5D4N Aurora Package TaiwanMandarin Tour (Chateau/Explorer Stay)

The 5D4N Aurora Package in Yellowknife, priced at $731.61 per person, offers an engaging way to witness the Northern Lights in Canada’s Arctic north. This tour combines luxurious accommodation at Chateau Nova or Explorer hotels with expert-led Aurora hunting and viewing experiences. It features airport pickup, local city sightseeing, and multiple Aurora viewing sessions—both from a comfortable lodge and outdoors at lakeside spots. While the tour isn’t conducted primarily in English, it is suitable for flexible English-speaking travelers.

This package is especially appealing for visitors seeking a well-rounded Arctic adventure without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. The 4 nights of accommodation and Aurora photography service add value, although meals are not included. The tour balances structured city sightseeing with flexible Aurora hunting, making it suitable for those who want both cultural insights and nature’s spectacular light displays.

Key Points

• Includes 4 nights’ stay at a top-rated hotel in Yellowknife, with options for cozy indoor Aurora viewing.
• Offers both Aurora lodge viewing and outdoor Aurora hunting at lakeside locations.
• Provides free Aurora photos sent via digital drive, ensuring lasting memories.
• Includes airport pickup and Yellowknife city sightseeing with stops like the Pilots Monument and Visitor Centre.
• Tour duration is 5 days, with flexible outdoor excursions and a relaxed pace.
• Not including meals or guide service fees, which add an extra cost.

Cozy Indoor Aurora Viewing at Chateau Nova or Explorer Hotels

The tour begins with a 24-hour airport pickup, ensuring smooth arrival in Yellowknife. Guests stay in comfortable accommodations at Chateau Nova or Explorer hotels, both highly rated options. The hotels provide spacious, warm rooms that serve as ideal bases for Aurora viewing. During the evenings, the Aurora lodge offers a spacious and cozy indoor space to wait for the Northern Lights, avoiding the cold and crowds. This feature is especially advantageous for travelers who prefer comfort during Aurora sessions and appreciate being protected from harsh weather.

The lodge experience includes snacks, hot drinks, and hot dogs, making the wait for the Aurora more enjoyable. The indoor setting ensures that viewers can relax while keeping an eye on the sky, with the option to step outside for better sights. This setup balances comfort with the thrill of Aurora hunting.

Day 1: Arrival and First Aurora Night from the Aurora Lodge

On arrival at Yellowknife Airport, a driver greets guests with a sign reading “Welcome Aurora Tour VIP.” The hotel transfer takes place immediately after landing, setting the tone for a stress-free trip. The first evening involves relaxing at the Aurora lodge, where guests can enjoy hot beverages and snacks as they wait for the Northern Lights. The lodge’s indoor space is designed for comfortable Aurora viewing, making it an ideal introduction to the Arctic night sky.

Day 2: Exploring Yellowknife’s Landmarks and Cultural Heritage

Day 2 features a Yellowknife city tour with stops at notable sites like the Bush Pilot’s Monument and the Yellowknife Visitor Centre. The lighthouse at the monument symbolizes the possibility of catching the Aurora that night. The Visitor Centre offers insights into Yellowknife’s history as the first Arctic Circle landing site and features a large “Welcome to Yellowknife” sign, perfect for photographs.

This day offers a mix of cultural learning and scenic views. The afternoon provides another opportunity to relax at the Aurora lodge, where the warm indoor environment continues to serve as a prime Aurora-watching spot.

Day 3 & 4: Outdoor Aurora Hunting at Lakeside and Roadside Stops

The core of the Aurora experience happens during the outdoor Aurora hunting excursions on Days 3 and 4. The tour takes a bus to various lakeside and roadside parking areas, allowing for different backgrounds for Aurora photography. This variation enhances the chance to capture stunning images and enjoy diverse viewing spots.

Each evening, the group heads out for approximately 4 hours of outdoor Aurora hunting, with the same safety assurances—commercial vehicles insured for $2 million, driven by experienced guides. These excursions are ideal for those eager to see the Aurora in its natural, unobstructed environment while having the flexibility for outdoor photography.

Day 5: Final Departure and Last Night Aurora Options

On the final day, hotel transfer to the airport is available, but not included in the package. Guests with early flights between 4:00 AM and 10:00 AM can choose to bring luggage with them during the last Aurora viewing. The tour ensures that even on departure day, travelers have the opportunity for a brief Aurora experience if desired.

Aurora Viewing: Lodge Comfort and Outdoor Excursions

This package offers two distinct Aurora viewing experiences: indoor lodge sessions and outdoor hunts. The lodge is ideal for comfortable, uninterrupted viewing with free photos sent via a drive link. The outdoor trips provide more authentic, unobstructed sky views, especially at lakeside locations, with the chance for better lighting backgrounds for photography.

The combination of these two methods maximizes the chances of witnessing Aurora displays in various settings, catering to different preferences for comfort and adventure.

Additional Inclusions and Practicalities

The tour package includes airport pickup, 4 nights’ accommodation, Aurora photography, and local sightseeing. Snacks and hot beverages are offered during Aurora viewing, adding comfort to the experience.

Meals are not included, so guests should plan accordingly. The guide service fee of 45 CAD per person is not included in the package price. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and near public transportation at the hotel.

The tour can accommodate up to 50 travelers, making it a comfortable group size for social Aurora viewing.

Value and Suitability for Different Travelers

At $731.61, this tour offers a comprehensive experience with 4 nights of various Aurora viewing styles, city sightseeing, and cozy accommodations. It is best suited for those who want a balance of comfort and outdoor adventure without the hassle of independent planning.

Travelers who value free Aurora photos and local cultural insights will find this package especially attractive. However, those expecting included meals or guided tours for every activity should be aware of additional costs.

Final Thoughts on the Yellowknife Aurora Package

This 5-day package delivers a practical Arctic experience, blending relaxing indoor Aurora viewing with exciting outdoor hunts. The top-rated hotels and experienced guides ensure safety and comfort, while the scenic stops enrich the cultural journey.

While meals are not included, the overall value lies in the flexibility of Aurora viewing options and the quality of accommodation. It suits adventurous yet comfort-seeking travelers looking for a reliable Northern Lights experience in Yellowknife.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is airport pickup available?
Yes, the tour provides 24-hour airport pickup service, with drivers meeting guests at Yellowknife Airport.

What is included in the tour price?
The package includes 4 nights’ accommodation at Chateau Nova or Explorer hotels, Aurora lodge access, outdoor Aurora hunts, free Aurora photos, local city sightseeing, and snacks during Aurora viewing.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included in the package, so travelers should plan for their own dining.

What are the main stops during the city tour?
Stops include the Pilots Monument, Yellowknife Visitor Centre, and the Welcome Monument near the airport.

Can I participate if I don’t speak English fluently?
The tour is not conducted primarily in English but is suitable for English-speaking travelers who are flexible with language.

What safety measures are in place during outdoor Aurora hunts?
Guides use commercial vehicles insured for $2 million, and experienced drivers lead outdoor excursions to ensure safety.

How long are the Aurora hunting trips?
Each outdoor Aurora activity lasts approximately 4 hours in the evening, providing ample time to find clear sky views.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 50 travelers at a time, maintaining a comfortable group size.

What if I need to cancel?
Cancellation is possible up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 6 days before result in no refund, unless canceled 26 days prior for a 50% refund.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is operated by MORNING STAR TRAVEL LTD.