Northern Lights Big Bus Chase with Free Photos

If you’re heading to Tromso with hopes of witnessing the elusive Northern Lights, the Northern Lights Big Bus Chase by Arctic Explorers might just be one of your best bets. This full-day tour combines comfortable transportation, expert guidance, and a genuine effort to maximize your chances of seeing those magical aurora displays — all while keeping you warm and equipped to photograph the spectacle. It’s a well-rated experience, with a perfect 5.0 from over 140 reviews, and a recommended choice for travelers eager for a memorable Arctic night.

What we particularly love about this tour is its mobility. Unlike fixed-location viewing, the ability to “chase” the lights around Tromso and even across borders significantly boosts your chances of witnessing the aurora borealis. Plus, the free professional photos and onboard WiFi add nice touches, making this trip not just about the lights but also about capturing and sharing your experience. That said, it’s worth noting that you’ll need to dress warmly — the tour doesn’t automatically include winter clothing, so bring your own gear.

This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, guided experience that balances comfort, adventure, and photo opportunities. However, it’s a long night, often extending up to 10 hours, so it’s best suited for those with some flexibility in their schedule and a good level of patience — especially if the weather doesn’t cooperate. Overall, if you’re after a professional, well-organized chase with the chance to see the Northern Lights in their full glory, this tour offers solid value and authentic Arctic fun.

Key Points

• Flexible location: The tour moves around Tromso and even crosses borders to find clear skies, increasing your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis.
• Expert guides: Guides like Georgi, Iris, and Tomas are highly praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and dedication to maximizing your viewing experience.
• Photo perks: You’ll receive free professional photos of the aurora, a highlight for travelers wanting lasting memories.
• Comfortable transport: The tour uses a heated bus, ensuring you stay warm during long waits outside — a crucial feature in Arctic cold.
• Long duration: Expect an evening that could last 7 to 10 hours, with plenty of opportunities for patience, chatter, and hot drinks.
• Mixed weather luck: As reviews indicate, cloud cover and weather conditions greatly influence the visibility, but the guides’ efforts are consistently appreciated.

The Itinerary: What to Expect and Why It Matters

Starting Point: Tromso

The tour kicks off at Fiskekompaniet on Killengreens Gate at 5:30 pm. From here, you’ll board a cozy, heated bus — a huge plus in the Norwegian winter cold. The guides will brief you on the plan, but their real skill lies in adjusting based on weather updates and aurora forecasts.

The Search Begins

Within the first few stops, guides like Georgi and Iris have become favorites for their enthusiasm and local knowledge. They’re constantly monitoring weather conditions and cloud cover, often driving several hours to Finland or to the border to dodge the clouds and find a clear sky. Several reviews mention that guides are flexible, responsive, and eager to take travelers to the best possible spots, sometimes even changing plans on the fly.

The Aurora Chase

It’s not guaranteed you’ll see the lights every night — that’s just nature’s unpredictability — but the effort is evident. Multiple reviews mention the guides’ dedication to finding the lights, with some even driving as far as Finland for a better chance. When the aurora appears, it’s a jaw-dropping moment. One guest described it as “a magical show of lights,” while others noted how dancing, moving lights kept them enthralled for hours.

The Experience Outside

When auroras appear, guides often stop the bus for better viewing. You’ll be outside, wrapped in warm layers, gazing at shimmering ribbons of green and sometimes reds or purples. Many reviews talk about the guides’ enthusiasm, with Jessica, Georgi, and Iris encouraging patience and participation, making it feel more like a fun adventure than just a sightseeing trip.

Cozy Fire and Hot Drinks

Once the lights are visible, the guides will set up an open fire, allowing everyone to warm up while enjoying cookies, marshmallows, and hot drinks. The storytelling aspect — about Norse mythology and the science behind the lights — adds a charming, cultural touch to the experience. One reviewer highlighted how the guides’ stories and enthusiasm made the moment even more special.

Photos and Memories

While the tour provides free professional photos sent after the trip, a few guests noted that they never received their images, so it’s worth following up. Still, the ability to get high-quality images of the aurora is a big plus, especially considering how tricky it can be to photograph the lights on your own.

