Tromso | Ski & Snow

Best Tromso Northern Lights Tour Experience – Your Insider’s Guide

Are you on the hunt for the best Tromso Northern Lights Tour?

You’re in the right place! As someone who absolutely loves chasing the aurora and has personally witnessed the incredible magic of the Northern Lights in Tromsø, I can say with confidence that these celestial performances are absolutely mind-blowing and leave you in awe.

Tromsø, located in the heart of the Arctic Circle, is one of the best places on earth to witness the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis. With its stunning landscapes comprising of fjords, mountains, and untouched Arctic wilderness, it presents an unparalleled backdrop for this celestial display.

MY TOP PICK
best tromso nortehrn light tour

⌚️ Short on time?

The best Tromsø Northern Lights tour is Northern Lights Hunting & Photography Expedition with countless 5-star reviews!

With around 100 tour operators offering northern lights tours, you might feel a bit overwhelmed when choosing the best aurora chase in Tromsø.

But hey, don’t worry! This article is here to help you out. We’ll discuss the important factors to consider when picking the perfect northern lights tour provider for your amazing Tromsø experience.

In this guide, I’m excited to share my top picks for the best Tromso Northern Lights tour, including the best group tours and private excursions, along with helpful information and tips for first-timers.

Are you ready to discover which of these magical Tromsø Northern Lights tour is right for you? Let’s dive in!

Top 3 Picks: Best Tromso northern lights tour

#1 top pick
best tromso nortehrn light tour

Northern Lights Hunting & Photography Expedition

✅ 5-Star Reviews ✅ Aurora Chasing & Arctic Wilderness + Professional Photography Guidance

#2 pick

Tromsø: Reindeer Sled, Dinner, and Northern Lights Day Trip

✅ 700 + 5-Star Reviews ✅ Aurora Chasing & reindeer sledding ✅ 3-course dinner

#3 pick

4×4 Small Group Northern Lights Photography Tour

✅ 5-Star Reviews ✅ Aurora Chasing & Arctic Wilderness + Professional Photography Guidance

best tromso northern lights tour

These are the best Tromso Northern Lights tour has to offer:

best tromso nortehrn light tour

➡️ Check prices and availability for Northern Lights Hunting & Photography Expedition

⭐️ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 Stars (with more than 250 5-star reviews)

🕘 TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours

🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →

Why book this tour?

The Northern Lights Hunting & Photography Expedition it’s a perfect blend of adventure and art, getting you up close to nature’s most stunning spectacle.

And guess what? It’s the only tour that comes with professional photography guidance, so you can capture those magical Aurora Borealis moments like a pro!

Great experience, few people which is great and always looking for the best place to see the best Northern Lights! And we did! I highly recommend!

Ines, (read more reviews)

The tour is perfect for solo adventurers or groups, promising an amazing night with breathtaking views of the night sky.

You’ll be well taken care of with snacks and hot drinks to keep you warm and energized in the chilly Arctic wilderness. And the best part? Round-trip transportation service is included, so getting to and from your lodging in Tromsø is a breeze.

What’s included in the Northern Lights Hunting & Photography Expedition:

  • Northern Lights Hunting
  • Professional Photography Guidance
  • Snacks
  • Hot drinks
  • Round-trip transportation
  • Dinner (vegetarian and vegan options available)
  • Souvenir photos in web-sized resolution 

Check prices and availability for the Northern Lights Hunting & Photography Expedition here →

Tromsø: Reindeer Sled, Dinner, and Northern Lights Day Trip

➡️ Check prices and availability for Tromsø: Reindeer Sled, Dinner, and Northern Lights Day Trip

⭐️ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 Stars (with more than 700 5-star reviews)

🕘 TOUR LENGTH: 4.5 hours

🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →

Why book this tour?

The Tromsø: Reindeer Sled, Dinner, and Northern Lights Day Trip takes your Arctic adventure to a whole new level!

Get ready for an incredible Reindeer Sled ride and a mouthwatering traditional dinner under the mesmerizing Northern Lights. It’s the perfect blend of culture, nature, and deliciousness that you won’t want to miss!

Extremely organized activity. The guides were very welcoming to every person that participated in the tour. We were very lucky to witness the Northern Lights from the parking lot where the bus picked us up in Tromso to location where the Reindeer were living. Hands down one of the best tours we attended during our 8 day adventure through Norway

Brian, (read more reviews)

This tour is perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers looking to experience the Arctic in a unique way. With transfers included, you won’t need to worry about getting to and from Tromsø. Plus, warm clothing is provided to keep you comfortable throughout the journey.

What’s included in the Tromsø: Reindeer Sled, Dinner, and Northern Lights Day Trip:

  • Reindeer Sled Ride
  • Traditional Sami Dinner
  • Northern Lights Viewing
  • Transfers

Check prices and availability for Tromsø: Reindeer Sled, Dinner, and Northern Lights Day Trip here →

4x4 Small Group Northern Lights Photography Tour

➡️ Check prices and availability for 4×4 Small Group Northern Lights Photography Tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars (with more than 320 5-star reviews)

🕘 TOUR LENGTH: 6 hours

🎟 HOW TO BOOK: check prices and availability here →

Why book this tour?

The 4×4 Small Group Northern Lights Photography Tour is an epic mix of adventure and art! Not only will you get to chase the awe-inspiring Northern Lights, but you’ll also learn how to capture those magical moments with your camera. It’s an absolute treat for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike!

Our guide George was great! So nice and knowledgable, he drove quite a while for us to get the chance to hopefully see the northern lights. We got to see this and in our case it also ended with an engagement. Recommend everyone to go on this activity!

Therese, (read more reviews)

This tour is an excellent choice for small groups, families, couples, or solo adventurers who want to capture the sheer beauty of the Arctic night sky.

No need to fret about transportation; it’s all taken care of! Plus, tripods and warm clothing are provided to ensure a seamless and comfortable experience.

What’s included in the 4×4 Small Group Northern Lights Photography Tour:

  • Northern Lights Chase
  • Photography Lesson
  • Transfers
  • Pro tripods and headlamps
  • Thermal suits
  • Small group tour in Tromsø with maximum 8 guests
  • Comfortable 4×4-equipped VW tour vans
  • Local made expedition food
  • Cookies & hot beverages (tea + coffee)
  • Professional photos from the tour
  • Campfire
  • Hand warmers and heated insoles for your own boots
  • Drop off at hotel/accommodation in Tromsø city centre

Check prices and availability for 4×4 Small Group Northern Lights Photography Tour

Selecting the Best Tromsø Northern Lights Tour Operator

Let’s dive into some more fantastic tour operators in Tromsø for your polar adventures! Every tour brings its unique flavour to the table, enhancing your Northern Lights experience.

From Tromsø: Aurora Borealis Tour

Tromsø: Northern Lights Trip with Campfire and Snacks

From Tromsø: Evening Dog Sledding at Camp Tamok

Tromsø: Small Group Aurora Hunt Tour With Citizen Science

From Tromsø: Aurora Crystal Lavvo Overnight Experience

Picking the perfect Tromsø Northern Lights tour can feel overwhelming with so many options out there. But don’t worry! By considering a few important factors, you’ll find the tour that suits your needs and preferences like a charm.

Combine the Aurora Borealis hunt with other activities

If you’re not into the passive experience of bus tours solely focused on chasing the Northern Lights, there are other options to consider.

Look for tours that combine the Aurora Borealis hunt with fun activities like reindeer sledding, traditional Sami dinners, snowmobiling, or sailing. Check prices and availability here →

Also, if you’re interested in exploring more of what Tromsø has to offer, be sure to check out my other guide on the best tours in Tromsø here. It’s packed with information on all the must-see sights and experiences that this beautiful Norwegian city has to offer.

Just keep in mind that these activities might restrict your ability to chase clear skies, which is crucial for optimal Northern Lights viewing.

best tours in tromso husky sledding tromso

Consider the Group Size

The size of your tour group can really make a difference in your experience. You’ve got options like private tours, small groups, mini-bus tours, and large coach tours.

Smaller groups give you that intimate and personal touch, while larger groups can save you some bucks. Check prices and availability here →

What’s the Price and What Does It Include?

The cost of Northern Lights tours in Tromsø can actually vary quite a bit.

You know, higher prices usually mean they throw in more stuff and all, but it’s always smart to double-check what’s included in the price.

Some tours might ask you to pay extra for specific services or amenities, so just keep that in mind.

Are the Guides Professional Photographers?

Having a professional photographer as your guide is an awesome bonus, especially if you want to capture breathtaking images of the Northern Lights.

They not only know the best spots with amazing views but can also help you take top-notch photos of the aurora. Check prices and availability here →

Are the Guides Locals?

Most tour guides in Tromsø are actually foreigners, given the seasonal nature of the job. However, having a local guide can bring some cool perspectives and insights into the area and culture.

Read the Reviews

Don’t forget to check out the reviews of the tour company. Take note of any recurring complaints or praises.

And hey, if there are any negative reviews because of bad weather, don’t let that discourage you! The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that no one can control.

When choosing the perfect Northern Lights tour in Tromsø, there are a few important things to keep in mind. By considering these factors, you can ensure you have an amazing and unforgettable experience with the magical Aurora Borealis.

tromso northern lights lodge

What to Expect from a Northern Lights Tour?

Usually you’ll meet your guide and driver at a designated pick-up spot where they’ll fill you in on the current aurora and weather conditions. If needed, they’ll hook you up with warm thermal suits and winter boots.

Depending on the conditions, you might catch the Northern Lights right in Tromsø or on the way to the chosen spot.

If not, your guide will find the perfect spot to set up camp, start a cozy campfire, and entertain you with captivating stories and legends about the Northern Lights while you wait for them to show up.

If the weather gets tricky, your guide will keep scouting for better locations and consult with other guides to make the best call.

No matter what, there will always be a warm campfire, fascinating storytelling, and a relentless effort to give you the best shot at seeing the Northern Lights.

Just remember, patience is key in this experience. It might get chilly, involve some waiting, and there’s a chance you might not see the Northern Lights.

If this is your ultimate dream, I suggest booking multiple tours to up your chances.

Are Northern Lights tours worth experiencing?

If you’re planning to see the Aurora Borealis in Tromsø, booking a guided tour isn’t a must, but I highly recommend it.

I get that some of you might not be into organized tours, but trust me, without knowing how to read weather and Aurora forecasts, you might miss out on the stunning celestial display. I’ve met folks who thought a weak Aurora was just a cloudy sky!

When you join a Northern Lights excursion, the guides will spot the Aurora and teach you how to capture amazing pictures, even if it’s not visible to the naked eye.

Here are 8 reasons why you should consider booking a Northern Lights tour in Tromsø:

  1. No need to worry about driving on slippery and dangerous icy roads. Unless you’re experienced in driving on snow and ice in the dark, renting a car is not recommended.
  2. No need to study complicated weather and Aurora forecast apps. Leave the experts to handle that!
  3. No struggle in finding the perfect spot. The guides know all the best locations around Tromsø for those breathtaking photo ops.
  4. No need to know what to look for. Sometimes the Northern Lights can be faint, but your guide will know how to spot them.
  5. No need to stress about camera settings. Capturing the Northern Lights is tricky, but the guides will help you set up your camera correctly.
  6. Get stunning pictures of yourself with the Northern Lights. It’s not easy to take photos of people with the lights, but the photographers on the tour know all the tricks.
  7. Stay warm with the tour company’s provided clothes. You’ll be outside for hours, so no need to buy heavy winter gear. Most companies offer thermal suits and some even provide shoes.
  8. Learn fascinating facts about the Northern Lights. Ever heard about how the Sami people used to hide when the lights danced in the sky?

So, if you want an unforgettable experience with the Northern Lights, consider booking a tour in Tromsø!

#1 top pick
best tromso northern light tour

Northern Lights Hunting & Photography Expedition

✅ 5-Star Reviews ✅ Aurora Chasing & Arctic Wilderness + Professional Photography Guidance

FAQ About Tromsø and the Northern Lights:

How likely are you to see the Northern Lights in Tromsø? 

Tromsø is one of the best places on Earth to experience the Northern Lights. If you visit during the ‘Aurora season’ from September to March, your chances of witnessing this natural spectacle are high, provided that the sky is clear and dark.

When is the best time of the year to visit Tromsø for the Northern Lights? 

The Northern Lights season in Tromsø runs from late September to late March. However, the most optimal time to visit is during the dark months of November, December, and January.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Tromsø without a tour? 

Absolutely! It’s possible to see the Northern Lights without a tour. All you need is a clear, dark sky, a bit of patience, and ideally, a location away from city light pollution. But joining a tour can make the hunt easier and more enjoyable with experienced guides who know the best viewing spots.

Where is the best spot in Tromsø to watch the Northern Lights? 

While the Northern Lights can be seen from various locations in Tromsø, some of the best spots include the Telegrafbukta Park, the Tromsø Island, and the mountains surrounding the city. A guided tour can take you to remote locations with minimal light pollution for the best viewing experience.

Conclusion – Best Tromso Northern Lights Tour

To wrap it up, the best Tromso Northern Lights tour is simply mind-blowing!

It’ll leave an unforgettable impression on your heart. This guide to best Tromso Northern Lights tour has hopefully given you some cool insights for an otherworldly adventure in Norway.

Tromsø has so much to offer, like stargazing from snowy mountaintops and immersing in the local culture.

My top recommendation is the Northern Lights Hunting & Photography Expedition – it’s super popular with all five-star reviews!

Not just the lights, but you’ll also get to explore the tranquil Norwegian wilderness. Whichever tour you choose in Tromsø, get ready for a magical evening under the enchanting aurora borealis.

Related Reading:

Love it? Pin it!

I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. Read full privacy policy here.