Tromsø: Northern Lights Chase + Free Professional Photos

Planning a trip to see the Northern Lights in Tromsø? You’ve likely come across many options, but this tour by Arctic Explorers Norway offers a compelling blend of flexibility, comfort, and memorable moments. Its blend of expert guidance, small-group intimacy, and professional photography makes it stand out, especially for travelers who want more than just a blurry shot or a hurried glance at a sky full of stars.

We love the tour’s dedication to maximizing your chances of seeing the auroras — guides constantly monitor weather and sky conditions, even crossing borders into Finland if needed. The free professional photos are a fantastic perk, letting you relive your Arctic adventure long after the night ends. Equally appealing is the small-group setting, which means more personalized attention and a quieter, more immersive experience.

One aspect worth considering is the price, which might feel steep to some, but when weighed against the quality of gear, expert guidance, and the chance to see the Northern Lights in one of the best locations in the world, many find it well worth it. This tour is best suited for those eager to enjoy the Arctic in comfort, with an interest in photography, and who appreciate a flexible, guided pursuit rather than a generic bus ride.

Key Points

• Flexible Aurora Chase: Guides use the latest forecasts and satellite data to find the clearest skies, even crossing borders if necessary.
• Expert Guidance & Small Group: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring personalized storytelling and help.
• Professional Photos Included: Free access to a gallery of high-quality images of you and the Northern Lights.
• Warm Clothing & Comfort: Expedition-grade thermal suits and insulated boots rated for -70°C.
• Cozy Campfire & Hearty Food: Under the stars (weather permitting), hot chocolate and a substantial expedition meal keep you warm.
• Ideal for Photographers & Seekers: Professional photos and scenic stops enhance your chance of capturing the auroras perfectly.

The allure of Tromsø’s Northern Lights is undeniable, and this tour does a good job of balancing the thrill of the chase with comfort and practicality. The 8-hour duration allows for a leisurely pursuit of the auroras, which are famously unpredictable. Guided by knowledgeable Arctic experts, you’ll understand what makes these lights so special, while the small group size means you’ll never feel like just another face in a crowd.

What truly elevates this adventure is how guides actively track weather conditions using modern tools like satellite data and aurora forecasts. This means you’re not being herded to a set location regardless of the skies — instead, your guides continually re-evaluate and move to increase your chances. For travelers, this flexibility means better odds of witnessing the aurora in all its glory.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Meeting at the Scandic Ishavshotel in Tromsø, you’ll receive a detailed briefing that covers the night’s plan and safety tips. After getting suited up in thermal, expedition-grade suits and insulated boots, you’ll board a comfortable, heated minibus. This isn’t a rickety bus but a cozy, well-equipped vehicle designed for Arctic conditions, ensuring warmth and comfort for the length of your journey.

The drive itself is part of the adventure, often lasting between two and three hours. Your guides use their local knowledge, forecasts, and satellite data to steer toward the clearest skies. Sometimes this means heading into Finland, a move appreciated by those who want to optimize their chances.

The scenic stops along the way offer a chance to breathe in the crisp Arctic air, with the possibility of enjoying a campfire under the stars (if weather allows). Imagine sitting around a crackling fire, sipping hot chocolate, and sharing stories — a simple pleasure amid the vast wilderness.

Later, the group may visit Troms County for a guided tour or scenic drive, adding context to your surroundings. This part of the trip is flexible, but the main highlight remains the pursuit of the Northern Lights, which can appear at any moment during the long, dark Arctic nights.

Finally, after hours of chasing, you’ll return to Tromsø with a collection of unforgettable memories and, hopefully, spectacular photos. The journey wraps up back at the hotel, where you can review your images and relive the experience.

What’s Included & What’s Not

Included:

• Expert guides and Arctic drivers — knowledgeable and dedicated.
• Premium, heated minibus — designed for Arctic conditions.
• Thermal suits, insulated boots, and headlamps — ensuring warmth and safety.
• Professional photos — images of you and the Northern Lights, accessible via an online gallery.
• Hot chocolate and hearty expedition meal — to keep you energized.
• Campfire — weather permitting, with stories and marshmallows.
• Small group size — a maximum of 15 guests for a more personalized experience.
• Transportation costs, including border crossings, are covered.

Not included:

• Accommodation in Tromsø (this is a separate booking).
• Personal travel insurance (it’s a smart idea to have it).
• Tripods or personal headlamps (worth bringing your own if you want steady shots or extra light).
• Warm base layers or personal gear beyond the thermal suits provided.

The Value of the Experience

While the tour isn’t cheap, the value lies in the quality. You’re paying for the expertise of guides who actively seek the best viewing conditions, the comfort of high-grade thermal gear, and the chance to take home professional photos. Many reviews highlight how guides like Julian, Jessica, Louis, and Naiara go above and beyond to find clear skies, sometimes crossing into Finland for that perfect shot.

One guest’s story stands out — despite a guide slipping and getting injured, the group still managed to see hours of stunning lights thanks to the driver’s quick thinking. Such stories underscore how dedicated and flexible the team is, enhancing the overall value.

Reviewers frequently mention the delicious food, cozy campfire, and the high quality of photos as highlights, making this tour more than just a lights chase but a genuine Arctic experience. The intimate setting also means less noise and distraction, allowing you to appreciate the vast silence and the magic of the Aurora Borealis.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a well-organized, flexible, and comfortable Northern Lights chase. If you’re interested in photography, the free professional photos are a real bonus. It’s ideal for those who prefer a small-group environment over large crowds, allowing for more personalized stories and assistance.

It’s perfect if you’re staying multiple nights in Tromsø — the more nights you spend, the better your chances of catching the auroras in full display. The tour’s emphasis on warm gear and safety also makes it suitable for those worried about Arctic cold, provided you bring your own warm base layers.

However, if you have mobility issues or require wheelchair access, this tour may not be suitable, as it’s conducted in cold conditions and involves some walking and outdoor campfire activities. Children under 5 are not recommended, mainly for safety reasons given the cold environment.

For those eager to see the Northern Lights with the guidance of experienced locals, this tour offers real value. Its flexibility to chase clear skies, combined with professional photos, cozy thermal gear, and a small-group setting, makes it one of the best options available in Tromsø.

You’ll appreciate the personalized approach of guides who are committed to maximizing your chances of witnessing this incredible natural spectacle. The added touches — hot chocolate, a hearty meal, a campfire — transform what could be a simple sky-gazing trip into a memorable Arctic adventure.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned aurora chaser, this experience offers comfort, expertise, and authentic Northern Lights magic in a stunning Arctic setting. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to combine a scenic journey with the thrill of a true natural phenomenon, all while capturing professional photos to remember forever.

How long does the Northern Lights chase last?
It lasts around 8 hours, starting from the evening and including travel, stops, and waiting for the auroras to appear.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the Scandic Ishavshotel in Tromsø, where you meet your guide.

Is transportation included?
Yes, all transportation costs, including border crossings, are covered in the price.

What should I wear?
Bring warm clothing, including a hat, gloves, scarf, and thermal base layers. The tour provides thermal suits and insulated boots, but layering is always recommended.

Can I take my own photos?
While the tour includes professional photos, you are welcome to bring your own tripod and headlamp for personal photography.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 5 or those with mobility issues, as it involves outdoor activities in cold weather.

What happens if the weather is cloudy?
Guides monitor weather closely and will adapt plans to find clear skies. Sometimes this involves crossing borders into Finland or changing location.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if the weather forecast looks unfavorable.

The Tromsø Northern Lights chase with Arctic Explorers Norway offers a rewarding, well-rounded Arctic experience. It’s perfect for explorers who want comfort, expert guidance, and a good chance to witness one of nature’s most spectacular displays.

You can check availability for your dates here: