Chasing Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) Tour with PHOTOGRAPHY

The Chasing Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) Tour with Photography offers a focused and well-organized way to witness one of nature’s most spectacular displays. For $179 per person, this 4-hour experience departs from downtown Fairbanks at 10:30 pm, making it ideal for those looking to maximize their chances of seeing the Aurora without the hassle of planning. The tour includes hotel pickup, a photography service, and digital photos sent a few days later—an attractive package for travelers eager to capture their experience.

While Aurora sightings are not guaranteed due to weather and solar activity, this tour’s reputation for knowledgeable guides and excellent photo service makes it a popular choice. The group size is limited to 18 travelers, allowing for personalized attention and a comfortable environment. For visitors who want both the thrill of Aurora chasing and high-quality photos, this excursion stands out as a practical and rewarding option.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $179, the tour lasts approximately 4 hours starting at 10:30 pm from Fairbanks.
• Expert Guidance: The guide, often praised for being knowledgeable and passionate, leads the chase for the Aurora Borealis.
• Photography Service Included: Professional photos are taken during the tour, with images delivered via Dropbox a few days later.
• Flexible Locations: The tour visits several spots in Fairbanks to increase chances of Aurora sightings.
• Hassle-Free Transfers: Hotel pickup in downtown Fairbanks simplifies logistics.
• Weather-Dependent: The Aurora is not guaranteed, as sightings depend heavily on weather and solar activity.

The Tour Starts with Fairbanks’ Historic Background

The tour begins at Hyatt Place Fairbanks, located at 400 Merhar Ave, where pickup is scheduled for 10:30 pm. While the focus is on Aurora chasing, the tour also offers a brief history of Fairbanks, notable as Alaska’s second-largest city. The area’s roots trace back to E.T. Barnette’s trading post established in 1901, and the discovery of gold near the trading post spurred rapid growth. This background provides context for visitors interested in the region’s development before heading into the night sky.

The history segment is brief, serving as a warm-up before heading into the dark countryside. The atmosphere remains relaxed, and the guide’s storytelling helps set the scene for the night’s main goal—finding the Aurora.

Pickup and Transportation Details

Hassle-free transfers are a key feature, with round-trip pickup offered within downtown Fairbanks. The tour departs precisely at 10:30 pm, ensuring travelers are ready for the late-night adventure. The transportation is comfortable and accommodating, with a maximum group size of 18 people to keep the experience intimate and personal.

The vehicle used for the chase is well-suited for traveling to different viewing spots, which is an advantage since weather conditions can change rapidly in Alaska. This flexibility allows guides to move to the most promising locations based on real-time weather updates, increasing the chance of a successful Aurora sighting.

The Aurora Chase in Fairbanks: Multiple Spots, Multiple Chances

The itinerary centers around visiting different locations in the Fairbanks area, with the primary aim of finding clear skies for Aurora viewing. The guide, often described as passionate and knowledgeable, actively seeks out spots with the best conditions.

Stops vary depending on the weather, but typically include several carefully chosen locations to avoid cloudy areas and maximize the chances of seeing the Aurora dance across the sky. In some reviews, guides are praised for their instincts and quick decision-making, pulling over at just the right moment when the Aurora appears.

Travelers are advised to dress warmly and be prepared for potentially cold conditions, especially since the tour involves staying outside in the dark for extended periods. The tour’s dynamic nature is a plus, as it adapts based on conditions, offering multiple opportunities to witness the northern lights.

The Photography Service: Professional Photos During the Chase

A standout feature of this tour is the professional photography service included at no extra cost. Guides take numerous photos of the group against the backdrop of the Aurora, capturing both individual portraits and images of the lights dancing in the sky.

Participants receive access to their photos via Dropbox a few days after the tour, allowing for easy download and sharing. Guides are praised for their instincts and skill in capturing the best shots, often taking photos from various angles and under different lighting conditions to ensure quality images. Many reviews highlight the excellent quality of photos and the helpfulness of the guide in making sure everyone is framed well.

