From Tromsø: Northern Lights Tour in Minibus with Photos

Introduction

This review covers a popular Northern Lights tour from Tromsø offered by El Gigante Tour Aurora. If you’re dreaming of catching a glimpse of the aurora borealis, this 7-hour evening trip promises not only prime viewing opportunities but also a cozy, well-organized experience.

Two things we particularly like are the small-group atmosphere—you’ll be traveling in a 15-seater minibus, making it more intimate—and the professional photography included. These little touches can turn a good night of aurora spotting into an unforgettable memory.

A potential consideration is that Northern Lights sightings are never guaranteed—the show depends on weather conditions and solar activity. Still, with flexible locations and an experienced guide, your odds of seeing the lights are maximized.

This tour suits travelers who want a comfortable, guided experience with added value like photos and warm gear, especially if you’re willing to spend a few hours chasing the lights in winter conditions. It’s ideal for those who appreciate authentic small-group adventures and are prepared for a long, chilly evening.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Personalized small-group experience enhances comfort and flexibility.
• Expert guides and professional photos boost confidence and create lasting memories.
• Warm suits, shoe spikes, and safety gear ensure you stay comfortable in Arctic conditions.
• Locations are flexible to increase the chance of seeing the aurora, weather permitting.
• Snacks and hot drinks add to the cozy, friendly atmosphere.
• Price reflects good value for a comprehensive, guided Northern Lights experience.

A Comfortable Approach to a Natural Phenomenon

Chasing the Northern Lights can feel like a gamble—are you in the right place at the right time? With this tour, the focus on comfort and professionalism makes that gamble more about good planning than luck. The journey begins in Tromsø’s city center, where you’ll be picked up from the Tromsø City Library in a sleek silver Mercedes Vito. From there, it’s a 7-hour adventure into the Arctic, with your expert guides and a small group of travelers.

Traveling in a 15-seater minibus means you get a more personal experience compared to larger buses crowded with travelers. The guides are multi-lingual, speaking English, Norwegian, Portuguese, and Spanish—making it accessible and engaging for a diverse group. They bring a wealth of local knowledge, sharing stories about the Aurora, the landscapes, and maybe even some Viking history.

The main goal is to find the best possible viewing spot, often away from Tromsø’s light pollution. The guides are flexible, adjusting locations based on weather conditions and Aurora forecasts. According to reviews, this flexibility really pays off—several travelers mention being driven to Finland to increase their chances of clear skies. One guest noted, “We drove out to Finland to find clear skies and were not disappointed.” Such strategic moves are part of the tour’s effort to give you the best shot at seeing the lights dancing overhead.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

The tour’s inclusions are thoughtfully designed for comfort and convenience. You get thermal suits, shoe spikes, and headlamps, all of which are crucial when standing outside in Arctic temperatures. Several reviews emphasized how helpful the warm suits were—especially since the nights can be very cold and windy. One traveler appreciated the suits as they allowed them to endure the low temperatures comfortably.

The hot drinks—coffee, tea, and hot chocolate—and cookies serve as simple but meaningful comforts, making waiting for the aurora a cozy social experience. When the elusive lights appear, guides will also take professional-quality photos, allowing you to focus on the spectacle while they capture your memories. Many reviews highlight how the photos were outstanding and that guides took the time to ensure everyone received plenty of shots, often for free.

The drop-off back in Tromsø is included, ending your night with ease. You won’t have to worry about logistics or finding your way back after a long night chasing the aurora.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off with a pick-up in Tromsø city center, usually around sunset or early evening, depending on the season. Once onboard, you’ll quickly notice the comfortable, warm atmosphere with your guide sharing tips and Aurora lore to get you excited.

The journey involves driving toward areas with minimal light pollution—often into the surrounding wilderness, sometimes even crossing into Finland, as many travelers mention. This flexibility is crucial because the aurora’s visibility depends heavily on weather and solar activity. Guides monitor forecasts and are prepared to change locations to maximize your chances.

When you arrive at a favorable viewing spot, you’ll step out into the cold, equipped with your thermal suits and gear. The guides set up safety lamps and shoe spikes, helping you feel secure in the dark. At this point, you’re encouraged to relax and enjoy hot drinks and snacks while waiting for the aurora to dance across the sky.

Many reviews describe the anticipation as almost magical, especially when the lights suddenly start flickering and swirling overhead. The guides’ professional photos often start capturing the moment early, so you can focus on marveling at the display rather than fiddling with your camera.

Post-aurora, the guides may take some additional photos, answer questions about the phenomenon, or share stories about local folklore. After a few hours of chasing and waiting, you’ll be driven back to Tromsø, arriving late but filled with memories.

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Authentic Experiences and Genuine Value

The reviews paint a consistent picture of a well-organized, friendly, and professional tour. One traveler even exclaimed, “Nelson and his tour are AMAZING! He took an insane amount of pictures of all of us which he provided for free.” That’s an important detail—many photographers charge extra, but here, professional photos are included, adding real value.

Several travelers also noted the knowledgeable guides who go out of their way to make everyone comfortable, from lending warm clothes to sharing insights into the aurora and local culture. The small group size means you’re not just another face in a sea of travelers; instead, you get a more personalized experience.

In terms of value for money, at $176 per person, it’s competitive considering everything included—transportation, warm gear, snacks, hot drinks, and professional photos. For many, it’s a worthwhile investment in a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is particularly suited for travelers who want a comfortable, guided adventure with a high chance of seeing the Northern Lights. It’s perfect if you appreciate small-group intimacy and value professional photography to remember your trip. If you’re okay with spending several hours outdoors in winter weather, and you want a well-organized experience with local guides, this is a good choice.

However, it’s not suitable for young children under 10, those with mobility issues, or anyone with medical conditions that could be affected by cold or long outdoor periods. If you’re looking for a more flexible, self-guided chase, or prefer a larger group, other tours might suit you better.

The Sum Up

If your goal is to see the Northern Lights with the assistance of knowledgeable guides, comfortable gear, and professional photos, this tour from Tromsø offers excellent value. The small-group setting fosters a friendly environment, and the strategic location changes increase your chances of witnessing that elusive celestial dance.

The tour’s emphasis on comfort, safety, and a personal touch makes it a standout option for travelers who want a stress-free Arctic adventure. While Aurora sightings are never guaranteed, the flexible approach and attentive guides tip the odds in your favor—all while providing a warm, social, and memorable experience.

Best suited for those who don’t mind a long night outdoors, this trip delivers not just a chance to see the lights, but also a window into Arctic hospitality and natural beauty. It’s a solid choice for anyone eager to add the Northern Lights to their collection of travel stories.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You’ll get transportation in a comfortable minibus, warm suits, shoe spikes, headlamps, professional photos, snacks, and hot drinks. The tour ends with hotel drop-off in Tromsø.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts around 7 hours, with pick-up and drop-off included. Starting times vary, so check availability for specific departures.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 10 years old, likely due to the outdoor cold and long hours outside.

What should I wear?
Dress in at least two layers of warm clothing, including gloves, hat, and sturdy winter boots. The supplied thermal suits help, but layered clothing is essential.

Can I see the Northern Lights every night?
No. The aurora borealis is a natural phenomenon, and sightings depend on weather and solar activity. The guides will do their best to find clear skies.

Are professional photos really free?
Yes, guides will take multiple professional-quality photos of your group and share them afterward, typically within 24 hours.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning for your Arctic adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: