Tromsø is Norway’s capital of the Northern Lights. There are more than 100 Northern Lights tour providers in the city. So, how do you choose the best Northern Lights tours in Tromso?
We believe there is no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to the Northern Lights tours. Some prefer small active tours, while the price is the most important factor for others.
To help you decide which provider is right for you, we put together this article, which discusses the aspects you should consider before booking an aurora hunt in Tromso (group size, price, type of vehicle, etc.)
We spent six months living in Tromsø in 2022. During that time, I (Radka) worked for a Tromsø-based travel agency that offered Northern Lights tours and other excursions in Tromsø and Lofoten.
Answering inquiries about visiting Tromsø in winter, especially questions concerning the Northern Lights—whether it was when is the best month to see the aurora, which aurora tracking app to use, or what is the best aurora tour in Tromso—was part of my daily routine.
I often wished I had comprehensive material to direct customers to answer these questions instead of answering tons of emails with the same questions every day. So here it is – your guide to the best northern lights tour providers in Tromsø!
I hope you find it helpful!
Radka & Ivar 💙
We don’t have experience with every single company offering Northern Lights tours in Tromsø, so if the tour you chose isn’t on this list, it doesn’t mean it’s not a great choice!
The companies we feature are those we know through my previous work in Tromsø, recommendations from trusted friends in the industry, or ones we’ve reached out to ourselves.
Our criteria are straightforward: the companies must be registered in Norway, have all the necessary paperwork, and have a solid track record of great reviews.
For some of the newly established companies on our list, you may notice there are almost no reviews yet—but that’s because they’re often run by guides with years of experience in the industry who’ve now decided to start their own business.
We also aim to establish personal relationships with the companies we recommend, getting to know them and their offerings—ideally meeting them in person and trying their tours ourselves. We update this list every year, and sometimes even mid-season, as we get to know new companies or make adjustments.
In short, we’re committed to recommending only the most reliable, enjoyable options based on personal and industry knowledge, so you’re in good hands <3
As we mentioned in the first paragraph, there are more than 100 Northern Lights tour providers in Tromso and its surroundings, and new ones are popping up every season.
We highly recommend reading this article to help you find the perfect Northern Lights tour based on your needs—whether it’s group size, price, activity level, or a focus on photography.
But if you’re just here for a quick list of great companies, here it is:
We want to help you make a safe and responsible choice when picking the best northern lights tours in Tromso. That’s why we check that the companies we recommend have the right permits and insurance. This way, you can enjoy your experience knowing you’re in good hands and that everything’s being done by the rules. © Arctic Photo Guide
Let’s start with what most people prefer: Northern Lights chasing tours in small groups of up to 8 people.
Choosing a small group tour can allow you to connect personally with the guide and other travelers, making the experience more intimate and enjoyable.
These small tours fill up fast, so be sure to book as early as possible! What does “early” mean? The sooner, the better. Now, at the end of October (2024), most small tours are fully booked until mid-January. Occasionally, there’s an opening due to cancellations, but usually only for one or two people.
Here are our tips for the best northern lights tours in Tromso for up to 8 people:
Nico from Arctic Photo Guide is probably Tromso’s smallest Northern Lights tour operator, who approaches Northern Lights chasing a bit differently.
While other companies take you to one of the parking spots around Tromso, where you can enjoy magnificent views, the tour with Nico is a bit more active and takes you off the beaten path.
You will get thermal suits, snowshoes/ice cleats, and walking sticks, and you will hike through the winter landscape to a secluded location where you can have an intimate aurora viewing away from light pollution or crowds.
“Our journey with Nicola was exciting and magical. It was a small group, and everyone got along very well, despite some amusing language barriers at times.
The first 2.5 to 3 hours or so were spent chasing gaps in the cloud, occasionally spotting quite minimal activity. As the hours went by, Nicola kept everyone’s spirits high, grabbing opportunities to take souvenir photos with the Northern Lights when the camera could detect what the human eye could not.
After some food and some more chat around a campfire (some four hours into our journey), the heavens opened. We were treated to a truly marvelous display of the lights, with elements of green being visible to the naked eye. Nicola helped me set up my camera in an optimal manner and captured some great shots. I’ve also attached a couple of Nicola’s photos of us, which were sent to us promptly.
Overall, we loved our trip with Nicola. The group size and dynamic suited us very well. His guidance was helpful, informative, and considerate, and the display was fabulous. Thank you!”
“Our experience began with a morning phone call, where they explained that there was little hope of seeing the aurora that night and gave us the option not to go. We decided to tempt fate and chose to go anyway.
The guys from Northbound are incredibly skilled and managed to find a clear patch of sky away from Tromsø’s rain. There was a lot of waiting, but eventually, the northern lights appeared as if by magic.
Other groups that night didn’t manage to see them. If you want to see the northern lights, go with Oli and Ryan—the best northern lights hunters!”
*I deliberately chose a review from customers who were facing challenging weather conditions. You can check more reviews on TripAdvisor.
Greenlander is one of the most renowned Northern Lights companies in Tromsø, famous for going the extra mile to find the best views and capture stunning photos of the aurora.
The guys from Greenlander are known for enjoying the thrill of the northern lights chasing, spending long hours outside in search of clear skies.
So, if you’re looking for a shorter tour and want to return to your hotel early, they might not be the best fit for you. However, Greenlander is an excellent choice if you’re up for a longer adventure to experience the best of the Northern Lights.
“If you want to see the lights, this is your guide and tour. Markus is the Best Northern Lights hunter for granted. I do not know how Markus did it, but if he had told me before the tour that we would be able to see the lights that night, I would say impossible, no way, because the weather was very cloudy, windy, and snowing.
He drove us for a few hours, trying to find clear skies with stable activity, but the weather was pretty bad. However, his ten years in the business paid off. He found a clear sky spot from nowhere, and within 2 minutes of getting out of the minivan, the dancing lights just showed up for at least 30 minutes. It was absolutely incredible. There are no words to express that feeling.”
*I deliberately chose a review from customers who were facing challenging weather conditions. You can check more reviews on TripAdvisor.
Steam Pier offers stunning accommodation on Kvaløya Island, perfectly situated just a short bus or car ride from Tromsø. This gives you easy access to all the activities and restaurants the city has to offer, while still allowing you to retreat to a peaceful, secluded spot with minimal light pollution. And here’s the best part—you don’t need to drive all the way to Lyngen to stay in a glass-house aurora hut! Steam Pier has two of these cozy huts, as well as nine modern waterfront apartments
Steam Tours will take you chasing the northern lights with a van that can fit up to 8 people. © Steam Tours
But let’s talk about their tours. Steam Pier also organizes northern lights tours, sightseeing trips, and snowshoe adventures. At the moment, their two guides—Petr and Sebastian—lead the tours, and they happen to be fantastic photographers too.
With just one 8-seater minivan, the tours are small, friendly, and personal. If you’re lucky, you might even have both Petr and Sebastian on your tour as your guides and photographers. They work hard to “deliver” the northern lights and maintain an impressive 92% success rate. While they do their best to avoid crowds, it’s not always possible, but the effort is there to make your experience truly special. 🌌
“Do yourself a favor and book them. I went on a tour with another company on our first day but did not like the group setting, 15 people, so personally too busy and noisy. Then we found SteamTour, and it was such an unforgettable experience. Our Tour was only 4 adults, and we were able to sit still for like 2+ hours, watching Lady Aurora dance.
Sebastian was our guide, he is also a professional photographer and he is so chill and kind. The night was not promising, it was cloudy and snowing, but Sebastian kept driving until we found clear skies, with stars, a beautiful lake, and mountain views. We were like 2 hours from Tromsø, still in Norway.
Highly recommend them if you want cool photos but also a chance to live in the moment and experience the incredible Northern Lights.”
*I deliberately chose a review from customers who were facing challenging weather conditions. You can check more reviews on TripAdvisor.
Aurora Chases by minibus offer a great middle ground between the more expensive small group tours and the larger, more affordable bus tours.
With a minibus, you still enjoy a more personal experience than you would on a big bus, as the guide can connect with everyone in the group.
Additionally, minibusses can access parking spots that might be difficult for larger buses, allowing for more flexibility in choosing the viewing locations for the Northern Lights.
Here are our tips for the best minibus northern lights tours in Tromsø:
Wandering Owl was established in 2014 by three friends who saw an opportunity and a challenge to share the beauty of Tromsø’s nature with visitors.
