Northern Lights Tours

Planning a trip to see the aurora borealis is a bucket-list experience for many travelers, and Yellowknife is often praised as one of the best places in the world to catch this celestial dance. If you’re considering a tour to chase the Northern Lights, you’ll find a variety of options—but the Northern Lights Tours offered by The Aurora Borealis Experience Inc stand out for their combination of convenience, expertise, and value. This detailed review explores what you can expect, the pros and cons, and why this tour could be a good fit for your Arctic adventure.

We particularly appreciate their hassle-free transportation, taking you out of the city’s light pollution, and the professional photography included, ensuring you leave with memorable images. On the flip side, some travelers have noted issues with communication or weather dependency, so it’s worth considering how these might impact your experience. Whether you’re a seasoned aurora hunter or a first-timer, this tour offers a well-rounded chance to see the northern lights with expert guidance.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour suits those looking for a reliable, guided experience that maximizes their chances of seeing the aurora without the stress of planning every detail. It’s ideal for travelers who value convenience, expert insight, and good value. If you’re comfortable with a group setting and want to skip the hassle of self-driving in the Arctic, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable option.

Key Points

• Expert-guided adventure increases your chances of witnessing the aurora.
• Transport and hotel pickup remove logistical worries, especially in cold weather.
• Multiple viewing spots improve your odds of catching the lights.
• Professional photography captures your experience without needing your own equipment.
• Weather-dependent; clear skies are essential for the best views.
• Tour size is limited to 24 travelers, keeping the experience intimate and personalized.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Introduction and Booking

This Northern Lights Tour in Yellowknife, offered by The Aurora Borealis Experience Inc, is priced at $66.72 per person, making it an accessible option for most travelers. Booking is straightforward, with confirmation received immediately, and you’ll need to meet between 9:00 PM and 10:00 PM, depending on the time of year, to start your adventure.

What makes this tour appealing is its all-inclusive approach—you’re picked up from your hotel, driven in a mini coach, and taken to several carefully chosen spots. This arrangement saves you the trouble of navigating icy roads or worrying about light pollution, common obstacles for aurora viewing.

The Itinerary and Stops

The tour lasts around 4 to 6 hours, with the core experience happening after sunset. The initial stop is called “The Aurora Borealis Experience – Day Tours,” where you’ll get a chance to see the lights, weather permitting. The guide’s role is vital here—not only do they drive you to the best spots, but they also provide educational commentary on how the northern lights form, making the experience richer for those interested in the science of the phenomenon.

Travelers will visit several viewing locations, which is a smart move because aurora activity can vary significantly across different parts of the landscape. According to reviews, guides like Julian and Sheldon are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, often going out of their way to find clear skies and optimal viewing conditions.

Weather and Visibility

Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, you’ll need to be prepared for the cold—layered clothing is a must. Several reviews mention the bitingly cold nights, but also the satisfaction of seeing the lights dance after moving to different locations. This flexibility is key because cloud cover and weather fluctuations heavily influence aurora visibility.

A common theme among positive reviews is the guides’ ability to adapt: “Julian drove east for an hour based on aurora analysis” and “they drove to where there were fewer clouds”. This proactive approach helps mitigate disappointment on less ideal nights.

Transportation and Group Size

The use of a mini coach ensures a cozy atmosphere, and the maximum group size of 24 keeps the experience manageable and personal. Travelers have noted that the bus can get cold, so dressing warmly is essential.

Pickup and drop-off at your hotel add a significant convenience factor, especially after a late night outdoors. This means you can relax and enjoy the experience without the hassle of figuring out transportation afterward.

Inclusion of Beverages and Snacks

The tour includes hot beverages like coffee and tea, along with snacks such as cookies or other light treats. These small comforts are highly appreciated after a cold, dark night outdoors. Several reviews mention the hot chocolate and cookies as a nice touch during the wait for the lights, adding to the overall cozy feeling.

Photography and Memories

One of the highlights is the professional photo service included in the tour. Guides take high-quality pictures of you and the lights, saving you the trouble of lugging around camera gear or trying to capture fleeting moments. As one reviewer put it, “Julian took us to three different spots to maximize our chances, and we caught the aurora dance”. These photos are a nice bonus, especially for those who want to share their experience with friends and family.

