Whitehorse 3 Day Aurora Tour Wildlife Preserve and Hot Springs

Traveling in search of the aurora borealis can feel like chasing a dream—beautiful, elusive, and worth every effort. If Whitehorse, Yukon, is on your radar, this 3-day tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into northern Canada’s wild beauty, with the added bonus of catching the northern lights. It’s designed for those who want a combination of wildlife encounters, relaxing hot springs, and the chance to see one of nature’s most spectacular light shows.

What we particularly like about this tour is its balance. You get a city introduction, encounters with North American animals, and the chance to unwind in natural hot springs—all in one package. Plus, the included Aurora photography is a thoughtful touch, helping you capture the magic. One potential consideration is the price, which might seem steep for some, but considering the inclusions and the once-in-a-lifetime experiences, it offers solid value.

This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate nature, are keen to see the northern lights without sacrificing comfort, and want an authentic Yukon experience. If you’re after a guided, organized trip that minimizes planning headaches while maximizing adventure, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary includes city sights, wildlife, and hot springs.
• Aurora viewing is scheduled for prime nighttime hours, with snacks and photos included.
• Wildlife preserve visit offers encounters with animals like bison and moose, rare in some parts of the world.
• The hot springs experience combines outdoor relaxation with stunning Yukon scenery.
• The tour’s group size is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.
• It’s priced at just over $800, which includes several key activities and admissions, making it relatively good value for the comprehensive experience.

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of witnessing the Northern Lights, this 3-day Whitehorse tour could be your ticket to a memorable adventure. It’s marketed as a blend of aurora hunting, wildlife viewing, and relaxing in natural hot springs—all in the scenic backdrop of Yukon’s wild landscape. This isn’t just a chase for the lights; it’s a chance to get a feel for the rugged charm of northern Canada.

What stands out immediately are the planned activities. The inclusion of a city tour helps you get your bearings and appreciate Whitehorse’s history and charm, while the wildlife preserve offers up-close encounters with animals like bison and moose—an experience rare for travelers from Japan or elsewhere unfamiliar with North American fauna. The hot springs add a soothing counterpoint to the chilly nights, making this tour well-rounded.

One thing to consider is the cost—at over $800, it’s not the cheapest way to see the aurora, but the value lies in how much is packed into those three days. Plus, you’ll be guided by professionals, with transportation, admissions, and some memorable moments included. The tour seems best suited for those who value a structured experience that combines outdoor adventure with comfort and convenience.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Comprehensive 3-Day Experience

Unlike quick overnight Aurora tours, this package spreads out the activities, giving you time to soak in each experience without feeling rushed. The itinerary balances daytime activities—like the city tour and wildlife preserve—with evening Aurora viewing. It’s designed to maximize your chances of seeing the lights, while still offering engaging daytime highlights.

Authentic Yukon Encounters

Your visit to Yukon Wildlife Preserve is a highlight. The guided tour allows you to see animals like reindeer, mountain goats, and moose, which are difficult to observe elsewhere. The guide’s insights will help you understand these creatures and their habitat, making it more than just a photo opportunity. Reviewers mention the rarity of seeing some of these species outside North America, adding an extra layer of value.

Relaxing Hot Springs

The Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs are modeled after traditional Japanese onsens, with three outdoor baths and saunas, offering a soothing experience amid Yukon’s wilderness. The hot springs are just a short drive from Whitehorse, making them a convenient but genuinely relaxing stop. Visitors report that the views from the baths are breathtaking—perfect for unwinding after cold nights of Aurora chasing.

Aurora Viewing Strategy

The evening Aurora outings are scheduled around prime hours, with hot beverages and snacks provided. The guide picks you up and takes you to the viewing sites on Grey Mountain and the Yukon River, both promising vantage points with minimal light pollution. The tour includes Aurora photography, helping you capture memories you’ll cherish long after returning home.

In-Depth Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival, City Tour, and Aurora Viewing

You’ll be greeted at Whitehorse International Airport by a guide holding a sign. The 24-hour pickup service means you can arrive at any hour and still get a warm welcome. After check-in, the guided city tour covers some of Whitehorse’s highlights—statues, historic sites like the SS Klondike sternwheeler, the Old Log Church, and the Visitor Centre—all free of charge. This offers a good introduction to the city’s past and present in about two hours.

