The Best Aurora Tour

Experience the Northern Lights in Yellowknife for $92.79

The Best Aurora Tour in Yellowknife, Canada, offers a memorable way to witness the aurora borealis. Priced at $92.79 per person, this approximately 4-hour tour includes hotel or airport pickup and a cozy campsite setting. It’s perfect for those who want to maximize their chances of seeing the northern lights with guidance and comforts like warm drinks and snacks. While the tour is well-rated overall, the unpredictability of the weather means aurora sightings are not guaranteed. Travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and flexible locations will find this tour appealing.

The tour departs at 10:30 pm, making it suitable for night owls, and can accommodate most travelers. With over 22 reviews and a 4.0/5 rating, it remains a popular choice for aurora seekers, especially given the effort to include photography assistance and hassle-free transportation.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $92.79 per person for a 4-hour aurora experience
• Pickup from Yellowknife hotels or airport simplifies logistics
• Warm drinks, snacks, and washroom access provided at the campsite
• Guide assistance with photography available upon request
• Flexible locations and chasing offered if the aurora is elusive
• Most travelers can participate, with a maximum group size of 300

Pickup and Transportation from Yellowknife

The Best Aurora Tour starts with round-trip transfers from your Yellowknife hotel or airport. This hassle-free pickup ensures you don’t need to worry about finding the meeting point, especially after a long travel day. The vehicle is equipped to comfortably transport groups, and the guide coordinates the trip to optimize viewing conditions.

The convenience of hotel or airport pickup sets this tour apart, allowing you to focus on the experience without logistical stress. This feature is especially valuable given the late start time of 10:30 pm, when many prefer not to navigate unfamiliar roads at night.

Cozy Campsite and Viewing Locations at Night

Once at the campsite, the atmosphere is designed for comfort and anticipation. Travelers can sit back with warm drinks and snacks, waiting for the aurora to appear. The campsite offers clean washrooms and a relaxed setting to rest or take photos.

If the aurora remains hidden due to weather, guides can take you to different locations to increase your chances of catching the lights. Some reviews highlight how guides are willing to stay outdoors longer and move between spots to find the best viewing conditions, which demonstrates their dedication.

The Role of Guides in Aurora Chase and Photography

Knowledgeable guides like Wendy, Momo, Jimmy, and others are praised for their expertise and friendly attitude. They not only help explain the science and tracking of the aurora but also assist with photography at your request.

This support is invaluable for capturing the fleeting ribbons of light, especially since conditions are unpredictable. Guides often stay outdoors with guests when the aurora appears, ensuring everyone gets the best shot possible, even if the lights are faint or fleeting.

The Itinerary: From Yellowknife to Cloudy Skies

The tour begins in Yellowknife with an introduction to aurora tracking. Afterward, guests are taken to a comfortable campsite where they can rest and wait in warmth. If the aurora doesn’t appear, the guide may escort the group to different locations to chase the lights, increasing the possibility of sightings.

Most stops are close to the town, but some reviews suggest that further from town lights could enhance viewing. The tour’s flexibility allows for multiple location visits during the night, with the goal of maximizing the chance to see the northern lights.

Weather Conditions and Aurora Visibility

Weather plays a significant role in aurora viewing. Several reviews mention cloudy skies that prevent sightings, which is common in aurora tours worldwide. Despite the guides’ efforts and good site selection, the cloud cover can sometimes ruin the night’s chances.

Guides are praised for trying hard and moving around in an effort to find clearer skies. However, since the tour cannot guarantee aurora sightings, travelers should be aware that bad weather can impact the experience.

Food, Drinks, and Comfort at the Campsite

The tour includes hot drinks, snacks, and access to clean washrooms at the campsite, providing comfort during the long wait. The warm beverages are especially appreciated in the cold Arctic night, helping guests stay cozy while watching for the lights.

Some reviews note that the snacks are basic, but the focus remains on the experience and the warmth provided. The firepit and teepee add to the cozy atmosphere, making the night enjoyable regardless of whether the aurora appears.

The Experience of Seeing the Aurora

While sightings depend heavily on weather conditions, many participants do get a glimpse of the aurora borealis during the tour. Several reviews mention seeing the lights and describe the experience as “really great” with bright, active displays.

Even when the lights don’t show, guides are committed to giving guests a valuable experience by explaining aurora science and taking multiple photos. The tour’s focus on photography assistance helps ensure that you’ll walk away with memories captured.

Tour Reviews and Guide Dedication

The overall rating of 4.2/5 reflects strong appreciation for the guides’ friendly attitude and willingness to go the extra mile. Guides like Jimmy and Wendy receive praise for their knowledge and dedication, often staying outdoors longer to maximize viewing chances.

Some reviews highlight specific guides’ efforts to fulfill guest needs and help with photography, making the experience personalized and memorable. A few negative reviews cite weather issues or the location’s proximity to town as drawbacks, but guides’ efforts are consistently recognized.

Cancellation Policy and Booking Flexibility

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving flexibility if your plans change. Since the experience depends on weather and aurora activity, this policy allows travelers to cancel with a full refund if conditions are unfavorable.

Changes or cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour are not refundable, so it’s advisable to confirm plans early.

Summary: Is the Best Aurora Tour Worth It?

The Best Aurora Tour in Yellowknife offers a reliable, guided experience designed to improve your chances of seeing the northern lights. Its hassle-free pickup, warm drinks, and photography support make it particularly appealing for visitors new to aurora chasing or those wanting comfort during the long Arctic night.

However, weather variability is an inherent limitation, and sightings are not guaranteed. Guides’ dedication and location flexibility help mitigate this risk, but travelers should be prepared for the possibility of cloudy skies. This tour suits those who value expert guidance, cozy settings, and photographic help.

In cases of bad weather or low aurora activity, the tour still provides an engaging night outdoors, with knowledgeable guides explaining the science and offering a warm respite. For aurora enthusiasts willing to spend around $93, this tour offers a solid balance of comfort, expertise, and effort to witness this natural wonder.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transfers from your Yellowknife hotel or airport.

How long does the tour last?
The duration is approximately 4 hours, starting at 10:30 pm.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if canceled 24 hours in advance. Weather-dependent conditions may prevent aurora sightings, but the cancellation policy remains the same.

What is included at the campsite?
Guests receive warm drinks, snacks, and access to clean washrooms. The campsite also has firepits and a teepee for comfort.

Are guides available to help with photography?
Yes, guides offer photography assistance upon request, helping guests capture the aurora with their cameras.

What if I don’t see the northern lights?
While the guides do their best to find clear skies and good spots, aurora sightings depend on weather. If clouds obscure the sky, sightings might be limited or absent.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 300 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience without overcrowding.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but some activities involve spending time outdoors in cold temperatures, so dressing warmly is recommended.