Tromsø: Premium Northern Lights Chase with Free Photos

Experience the magic of the Northern Lights on the Premium Northern Lights Chase in Tromsø, offered by Arctic Explorers Norway. This 9-hour tour costs $163 per person and is designed for those eager to see the aurora borealis in comfort and style. With a 93.44% success rate, small groups limited to 15 participants, and the inclusion of professional photos, this tour delivers a reliable and immersive Arctic adventure. It departs from the Scandic Ishavshotel, making it convenient for visitors staying in Tromsø.

What sets this tour apart is its combination of expert guidance, flexible routing, and unique extras like cozy thermal suits and a campfire experience. The tour is suitable for visitors who want more than just a chase—expect informative storytelling about the auroras, warm refreshments, and the possibility of crossing into Finland in search of clear skies. While sightings are never guaranteed, its small-group approach and real-time weather tracking make it one of the most dependable options available.

Key Points

• Cost and Duration: The tour runs for 9 hours at $163 per person, including transport, gear, and meals.
• Departure Point: Starts at Scandic Ishavshotel in Tromsø city center.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 15 guests, ensuring personalized attention.
• Expert Guides and Flexibility: Guides constantly monitor weather and adjust routes to maximize sky visibility.
• Included Gear and Photos: Thermal suits, insulated boots, and free professional photos of the Northern Lights.
• Additional Comforts: Enjoy a campfire, hot chocolate, and a hearty expedition meal under the Arctic sky.

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Tromsø’s Most Awarded Northern Lights Tour with Professional Photos

This tour boasts over 2,500 Excellent reviews and has earned 9 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards. Its reputation rests on consistent success in chasing auroras and capturing stunning portraits beneath the dancing lights. The professional photos are a highlight, providing guests with lasting keepsakes of their Arctic adventure. The tour’s real-time weather tracking and route flexibility contribute to its high success rate.

It’s important to note that sightings are never guaranteed, but the guides’ extensive experience and their use of weather data significantly improve the chances. The small-group format and dedicated guides—trusted by over 60,000 guests since 2012—are designed to give a personal and engaging experience.

From the Scandic Ishavshotel to Arctic Landscapes

The tour begins at Scandic Ishavshotel, where guests are greeted by their expert Northern Lights guide and Arctic driver. The journey in the cozy minibus lasts around 2 hours as the vehicle comfortably transports guests out of Tromsø city lights into wider Arctic landscapes. The onboard heating system keeps everyone warm throughout the drive.

Following the initial transfer, the guide leads the group through guided tours and scenic drives across Troms County, with stops at strategic points where the aurora is most visible. The flexible routing allows guides to adapt to changing weather conditions, increasing the likelihood of a successful sighting. The small group setting ensures everyone has ample space to enjoy the scenery and ask questions.

Arctic Suiting Up and Staying Warm

One of the standout features of this tour is the inclusion of expedition-grade thermal suits and insulated boots rated for -70°C. These provide superior warmth and protection, making it easier to stay outside for extended periods. Guests need to bring warm clothing, hats, gloves, scarves, and thermal layers, but the thermal suits themselves are a game-changer.

The suits not only keep guests comfortable but also allow for longer outdoor observation times. The warmth provided encourages guests to relax and soak in the Arctic environment without worrying about the cold. This focus on comfort is especially appreciated during the campfire experience, where hot chocolate and a hearty expedition meal are served.

The Campfire Experience and Arctic Dining

During the chase, guests gather around a campfire, weather permitting, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The hot chocolate and expedition meal are included, offering a chance to unwind and discuss the aurora sightings. The storytelling about auroras and Arctic nature enhances the experience, making it more than just a quick chase after lights.

This campfire setting adds a cozy element to the tour, making it feel like a true Arctic expedition. The hearty food, often enjoyed beneath the stars, helps guests recharge and adds a memorable touch to the evening.

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Professional Photos and Online Gallery Access

A key feature of this tour is the free professional photos of guests beneath the Northern Lights. The guides capture high-quality images during the chase, which are then made available in an online photo gallery after the tour. Many reviews praise the quality of the photos and the chance to have lasting keepsakes.

Guests appreciate the option to purchase additional prints or share their images afterward. These photos serve as a tangible reminder of a magical night in the Arctic, especially since the aurora is a fleeting phenomenon.

Route and Stops Crossing into Finland

The tour’s flexible routing sometimes involves crossing into Finland or other border regions to find clearer skies. This cross-border approach relies on real-time weather tracking and expert knowledge, giving the guides more options to locate the best viewing spots.

Guests should be aware that border crossings require a valid passport, as the tour may pass into Finland, though all transportation costs are included. The drive takes guests further away from Tromsø’s city lights, increasing the likelihood of seeing the aurora in a pristine Arctic setting.

The Guide and Driver Dynamic

Guests praise guides like Lea, Georgi, Julian, and Claudia for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and dedication. Many reviews highlight guides’ efforts to find the best viewing spots, explain the science of auroras, and share Arctic stories. The driver plays a crucial role in navigating the route, often making the journey fun and comfortable with a good sense of humor.

In one account, despite a guide slipping and getting injured, the team quickly coordinated to ensure the group still experienced the aurora, demonstrating their commitment to guest safety and satisfaction.

Timing, Pacing, and Flexibility

The tour generally departs in the evening and lasts around 9 hours, sometimes returning as late as 3:00 AM. The pacing is relaxed, allowing plenty of time to find the best viewing conditions. The real-time weather updates enable guides to adjust routes quickly, maximizing the chances of a sighting.

Guests should be prepared for a long night but are rewarded with the opportunity to see multiple displays of the aurora if conditions are favorable. The small group size means less crowding and a more personalized experience, even during busy peak seasons.

Suitability and Practical Tips

This tour is suitable for ages 7 and up but not recommended for infants or wheelchair users. Guests should dress warmly in layers, as the Arctic night can be extremely cold. Warm clothing, hats, gloves, scarves, and thermal layers are essential, though the provided suits help significantly.

It’s advisable to bring a tripod if wanting to take your own photos, as high-quality shots are part of the experience. The tour emphasizes safety, comfort, and flexibility, making it ideal for those who want a reliable, guided chase with professional photo souvenirs.

Tromsø: A Top Choice for Northern Lights Viewing

This award-winning tour offers a well-rounded Arctic adventure with professional guidance, comfortable gear, and lasting photos. While no aurora trip can guarantee sightings, the combination of expert route planning, small-group intimacy, and real-time weather tracking makes this a highly trustworthy choice.

Guests who enjoy storytelling, cozy outdoor experiences, and photo opportunities will find this tour highly satisfying. It’s especially appealing for those seeking maximum comfort without sacrificing the thrill of chasing the elusive Northern Lights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation in a heated minibus, thermal suits and insulated boots, expert guides, hot chocolate, expedition meal, campfire experience, and professional photos with online gallery access.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, with departures in the evening and potential return as late as 3:00 AM.

Do I need to bring my own camera or tripod?
Guests are encouraged to bring a tripod if they want to take their own photos. The tour also provides professional photos taken during the chase.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at Scandic Ishavshotel in Tromsø city center.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is suitable for children aged 7 and up, but not recommended for infants or wheelchair users.

Can the tour cross into Finland?
Yes, the route sometimes crosses into Finland for better weather and sky visibility, requiring a valid passport.

What happens if the Northern Lights are not visible?
While the success rate is over 93%, sightings are not guaranteed due to weather conditions. The guides monitor weather in real time to improve chances.

How do I access the photos after the tour?
The professional photos are available in an online gallery after the trip, with options to purchase prints.

What should I wear for the tour?
Guests should dress in warm layers, including hat, gloves, scarf, and thermal clothing. The thermal suits and boots are provided.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users. The outdoor nature and cold climate require mobility and warmth.

This Northern Lights chase in Tromsø combines expert guidance, comfortable gear, and beautiful scenery to create a memorable Arctic experience. Perfect for those who want a reliable and warm chase after the elusive aurora borealis.

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