The Northern Lights Adventure with Greenlander offers an intimate and expertly guided experience in Tromso, Norway, for up to eight guests. Priced at $300.47 per person, this tour provides a 6 to 9-hour journey into the Arctic wilderness, combining off-road travel, professional photography, and cozy comfort. With a rating of 5.0 based on over 1,350 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, it stands out for its personalized approach and commitment to finding the best possible aurora displays—even if weather conditions can sometimes challenge the pursuit.

The tour’s small group size ensures plenty of attention from guides such as Arbo, Hans, Markus, or Victor, all praised for their professionalism and enthusiasm. This experience is especially suited for those eager for expert photography tips, off-the-beaten-path exploration, and a personalized chase for the Northern Lights. However, travelers should be prepared for weather-dependent conditions and may need to request thermal gear or tripods in advance.

Key Points

Limited to 8 guests for a personalized experience
Expert guides including professional photographers provide tips and take stunning photos
Travel in a modified off-road vehicle to access remote viewing spots
Dinner, snacks, and thermal gear included, with optional equipment requests
Weather-dependent tour, with a full refund or alternative date offered for cancellations
Highly praised guides, stunning views, and photo quality make this a top-rated choice

Departure Point and Transport in Tromso

This tour departs from the Scandic Ishavshotel in Tromso. The transportation is private and exclusive, with vehicles specifically modified for Arctic travel. The tour maintains a small-group limit of 8 people, ensuring plenty of space and personalized guidance. The hotel or port transfer is included, and drop-off is typically at your accommodation or within a 1 km radius on Troms island, with provisions for those outside the area.

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How Off-Road Vehicles Enhance Your Aurora Chase

Traveling in a modified 4×4 Mercedes Benz minivan allows access to remote parts of the landscape where light pollution is minimal and the skies are clearest. This off-road capability is often praised for reaching less touristy spots, increasing the chances of witnessing spectacular northern lights. Guides use local knowledge and weather tracking apps to continually adapt the route, maximizing viewing potential.

Guided by Professional Photographers

One of the key features of this tour is the professional photographer guide, often praised for their expertise and friendliness. They share tips on camera settings, help guests capture beautiful aurora photos, and often take stunning images of the group. Guests receive a file of all photos taken during the night, making it easy to preserve memories of this special experience.

Thermal Gear and Equipment Requests

Thermal suits and boots are provided on request in advance, an important detail for anyone worried about staying warm in Arctic conditions. If you plan to take photos, requesting a tripod beforehand is recommended. The tour’s flexibility in gear provision is a benefit, especially for those who don’t want to carry bulky clothing or equipment.

The Itinerary: Remoteness and Flexibility

The tour begins in Tromso and often involves traveling into Finland or other remote locations, depending on weather conditions and Aurora forecasts. Guides are highly proactive in driving long distances if needed, as demonstrated by reviews praising guides like Arbo who ventured into Finland for clearer skies. Stops are made at wide-open spaces, with some tours taking guests to lakes or snowy fields illuminated by the Aurora.

The flexibility of the itinerary is a major advantage. Guides use weather apps and satellite data to decide where to go, making each night unique. Sometimes, guests may be taken quite far into the wilderness to find the best viewing conditions, which adds to the adventure.

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Food, Drinks, and Campfire Experiences

Included in the tour are dinner, snacks, and light refreshments. Many reviews highlight the campfire setup, where guides serve delicious soup and hot chocolate, creating a cozy atmosphere even in cold weather. Some tours feature roasting marshmallows or warming around a fire, making the experience more than just Aurora spotting.

Guests can also request additional food and drinks in advance, and the guide’s attention to providing a warm, welcoming environment is frequently praised.

Weather Conditions and Their Impact

This tour operates in all weather conditions, with the understanding that Aurora visibility depends heavily on clear skies and low cloud cover. If the weather is too poor, the tour can be canceled, with the option for a full refund or alternative date. Weather unpredictability can sometimes mean disappointing nights, but guides use their local knowledge to maximize chances whenever possible.

