Tromso: Northern Lights Photography Tour

Tromso: Northern Lights Photography Tour offers a well-rounded chase for the Aurora Borealis in Norway’s Innlandet County. Priced for a 7-hour adventure, this tour promises not only to maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights but also to help you capture stunning photos of this natural wonder. It departs from Northern Shots Tours in Tromso, with a focus on educating visitors about the science of the Aurora while providing a comfortable, well-organized experience.

We like how the tour combines scenic Arctic landscapes with photography lessons and the thrill of a real-time Aurora chase. Although the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed, the tour’s flexible routing and experienced guides often lead to successful sightings, even in challenging weather. This makes it especially suitable for those eager to learn how to photograph the Aurora or simply enjoy the Arctic night sky in comfort.

Key Points

• Duration: 7 hours, starting from Tromso and including multiple stops
• Focus: Aurora hunting combined with photography lessons and tips
• Meeting point: Inside the Northern Shots shop, near Prostneset Harbour
• Transportation: Comfortable coach with a heated interior (though it may cool slightly on very cold nights)
• Highlights: Scenic fjords, mountains, and Arctic landscapes, plus the chance to develop photography skills
• Food: Mid-tour hot chocolate and cookies offered, with optional professional Aurora photos available for purchase
• Weather: Run regardless of weather, with a flexible itinerary to maximize Aurora visibility
• Suitability: Ideal for photographers, Aurora enthusiasts, and those wanting a guided Arctic experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Meeting Details in Tromso

The tour begins at the Northern Shots Tours shop, also known as Booking Point, located between The Edge Hotel and the Magic Ice bar. The exact coordinates (69.64767456054688, 18.95836639404297) mark the spot, clearly indicated by a large “Booking Point” sign on the storefront. Guests are advised to arrive in warm clothing, bringing essentials such as passport, ID, water, flashlight, and charged phone.

This central location makes it easy to find, and the shop’s friendly staff help with last-minute questions or rescheduling if needed.

How the Tour Unfolds: From Tromso to Arctic Viewing Spots

The 7-hour itinerary involves approximately 2 hours of transfer to the best Aurora viewing areas, with sightseeing along the way. The coach departs from Tromso and travels past fjords and mountains, revealing Norway’s stunning Arctic scenery. The guides rely on a strong network of technical resources to locate optimal spots for Aurora viewing, adjusting routes based on weather forecasts and Aurora activity.

Once in the Arctic landscape, the guides set up the group for optimal photo opportunities. They offer a brief tutorial on capturing the Northern Lights, helping guests with camera settings and composition. Stops are often at spacious, scenic locations like fjords or mountain viewpoints, providing a chance to enjoy Norway’s untouched night scenery.

The Arctic Landscape and Scenic Stops

Throughout the tour, visitors will admire frozen fjords, snow-covered mountains, and wide-open Arctic skies. These natural backdrops set the perfect scene for Aurora photography and allow travelers to connect with nature. Some stops are chosen for their clarity of the sky and minimal light pollution, increasing the chances of seeing the Aurora dance overhead.

Although the tour may involve several hours in the vehicle, the varied scenery keeps the experience engaging. The guides are attentive, constantly monitoring Aurora forecasts to move the group to the most promising locations.

Photography Lessons and Aurora Portraits

A highlight of this tour is the focus on learning to take photos of the Northern Lights. Guides provide quick tutorials on camera settings and help guests set up their phones or cameras. This practical advice enhances the chances of capturing vivid images of the Aurora’s dancing lights.

For an additional fee, guests can opt to have a professional Aurora portrait taken by the guide, ensuring a lasting memory of the experience. Many reviews praise the guides’ photography skills and their willingness to assist in capturing perfect shots, even in challenging weather conditions.

More Great Tours Nearby

Comfort and Practical Tips for Cold Nights

While the vehicle is usually heated, the interior may cool down during very cold nights, especially when the group stops outside. Travelers are advised to wear warm layers, thermal clothing, gloves, and hats. The tour provides hot chocolate and cookies mid-way, offering some warmth and comfort during the Arctic night.

Participants should bring food, water, gloves, and a flashlight, along with passport or ID. The guides emphasize dressing warmly and preparing for potentially slippery stops on icy ground.

Weather and Aurora Visibility Expectations

The tour runs regardless of weather, including cloudy, snowy, or rainy conditions. The Auroras often appear even in poor weather, thanks to the guides’ skillful route adjustments. However, sightings are not guaranteed, as the Aurora depends on solar activity and sky clarity.

In April and August, the window for Aurora viewing shortens to about 1 hour or less due to increased daylight, and the Aurora may be less intense during these months. The tour offers a 50% discount on a future trip if the Aurora is not seen during the first booking, valid at the desk subject to availability.

Tour Group Size and Experience Quality

Reviews indicate that the tour can accommodate large groups, especially during peak season. Despite crowds, guides make efforts to find spacious spots and give individual attention to help guests with photography or questions. The guides’ enthusiasm and expertise shine through, making the experience both educational and memorable.

Many reviews mention the guides by name, praising their knowledge, friendliness, and determination to find the Aurora, even under challenging weather.

Food, Photos, and Souvenirs

Mid-tour, guests enjoy hot chocolate and biscuits, providing a cozy break amid the cold Arctic night. The tour also offers professional Aurora photos taken by the guides; these are available for purchase at 195 NOK each. Guests with their own cameras and tripods are encouraged to bring them, especially since professional photos are not included in the base price.

Some reviewers highlight the quality of the photos and the guides’ helpful advice on camera settings. It’s a good idea to bring a tripod, especially for longer exposures.

Professional Guides and Photography Expertise

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable and passionate guides such as Thomas, Marek, Mirco, Gerard, and others. Their scientific explanations about the Aurora, combined with their photography skills, greatly enhance the experience.

Guides are attentive, often offering individual help with camera setups, and they drive to the best locations based on real-time Aurora activity and weather data. Their dedication results in many guests leaving with stunning photos and unforgettable memories.

Suitability for Different Travelers

This tour is especially well-suited for photographers, Aurora enthusiasts, and nature lovers eager to explore Norway’s Arctic landscape at night. The 7-hour duration allows ample time for scenic stops and photo sessions, although it does involve some long hours in the vehicle.

Travelers should be prepared for cold conditions and be comfortable sitting in a coach for extended periods. The tour’s flexibility and expert guidance make it a reliable choice for those serious about seeing and photographing the Northern Lights.

Final Thoughts on the Tromso Northern Lights Photography Tour

This tour offers a well-organized, educational, and scenic experience designed to maximize chances of Aurora sightings and improve your photography skills. Guides’ expertise and willingness to help shine through, making even challenging weather conditions manageable.

While the Aurora cannot be guaranteed, the dynamic routing and experience-driven approach ensure that most participants walk away with beautiful photos and fond memories of the Arctic night sky. It’s best suited for those who want a comfortable, guided chase with photography assistance and scenic Arctic landscapes at their fingertips.

The hot drinks, professional photos, and friendly guides contribute to a warm, memorable adventure. For anyone with an interest in norwegian nature, astronomy, or photography, this tour offers a solid balance of education, comfort, and the thrill of the Aurora’s dance overhead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners in photography?
Yes, guides provide quick tutorials on taking photos of the Northern Lights, making it accessible for beginners.

What should I wear on the tour?
Warm clothing, thermal layers, gloves, and hats are essential since it can be very cold outdoors. The vehicle is heated but may cool down during stops.

Can I buy professional Aurora photos taken by the guides?
Yes, professional photos are available for 195 NOK each, taken with guides’ high-quality cameras.

What if the Northern Lights are not visible?
The tour runs regardless of weather and Aurora visibility. If it’s cloudy or the lights don’t appear, you receive a 50% discount for another tour, provided it’s booked at the desk.

Where exactly do I meet for the tour?
Inside the Northern Shots shop, located between The Edge Hotel and Magic Ice bar in Tromso, with precise coordinates provided.

How long is the transfer to the viewing locations?
The transfer takes approximately 2 hours, traveling past fjords and mountains to reach optimal Aurora spots.

Is food provided during the tour?
Midway through the trip, hot chocolate and cookies are served. Additional food or drinks are not included but can be brought along.

Are there any restrictions on what to bring?
Food and alcohol are not allowed in the vehicle. It’s best to bring essentials like passport, water, flashlight, and charged phone.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The tour’s route is adjusted based on weather and Aurora activity, so locations vary. The overall experience aims to balance scenic stops with Aurora searches.

Can I join the tour if I have mobility issues?
The data does not specify accessibility details, but as the tour involves outdoor stops and a coach ride, guests should be prepared for cold, slippery conditions.

What months is this tour available?
The tour operates during the winter and polar nights, with special considerations for April and August when daylight hours are longer and Aurora visibility is reduced.

Is there a maximum group size?
While the exact size isn’t specified, reviews indicate it can accommodate larger groups, especially in peak season, with efforts to find spacious viewing spots.

This Northern Lights Photography Tour in Tromso combines scenic Arctic landscapes, expert guidance, and photo lessons to deliver a memorable Aurora experience. Its flexible routing, comfortable coach, and dedicated guides make it a strong choice for anyone wanting to chase the Aurora and learn how to photograph it effectively.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby