Best Northern Lights Aurora Adventure FREE Portraits & Hot Pizza

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $299.98 per person and lasts about 6 hours, perfect for a relaxed, in-depth experience.
• Expert Photography Included: A professional photographer with pro gear captures stunning portraits and landscape shots of the Aurora Borealis.
• Prime Viewing Locations: The tour drives 15-40 miles north of Fairbanks to prime backcountry locations for optimal Aurora viewing.
• Comfort and Warmth: Warming shelters, thermal gear, headlamps, and crampons ensure comfort during cold winter nights.
• Gourmet Food and Activities: Enjoy hot pizzas baked in a 930-degree stone-fired oven, hot cocoa, coffee, and Chai Tea, plus fun extras like flying paper lanterns.
• Small Group Experience: With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate, personalized atmosphere and flexible pacing.

The Best Northern Lights Aurora Adventure in Fairbanks delivers a well-rounded experience that combines expert photography, cozy comforts, and fun activities. Priced at $299.98 per person, this 6-hour tour is ideal for those seeking a memorable night under the Aurora Borealis with a small, personalized group of up to 10 travelers. The tour is highly praised for its professional guide, Nathan, who brings 23 years of Alaskan outdoor experience and a passion for sharing the magic of the northern lights.

What makes this tour stand out is the inclusion of a professional photographer who uses pro gear and lighting to ensure flawless portraits and landscape shots. The tour departs from Fairbanks, driving 15-40 miles north to carefully chosen backcountry locations. This guarantees some of the best chances to see the Aurora, with the added benefit of avoiding light pollution and crowds. The overall experience is decorated with warmth, comfort, and fun, making it suitable for anyone who wants to capture the lights while staying cozy.

From Fairbanks to Prime Aurora Viewing Locations

This tour begins with a 10:00 pm pickup in Fairbanks, where you are transported to remote, beautiful spots well away from city lights. The drive lasts approximately 15 to 40 minutes, during which the guide shares insights about the science behind the Aurora Borealis. The scenic journey takes you into the frozen Alaskan wilderness, setting the stage for an extraordinary night.

Once at the chosen location, the guide sets up a heated warming shelter with heaters and seats, giving guests a comfortable place to relax while waiting for the Aurora to appear. This is a key feature that elevates the experience, especially on cold winter nights. The small group size ensures everyone has space to enjoy the surroundings and ask questions without feeling crowded.

Expert Photography and Portrait Sessions with Nathan

Nathan, the guide and professional photographer, makes an impression with his expertise and genuine care. He provides photography lessons using your camera, helping you learn how to capture the Aurora Borealis effectively. The result is beautiful portraits and landscapes, all included in the tour’s digital photo album.

Guests consistently mention Nathan’s attention to detail, from setting up the lighting to ensuring everyone gets stunning photos with the colorful sky overhead. The images are delivered within hours, allowing everyone to relive the night instantly. The emphasis on professional-quality photos makes this tour stand apart from more casual Aurora viewing experiences.

Cozy Shelter, Warming Food, and Fun Extras

One of the most praised features of this tour is the warm shelter, which keeps guests comfortable despite the chilly Alaskan night. The guide’s setup includes heaters, seats, and foot and hand warmers, making it easy to relax and enjoy the moment.

The hot pizza, baked in a 930-degree stone-fired pizza oven, adds a gourmet touch to the evening. Guests also enjoy hot cocoa, coffee, and Chai Tea, perfect for warming up during the waits. The tour also includes flying paper lanterns and steel wool photography, adding a playful and memorable element to the night.

The combination of delicious food and engaging activities helps pass the time while watching the sky, even if the Aurora doesn’t appear immediately. Many reviews praise the guide’s effort to make the experience fun and memorable, regardless of Aurora activity.

How the Night Unfolds: The Aurora Chase

Depending on cloud coverage, the tour drives 15-40 miles north to several excellent viewing locations. The guide monitors the sky and Aurora forecast, aiming to find the clearest skies possible. If the Aurora lights up the sky, the guide takes care of lighting and framing your photos, ensuring you leave with professional-quality images.