Since then, they have become a go-to company for Northern Lights chasing in Tromsø, offering over ten years of experience.
Their friendly guides, who are professional photographers and trained nature experts, create unforgettable experiences in the stunning wilderness year-round.
During your time in the wilderness, you’ll have the chance to actively collect data that contributes to protecting the precious Arctic tundra.
This information is then shared with Wandering Owl’s research partners and used in the Responsible Tourism Project, an initiative focused on preserving the local tundra.
“Bart and Vitek from Wandering Owl were quite awesome. Despite some inclement weather (one or two roads may have been closed to snow), they took us to a sheltered valley, where we could see the majesty of the Northern Lights unfold while protected from the winds that we encountered in other places!”
I deliberately chose a review from customers who were facing challenging weather conditions. You can check more reviews on TripAdvisor.
Looking for a small-group northern lights adventure in Tromsø? Arctic Circle Tours might just be what you’re after. This family-run company, part of Ami Hotel AS, operates two minibuses, each taking up to 15 guests.
Now, let’s get straight to the point: they have a heated tent with a camping toilet. I know it sounds random to start with this, but trust me—if you’ve ever wondered, “Where do I go to the toilet during a northern lights tour?” you’re not alone. This is a real lifesaver, especially on long, cold nights and Arctic Circle Tours might be the only company running minibus tours that offers this!
Yet another photo showing that you can still see the northern lights during the full moon. © Arctic Circle Tours
And that’s not all. They’ve also got an onboard sky cam that streams the night sky onto a TV screen inside the bus. This means you can help spot the aurora as it happens, making the whole experience even more fun.
They go the extra mile with extras too: thermal suits, snow boots, and even tripods for your camera or phone. Plus, if the aurora doesn’t show up on your first trip, they’ve got a next chance guarantee—offering you another trip at 50% off (subject to availability).
So, are you ready to book your tour with Arctic Circle Tours? 🌌
Arctic Circle Tours provide not only thermal suits but also winter boots. © Arctic Circle Tours
“For the day of my tour, every forecast predicted cloudy skies across the whole area. Margaux and Martine phoned a few people and checked multiple apps to find a good spot for the evening. Once we arrived, we made a campfire and roasted marshmallows. By then, we could see the northern lights on camera but not with the naked eye.
They still took pictures of all of us—just in case we couldn’t see them later. Afterwards, we made hotdogs (a vegetarian option was available), and Margaux and Martine told us stories and legends about the northern lights and answered all our questions. Unfortunately, the weather forecasts were correct, and the sky became cloudier. Therefore, we decided to pack everything and head back to Tromsø.
Even though I didn’t “see” the northern lights, I thought the experience was worth the time and money. But then, on our way back to the city, we spotted some green lights on the roof camera!
Martine stopped at the nearest possible spot, and we went outside to enjoy the show. They brought out all their camera equipment again and took as many pictures of us as we wanted, always checking to ensure the photos weren’t blurry.
As I was traveling alone, I was very thankful that someone took pictures of me with the northern lights. When the show ended, we got back into the warm bus, and they dropped us off at our hotels. Less than 14 hours later, we received all the pictures they had taken, including a timelapse of the northern lights.
It truly was an unforgettable experience—not only because of the northern lights but also because of the effort and care Margaux and Martine put into it!”
*I deliberately chose a review from customers who were facing challenging weather conditions. You can check more reviews on Google.
The Green Adventure is a small, family-run tour company in Tromsø, led by Rob and Katarzyna, who are passionate about eco-friendly travel.
They offer a range of guided tours, including Northern Lights chases, scenic fjord drives, and snowshoe hikes. Their tours explore the stunning landscapes of Kvaløya Island and sometimes stretch all the way to the Finnish border.
Along the way, you’ll be treated to photos, warm food, hot drinks, and thermal suits, all included in the tour price.
Green Adventures will pick you up from the meeting point located in front of Scandic Ishavshotel in the city center of Tromsø. After your adventure, they offer drop-offs at selected hotels or taxi stands in the city center, making it easy to end your trip comfortably.
“Kat did an amazing job in initially unpromising conditions: widespread heavy wet snow. It took quite some driving, but clearer skies with some color were found. Huzzah! We moved to another spot, had a cozy dinner, and were treated to more lights. Back in the van to head home, everyone was satisfied with a successful hunt.
We did not expect Kat to stop two more times on the way home to view increasingly amazing displays, culminating in a spectacular horizon-to-horizon dance. She could have let us snooze none the wiser, job already well done, and called it a night, but for those of us who can only briefly visit to see the lights instead, she went the extra distance to give us memories for a lifetime.”
*I deliberately chose a review from customers who were facing challenging weather conditions. You can check more reviews on TripAdvisor.
Arctic Wild Tours, founded by Lorenzo, is for those who want a real, meaningful Arctic experience. Lorenzo isn’t just any guide; he’s got a strong background in biology and years of hands-on experience studying wildlife from the Falklands to Tromsø. Starting out in Rome, he chased his love for nature and science through degrees in animal physiology, eventually completing a PhD in California.
On top of all that, he’s a diver and wildlife photographer—so he knows how to capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments the Arctic offers. His scientific background and passion for nature are the backbone of Arctic Wild Tours.
Arctic Wild Tours offers tours with a minivan (up to 8 passengers), a minibus (up to 15 passengers), and a large bus (up to 45 passengers).
Arctic Wild Tours isn’t just about getting you out there to “catch” the lights—it’s about giving you a full, eye-opening experience. The company reflects Lorenzo’s values: a strong respect for the Arctic, a commitment to sharing knowledge, and an appreciation for natural beauty.
Arctic Wild Tours offers tours with a minivan (up to 8 passengers), a minibus (up to 15 passengers), and a large bus (up to 45 passengers).
Amazing experience watching the auroras in Tromsø, thanks to Lorenzo and Alex!
They knew exactly where to go to ensure we could see the northern lights that day. Their approach was exceptional—very attentive and personable.
The tour is not just about seeing the auroras; you also get to enjoy a Norwegian experience in the forest with a cozy bonfire and a warm dinner.
And as if that wasn’t enough, Lorenzo, an incredible photographer, captured stunning photos with the auroras in the background, creating memories to last a lifetime.
100% recommended! Much more personal and authentic than any big company.
*I deliberately chose a review from customers who were facing challenging weather conditions. You can check more reviews on TripAdvisor.
Northern Horizon is a company born from a passion for nature and the wilderness. They offer northern lights tours in medium-sized groups for up to 15 persons in a minibus and all-year-round Arctic Nature Sightseeing Tours to Tromsø´s neighboring island, Kvaløya.
The guides at Northern Horizon are passionate photographers, and professional pictures are included in the tour price.
“We had no hope of seeing the Northern Lights after arriving in Tromso on a cruise to heavy clouds and rain/sleet, not to mention a low KP index, but Team Northern Horizon got us on one of their cruise special tours and promised to get us back to the ship before departure.
Max, our guide, kept his eyes on the sky and found the opening we needed. OMG! We ended up with photos and a viewing experience our friends envy!!! Thanks!!!”
*I deliberately chose a review from customers who were facing challenging weather conditions. You can check more reviews on TripAdvisor.
If small or medium-group northern lights tours are too expensive for you, joining a big coach tour might be the best option. These tours are more affordable because they can accommodate up to 50 people.
Plus, they have added comforts like a toilet on board and heating, so you can stay warm inside the bus while waiting for the lights to appear.
Remember that thermal suits are usually not provided for these tours since you can stay on the heated bus.
Here are our tips for the best budget-friendly northern lights tours in Tromsø:
Northern Shots is a company that offers one of the cheapest northern lights tours in Tromsø. Their tours are conducted by big coaches (buses) with a capacity of up to 48 people.
If you don’t spot the lights, you’ll get a 50% discount on your next tour, subject to availability!
Northern Shots is known for employing guides with strong photography backgrounds who will teach you how to set up your camera and take pictures of the aurora borealis.
However, additional fees apply if you want a photo of yourself and the northern lights taken by a guide.
“It was cloudy and snowing in Tromsø when we left, and I wondered if we’ll ever find a clear patch of sky. But they took us way into Finland, where we saw Aurora Borealis. Shy at first, but then… spectacular!
Words can’t describe it. Marek is a kind, positive, knowledgeable guide and professional photographer. He taught everybody how to set up their phones or cameras.
