Getting a clear view of the Northern Lights in Tromso can be challenging due to light pollution and weather conditions. The Northern Lights Cable Car Excursion offers a practical and scenic way to maximize your chances, with a round-trip transfer from Tromsø’s city center, access to the Fjellheisen cable car, and an evening meal included. Priced at $191.57 per person, this tour typically books about 65 days in advance, which suggests it’s popular among those planning ahead for the Arctic’s night spectacles.

While the main highlight is undoubtedly the spectacular vistas from the cable car, the tour’s real draw is the opportunity to experience the Aurora Borealis away from city lights, with the additional comfort of guided support and local snacks. However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention issues like the accuracy of meal descriptions and weather cancellations, so setting expectations accordingly helps ensure a smoother experience.

Key Points

Scenic cable car ride to the top of Tromso’s mountains for unparalleled views.
Includes round-trip transportation from the city center, making logistics seamless.
Light pollution-free vantage point increases chances of seeing the Northern Lights.
Local guide and snacks (waffles and coffee) enhance the experience.
Tour duration is approximately 3 hours, starting at 7:00 pm.
Cost is $191.57 per person, with most bookings made about 65 days in advance.

How the Fjellheisen Cable Car Offers Unique Views of Tromso

This tour centers around the Fjellheisen cable car, which takes visitors from the heart of Tromso up to the mountain for sweeping views of the Tromsø mountains and surrounding Arctic landscape. The cable car operates in the evening, allowing guests to witness the city lights fading away as the sky darkens, perfect for Aurora viewing.

The view from the cable car is considered unrivaled, providing a light pollution-free platform. This significantly improves the visibility of the Northern Lights when they appear, compared to city-based or ground-level viewing spots. The top station at Fjellstua Café offers a cozy environment to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Planning more time in Tromso? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

Logistics: From Tromso City Center to the Mountain

The tour begins at Kirkegata 7 in Tromsø, with round-trip private transfer included, eliminating the hassle of arranging transport. The group size is capped at 15, ensuring a comfortable and intimate experience. The pick-up is scheduled for 7:00 pm, aligning with the prime viewing hours for the Aurora.

The transportation service ensures guests are smoothly taken to the cable car and back, which is especially helpful in winter conditions. The end point is the same as the start, simplifying the overall flow of the evening.

The Cable Car Ride: Comfort and Scenic Beauty

The Fjellheisen cable car is a key feature of this tour, offering a smooth ride to a mountain elevation that provides breathtaking panoramic views. The cable car operation is reliable, and the top station houses the Fjellstua Café and Restaurant, where guests can briefly relax.

Despite the beauty of the ride, some reviews mention the cold and windy conditions on the mountain, so dressing warmly is advised. The view at the top is the main draw, with clearer skies and less light pollution promising a better chance to see the Northern Lights if they happen during the evening.

Food and Snacks at the Fjellstua Café

Included in the tour are waffles and coffee, which are enjoyed at the mountain top. Review comments highlight the deliciousness of these snacks and the warmth they bring during the chilly Arctic night. It’s important to note that no full dinner is provided, and alcohol is not included, so guests should plan accordingly if they want additional drinks or a more substantial meal.

The traditional waffles and hot chocolate are simple yet appreciated touches, especially after spending time in the cold. Some reviews indicate confusion regarding meal options, so clarifying that coffee and waffles are included, not a full meal, helps set expectations.

The Challenge of Aurora Visibility: Weather and Lights

The primary goal of this tour is to see the Northern Lights in a light-pollution-free environment. The best chances occur on clear, dark nights with minimal cloud cover. However, reviews point out that Aurora sightings are never guaranteed, and weather conditions can cancel the activity, as happened when strong winds caused cancellations.

A visit during the Aurora season still offers a chance to witness this natural phenomenon, but travelers need to be prepared for the unpredictability. The guides are knowledgeable and help explain the Aurora activity, but the lights depend heavily on natural factors.

While you're exploring Tromso, here are other experiences we've looked into

The Experience of the Guided Tour

The local guide leads the group through the evening, providing insights into the Northern Lights and the Arctic environment. Guests praise guides for their helpfulness and knowledge, which can make a big difference during cold, dark nights.

The tour emphasizes safety and comfort, with assistance in dressing warmly and understanding the best viewing conditions. The guide’s explanations enrich the experience, even if the Aurora itself chooses not to appear on a given night.

Price and Booking Considerations

At $191.57 per person, this tour represents a moderate investment for the chance to see the Northern Lights from a scenic vantage point. Since most reservations are made about 65 days in advance, it’s advisable to book early, especially during peak Aurora season.

The cancellation policy allows for a full refund if canceled 24 hours before the scheduled time, providing flexibility in case of weather or other unforeseen issues.

Potential Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers spectacular views and convenient logistics, some reviews highlight disappointments such as cancellation due to weather or misunderstandings about food offerings. It’s essential to understand that meals are limited to waffles and coffee, not a full dinner, and that Aurora viewing depends on natural conditions.

Guests should be prepared for cold weather and possible cancellations, but the guided support and scenic cable car ride make this a worthwhile option for those seeking a comfortable Arctic experience.

Final Thoughts on the Northern Lights Cable Car Excursion

This tour delivers easy access to Tromso’s best vantage point for viewing the Northern Lights, with round-trip transfers and snacks included. The spectacular panoramic views from the cable car are complemented by the expert guidance that helps maximize the Aurora opportunity.

However, travelers should manage expectations regarding weather cancellations and meal limitations. It’s ideally suited for those who want a comfortable, guided experience with some flexibility, and who are prepared for the Arctic cold.

This excursion combines scenic beauty, convenience, and a good chance to see the Aurora Borealis, making it a solid choice for Northern Lights enthusiasts visiting Tromso.

Ready to Book?

Northern lights cable car excursion

3.5

(10)

“It was very cold and windy on top of the mountain, but we did see the lights. Our guide was helpful and the traditional cinnamon roll and hot choco…”

— Tanya M, Jan 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, round-trip private transfer from Tromsø city center is included, making logistics simple.

What is the best time to book this tour?
Most bookings are made about 65 days in advance, indicating high demand during peak Aurora season.

What does the meal include?
Guests are served coffee and waffles, with no full dinner provided. Alcoholic beverages are not included.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
While the tour offers improved chances due to the light-pollution-free vantage point, Aurora sightings depend on weather and natural conditions.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly for cold and windy conditions on the mountain, especially since the top station can be chilly.

What happens if the weather cancels the tour?
The tour can be canceled due to strong winds or poor weather, but a full refund is available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but specific age limits are not detailed in the provided information.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 3 hours, starting at 7:00 pm.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
Details about accessibility are not provided, so travelers with mobility concerns should inquire further.

What makes this tour different from other Northern Lights excursions?
This tour’s focus on scenic cable car views and inclusive transportation sets it apart, offering a comfortable and picturesque Aurora viewing experience.