Northern Lights Big Bus Chase with Free Photos

Northern Lights Big Bus Chase with Free Photos: An Insightful Tromso Adventure

The Northern Lights Big Bus Chase with Arctic Explorers offers a full-day journey into Norway’s Arctic wilderness for $172. This 7 to 10-hour tour departs from Fiskekompaniet, Killengreens gate, Tromso at 5:30 pm, providing a flexible window in which travelers can hope to spot the aurora borealis. The tour is particularly notable for its free professional photos, WiFi, and onboard restroom, making the experience both comfortable and memorable.

While the chance of seeing the Northern Lights depends on weather and aurora activity, the mobile nature of the tour significantly increases the odds of witnessing this natural spectacle. The heated bus ensures warmth in Tromso’s cold night air, and knowledgeable guides actively search for the best viewing spots. This tour suits those who want a full-day, flexible adventure with a strong emphasis on capturing stunning photos of the aurora.

Key Points

• Full-day Northern Lights safari from Tromso lasting approximately 7 to 10 hours.
• Guides focus on finding the best spots, often driving to Finland or other locations for clearer skies.
• Photo package includes free, professionally sent images, and guests are encouraged to take as many pictures as they like.
• The heated bus and onboard facilities such as WiFi, restroom, snacks, and warm drinks enhance comfort during the late-night search.
• Most travelers find this tour valuable for the effort guides put into maximizing aurora viewing, with many reviews calling it a “great experience”.
• Weather-dependent: the tour requires good weather, and cancellations are possible with a full refund if conditions are poor.

Tromso’s Arctic Night Sky: What Makes This Tour Special

This tour departs from Fiskekompaniet in central Tromso at 5:30 pm, making it convenient for those arriving in the city in the late afternoon. The full-day format allows for a flexible approach to chasing the Northern Lights, with guides adjusting goals based on weather conditions and aurora forecasts.

Arctic Explorers uses a mobile approach, driving to different locations such as the Norway-Finland border, depending on where the best chance of seeing the lights occurs. This flexibility is highly praised, with reviews highlighting how guides like Iris, Georgi, and Jeremias go “the extra mile” to find clear skies and maximize the viewing opportunities.

Inside the Heated Bus: Comfort and Convenience

Travelers will find the heated bus equipped with WiFi, restroom facilities, and snacks, making the long night more manageable. The bus setting also enables guides to stay mobile and optimize the chances of spotting the lights by moving away from cloud cover or light pollution.

Warm drinks and cookies are provided, creating a cozy atmosphere even in the Arctic chill. Guests are encouraged to bring their own tripods for photography, although this is not included in the package.

The Photo Experience: Free and Professional

One of the standout features of this tour is the free professional photos sent to participants after the trip. Many reviews mention how guides actively help guests capture the aurora, and the photos serve as lasting memories.

Guests can pose for multiple shots and receive high-quality images without extra cost. This focus on photography enhances the overall value of the tour, making it especially appealing to those eager to document their experience.

The Search for the Northern Lights: Locations and Strategy

The main stop involves searching for the aurora in the Tromso region, but guides often drive further, including into Finland or along the north coast of Norway. This strategic movement improves the likelihood of seeing the dancing lights, especially when weather conditions are less than ideal.

Several reviews praise guides like Jessica and Iris for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and responsiveness. They continually scan the skies and adjust the route based on real-time weather updates and aurora forecasts.

The Guides: Passionate, Knowledgeable, and Supportive

The tour’s success heavily relies on the guides, who are known for their friendly, helpful, and passionate approach. Many reviews mention guides like Georgi, Iris, and Jeremias as going above and beyond to ensure guests have the best possible experience.

Jessica, in particular, earns high praise for her storytelling and enthusiasm, while guides like Louis and Gab are appreciated for their approachability and expertise. These guides actively encourage patience and engage with guests, turning the chase into a memorable experience.

Late Night Pacing and Group Size

The tour is designed for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 48. It is a long night, often extending past midnight, which might be a consideration for those with early morning plans or limited stamina.

Some reviews mention that driving to Finland or other distant spots can extend the night, but the effort often results in spectacular aurora displays. The tour’s value for money is highlighted, especially compared to other options, for the chance to capture the lights with high-quality photos and enjoy the Arctic landscape.

Flexibility and Weather Cancellations

The tour operates on a free cancellation policy, allowing full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Since the visibility of the Northern Lights depends heavily on weather conditions, the tour will be canceled if the forecast predicts poor weather, with a full refund or rescheduling offered.

Weather can be unpredictable, and some reviews note that cloud cover or snow might limit visibility, but guides make every effort to find clearer skies.

The Overall Value and Suitability

This tour offers a balance of comfort and adventure, making it ideal for those who want a full-day, guided chase with photographic memories included. The warm bus, professional photos, and expert guides distinguish it from shorter or less personalized options.

It suits travelers who are patient, willing to spend a late night outdoors, and eager to maximize their chances of witnessing the Aurora Borealis in a well-organized setting. The price point of $172 is justified by the quality of service, guides’ dedication, and photo package.

The Sum Up: A Well-Organized Northern Lights Chase in Tromso

The Northern Lights Big Bus Chase from Arctic Explorers combines expert guidance, flexible routing, and photo opportunities to deliver a thorough and comfortable Arctic adventure. The full-day format and warm facilities make it a practical choice for those seeking a high chance of aurora sightings without sacrificing comfort.

While weather can impact visibility, the dedication of guides and their strategic driving significantly improve the odds. This tour is particularly suitable for those who value professional photos and the experience of chasing the Lights in a cozy, mobile setting.

The positive reviews emphasize the knowledge and friendliness of guides, as well as the spectacular displays when the sky cooperates. If you’re prepared for a late night and want a well-organized, engaging aurora hunt, this tour offers strong value and memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the group size is limited to 48, making it manageable for families.

What should I bring for the tour?
Guests should bring warm clothes and a tripod if they want to take better photos, although the tour provides free professional photos.

Can I cancel if the weather forecast is poor?
Yes, full cancellation is possible 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour depends on good weather for viewing.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 10 hours, with departures at 5:30 pm from Tromso and often returning late at night.

What are the main highlights?
The tour features driving to optimal locations, searching for the aurora, professional photos sent free of charge, and the guides’ enthusiasm and expertise.

Is this tour worth the price?
Given the quality of guides, photo package, and flexible routing, many consider $172 to be good value for a full-night, memorable experience.