Aurora Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Tromsø and hoping to catch the elusive Northern Lights, the Aurora Tour by Amazing Arctic Tours might just be your best bet. With a solid 4.5-star rating based on over 340 reviews, it promises a well-organized adventure that aims to maximize your chances of witnessing this celestial spectacle. What makes this tour stand out? It’s the combination of expert guides, a large viewing area extending into Swedish and Finnish territories, and thoughtful touches like thermal suits, campfire snacks, and a free aurora portrait.

One of the highlights we love is the personalized approach—guides like Mansoor and Aram are praised for their expertise in spotting the lights and their genuine enthusiasm, which can turn a potentially chilly, unpredictable night into an unforgettable experience. That said, a possible consideration is that, during peak holiday seasons, the tour can become crowded and chaotic, with some reviewers noting late arrivals and bustling start times. Still, if you’re prepared to brave the cold and hope for a magical display, this tour offers excellent value for those seeking an authentic Arctic adventure.

This tour is best suited for travelers who are eager to see the Northern Lights with a knowledgeable guide and enjoy the Arctic outdoors comfortably. It’s perfect if you want a mix of nature, local culture, and photo opportunities, but be aware that weather conditions and solar activity play significant roles in Aurora sightings. Overall, it’s a compelling choice for those who want an engaging, well-supported chase after the Aurora Borealis in Tromsø.

Key Points

• Maximized Viewing Area: Extends into Swedish and Finnish territories for better chances.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Mansoor and Aram have a proven track record of spotting the Aurora, even in dim conditions.
• Comfort and Convenience: Includes thermal suits, campfire snacks, hot drinks, and marshmallows, making the cold more bearable.
• Authentic Arctic Experience: Campfire, local snacks, and even a free Aurora portrait add a personalized touch to the trip.
• Group Size and Flexibility: Tours are capped at 21 travelers, balancing intimacy with the chance for spontaneous Aurora sightings.
• Weather Dependency: Aurora sightings depend heavily on clear skies and solar activity, so patience and luck are involved.

A Deep Dive into the Aurora Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins in Tromsø’s historic city centre at Kirkegata 2, making it easy for most travelers to reach via public transportation or a short walk from accommodation. The transportation during the tour is via an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort as you venture into the Arctic wilderness. The actual drive can cover a wide area—up to 300 km around Tromsø, including parts of Sweden and Finland—giving you a broader chance of finding clear, dark skies free from city lights.

The Itinerary: What Really Happens

The tour lasts approximately 5 to 9 hours, which might sound long but is necessary because patience is key in Aurora hunting. The evening usually kicks off around 8 pm with the guides briefed on the best spots for Aurora viewing, knowing that actual sightings often happen after 11 pm. The guides are praised for their proactive approach—taking multiple scenic stops, encouraging good photo techniques, and adjusting locations based on weather and Aurora activity.

The Search for the Aurora

Guides like Mansoor are especially lauded for their ability to spot the Aurora even in faint conditions, which can be the difference between a good night and a spectacular one. Several reviewers mention they appreciated the help with camera settings and photography, as capturing the lights is a challenge in low-light conditions. Mansoor and others often take extra time to snap photos of the group and individual guests—an appreciated perk, especially seeing that many travelers hope for a memorable keepsake.

Campfire and Local Snacks

While waiting for the Aurora, guests gather around a bonfire—a cozy centerpiece on cold Arctic nights. The provided hot chocolate, cinnamon cake, and marshmallows make the experience warm and inviting. Several reviews mention these touches as highlights, with many guests describing the campfire as a relaxing social hub under the starlit sky. The marshmallows are halal-friendly, which shows the guides’ attentive approach to diverse guests.

Thermal Suits and Comfort Measures

The inclusion of thermal suits is a smart feature—many reviewers note that they felt well-protected against the cold, though some advise bringing additional gear like hats, mittens, and winter boots for extra comfort. Given Tromsø’s winter chill, being prepared with proper footwear and warm accessories is wise—these aren’t provided and can make the difference between a pleasant night and a miserable one.

Photographs and Memories

One standout feature is the free aurora portrait taken by the guides. Many guests report being thrilled with the quality and clarity of the photos, often asking how they can purchase prints afterward. Given the unpredictable nature of the Aurora, having professional shots helps turn a night of fleeting lights into lasting memories.

The Value of This Aurora Tour

While the tour is listed as free in terms of price, the value is in the inclusions: expert guidance, transportation, thermal suits, campfire snacks, and photography help. Compared to other Aurora experiences that can be costly, this package offers an impressive level of support, especially considering the convenience of staying close to Tromsø’s city center and the opportunity to extend into neighboring territories.

The reviews consistently praise the knowledge, friendliness, and persistence of the guides. They go above and beyond to help guests see the lights, even in less-than-ideal weather conditions. This commitment, combined with the small group size (max 21 guests), creates an intimate, personalized experience that many other tours might lack.

Who Is It Best For?

This tour appeals to travelers who value authenticity and expert guidance. If you’re patient, willing to embrace the cold, and eager to learn about the Aurora, you’ll find this experience rewarding. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate a social atmosphere around the campfire and enjoy multi-country Arctic ventures, given that the tour extends into neighboring territories.

However, if you’re traveling during peak holiday seasons, you might encounter larger crowds and some initial chaos—so patience and flexibility are key. Also, those requiring tailored or private experiences might want to explore other options.

The Sum Up

This Aurora Tour by Amazing Arctic Tours offers a well-rounded and authentic Arctic adventure. The combination of knowledgeable guides, cozy amenities, and a wide viewing area makes it a strong choice for anyone serious about seeing the Northern Lights. The effort guides put into helping guests with photography, along with the thoughtful touches like campfire snacks and thermal suits, elevate this experience from just a simple chase.

While Aurora sightings are never 100% guaranteed—weather and solar activity being outside anyone’s control—the tour’s flexibility and professionalism boost your odds. Many guests have praised the guides’ dedication, and some have even described it as a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience. Expect a good balance of adventure, comfort, and local charm that makes Tromsø’s winter nights truly special.

This tour is best for adventurous travelers who want a guided, memorable Arctic night with a high chance of Aurora sightings. It suits those who don’t mind waiting outdoors in cold weather, as long as they’re prepared. If you’re looking for a reliable, friendly, and well-supported Aurora hunt, this tour ticks most boxes—and you might just see the lights dance across the sky.

FAQ

How long does the Aurora Tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 to 9 hours, starting around 8 pm and ending back at the meeting point.

Where does the tour start?
It begins in Tromsø’s historic city centre at Kirkegata 2, making it accessible for most travelers staying in or near the city.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle that covers a wide area, including parts of Swedish and Finnish territories, to improve Aurora viewing chances.

What should I wear?
While thermal suits are provided, guests are advised to bring hats, mittens, and winter boots for extra warmth.

Can I take photos of the Aurora?
Absolutely. Guides help guests set up their phones and cameras, and many guests receive professional Aurora portraits as a free souvenir.

What if the weather is cloudy?
The tour is weather-dependent. If poor weather cancels the Aurora sighting, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What is included in the price?
Includes thermal suits, campfire snacks, hot drinks, marshmallows, and photo assistance. The tour itself is free, but optional purchases of photos may be available.

Is this suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should note the outdoor nature and cold conditions. The tour caps at 21 guests, maintaining a good balance of intimacy and social atmosphere.

This Aurora Tour in Tromsø offers a genuine chance to see the Northern Lights, backed by experienced guides and thoughtful amenities. Whether it’s your first time or a repeat visit, it’s a very capable choice for anyone wanting to make the most of Tromsø’s Arctic magic.