Late Night Finish

The tour can last until around 3 am, meaning you’ll need some stamina. Be prepared for a long, cold night if the weather isn’t perfect, but many reviews confirm that the effort to stay out pays off when the aurora dances above. Guides are attentive and friendly throughout, making the late hours more bearable.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable and Passionate Guides

The reviews repeatedly mention how guides like Georgi, Iris, and Tomas are genuinely passionate about their work. They’re praised for their local insights, patience, and willingness to go the extra mile — including driving to Finland or the border for better chances. Guests appreciated how guides communicated clearly and adapted quickly to weather conditions, making the experience feel personalized and well-organized.

The Value of Mobility

The ability to move around rather than stay in one spot significantly boosts your odds of seeing the aurora. We loved the way guides kept the group on the move, chasing clear skies and scenic spots, rather than waiting passively at a single location.

Photo and Comfort Perks

The free photos are a nice bonus, especially since catching the perfect shot of the Aurora can be tricky. The heated bus, accessible restroom, WiFi, and hot drinks all contribute to a comfortable, hassle-free night. These thoughtful touches help lift the experience from a basic tour to a memorable Arctic adventure.

The Long Night, But Worth It

Although the duration can be up to 10 hours, many reviewers said it’s worth every minute — especially when the lights are active. The guides’ efforts and the thrill of possibly witnessing the Northern Lights make it a worthwhile investment, even for those who aren’t naturally patient or who dislike cold weather.

The Experience’s Authenticity

Guests appreciated the personal stories and cultural insights shared by guides, which added depth beyond just chasing lights. The outdoor fire, storytelling, and warm drinks create a cozy atmosphere that enhances the magic of the moment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits adventurous travelers who don’t mind late nights and are prepared for cold conditions. It’s perfect for those eager to maximize their chances of witnessing the Northern Lights through a flexible, guided chase. Photographers will appreciate the professional photos, while those interested in Arctic culture and landscape will find the storytelling and scenic stops rewarding.

However, if you’re looking for a short or less demanding outing, this might feel a bit long or intense. Also, since weather conditions heavily influence the chance to see the aurora, travelers should be flexible and patient.

The Sum Up

The Northern Lights Big Bus Chase by Arctic Explorers stands out as a well-organized, authentic, and highly praised experience in Tromso. With guides dedicated to finding the best viewing spots, the ability to chase clear skies across borders, and thoughtful touches like free photos and warm drinks, it offers great value for the price.

If you’re looking for a professional, flexible, and immersive Arctic adventure with the chance to witness one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena, this tour is a solid choice. While it requires patience and a willingness to stay out late, the memories of dancing lights and the stories shared around a campfire are likely to stay with you long after you return home.

Ideal for travelers who want to combine comfort, expert guiding, and a bit of luck, making every effort well worth it when the sky finally puts on its show.

FAQ Section

How long does the tour last?
Expect the experience to run between 7 to 10 hours, starting at 5:30 pm and often concluding after midnight, depending on aurora activity and weather.

What is included in the tour?
The tour provides a heated bus, WiFi, restroom access, warm drinks, snacks, and free professional photos of the aurora. The guides also share stories and cultural insights.

Do I need to bring my own warm clothes?
Yes, warm clothing is not included, so dress in layers, including thermal wear, hats, gloves, and sturdy boots, to stay comfortable during outdoor stops.

Can I expect to see the Northern Lights every night?
No, aurora visibility depends on weather conditions, cloud cover, and solar activity. Guides do their best to maximize chances but cannot guarantee sightings.

What if I don’t see the lights?
Even if the aurora doesn’t appear, most guests agree the guides’ efforts, storytelling, and scenic drives make for a memorable Arctic experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the late hours and cold outdoor conditions. The tour’s relaxed pace and warm stops make it generally family-friendly.

How do the guides find the best spots?
Guides like Georgi, Iris, and Tomas use real-time weather updates, aurora forecasts, and local knowledge to chase clear skies and optimal viewing locations.

What happens if the weather is poor?
Tours are weather-dependent. If conditions are too poor or the aurora isn’t visible, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In sum, this Northern Lights chase is a top-tier option for those wanting an authentic, guided Arctic adventure with plenty of comfort and expert attention. It’s a trip that combines the thrill of chasing the aurora with the warmth of good company and expert guidance, making Tromso’s night skies a truly unforgettable experience.