The Experience’s Pros and Cons

Pros include:
– Expert guides who are enthusiastic and knowledgeable (many reviewers rave about Julian and Sheldon)
– The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off and transportation in a comfortable mini coach
– The multiple viewing stops which increase the odds of a sighting
– Professional photos to document your night
– The ability to operate in all weather conditions, with guides adjusting plans accordingly

Cons:
– The tour’s success heavily relies on weather conditions, which are unpredictable
– Some travelers have experience with communication issues, especially regarding timing or last-minute changes
– The cold outdoor environment can be uncomfortable if you’re not dressed appropriately
– Since dinner isn’t included, you’ll need to plan for late-night snacks or an early dinner before the tour

Authentic Experiences and Common Praise

Many reviews highlight the guides’ passion and expertise. For example, one reviewer raved, “Sheldon was funny, educated and enthusiastic throughout,” and others expressed awe at the stunning aurora displays they witnessed. Several travelers appreciated that guides went out of their way to find clear skies—a critical factor in aurora tourism.

A few less positive reviews mention disappointments due to weather or perceived miscommunications, but these are exceptions rather than the norm. The majority agree that the experience is worthwhile and memorable, especially when the lights do appear.

Final Thoughts

This Northern Lights Tour offers a practical, well-organized way to chase the aurora in Yellowknife. The combination of guided expertise, convenient transportation, and the possibility of professional photos makes it a solid choice for most visitors. The tour’s ability to adapt to weather and its strategic stops significantly improve your chances of a good sighting, which is the main goal.

If you’re someone who values reliability, comfort, and expert guidance, you’ll find this tour a good investment. The price is reasonable considering the included services and the chance to see one of nature’s most extraordinary displays without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

However, don’t forget—the aurora is a natural phenomenon, and no tour can guarantee a sighting. Patience, flexibility, and a bit of luck are part of the experience. Still, with guides like Sheldon and Julian leading the way, you’ll have a much better shot than wandering on your own.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors to Yellowknife who want a worry-free, guided adventure. It’s also great for travelers who value good value for money and appreciate having professional photos of their trip. If you’re comfortable spending a few hours outdoors in cold weather and want to maximize your chances of seeing the lights, this is a solid choice.

Travelers who prefer more flexibility or are willing to explore independently might consider other options, but this tour offers a reliable, comfortable way to chase the aurora with local expertise at your side.

FAQ

What is the cost of the tour?
It’s approximately $66.72 per person, which includes transportation, beverages, snacks, and professional photography.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 4 to 6 hours, beginning around 9:00 PM to 10:00 PM and lasting through the late evening.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, adding a lot of convenience after a late night outdoors.

Will I need to bring my own camera?
No, camera equipment isn’t necessary because the guides include professional photos, capturing you and the aurora.

What should I wear?
Given the outdoor environment and cold nights, dress warmly, preferably in layers, to stay comfortable during the hours outside.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, and if the weather prevents good viewing, you may be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I experience the lights on a cloudy night?
Cloud cover can significantly impact visibility. Guides will try to find clear spots, but good weather is crucial for a successful sighting.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 24 travelers, keeping the experience manageable and allowing guides to give more personalized attention.

Are meals included?
No, dinner isn’t included, but snacks and hot drinks are provided during the tour.

How do I know if I will see the Aurora?
Sightings depend on solar activity and weather conditions. Guides use aurora forecasts and their knowledge to maximize your chances, but no guarantees are possible with nature’s unpredictability.

To sum it up, the Northern Lights Tours from Yellowknife represent an accessible, thoughtfully organized way to chase the mysterious, shimmering lights of the Arctic night. They’re best suited for travelers seeking comfort, guidance, and good value, who understand that the aurora’s appearance isn’t guaranteed but that the experience itself—professional guides, beautiful landscapes, and cozy moments—will make the effort worthwhile. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, the chance to witness this natural wonder with knowledgeable guides and in a supportive group makes this tour a solid choice for your Arctic adventure.