Full Night Magic of the Northern Lights in Tromso

When it comes to chasing the Northern Lights in Tromso, Norway, there’s no shortage of options. We’ve examined a popular choice—the Full Night Magic of the Northern Lights Tour offered by Northernlight.guide—and here’s what you need to know before you book. This tour promises a small-group experience with a focus on maximizing your chances of witnessing the aurora borealis, all wrapped in a cozy, adventurous package.

What we love about this tour is the personalized attention from guides who are experienced at finding clear spots in Tromso’s often-clouded skies, along with the flexibility to venture into more remote areas, including occasionally crossing into Finland. The second highlight is the chance to enjoy a bonfire with warm drinks and snacks—a simple pleasure that makes braving the Arctic cold a lot more bearable. One possible drawback? The price of $180.94 per person might seem steep for some, especially considering the unpredictability of the Northern Lights.

This tour suits travelers who value small groups, expert guides, and remote locations—those who want an authentic, less touristy experience, and are prepared to dress warmly for potentially very cold conditions. Let’s explore the details more thoroughly.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with a maximum of 16 travelers ensures personalized service.
• Expert guides use both experience and technology to find the best spots for viewing.
• Remote locations and occasional cross-border travel increase the likelihood of seeing the northern lights clearly.
• Flexible itinerary based on weather conditions maximizes chances rather than sticking to a fixed route.
• Comfortable transportation in a modern minibus allows access to more secluded areas.
• Warm drinks and light snacks at a bonfire offer comfort in the cold Arctic environment.

Introduction: What to Expect from the Tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing the Northern Lights while in Tromso, this tour offers a practical way to give yourself a good shot at that magical display. We’re drawn to how the small-group setting makes the experience more intimate and manageable—no huge buses or crowds here. Plus, the use of a modern minibus allows guides to take you to more remote, less light-polluted locations, which is key for clear aurora viewing.

Two things particularly stand out: the guides’ expertise in tracking the lights, and the opportunity to venture into Finland if conditions favor it. That cross-border element adds a touch of adventure, and the flexibility to chase clear skies rather than follow a rigid schedule. However, at nearly $200 per person, you’ll want to appreciate the value of personal guidance, remote access, and the chance to make the most of Tromso’s unpredictable weather. This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy small, guided adventures and are willing to dress warmly and be flexible with timing.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Magic Ice Bar Tromsø

The tour kicks off at the Magic Ice Bar, a cool and quirky location that adds a bit of extra charm to the start of your night. From here, the guides set the tone—professional, friendly, and eager to find the best spots for the night’s aurora show.

The Drive and the Search

The core of the experience is the drive into the Arctic night. The route varies depending on weather forecasts and aurora activity. The guides, with years of experience and a dash of technology, chase the best chances for clear skies, often traveling around Tromso but sometimes heading toward the Finnish border, approximately 210 km away. This flexibility is key, as northern lights are notoriously unpredictable.

Traveling in a comfortable mini bus allows for quick stops, whether to admire scenic landmarks, take quick photos, or even encounter reindeer. As one reviewer noted, the guides sometimes stop at specific landmarks or scenic spots to maximize your photo opportunities and aurora chances.

Remote Location Advantages

One of the reasons this tour stands out is the chance to reach less light-polluted, more remote locations. Smaller buses can access areas larger vehicles can’t, meaning you’re less likely to be overshadowed by Tromso’s city lights. If the skies are clear, you’ll be in a perfect spot to see the aurora dance overhead.

The Bonfire & Warm Drinks

When the conditions are right, the guides set up a bonfire, where you can relax, enjoy warm drinks, light snacks, and even chat with fellow travelers. This is a thoughtful touch, especially given that temperatures can dip from 5°C to as low as -30°C. Several reviews have highlighted how much this simple gesture adds to the experience, making the cold more bearable and the night more social.

Duration & Flexibility

The duration of 4 to 6 hours depends heavily on weather and aurora activity. This variability means your experience might end earlier if the lights are elusive, or stretch longer if conditions improve. The tour typically starts at 7:00 pm and includes drop-off near your accommodation within a 5 km radius. No hotel pickups are included, so plan to meet at the Magic Ice Bar.

The Experience From the Guides’ Perspective

Guides like Ken and Louis are frequently praised for their knowledge, professionalism, and friendliness. Several reviews describe them as “very nice,” “exactly knowing where to take us,” and “good at finding the right spots.” This level of expertise can make a significant difference in your chance of seeing the lights, especially given how cloudy Tromso can be.

One reviewer mentions, “Our guide Louis was very nice. In general, a northern light tour can be a bit boring, you just wait and be lucky. However, if you want to do a tour (which is a good way to see the Northern Lights), highly recommend this man.” This highlights the importance of having a guide who actively seeks the best viewing spots and manages expectations.

The Practicalities: Transportation, Weather, and Cost

The mini bus is a good choice for access and comfort, especially when venturing into more remote areas. Since the tour is limited to 16 travelers, it reduces the feeling of being herded around while still maintaining a social atmosphere.

Weather is a wild card in Tromso. The guides rely on up-to-date forecasts and their experience to plan routes, but participants should be prepared for cold temperatures, often dropping below freezing. Dressing warmly is not just recommended—it’s essential. Wool socks, hats, gloves, and insulated shoes are a must.

At $180.94 per person, the tour is priced on the higher side for a 4-6 hour experience, but this includes guides, snacks, drinks, photos, and a drop-off service. For those serious about seeing the aurora and willing to invest in a guided, personalized experience, this can be a worthwhile expense.

What We’ve Learned From the Reviews

The majority of participants are highly satisfied, especially praising the guides’ expertise and the remote locations that significantly increase the chances of seeing the lights. Several reviews mention successful sightings, with one traveler calling it “incredible” and “well-organized.”

However, not all experiences are perfect. Some travelers have expressed disappointment when the weather was overcast or when the lights didn’t appear. One reviewer noted, “we were four hours waiting and saw a faint glow,” which underscores how unpredictable aurora viewing can be. The tour’s flexibility and guide experience are intended to mitigate this, but nature remains ultimately in charge.

A few guests encountered logistical issues—such as not being picked up or early returns—highlighting the importance of clear communication with the tour provider. The company has responded to such feedback, offering refunds or free rebookings to make amends.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right For You?

This Northern Lights tour in Tromso offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and expertise. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate small groups, are willing to dress warmly, and want to maximize their chances of witnessing the aurora in a less crowded, more scenic environment. If you’re after a guided experience with knowledgeable guides, and don’t mind the potential for unpredictable weather, this tour can be a memorable highlight of your trip.

Keep in mind, though, that aurora viewing is always a game of chance. This tour’s advantage is in its flexibility and effort to find the best spots, which is reflected in many positive reviews. Expect to wait, but also enjoy the camaraderie and the stunning Arctic night scenery.

FAQ

What is the meeting point for this tour?
The tour starts at the Magic Ice Bar Tromsø, located at Kaigata 4, 9008 Tromsø. You’ll meet your guides there at 7:00 pm.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup. The drop-off is within a 5 km radius of Tromsø, near your accommodation.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 6 hours, depending on weather conditions and aurora activity.

What should I wear?
Dress very warmly. We recommend wearing insulated layers, wool socks, gloves, a thick hat, and warm winter shoes. Temperatures can drop to -30°C.

Does the tour guarantee seeing the Northern Lights?
No, as with all aurora tours, sightings depend on weather and solar activity. Guides do their best to find clear skies and good viewing spots.

Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, light snacks and warm/cold beverages, including coffee and tea, are included around the bonfire.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellation is free if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. For cancellations within 24 hours, the full amount is non-refundable.

What if the weather is bad?
If poor weather prevents aurora viewing, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, or you might be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this tour provides a practical and well-organized way to chase the Northern Lights in Tromso, especially if you want personalized guidance and remote locations away from city lights. While it’s a bit on the pricier side, the combination of expert guides, flexibility, and the chance to experience the Arctic night in comfort makes it a compelling option for aurora hunters prepared to brave the cold.