Unfortunately, taking photos with an iPhone is impossible if it is older than 11 generations. Marek can take a photo of you that is available to buy. I just wish it was less expensive. The tour is the best value for money in town, in my opinion, and you get to go the second time for half price.
Ah! Don’t expect to see the lights as green as they appear in photos—that’s how cameras see them, but they are nonetheless beautiful with the naked eye.”
*I deliberately chose a review from customers who were facing challenging weather conditions. You can check more reviews on TripAdvisor.
I might be repeating myself here since Arctic Wild Tours also runs small group tours for up to 8 people and minibus tours for up to 15, in addition to their big bus tours. I’ve already mentioned them in the respective sections, but for those of you who used the table of contents and jumped straight to the big bus section, here’s a quick refresher on who Arctic Wild Tours is:
Arctic Wild Tours, founded by Lorenzo, offers travelers a real, meaningful Arctic experience. Lorenzo isn’t just any guide—he’s got a strong background in biology and years of hands-on experience studying wildlife from the Falklands to Tromsø. Originally from Rome, he followed his love for nature and science through degrees in animal physiology, eventually completing a PhD in California.
Beyond his academic expertise, he’s also a diver and talented wildlife photographer, skilled at capturing the Arctic’s once-in-a-lifetime moments. Arctic Wild Tours is built on Lorenzo´s scientific background and passion for the natural world.
Best Arctic offers a unique concept for northern lights tours. Unlike other operators who drive around searching for good weather, Best Arctic has several “basecamps” around Tromsø.
They decide which base camp to visit based on the weather conditions. Each camp features a cozy shelter located in a secluded area away from light pollution. Guests don’t need to walk far, and there are toilet facilities on-site.
Upon arrival, visitors are welcomed by local hosts who share personal stories and ensure a pleasant experience. At the camp, guests are served a small hot meal, such as warm soup or stew, with vegetarian options available upon request, along with hot drinks and a local Norwegian sweet snack.
“We went to Aurora Camp and Aurora Safari Chase by Minibus in the second half of March. We were fortunate to see the northern lights on both trips, but our experience at the Aurora Camp was far more enjoyable than on the Aurora Safari Minibus, which was just good.
It was snowing heavily in Tromsø on the night of our Aurora Camp trip, but after driving for about 45 minutes through the snow, we reached a beautiful and peaceful spot at the edge of the water overlooking high hills.
The northern lights didn’t appear immediately, but when they did, the setting made them look majestic on camera. (Disappointingly, they were tough to see without a camera).
Staying in one spot gave our guide plenty of time to help everyone with their camera settings. There was a warm shelter with seats for taking a break from the cold and having a warm drink.
The next night was clear, which improved visibility. Even without a camera, we could see the northern lights dancing, which was magical. Sadly, the Aurora Safari Minibus trip itself was disappointing because we never left the side of the roads just outside the city, which meant we were never in total darkness and sometimes had car headlights shining on us.”
*I deliberately chose a review from customers who were facing challenging weather conditions. You can check more reviews on TripAdvisor.
When it comes to choosing the best northern lights tour in Tromsø, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The right tour for you depends on your preferences and what you want to get out of the experience.
Here are some key factors to consider:
▶️ Price
▶️ Group Size
▶️ Photography Focus
▶️ Activity and Accessibility Level
▶️ Size of the Company
▶️ Additional Activities
▶️ Bathroom Facilities
▶️ Reputation and Reviews
Let’s go through these preferences one by one, and we’ll provide suggestions for tour providers that meet each specific need.
The best northern Lights tours in Tromsø aren’t exactly cheap, but they can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a lifelong dream for many.
We’ve tried small tours, minibus tours, and big coach tours, and while all of them had great guides and experiences, we personally prefer small groups. The smaller, the better. But we understand that the small group tours are costly.
The additional advantage of traveling by big bus (apart from the price) is that it is comfortable. The bus is heated, so you can wait for the northern lights inside. Plus, the coaches have a toilet on board, which might be handy when nature calls.
Up to 48 people, starting at 1300 NOK per adult
Up to 44 people, 1550 NOK per adult
Up to 50 people, starting at 1390 NOK per adult
Up to 15 people, starting at 1800 NOK per adult
Up to 15 people, starting at 2090 NOK per adult
Up to 8 people, price of 2250 NOK per adult
Northern lights chasing tours aren’t exactly the most kid-friendly activity, but there are some options that can work depending on your child’s age and patience level.
