Northern Lights x Mini Bus Chase

The Northern Lights x Mini Bus Chase is a highly-rated tour available in Tromso, Norway, priced at $187.81 per person. With an average booking time of 228 days in advance, this 6 to 8-hour small-group adventure offers a personalized and comfortable way to chase the Aurora Borealis. It departs at 6:00 pm from Kirkegata 1 and, thanks to a maximum of 15 guests per tour, promises an intimate experience.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on finding the best spots away from light pollution, combined with expert guidance on Aurora forecasting and photography. The tour’s reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, stunning sky displays, and warm, cozy amenities. However, it’s important to note that the weather heavily influences the chance to see the lights, and the small minibus size may be uncomfortable for those prone to claustrophobia.

• Personalized small-group experience with a maximum of 15 guests
• Price of $187.81 includes guided Aurora chasing, photography tips, and warm food
• Duration ranges from 6 to 8 hours, starting at 6:00 pm
• Includes hot drinks, sausages, smores, and a bonfire for a cozy Arctic evening
• Professional photos sent within 72 hours, with tripod rental included
• Departs from Kirkegata 1, Tromso, with no hotel pickup included

This tour starts at Kirkegata 1 at 6:00 pm, right in the heart of Tromso. The meeting point is near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers. The excursion is designed to maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora, with the guide using local knowledge and forecasting tools to select the best viewing locations.

The tour concludes back at the same meeting point, giving you flexibility for your evening plans. Since hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, travelers should arrange their own transportation to this central location ahead of time.

Travel takes place in a heated, modern 15-seater minibus fitted with comfortable seating. The heated environment ensures warmth against Tromso’s Arctic night, and warm suits are provided to enhance comfort during the chase. The small size of the minibus offers a more intimate experience but may feel cramped if wearing heavy winter gear.

The driver, Nico, and the guide, Jorgen, are praised for their professionalism and ability to find the best spots for Aurora viewing. They use both local knowledge and forecasting apps to make real-time decisions about where to go.

The $187.81 ticket covers a range of valuable features:

• Guided Aurora forecast and photography briefing
• Certified driver and guide providing expert insights
• Complimentary tripod rental to enhance your photos
• Professional pictures emailed within 72 hours post-tour
• Warm, home-cooked meal prepared by a local chef
• Hot drinks: coffee, tea, and warm chocolate
• Warm suits to keep warm during the Arctic night

These inclusions create an experience designed for comfort and capturing memories, even if the Aurora proves elusive.

A highlight of this tour is the bonfire, where guests gather to warm up and share food. The sausages, smores, and hot beverages foster a cozy, communal atmosphere. The home-cooked meal is a thoughtful addition, providing comfort after hours of chasing the Northern Lights.

This relaxed setting allows for storytelling, learning about the Aurora, and enjoying the starry sky, making it more than just a chase, but a memorable Arctic evening.

The guides are known for their knowledge of Aurora forecasting and photography tips. They help guests understand how to best capture the Northern Lights with tips on tripod use and camera settings. The professional photos taken during the night are a significant perk, providing high-quality images emailed to participants within 72 hours.

Guests consistently praise the guides Jorgen and Anastasia for their enthusiasm and expertise, which add a personal touch to the experience.

Many reviews mention variable weather conditions, which heavily influence the chances of seeing the Aurora. Overcast skies and rain can limit visibility, as some guests experienced disappointment. However, the expertise of the guides in selecting locations often results in occasional clearings, even amidst cloudy conditions.

The tour’s flexible approach, moving to different spots based on forecasts, enhances the likelihood of witnessing the Aurora, though it cannot guarantee sightings due to weather unpredictability.

With a maximum of 15 guests, this tour offers a more intimate experience compared to larger bus-based Aurora hunts. This allows guides to provide personalized attention, answer questions, and tailor the experience to the group’s needs.

Guests frequently commend the friendly, knowledgeable guides, and the small group size ensures a comfortable, less crowded environment.

The overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 195 reviews highlights high satisfaction. Guests praise Jorgen’s guiding skills and Nico’s driving, citing stunning Aurora displays when the conditions allow.

Some reviews note the small size of the minibus could be uncomfortable for those suffering from claustrophobia, and poor weather can diminish the experience. Despite this, many mention that the guide’s effort and expertise often make up for challenging conditions.

At $187.81, the tour offers a comprehensive package—including transport, guiding, photography, food, and warm clothing—making it a solid value for those seeking a personal and memorable Northern Lights experience.

Most travelers book this tour well in advance, emphasizing its popularity. The free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before provides flexibility in case of weather changes or schedule adjustments.

This small-group chase suits adventurers who appreciate a more personalized experience and do not mind the small minibus environment. It’s ideal for those wanting expert guidance on Aurora forecasting and help with photography. Travelers interested in cozy amenities like bonfires and warm food will find this tour particularly appealing.

However, visitors sensitive to confined spaces should consider the size of the minibus, especially with heavy winter gear.

While the tour runs year-round, the best chances for Aurora viewing occur during clear, winter nights from late autumn to early spring. The guides use forecasting tools to optimize the likelihood, but weather remains a critical factor in the success of each chase.

The Northern Lights x Mini Bus Chase offers a personalized, cozy, and well-organized way to experience Tromso’s Aurora. It’s especially suited for guests seeking guided insights, professional photos, and warm camaraderie around a bonfire.

While the small minibus may be less comfortable for some, the expert guidance, warm amenities, and intimate atmosphere compensate well. Just keep in mind that Aurora sightings cannot be guaranteed and depend on weather conditions.

This tour is a solid choice for adventurers eager to maximize their chances with local knowledge and a warm, friendly environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour begins at Kirkegata 1 in Tromso. Guests should arrange their own transportation to the meeting point.

How long does the tour last?
The duration ranges from 6 to 8 hours, starting at 6:00 pm and returning to the same meeting point.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers guided Aurora chasing, photography tips, professional photos, warm meal, hot drinks, tripod rental, and warm suits.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children aged 7 and above can participate when accompanied by an adult.

What if the weather is poor?
If cloud cover or weather prevents Aurora viewing, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled. Full refunds are available if the experience is canceled due to weather.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, 15 guests maximum, providing a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring passport (as the tour may cross into Finland), and dress warmly with layers and winter gear.

How are the photos delivered?
Professional pictures are emailed within 72 hours after the tour concludes.

What makes this tour different from larger bus tours?
The small group size and personalized guidance create a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere, with better chances for individual questions and attention.

Is this tour suitable for claustrophobic guests?
The small minibus could be a concern, so guests sensitive to confined spaces should consider this when booking.