Aurora Lounge: Aurora Viewing Cabin & Bar

If you’re dreaming of seeing the northern lights in comfort, this tour offers a rare blend of luxury and adventure. The Aurora Lounge in Yukon promises an intimate, cozy setting combined with expert guidance, making it a standout choice for those wanting to turn their northern lights experience into a memorable night out.

What we love about this tour is how it combines luxury with authenticity—you’re not stuck in a cold, basic tent but in a warm, elegant cabin with a liquor license. Plus, with the guidance of knowledgeable guides, you’re more likely to get that perfect shot of the aurora or learn fascinating facts about this natural phenomenon. A potential drawback? Cloud cover can always be an unforeseen factor, meaning a clear sky isn’t guaranteed, but the tour’s flexible approach helps maximize your chances.

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking comfort and a touch of sophistication during their Yukon adventure. Whether you’re on a romantic getaway, a family trip, or a small group of friends, the Aurora Lounge offers a refined yet relaxed environment to chase the northern lights.

Key Points

• Exclusive and intimate: Small groups (up to 24 guests) ensure personalized attention and quieter photo opportunities.
• Comfort-focused: Heated cabin, cozy sofas, a fireplace, and outdoor campfire make for a warm, inviting atmosphere.
• Expert guidance: Guides share interesting facts, help with photography, and make sure everyone has a good view.
• Licensed bar: Enjoy a drink while watching the skies, a rare perk in aurora tours.
• Flexible timing and location: Pickup at your hotel and a 20-minute scenic drive get you quickly to the prime viewing spot.
• Unforgettable photos: Guides assist with photography, and you’ll get free images of yourself after the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Aurora Lounge Experience

What Makes the Aurora Lounge Stand Out?

This is not your typical aurora viewing adventure. It’s the Yukon’s only aurora cabin with a liquor license, which means you can enjoy a glass of wine, hot chocolate with Baileys, or other drinks as you watch the sky. The cabin itself blends rustic charm with luxurious touches—warm wooden interiors, large windows, and plush sofas that beckon after a long day of exploring.

Unlike traditional tours that often involve being outdoors in freezing conditions, the Aurora Lounge offers a heated, comfortable environment. When the lights are faint or the sky clouded over, you’re not left shivering. Instead, you can relax by the cozy fireplace, sip on unlimited hot drinks and snacks, and enjoy the mystical display through the large viewing windows.

The Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

The tour begins with a pickup around 10:00 PM from your hotel in Downtown Whitehorse. The 20-minute drive takes you through scenic Yukon wilderness, arriving at the Aurora Lounge, which feels more like a luxurious retreat than a typical outdoor camp.

As you settle inside, the guides will share facts about the aurora borealis, explaining its science in a way that’s accessible and interesting. They’ll also help you with photography tips, ensuring you’re ready to capture the lights, especially if you bring a tripod. Guides may even take photos of you, which are later made available online for free—a handy perk if you want photos without the hassle.

While inside, you can stretch out on sofas, enjoy a warm fireplace, or step outside to roast marshmallows around the campfire during breaks. The outdoor campfire area is a perfect setting for stargazing and enjoying the natural sounds of the Yukon wilderness, adding to the authenticity of the experience.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 24 guests, the group remains small and personal. This size allows guides to give individual attention and makes for better photo opportunities—no crowds blocking your view or photo backdrop. Many reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, with one reviewer noting, “Juan was fabulous” and another mentioning, “Tobias made everything feel at ease.”

This smaller group setup also enhances the overall atmosphere—more private, less hurried, and more accommodating to your personal interests and photography needs.

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The Role of the Guides

The guides are clearly a highlight of the tour. They’re experienced in both northern lights science and photography, which means they can help maximize your chances of witnessing a spectacular display and getting great photos. They keep the mood relaxed, share stories and facts, and are flexible if the weather doesn’t cooperate—moving the group around to the best possible locations.

One reviewer said, “Juan got a couple of pictures when the lights were behind clouds, and then he made it fun by helping us create our own light pictures.” That kind of personalized attention turns a good tour into a memorable adventure.

Weather and Viewing Conditions

Given the Yukon’s cold climate, travelers are advised to dress in layers and protect exposed skin, especially if you plan to photograph the lights. Temperatures can plummet to -30C or colder, so packing warm clothes and bringing a tripod (rental tripods are available) is essential.

It’s worth noting that aurora viewing depends heavily on solar activity and cloud cover. The guides are adept at adjusting plans to optimize your chances, but a clear, dark sky is the only guarantee for seeing the northern lights. As one reviewer shared, “The lights decided to hide behind clouds, but our guide still made sure we enjoyed the night and captured some photos.”

Price and Value

While the tour price isn’t specified here, it’s important to consider what’s included: exclusive access to a heated, cozy cabin with drinks and snacks, expert guides, photography assistance, and free photos afterward. For a four-hour experience combining comfort, education, and a shot at witnessing the lights, many find this offers excellent value—especially considering the small group size and personalized service.

Overall Experience and Reviews

The glowing reviews highlight the excellent guides, with many describing them as friendly, knowledgeable, and committed to helping guests see the aurora. Several reviewers mention how stunning the aurora was when it appeared, with one saying, “The Northern Lights on 23 March 2025 were spectacular,” and another claiming, “Juan was fabulous!”

The comfort and warmth of the cabin, combined with the professionalism of the guides, make this tour stand out. Even when the sky doesn’t deliver a show, guests still appreciate the experience—enjoying the ambiance, warm drinks, and engaging storytelling.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want a relaxed, upscale aurora viewing in comfort. It suits couples, families, or small groups who value personalized attention and a luxury setting. It’s particularly appealing if you’re interested in photography, as guides are eager to help you capture the best shots.

However, if you’re seeking a rugged, outdoors-only adventure, this might feel too cozy. Also, keep in mind that seeing the aurora isn’t guaranteed, and weather conditions can impact visibility.

In The Sum Up

The Aurora Lounge offers a unique blend of comfort, expert guidance, and natural beauty, making it one of the best options for anyone wanting a high-quality northern lights experience in Yukon. The small group size, luxurious setting, and focus on personalization create an atmosphere that’s both relaxed and immersive.

For travelers who want to enjoy the aurora without freezing in the cold, and who appreciate a touch of sophistication, this tour delivers in spades. The knowledgeable guides and cozy environment mean you’ll leave with more than just photos—you’ll carry home stories of an unforgettable Yukon night.

If you’re after a luxury, intimate, and well-organized northern lights adventure, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. The combination of scenic comfort, educational value, and genuine chance to see the aurora makes it a standout choice in Whitehorse.

FAQ

Is the Aurora Lounge the only aurora viewing option in Whitehorse?
Yes, it’s the only aurora viewing cabin with a liquor license in Whitehorse, offering a more refined experience than typical outdoor setups.

What do I need to bring for the tour?
Bring warm clothing, layered for the cold. If you want great photos, a tripod is recommended (rental tripods are available).

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, starting with a pickup around 10:00 PM and returning about 2:00 AM, depending on the Aurora activity.

What if I don’t see the northern lights?
While guides do their best to find clear skies and the aurora, viewing depends on solar activity and weather conditions. Even if the lights don’t appear, many guests enjoy the cozy atmosphere, drinks, and guided storytelling.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, groups are limited to a maximum of 24 guests, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are drinks included?
Yes, unlimited hot drinks and snacks are part of the experience, and the cabin has a liquor license for alcoholic beverages.

Can I get photos of myself during the tour?
Absolutely. Guides assist with photography, and photos of you are provided online for free after the tour.

What is the climate like during the tour?
Temperatures can reach -30C or colder, so dress warmly in layers, especially if you plan to take photos outside.

How accessible is the tour?
Pickup is included from your hotel in Downtown Whitehorse, with a scenic 20-minute drive to the cabin. The setting is designed to be comfortable once you arrive.

Ultimately, the Aurora Lounge offers a well-rounded, comfortable, and engaging way to experience the Yukon’s northern lights. It’s perfect for those who value quality, education, and a dash of luxury in their Arctic adventures.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby