Tromso: Northern Lights Photography Tour by Bus (or miniBus)

If you’re dreaming of catching the elusive Northern Lights in Norway’s Arctic skies, a guided tour like this one offers a compelling mix of adventure, education, and stunning scenery. Operated by NorthernShots Tours, this 7-hour experience is designed to maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis, while also giving you the tools to photograph it beautifully. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a balanced mix of comfort, expert guidance, and Arctic exploration.

One of the standout features of this tour is the expert-led photography tutorial—a real boon for anyone wanting to learn how to snap the lights perfectly. Plus, the journey across fjords and mountains feels like an adventure in itself. That said, a potential drawback is the unpredictability of the Northern Lights—they’re nature’s own show, after all, and nothing can guarantee their appearance. This tour suits those who enjoy a flexible, well-organized chase with a chance to learn about this natural phenomenon in a cozy environment.

If you’re someone who values knowledgeable guides, scenic drives, and the thrill of a carefully planned Aurora chase, this tour could be a fantastic fit. It’s especially appealing if you’re eager to improve your photography skills or simply want a comfortable way to experience the Arctic night sky. Now, let’s get into the details to see what makes this tour tick.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Aurora Chase: Driven to the best spots based on weather forecasts, increasing your chances of seeing the lights.
• Photography Focus: Includes a tutorial on capturing the Aurora, plus optional professional portraits.
• Comfortable Transport: Minibuses and coaches with heating and cozy amenities for long nights.
• Expert Guides: Passionate and knowledgeable guides, like Mirko, who keep you updated on Aurora activity.
• Flexible Experience: Duration and stops vary depending on weather and cloud cover, with multiple stops sometimes included.
• Value for Money: For $181, you get transportation, guide, photography help, hot drinks, and cookies—making it a good deal for a night under the Arctic sky.

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Meeting Point and Departure

The tour kicks off at Northern Shots Tours, inside the “Booking Point” shop between The Edge Hotel and the Magic Ice bar at Prostneset Harbour. This central, easily accessible location sets the tone for a well-organized evening. Once everyone is gathered and dressed warmly—think layers, gloves, and thermal clothing—the guides give a quick briefing before hopping on the bus.

The Drive and Scouting for Aurora

The journey itself is part of the fun. Over the course of about two hours, you’ll drive past captivating Arctic landscapes—fjords, mountains, and possibly snow-covered wilderness. The guides rely on a strong network of weather and Aurora forecasting tools, which significantly improves your odds of finding clear skies and Northern Lights. As some reviews highlight, guides like Mirko and Peter are especially good at monitoring conditions and adjusting the route accordingly.

Scenic Stops and Learning Opportunities

The tour includes multiple stops, often at viewpoints selected for their likelihood of Aurora visibility. One reviewer mentioned being driven toward the Finnish border, where the clear starlit skies created a perfect backdrop for the show. The guides don’t just drop you off—they share detailed explanations about the science behind the Aurora Borealis and stories that surround this phenomenon, making the experience educational and engaging.

Photography Tips and Optional Portraits

One of the biggest draws for many travelers is the photography tutorial included in the tour. Guides like Marek and Alexandra are praised for their detailed advice on how to set up your camera or phone for the best shots. They also offer professional Aurora portraits for purchase, which many guests find adds a lasting memory to their trip. Several reviews note that guides actively help with camera settings, making it easier for even novice photographers to capture the dance of lights.

Food, Drink, and Comfort

Throughout the night, you’ll be served hot chocolate and cookies, a simple yet appreciated touch considering the cold Arctic night. The vehicle, generally heated, can sometimes cool down in very cold weather, so dressing warmly remains essential. Some guests suggest that having pre-booked thermal suits or additional warm layers could boost comfort, especially on the coldest nights.

The Return and Flexibility

The tour duration is variable, often lasting around 7 hours, but flexible depending on weather and Aurora activity. If the lights appear, guides might stay longer; if not, they might head back earlier. Guests consistently appreciate the effort guides make to find the best viewing spots, sometimes venturing into Finland or away from crowds to improve visibility.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Knowledgeable Guides and Personal Touches

Guests frequently mention the passion and expertise of guides like Mirko, Vero, and Peter. Their ability to explain complex scientific phenomena in an accessible way, combined with their patience and enthusiasm, greatly enhances the experience. Many reviews highlight the guides’ willingness to help with camera settings or to take professional photos, making these moments feel personalized.

Scenic Arctic Landscapes

Even before the Aurora appears, the Arctic scenery is breathtaking. Snowy mountains, fjords, and starry skies create a truly magical atmosphere. Several reviews rave about the views, with one guest mentioning how the guides took them to a “spot with hardly any other travelers,” allowing for a more intimate experience.

The Chase and Flexibility

Unlike static Aurora viewing spots, this tour actively chases the lights, which many guests find adds an exciting element of adventure. The guides’ use of weather data and their willingness to drive several hours in search of clear skies is a huge plus. As one reviewer celebrated, they crossed into Finland to escape cloud cover, ultimately witnessing a fantastic Aurora display.

The Photography Component

For those eager to document their experience, the included photography tutorial is invaluable. Guides can advise on tripod settings, phone camera adjustments, and timing—helping even amateurs get great shots. The optional professional portraits often become treasured souvenirs, with reviews stating guides are skilled photographers.

Food and Comfort

Simple hot drinks and cookies add comfort to the long Arctic night. Many travelers appreciate these touches, though some suggest pre-booking thermal gear or extra warm layers to stay cozy throughout. Expect the vehicle to be heated but possibly cooler than you’d like during the coldest nights.

Price and Overall Value

At $181 per person, this tour offers a solid mix of transportation, expert guidance, photographic assistance, and warm refreshments. Considering the expense of Arctic travel, the focus on chasing the Aurora rather than waiting was a clear value-add. Guests consistently praise the guides’ effort in finding the best viewing locations, and the opportunity to improve photography skills is a bonus. The optional professional photos, while an added cost, are often viewed as worthwhile souvenirs.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager to combine scientific learning with Arctic scenery. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate a flexible, well-organized chase rather than a static viewing spot. If you’re visiting Tromsø during peak Aurora season and want a good chance of seeing the lights while staying comfortable, this tour delivers.

However, it’s important to remember that Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and sightings are never guaranteed. If you’re overly anxious about seeing the Aurora, consider this as part of a broader Arctic adventure rather than your sole hope for a sighting.

The Sum Up

For those seeking an authentic, educational, and scenic Northern Lights experience, this tour from Tromsø is a strong contender. The guides’ expertise, combined with the effort to find the best spots and teach photography, makes it a worthwhile investment. The cozy transport and warm drinks add comfort to what can be a long, chilly night, turning the Arctic darkness into a magical spectacle.

This tour is especially well-suited for travelers who want to maximize their chances of Aurora sightings while learning about this incredible natural event. It’s also great for those who want professional help capturing the moment and appreciate the camaraderie of chasing the lights with a knowledgeable team.

If your main goal is to see the Northern Lights with some added educational value and a touch of Arctic adventure, then this tour should be high on your list.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable if I don’t have a good camera?
Yes. Guides offer helpful advice on how to set up your phone or camera for the best shots, and professional portraits are available for purchase, which many guests find worthwhile.

What should I wear on the tour?
Dress in warm layers, including thermal clothing, gloves, and hats. The vehicle is usually heated, but outdoor stops can be very cold, so preparation is key.

Can I expect to see the Northern Lights every night?
No. The Aurora is a natural phenomenon, so sightings depend on weather conditions and solar activity. The guides do their best to find clear skies based on forecast data.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts around 7 hours, but the timing can vary depending on weather, Aurora activity, and road conditions.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, a guide, a photography tutorial, hot drinks, and cookies are included. Professional photos are optional and sold separately.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically mentioned, the tour’s length and outdoor winter conditions suggest a need for children to be comfortable in the cold and able to sit comfortably for several hours.

What happens if the tour is canceled due to weather?
If it’s unsafe to drive or conditions are too poor, the tour may be canceled. You can then reschedule or receive a full refund. The guides will do their best to reschedule or find alternative spots.

In summary, this Tromsø Northern Lights Photography Tour offers a practical blend of adventure, learning, and Arctic scenery. Expect knowledgeable guides, scenic drives, and the potential for unforgettable Aurora sightings—all wrapped up in a cozy, well-organized package. Perfect for those who want to combine comfort with the chance of witnessing one of nature’s most spectacular displays.