’t bring your own, which can help you get better night photos.

How flexible are the pickup times?
Pickup is included from any hotel in Yellowknife between 9:00am and 11:00pm. Be sure to wait in your hotel lobby 10 minutes early.

What if I want a private tipi or cabin?
That’s available at an extra cost—just inquire with the provider in advance.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

If witnessing the Northern Lights is high on your Arctic bucket list but you’re wary of uncomfortable outdoor waits, this tour balances adventure with comfort beautifully. The combination of guided hunts, educational storytelling, warm cabins, and photography help makes it an excellent choice for first-timers, couples, or anyone wanting a hassle-free, memorable Aurora experience.

While it doesn’t include overnight stays at the viewing locations or meals outside the camp, the overall value and thoughtful organization mean you’re likely to come away with spectacular photos and a deeper appreciation of this natural wonder. Whether you’re an avid photographer or simply a curious traveler, this tour offers a practical, authentic way to enjoy the magic of the Northern Lights in Yellowknife.

You can check availability for your dates here: