Aurora Hunting Tours

Yellowknife, often called the “Aurora Capital of the World,” offers some of the most reliable and breathtaking northern lights displays. If you’re considering a tour to see this natural phenomenon, Aurora Hunting Tours by North Star Adventures promises an authentic, well-reviewed experience that emphasizes both safety and local expertise.

While no tour can guarantee a perfect sighting—nature being unpredictable—the way they prioritize maximize your chances and keep you comfortable in the wild makes this option stand out. We especially like their focus on Indigenous ownership and local knowledge, which adds depth beyond just chasing lights.

The one possible consideration? The tour’s adventurous nature means there are no cabins, tents, or washrooms at the stops, so if comfort and facilities are your top priority, this might not be the best fit. But for those who crave a genuine wilderness experience under the stars, this tour hits the mark.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers, families with older children, and anyone eager to see the northern lights in a natural setting with expert guides. If you prefer a more relaxed, bus-style tour with amenities, other options might suit you better. For those craving a real outdoor adventure with a chance to learn about Indigenous culture, this tour is well worth considering.

Key Points

• Expert Aurora hunting with flexible, real-time location choices.
• Indigenous-owned company offering insights into local culture.
• Hassle-free pickup and drop-off from downtown Yellowknife hotels.
• Warm snacks and hot drinks included to stay cozy during late-night hunts.
• Limited facilities—no washrooms or cabins on the stops.
• Small group size (max 22 travelers) for a more personal experience.
• Tours run from late August through April, with varying evening start times.
• Weather and Aurora conditions heavily influence the night’s route.
• Highly praised guides known for enthusiasm, knowledge, and professionalism.

An In-Depth Look at Aurora Hunting Tours

An Authentic Aurora Experience

Yellowknife’s reputation as a prime Northern Lights destination is well earned. But even with the best location, catching the Aurora depends on weather, geomagnetic activity, and a bit of luck. This tour’s real strength is its flexibility—they don’t stick to one fixed spot but instead adjust each night to the best viewing conditions available, which significantly improves your chances of seeing the lights.

Many reviews praise guides like Joe, who are not only knowledgeable about the Aurora but also enthusiastic storytellers. One guest wrote, “Joe was pleasant and full of information of the local area,” making the experience educational as well as visual.

The tours start late at night—between 9:00 and 10:30 PM depending on the season—and last around four hours. During this time, you’ll be driven to various wilderness locations outside the city, away from light pollution, with the goal of catching that elusive glow.

The Importance of Location and Weather

Since the destination changes nightly based on Aurora activity, weather, and other tour operators’ locations, the success of the outing hinges on conditions. One reviewer pointed out that “even with a cloudy night, the guide managed to find breaks in the clouds,” which highlights the experience and skill of the guides.

However, a few reviews noted that on some nights, the Aurora was faint or weak. The unpredictable nature of this natural display means patience is key. Still, knowing that the guides are Aurora-hunting specialists reassures travelers that every effort is made to find the best possible sighting.

Wilderness, Wildlife, and Authenticity

This isn’t a tour for those expecting cushy facilities. The stops are in remote wilderness, with nothing but nature and wildlife around. There are no cabins, tents, or washrooms, which some might find inconvenient, especially for young children or those with mobility issues. The focus is on true outdoor adventure, with an emphasis on experiencing the environment in its rawest form.

One guest noted, “We are Aurora hunting specialists, and where we go is nothing but wilderness and wildlife,” truly capturing the essence of this tour. It’s a journey into the natural landscape—quiet, cold, and stunningly beautiful at night.

Comfort and Snacks

While the stops are rustic, hot drinks and snacks are included, helping keep everyone warm and energized. Many reviews mention how appreciated these little comforts are, especially after hours of waiting and gazing at the night sky.

One reviewer said, “Brendon, our guide, clicked photos of us and kept us warm with hot chocolate,” which underscores the atmosphere of friendliness and care. These small touches help make the experience more enjoyable, especially in the cold.

Group Size and Timing

The tour maintains an intimate feel, with a maximum of 22 travelers. This small group size allows guides to give more personalized attention, take better photos, and share stories about the local culture.

The timing, from late evening to early early morning, is designed for optimal Aurora viewing, but travelers should be prepared for the late hours. If you’re not a night owl, this might be a challenge, but the payoff of witnessing the Aurora can be worth it.

Cost and Value

At $110.50 per person, this tour offers a solid balance of affordability and quality. When you consider the included snacks, hot drinks, hotel pickup, and the expertise of the guides, it’s a good value for those serious about seeing the Aurora in comfort and safety.

Some reviews mention that this company is known for being at the forefront of Aurora hunting in Yellowknife, which justifies the price. It’s not the cheapest tour available, but it’s competitive given the personalized, expert service and theAuthentic wilderness experience.

Booking and Cancellation

The tour is non-refundable, which is typical for outdoor adventure bookings dependent on weather and Aurora conditions. Confirmations come within 48 hours, and the tour runs daily during the Aurora season, from August through April.

It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot. The tour’s flexibility and the ability to adapt each night’s route are significant advantages, maximizing your chances of a good sighting.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous travelers who don’t mind the cold and a bit of wilderness. Families with children over five are welcome since the tour is more active and late-night. If you’re looking for a personalized outdoor adventure with a knowledgeable local guide, this tour hits the sweet spot.

It’s also a good pick for cultural enthusiasts—the guides share stories about local customs and Indigenous heritage, adding depth beyond just chasing lights.

However, if you prefer a more luxurious, facilities-based experience, or are concerned about late hours and outdoor conditions, you might want to explore other options.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
You’ll receive snacks and hot drinks to keep warm and energized during the late-night chase. Pickup and drop-off from downtown hotels are also provided, making it hassle-free.

What is the price?
The tour costs $110.50 per person. Considering the guide expertise, snacks, and hotel pickup, this is a fair price for a personalized outdoor adventure.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 4 hours, typically starting between 9:00 PM and 10:30 PM depending on the season.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, children aged 5 and older can participate, but they should be prepared for a late night and outdoor conditions.

What if the weather is poor?
The guides are experienced at adjusting their locations based on weather and Aurora activity. Sometimes, clouds can obscure the lights, but efforts are made to find clear skies.

Is this a small group tour?
Yes, with a maximum of 22 travelers, it offers a more personal experience and better chances for photos and stories.

Do I need to worry about facilities?
No. There are no washrooms or cabins at the stops, so prepare accordingly.

When are the tours available?
From August 15 to November 30, and December 1 to April 15, with evening start times listed on the website.

What is the cancellation policy?
Tours are non-refundable and cannot be changed. Be sure to confirm your plans before booking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re headed to Yellowknife with hopes of seeing the Aurora borealis, Aurora Hunting Tours with North Star Adventures offers an authentic, locally led experience that balances adventure with comfort. The guides’ expertise, the flexibility of locations, and the inclusion of hot drinks make it stand out.

While it leans toward the rustic side—no cabins or restrooms—this adds to the feeling of being truly immersed in wilderness, which many travelers find memorable. The small group size and focus on Indigenous culture also enrich the journey, turning a simple lights chase into a meaningful outdoor adventure.

This tour is best suited for those who love nature, don’t mind waiting outdoors late into the night, and want a genuine, well-guided chance to witness one of the world’s most stunning natural displays. If you’re after a highly personalized, expert-led outdoor experience, it’s a solid choice.