Here’s the deal: a typical aurora chase involves long drives (sometimes up to 3 hours each way if the tour heads to Finland), standing outside in the dark and cold, and getting back late—anywhere between midnight and 4 a.m.
Smaller tours usually don’t have winter suits or shoes in kids’ sizes, which can make things pretty uncomfortable for the little ones.
If you’re traveling with kids, big bus tours are probably your best bet. They’re warm, there’s space for naps, and you don’t have to worry about keeping them entertained while waiting for the aurora to show up. Plus they have a toilet on board.
Another option? Combine northern lights spotting with something fun, like an evening visit to a reindeer farm or dog yard—something that keeps them engaged while still giving you a shot at the aurora.
Private tours are also worth considering since you can tailor the experience to fit your family’s pace. Whatever you choose, just make sure it’s comfortable and manageable for your kids so everyone has a great time!
No minimum age (big buses up to 45px)
Minimum age: 3 years (big buses up to 45px)
Minimum age 4 years (big buses up to 45px)
Minimum age: 6 years (minivan up to 15px)
Minimum age: 6 years (small tours up to 8px)
Minimum age: 8 years (small tours up to 8px)
Visit a reindeer farm with a chance of seeing aurora
Visit a dog kennel with 200 huskies and the chance to see the northern lights.
Capturing the northern lights isn’t as easy as it might seem. While modern smartphones can capture the aurora, digital cameras, and proper equipment are still the best option for truly great photos.
You’ll need a tripod, a wide-angle lens, a remote shutter (or self-timer), and a lot of patience. Determining the correct focus, ISO, shutter speed, and aperture settings can be challenging, especially when you know the lights could disappear at any moment.
If you want excellent photos, choosing a small group tour led by a photographer is best.
Up to 6 people, starting at 2450 NOK per adult
Up to 8 people, price of 2250 NOK per adult
👉 We don’t know anyone besides Nico, aka the Arctic Photo Guide, who offers active northern lights tours. These tours combine aurora chasing with a hike on snowshoes or microspikes. Most other companies typically take clients just a short walking distance away from the parking area.
👉 On the other end of the spectrum, few companies provide wheelchair-accessible northern lights tours in Tromsø. A bright exception is Tromsø Accessible Tours.
Does company size really matter? Yes and no.
As someone who owns a two-person company where we wear many hats—handling bookings, guiding, driving, and more—we can tell you that small businesses go above and beyond. It’s make it or break it for us. For huge companies, you are one of many; but for us, small business owners, you are a dear guest.
👉 For example, Nico from Arctic Photo Guide runs a one-man show, taking care of everything himself.
👉 Oli and Ryan from Northbound are a dynamic duo.
👉 Steam Pier is running their tours with one minivan and (occasionally) two guides.
👉 Markus from Greenlander now has a small team of guides, but it still operates as a small company with a very personal approach.
Most people taking northern lights tours from Tromsø opt for a (mini)bus tour. However, some might find chasing the northern lights quite dull, as it can involve much driving in search of clear skies or long hours sitting by a bonfire waiting for the lights to appear.
If this sounds like your situation, consider combining the northern lights hunt with other activities, such as reindeer sledding with a traditional Sami dinner, snowmobiling, or sailing.
One downside of these combination tours is that they limit you to a specific location.
For example, with dog sledding and reindeer sledding, you’re tied to one spot, and if the sky is cloudy on the night of your tour, you might miss the aurora. Sailing trips cover a broader area, but they still don’t offer the same flexibility as bus tours, which can take you all the way to Finland if necessary to find clear skies.
If you are a photographer, I imagine you would like to join a tour with guides who choose locations with pleasing compositions so that you can get some fantastic shots of Aurora.
If you are not into photography, then having a tour guide who is a skilled photographer is even more critical so that you can take pictures of yourself and the northern lights.
All Northern Lights guides are somewhat trained in photography, but some are better than others.
small groups up to 6 people
small groups up to 8 people
small groups up to 8 people
minibus groups up to 15 people
minibus groups up to 15 people
big buses up to 45 people
While we recommend checking reviews before booking a Northern Lights tour, it’s important to read them critically. Sorting by the lowest ratings can help you identify recurring issues, such as overbooking or cancellations, but keep in mind that some negative reviews might not be entirely fair or relevant.
