Northern Lights Adventure By Snowmobile

If you’re dreaming of witnessing the elusive dance of the Northern Lights in the Arctic, a snowmobile tour in Alta, Norway, might just be your best bet. We’ve reviewed this experience based on traveler feedback and detailed it for those considering an adventure that combines adrenaline, natural beauty, and the chance to see one of nature’s most spectacular displays.

What we love about this trip is the expert guidance that helps maximize your chances of seeing the aurora, even in unpredictable weather conditions, and the stunning winter landscapes you’ll traverse in complete comfort. The tour’s value for money is another plus — it’s a well-organized, memorable outing that’s worth the price.

However, one point to consider is that Northern Lights sightings depend heavily on weather conditions and solar activity. Cloud cover or overcast skies can make seeing the lights difficult or impossible, which is something every aurora safari traveler has to accept.

This experience is ideal for adventurers who enjoy outdoor winter activities, are comfortable riding snowmobiles, and want a genuine Arctic experience. It’s not perfect if you’re solely looking for guaranteed aurora sightings, but it’s excellent for those eager to embrace the winter wilderness of Norway.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic adventure combining snowmobiling with the hope of seeing the Northern Lights.
• Expert guides help navigate the weather and optimize your chances of aurora sightings.
• Comfortable gear and safety briefings ensure a warm, safe experience in sub-zero temperatures.
• Stunning winter landscapes on the old postal road and near Finnmarksvidda.
• Flexible cancellation policy with full refunds if the weather cancels the trip.
• Ideal for moderately fit travelers with valid B-class driver’s licenses who want a memorable, active outing.

Overview of the Experience

This tour offers a compelling blend of adventure and natural beauty. Starting in Alta’s city center, you’ll be driven about 25 km to Gargia Valley, a scenic gateway into Norway’s Arctic wilderness. The drive itself sets the tone, with views of snow-covered forests and mountains, hinting at the spectacular scenery ahead.

At Gargia Lodge, you’ll meet your guides and get fitted with warm thermosuits, boots, and gloves — essential gear to withstand the Arctic cold. The guides are known for their friendly, knowledgeable approach, with reviews praising their professionalism and eagerness to share insights about the Northern Lights, snowmobiling, and the landscape.

After a safety briefing on the snowmobiles, you’ll set off on what’s essentially a twist through pristine winter terrain. You’ll be paired with a fellow traveler, sharing a snowmobile, which means each person gets a chance to drive for about half the trip — a feature that appeals to those craving a bit of control and fun.

The Itinerary in Detail

Meet at Æventyr Adventure Store in Alta’s city center at 17:55, then hop into a vehicle that takes you to Gargia Valley. This drive is about 25 km, offering a scenic preview of the Arctic landscape. The early evening departure allows you to maximize your time in the wilderness, especially in winter when daylight is limited.

Arrival at Gargia Lodge around 18:30 is your introduction to the tour’s safety and gear procedures. The guides are praised for their professionalism, helping guests feel prepared and confident before hopping onto snowmobiles. The gear provided is designed for extreme cold, ensuring you stay warm during your adventure.

Snowmobiling to Beskardes begins around 19:00, heading along the old postal road up to the edge of Finnmarksvidda, a vast mountain plateau. The ride itself is a highlight — reviews mention how fun and exhilarating it is to maneuver these machines through snow-covered trails with views of untouched wilderness.

Stop at Beskades for a short break around 20:00. Here, you’ll take in the breathtaking panoramic views in all directions, with some reviews describing it as a “magnificent view.” It’s an ideal spot for quick photos or just soaking in the silence and majesty of the Arctic night.

Return to Gargia Lodge around 21:15, where you can warm up and share stories of the ride. The journey back offers a different perspective of the snow-blanketed landscape, and guides often point out interesting features of the terrain.

Drop-off in Alta around 22:00 completes the trip, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the Arctic environment and perhaps a little hope that the northern lights will make a surprise appearance.

What to Expect on the Tour

Guided Snowmobiling is at the core of this experience. Each rider shares a snowmobile with a companion, giving everyone a chance to drive and enjoy the thrill of controlling a powerful machine in the snow. Guides are attentive to safety, stopping to explain challenging sections and ensuring everyone feels comfortable.

Clothing and Equipment are provided, including thermosuits, boots, and gloves — crucial for handling the cold, sometimes as low as -20°C at the mountain peaks. Several reviews highlight the quality of the gear, which keeps participants warm even amid Arctic chills. Guests consistently comment on how well-prepared and warm they felt, allowing full focus on the experience.

Scenic Stops and Views are a significant part of the tour. The stop at Beskades offers enough time for photos and to appreciate the stark beauty of the snow-covered landscape. Some travelers mention that even if the famed Northern Lights don’t make an appearance, the night sky filled with stars alone is worth the trip.

Aurora Viewing is unpredictable, and the guides do their best to spot clear skies or promising conditions. Multiple reviews note that cloud cover or overcast weather can obscure the lights, but that doesn’t diminish the overall enjoyment — many still rave about the fun snowmobiling experience and the stunning scenery.

The Value of the Experience

At around $317 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusiveness of gear, transportation, and guiding services. It’s a relatively short trip — about four hours — but packed with adventure, scenic views, and the thrill of snowmobiling in a winter wonderland.

Many reviews compare the trip favorably to more expensive options, emphasizing how well-organized and friendly the guides are. The fact that you get to drive a snowmobile adds an element of excitement that pure aurora viewing tours might lack.

However, it’s important to remember that Northern Lights sightings are not guaranteed. The experience’s magic hinges on clear skies and auroral activity, which can vary night by night. Still, the guides’ expertise and the beautiful environment make this a worthwhile adventure regardless of the lights.

Group Size and Practical Considerations

This tour caps at 17 guests, fostering a more personal atmosphere. You’ll be sharing snowmobiles with one other person, which tends to make the experience more engaging without feeling crowded.

Physical fitness moderate level is recommended, as riding snowmobiles requires some balance and coordination. A valid B-class driver’s license is necessary to drive — a crucial detail for planning your participation.

The tour’s timing in the evening maximizes your chances of seeing the lights, especially if the weather cooperates. The pickup and drop-off logistics are smooth, with many reviews praising the punctuality and friendly service of guides, like Thomas, who are noted for their safety-conscious approach.

The Reality of Aurora Sightings

As multiple reviews mention, cloud cover or poor weather can prevent seeing the Northern Lights. Some travelers highlight that even on overcast nights, the snowmobiling itself is a blast, and the guides often stop for star gazing or photos under clear patches.

It’s worth going into this trip with the understanding that aurora viewing is luck-based; however, the journey in itself offers a memorable Arctic experience. The guides’ knowledge and the magic of the winter landscape are perennial highlights, even if the lights choose not to appear.

This snowmobile tour in Alta, Norway, offers an exciting way to experience the Arctic’s winter landscape and the elusive Northern Lights. It’s a well-organized, friendly outing that emphasizes safety, comfort, and authentic adventure. Travelers who value expert guidance, beautiful scenery, and a fun outdoor activity will find this tour rewarding, even if the Aurora doesn’t make a show.

For anyone who’s eager to embrace the thrill of snowmobiling and enjoy the stark beauty of Norway’s winter wilderness, this experience hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity, who are eager for a genuine Arctic adventure, and understand the unpredictable nature of aurora sightings.

If you’re looking for a memorable, well-reviewed way to explore Alta’s snowy backcountry with the chance to witness the Northern Lights, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to pack patience, and perhaps a camera ready for starry skies — because even without the lights, there’s plenty of breathtaking scenery to enjoy.

Do I need a driver’s license to join the snowmobile tour?
Yes, only guests with a valid B-class driver’s license are allowed to drive a snowmobile in Norway. You will need to present your license for verification before riding.

Can I be a passenger if I don’t have a license?
Absolutely. Guests without a license can still participate as passengers, enjoying the ride without driving.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately four hours, from meeting in Alta’s city center to returning.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Æventyr Adventure Store in Alta and ends back at the same location after the snowmobiling adventure.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers transportation from Alta, gear like thermosuits, boots, gloves, safety briefings, and the guided snowmobile experience.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled due to poor weather. In that case, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund. Weather conditions heavily influence aurora sightings.

Is the experience suitable for children or families?
While the reviews mention family adventures, moderate physical fitness is recommended, and all participants must meet safety requirements. Check with the provider for age restrictions.

How many people are on each tour?
The maximum group size is 17 travelers, ensuring a relatively intimate experience.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
Seeing the Aurora isn’t guaranteed, as it depends on weather and solar activity. However, many reviews say the snowmobiling and Arctic scenery make the trip worthwhile regardless.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
Since snowmobiling and winter gear are involved, it’s best suited for guests with moderate mobility. Confirm with the provider if you have specific needs.

This snowmobile adventure in Alta offers an engaging way to enjoy Norway’s winter, with the chance to catch the Northern Lights, but also plenty of beauty and fun whether or not the sky lights up. Prepare for an authentic Arctic experience that’s as much about the journey as the destination.