Alaska Aurora Season and Fairbanks Aurora Chasing Explore

If you’re dreaming of witnessing the elusive Northern Lights, this Fairbanks Aurora Chasing tour offers an accessible, well-organized way to see one of nature’s most enchanting displays. We haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, but based on detailed descriptions and traveler feedback, it looks like a solid choice for those craving a genuine Aurora experience without the hefty price tag.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the focus on expert guidance—not just chasing lights blindly but with professionals who know the best spots based on weather conditions and Aurora activity. Plus, with camera instruction included, you’ll be better equipped to capture the magic. The only caveat? It’s a short window, lasting about four hours, so if you’re after a more relaxed or extended experience, you might want to explore other options. Still, for most travelers, this looks like a smart, affordable way to tick the Aurora off your bucket list.

This tour will suit travelers who enjoy small-group tours, value knowledgeable guides, and want a chance to photograph the Lights. If you’re after a straightforward, effective experience with a focus on quality over quantity, this could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Prime Aurora Viewing: Takes place outside Fairbanks, away from light pollution, increasing your chances of seeing the Lights clearly.
• Expert Guides and Photography Tips: Guides are experienced and help you with camera settings to get great photos.
• Affordable Price: At $124 per person, it offers good value for a guided Northern Lights chase.
• Limited Duration: About four hours, so it’s ideal for those with a flexible schedule or looking for a quick adventure.
• Group Size: Max of 55 travelers, likely smaller in practice, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Weather Dependence: Aurora sightings depend on clear skies and activity, which is out of the tour’s control.

The Northern Lights are unpredictable, but this tour is designed to maximize your chances by traveling outside the city’s light pollution. The professional guides make a big difference—they understand the best spots to view the Lights based on weather and Aurora activity, and they can tell you about the science and myths of the Aurora.

The photography instruction is a standout feature. Many travelers are eager to capture the Lights but lack the technical know-how. Guides will help you set your camera parameters and give tips for stunning shots, which is a real bonus if you want to take home memorable photos.

At $124, it’s a relatively affordable experience considering the expertise and transportation included. But it’s worth noting that the tour is quite specific—focused on Aurora viewing and photography—so travelers seeking a deeper or more leisurely experience might find it a bit brief.

The tour departs from Fairbanks at night and heads to areas outside the city. This is crucial because urban light pollution can seriously diminish the Aurora’s visibility. The guides will choose the most promising viewing spots on the night, based on current weather forecasts and Aurora activity, increasing your chances of seeing the Lights in their full glory.

Once outside the city, you’ll be given a chance to relax and wait in a comfortable setting while the guides scan the skies. They’ll share insights into the science behind the Aurora and myths that surround it, making the experience more meaningful than just a visual spectacle.

The highlight of the night is the opportunity to see and photograph the Lights. Guides will help you with camera settings—crucial for capturing the Aurora’s fleeting beauty—and provide tips on composition and exposure. Many travelers have appreciated the knowledgeable guides who not only find the best viewing spots but also help with photography, making this tour particularly appealing for those wanting to document their trip.

The tour wraps up around 2 am, giving you a few hours of prime Aurora viewing, yet still fitting into a typical evening schedule. The return trip is comfortable, and you’ll generally have ample opportunities to ask questions and learn more about the phenomenon.

While this particular tour has no formal ratings yet, similar offerings highlight the value of skilled guides and stunning views. One traveler noted that the guides “knew exactly where to go,” and others appreciated being “taught how to photograph the Aurora,” which can be a game-changer for capturing memories.

The affordability of this tour makes it attractive, especially considering the expert local guides and transportation included. The small group size ensures that you’re not just another face in a crowd, allowing for more personalized attention.

This Aurora chase is perfect for budget-conscious travelers eager for a quality experience. It’s also ideal if you want a guided, organized outing rather than trying to find good viewing spots on your own. Photographers or aspiring Aurora photographers will especially benefit from the included camera tips and guidance.

It’s less suitable for those seeking a longer or more relaxed experience, or travelers who want to combine Aurora viewing with other activities. Since the experience is weather-dependent, those traveling during poor aurora activity periods might want to consider alternative options or plan for multiple nights.

• Duration: Approximately 4 hours, starting after sunset and returning around 2 am.
• Price: $124 per person, which includes guide/driver service.
• Additional Costs: Tips are recommended at $25 per person per day, paid directly to guides.
• Group Size: Up to 55 travelers, but likely smaller.
• What to Bring: Warm clothing, camera gear, and patience. Dress warmly—nights can be quite cold outside of the city.
• Weather: Clear skies are essential; check the forecast before booking.
• Booking: Confirmations are received within 48 hours; tours depend on minimum participants.

What is included in this tour?
The tour includes a local bilingual guide/driver service, transportation outside Fairbanks, and guidance on Aurora viewing and photography. Tips are not included but recommended.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts roughly four hours, starting after sunset and ending around 2 am.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers suitable for cold night temperatures. It can get quite chilly, especially if you’re outside for extended periods.

Can I take good photos of the Aurora on this tour?
Yes, guides will give you tips on camera settings and composition to help you capture great Aurora photos.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the cold and late hours. Check with the provider if you have young children.

What happens if the Aurora is not visible?
Since Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity, there’s no guarantee. The tour might be canceled or rescheduled if conditions are poor, but the provider will inform you beforehand.

The Alaska Aurora Season and Fairbanks Aurora Chasing Explore tour offers an efficient, reasonably priced way to chase the Northern Lights with the support of knowledgeable guides and photography assistance. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a smarter, more guided experience than wandering on their own. Its focus on quality viewing spots and expert guidance can make the difference between a fleeting glimpse and a magical photograph.

If you’re after a focused, no-fuss Aurora experience and value the chance to learn from locals, this tour fits the bill nicely. Just remember, Aurora viewing is never guaranteed—patience, good weather, and a little luck are all part of the adventure.

Note: Always check the weather forecast and Aurora activity predictions before booking, and prepare for cold nights. Book early, especially during peak Aurora season, to ensure availability.