Later that evening, the real excitement begins with a pickup at your hotel for the aurora viewing on Grey Mountain Road. Snacks and hot drinks keep you warm as you wait, and if luck is on your side, you’ll see the shimmering curtains of the Northern Lights dance across the sky. Many reviews mention how memorable the sight is, with one traveler noting, “It was mesmerizing, and the photos turned out great.”

Day 2: Wildlife and Hot Springs

The day kicks off with a visit to the Yukon Wildlife Preserve. The guided tour here is an opportunity to see bison, moose, reindeer, and mountain goats up close—animals that rarely appear outside their natural habitats. The guide’s commentary adds context, and travelers report the experience as “rare and special,” especially for those from regions without such wildlife.

Next comes a chance to relax at the Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs. The open-air baths, each with a different theme, are set amid Yukon’s vast wilderness. With views of the surrounding forest, soaking in the hot water feels like a reward after a chilly day. Reviewers describe it as “the perfect way to unwind,” and many appreciate the experience as a highlight.

Evening brings another opportunity for Aurora viewing, this time from the Yukon River site. The combination of hot beverages, snacks, and the natural beauty of the Yukon landscape creates a cozy, unforgettable atmosphere.

Day 3: Departure

The final morning involves hotel transfers to the airport—simple and stress-free. This gives you a moment to reflect on your adventure and perhaps plan your next trip back to this rugged land.

Practical Insights and Value

The price of $835.48 per group includes quite a lot: hotel stays, activities, admissions, professional guides, and Aurora photography. This all-in-one approach means less planning for travelers and a more seamless experience. Considering the included wildlife and hot springs visits, it’s a reasonable price for what’s offered.

Transportation is provided, and the group size is capped at 20, which helps keep the experience intimate. The tour is suitable for most travelers, as most can participate, and the schedule is designed to balance activity and relaxation.

One consideration is the winter clothing. It’s available for rent at CAD 100 per person, which could be worth considering for those not traveling prepared for Yukon’s cold temperatures. The tour runs from September to April, so be prepared for potentially freezing nights, especially during Aurora viewing.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This 3-day Whitehorse experience is ideal for those who want a comprehensive Yukon adventure—combining city sights, wildlife, relaxing hot springs, and the thrill of spotting the Aurora Borealis. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer guided tours that handle logistics, so they can focus on enjoying the scenery and experiences.

Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see animals they might never encounter elsewhere, while those seeking a relaxing escape will find the hot springs a perfect retreat. The Aurora viewing component adds magic, especially for first-timers or those eager to photograph the lights.

On the downside, the cost might be a barrier for some, but for the included activities and memorable experiences, many will find it worthwhile. It’s a well-rounded option for adventurers who want comfort, authenticity, and a touch of Yukon’s wild charm.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour covers hotel stays, admissions to the wildlife preserve and hot springs, a city tour, professional guidance, and Aurora photography. Transportation is also included for activities and Aurora viewing.

Can I participate if I don’t have winter clothing?
Yes, winter clothing can be rented for CAD 100 per person, which is recommended given Yukon’s cold nights.

How many people are in the group?
The group size is limited to 20 travelers, making for a more personal experience.

What’s the best time to see the Aurora Borealis?
The tour operates from September to April, with Aurora viewing scheduled during evening hours, usually around 10:00 p.m.

Are the activities suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to check individual activity requirements and physical readiness, especially for outdoor nighttime viewing.

How long are the Aurora viewing sessions?
Each Aurora viewing experience lasts about 4 hours, including transportation, snacks, and photography opportunities.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, Aurora viewing relies on clear skies and solar activity, so sightings are not guaranteed but are likely given the scheduled evenings.

What makes this tour a good value?
Combining wildlife, hot springs, city sights, and Aurora hunting in one package offers a well-rounded Yukon experience that would be difficult to arrange independently at this price point.

This tour offers a practical and authentic way to experience Yukon’s natural wonders and the Northern Lights—perfect for eager adventurers ready to explore northern Canada’s rugged beauty with a knowledgeable guide by their side.