Note that the tour does not assist with camera or phone settings, so guests should have some familiarity with their devices or rely on the guide’s expertise in photographing the Aurora.

Weather Impact and Aurora Visibility Challenges

Despite the effort to chase the best conditions, the Aurora Borealis is inherently unpredictable. Cloud cover, overcast skies, or lack of solar activity can prevent sightings altogether. Some reviews mention traveling to multiple spots, including five different locations, but weather issues occasionally hinder views despite the guides’ best efforts.

Weather can change rapidly in Fairbanks, and their flexibility allows guides to adapt quickly. However, travelers must accept that Aurora sightings are never guaranteed, even with excellent guiding and multiple stops. This uncertainty is common for northern lights tours worldwide, but the expert guidance and multiple stops improve the odds compared to solo attempts.

The Late-Night Schedule and Group Size

The tour’s late start at 10:30 pm fits well with the natural timing of Aurora activity, which peaks during the late hours. The 4-hour duration gives ample time for the guide to locate the best viewing spots and take photos.

The group size capped at 18 ensures a comfortable experience, with personalized attention from guides. This small-group environment encourages interaction, making the experience more engaging and relaxed. The late-night schedule suits those willing to stay up, and the hotel pickup removes logistical worries, allowing guests to focus solely on the spectacle above.

The Guide’s Expertise and Customer Service

Numerous reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge, enthusiasm, and professionalism. Guides like David are described as super informative, passionate, and dedicated to finding the Aurora. They go above and beyond by actively looking for the best viewing conditions, taking multiple photos, and making guests comfortable.

Guides also show care for guests’ safety and comfort, with gestures like checking if a senior participant is okay when getting out of the vehicle. Their instincts and experience significantly increase the chances of a successful Aurora view and beautiful photos, which is a major selling point.

The Value of the Package: Photos, Pickup, and Expert Guidance

For $179, the tour offers a comprehensive package: hotel pickup, expert guiding, multiple stops, and professional photography. Guests highly appreciate the quality of the photos and the personalized service.

The digital images are a valuable memento, especially since Aurora sightings are unpredictable. The ability to recall vivid images of the lights dancing above makes this tour a good investment compared to trying to chase the Aurora independently.

However, it’s important to remember that weather conditions can still prevent sightings, regardless of the guide’s efforts. The tour’s value lies in the expert guidance, flexibility, and high-quality photos rather than a guaranteed sighting.

Final Thoughts on the Fairbanks Aurora Chase Tour

The Chasing Northern Lights with Photography tour in Fairbanks offers an excellent opportunity to witness the Aurora Borealis with the support of a knowledgeable guide and professional photographer. The late-night schedule, small group size, and hotel pickup add to the convenience and comfort of the experience.

While Aurora sightings are weather-dependent, this tour’s flexibility and strong guiding staff significantly increase the chances of witnessing the lights. The included digital photos serve as lasting memories of a spectacular night sky display.

Travelers who value expert guidance, beautiful photos, and a well-organized late-night adventure should find this tour a rewarding choice. It suits those who are prepared for the elements, understand the unpredictability of Aurora viewing, and want to maximize their chances with professional help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Aurora Borealis guaranteed on this tour?
No, sightings depend on weather and solar activity. The guides do their best to find clear skies, but the Aurora cannot be guaranteed.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup in downtown Fairbanks, professional photography services, and digital photos delivered a few days after the tour.

What should I wear for the late-night chase?
Dress warmly in layers, as temperatures can be very cold at night in Fairbanks. The tour involves staying outside for extended periods, so insulated, windproof clothing is recommended.

How do I receive the photos?
Photos are uploaded to Dropbox, where participants can download them securely a few days after the experience.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Travelers seeking a guided Aurora experience with high-quality photos, comfort with a late-night schedule, and a small group setting will find this tour especially satisfying.