Small-Group Atmosphere and Personal Attention

The maximum of 8 travelers ensures a more intimate experience. Guests frequently comment on the personalized care, with guides paying close attention to individual needs, whether it’s adjusting the route, offering photography assistance, or providing thermal gear. This small-group setup enhances the overall enjoyment and allows for more relaxed interactions.

The Guides: Knowledge, Enthusiasm, and Care

Reviews consistently mention guides like Arbo, Markus, Victor, and Hans as knowledgeable and passionate. They are praised for their enthusiasm, local knowledge, and willingness to go the extra mile—driving long distances, updating forecasts, and helping guests with camera settings. Their dedication creates a sense of trust and makes the experience more memorable.

Viewing the Aurora: Locations and Success Rate

Guests frequently mention that the guides find excellent spots away from light pollution, often moving further into Finland or into open fields. These locations are chosen based on current weather forecasts and satellite data, leading to a high likelihood of seeing the Aurora. While some reviews note the risk of weather hampering sightings, most report multiple Aurora displays, including spectacular reds, blues, and pinks.

Photography and Photo Sharing

One of the standout features of this tour is the quality of photos taken by guides like Markus. Guests receive digital copies of the images, often within hours, capturing stunning shots of the Aurora dancing overhead. The guides also assist guests with camera settings, enabling even beginners to take great photos.

Physical Requirements and Comfort

The tour requires moderate physical fitness, as guests should be comfortable standing outside in cold temperatures for extended periods. Thermal suits and boots help, but guests are advised to dress warmly and specify clothing sizes and equipment needs at booking. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so appropriate winter clothing is essential.

Booking, Availability, and Flexibility

This tour is generally booked 81 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. Multiple dates are available, and the tour’s non-refundable policy emphasizes the importance of good weather on the scheduled night. For travelers seeking a more personalized experience with professional guidance, this tour offers excellent value.

The Sum Up: An Expert-Led Aurora Chase in Tromso

The Northern Lights Adventure with Greenlander combines small-group intimacy, off-road exploration, and professional photography into an engaging Arctic outing. The guides’ expertise, along with flexible routes driven by weather conditions, optimizes the chances of witnessing the Aurora in all its splendor. The inclusion of thermal gear, dinner, and photo services enhances the overall experience.

While weather variability remains a factor, the tour’s dedication to finding the best spots makes it a solid choice for those who want a personalized, well-led expedition. This tour is especially suited for photographers or anyone eager to learn more about capturing the Lights. The consistent 5-star reviews reflect its reliability and high quality.

Ready to Book?

Northern Lights Adventure with Greenlander, 8 people max

5.0

99% 5-star

“Arbo was a wonderful guide. It was snowing a lot that night and he drove for a long time, taking us quite a ways into Finland to find us a clear n…”

— Diane B, Featured

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers all taxes, fees, handling charges, dinner, snacks, hotel and port transfers, professional guide and photographer, private transportation, and thermal suits and boots (if requested in advance). A tripod and camera batteries are not included but can be requested.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 9 hours, giving ample time to explore different locations and maximize the chance of Aurora sightings.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Scandic Ishavshotel in Tromso and ends either at your hotel or within a 1 km radius on Troms island, depending on your location.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, but if weather makes Aurora viewing impossible, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I request thermal gear or equipment?
Yes, thermal suits, boots, and tripods can be requested in advance at the time of booking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly limited, guests should have moderate physical fitness and be comfortable standing outside in cold temperatures. It’s best suited for older children and adults.

How do guides help with photography?
Guides share tips on camera settings, take professional photos, and often provide all images electronically afterward, making this a great option for capturing the Lights.

Does the tour include food and drinks?
Yes, dinner, snacks, and light refreshments like hot chocolate and cookies are included, with guides sometimes serving campfire- cooked treats.

Can I choose a different date?
Yes, alternative dates are available, but the tour is non-refundable once booked, emphasizing the importance of good weather conditions.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its small group size, professional photography guidance, off-road travel to remote spots, and high customer ratings make it a top choice for a personalized Northern Lights experience.