Guests can expect to see colorful swirls of green, purple, and red overhead, as the Aurora Borealis swirls across the night sky. The guide’s scientific explanations add context, making the experience both educational and awe-inspiring. The tour’s flexible approach means stops are adjusted to maximize Aurora visibility, and the guide often stops twice to check for activity if conditions change.

Activities and Photo Opportunities During the Tour

Beyond Aurora chasing, the tour offers fun activities like flying paper lanterns, which add a colorful touch against the dark sky. The steel wool photography is another highlight, creating dramatic light trails that make for striking images.

The portrait sessions occur against the glowing backdrop of the Aurora, with Nathan taking well-composed photos of each guest. The digital album includes both portraits and landscape shots, capturing the beauty of the night and the joy of the experience.

The guide also shares science and photography tips, helping guests understand how to get the best results with their cameras. These educational moments enhance the overall enjoyment, making the tour more than just a typical Aurora viewing.

Comfort and Safety in the Alaskan Winter

The tour emphasizes guest comfort and safety. The heated shelter provides a warm refuge, while thermal gear, headlamps, and crampons help guests stay warm and steady on potentially icy ground. The small group size fosters a relaxed atmosphere and allows the guide to give personalized attention.

Nathan’s 23 years of outdoor experience ensures that the tour runs smoothly, regardless of weather or Aurora activity. The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as it involves some walking and standing, but is otherwise accessible.

The Value of Professional Photos and Food in the Experience

Many reviews highlight the quality of the photos taken during the tour, which serve as lasting keepsakes of the night. The professional photography combined with the quick delivery creates a strong sense of value for the $299.98 price point.

The hot pizzas and hot drinks are frequently praised as unexpected bonuses that add a gourmet touch to the experience. These extras, alongside warm shelter and fun activities, elevate the tour from simple Aurora viewing to a full, enjoyable event.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for Aurora enthusiasts who want professional photos and a cozy experience. It suits those who appreciate personalized attention, expert guidance, and fun activities like lantern releases and steel wool photography. Families, couples, and small groups will find the intimate setting enhances the magic.

Given the small group size and flexible approach, this tour works well for adventurers of moderate physical fitness comfortable with cold weather and some walking. The focus on comfort, food, and professional photography makes it a well-rounded option for creating unforgettable memories.

Final Thoughts on the Fairbanks Aurora Adventure

This 6-hour tour offers a comprehensive Aurora experience that combines expert photography, cozy comforts, engaging activities, and stunning natural scenery. The small group setting and personalized approach ensure a memorable, relaxed night under the Northern Lights.

The hot pizza, warm shelter, and professional photos make this tour stand out as a high-value, well-organized experience. It’s suited for those seeking lasting keepsakes and an authentic Alaskan adventure with a seasoned guide.

While Aurora activity can vary, the tour’s flexibility and dedication to guest comfort make it a reliable choice for an unforgettable night in Fairbanks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $299.98 ticket includes transportation, access to prime viewing locations, a professional photographer, digital photos, warm shelter, hot pizza, hot drinks, and fun extras like lantern releases.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 10:00 pm and includes travel, viewing, and photo sessions.

What should I wear for the tour?
Guests should wear moderate physical fitness levels appropriate winter clothing, including thermal layers, and be prepared for cold nighttime temperatures.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the small group size and focus on comfort make it suitable for adults and families, with the caveat that some walking or standing may be involved.

What makes this tour different from others?
The professional photography, cozy shelter, hot pizza, and Nathan’s expertise set this tour apart. It offers a personalized, fun, and memorable experience.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

What happens if the Aurora doesn’t appear?
The guide monitors conditions and may drive to different locations or return for a second attempt. Some reviews note they were brought back for another chance, which many find reassuring.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off in Fairbanks, making logistics hassle-free.

Will I get good photos of the Aurora?
Absolutely. The professional photographer uses pro gear and lighting to produce stunning portraits and landscapes, which are delivered quickly.

What if I have special dietary needs?
The tour provides hot pizza, hot cocoa, coffee, and Chai Tea. While specific dietary accommodations aren’t detailed, the focus is on gourmet pizza and hot drinks.

Is this tour recommended by others?
Yes, it boasts a 5/5 rating from 186 reviews, with 99% recommending it for its excellent experience, professional guidance, and memorable photos.