For instance, some people leave poor reviews simply because they didn’t see the northern lights, which is often beyond the guide’s control. Chasing the aurora is not an exact science with a guaranteed success rate—it’s a mix of experience, decision-making, and luck.
Our partner tour operators report that guiding in Tromsø is becoming increasingly challenging for guides due to a rise in “backseat” northern lights guides. These are guests who, armed with apps and forum advice, sometimes question the guides’ choices, occasionally in a rude manner.
Guides sometimes have to make tough calls between locations A and B, where the difference in success can feel like flipping a coin. While they rely on their experience, the unpredictable nature of the aurora means that even the best decision might not lead to the desired outcome.
It’s worth remembering that guides are experts who know what they’re doing. Trust their judgment, and understand that while some tours may get lucky with the conditions, others might not. Nature is unpredictable, and that’s part of the adventure.
That said, reviews can still help assess how a company handles other issues, like customer service, safety, or the quality of the tour experience. Personally, I also check the photos from past tours—if I’m paying for an expensive trip, I want to see examples of great portraits!
While booking a guided aurora hunting tour to see the aurora borealis in Tromso is not strictly necessary, we highly recommend it.
We understand that some of you are not big fans of organized tours.
However, if you do not know how to read the weather and aurora forecasts, you can easily miss the aurora display.
We have met many people looking at a weak aurora and thinking it is just a clouded sky.
If you join a northern lights excursion, the guides will recognize the aurora and show you what camera settings you need to take a great picture, even if it is not visible to the naked eye.
In 2005, five companies sold Northern Lights tours in Tromsø. Nowadays, more than 100 tour providers have Northern Lights tours in their portfolio, which can make it somewhat overwhelming and challenging to choose the best one.
Honestly, there are few differences between the northern lights tours in Tromso.
For example, all the companies and guides operate using the same weather and aurora forecast. Moreover, some of the guides share their plans and locations in a private WhatsApp group, where they inform each other about the current weather situation and recent aurora sightings.
However, some companies have more experienced guides than others, some have more skilled photographers, and some are willing to stay outside late into the night to chase the clear skies!
But in general, all the guides do their absolute best to find the best conditions for aurora viewing so you can still enjoy the northern lights even when the forecast looks challenging.
The term “aurora chasing” is misleading because it implies that one can actively pursue the northern lights.
In reality, since the aurora borealis generally extends from 80 to 640 kilometers (50 to 400 miles) above the Earth’s surface, you’re not actually chasing the lights themselves but rather looking for a clear sky.
The appearance of the lights depends on natural conditions like solar activity and weather patterns, which we can’t control. So, if the weather around Tromsø isn’t great and there are only a few spots with potential breaks in the clouds, you might bump into other tours that went to the same place.
👉 If not, you will arrive at the selected area, and your guide will make a campfire and/or tell you stories and legends about the northern lights while you wait for them to show up.
On nights with challenging weather conditions, the guide will need to check other options and contact other guides to decide whether you should stay in the selected location or continue your search for better conditions.
👉 If the weather is particularly bad around Tromsø, you’ll likely end up driving towards the Finnish border, so be prepared for a long drive.
👉 On tours with the big buses, you can relax inside while waiting for the northern lights. On the smaller tours, the guides usually make a small bonfire to keep you warm and create a cozy atmosphere. Some tours offer warm food, like “realturmat” or stew, while others provide hot drinks and cookies.
👉 Most tour providers aim to return to Tromsø between midnight and 2 AM. However, if you’re on a small group tour, it’s sometimes possible to stay longer if the northern lights display is particularly impressive, especially if the guide is the company owner. On the other hand, big tours are much less flexible with their schedules.
👉 You will be dropped off in the Tromsø city center, so it will make things much easier if you have accommodation nearby. Small tour providers tend to be more flexible with drop-off locations, offering more personalized service.
When planning your Northern Lights tour, it’s important to set the right expectations.
While the guides will do their utmost to find the best spots and create a memorable experience, the northern lights are a natural phenomenon and can be unpredictable.
Even with clear skies, the lights might not appear or be so faint that they are barely visible to the naked eye.
In any case, the guides will keep you entertained with stories, and if conditions allow, they might set up a campfire to keep you warm and comfortable. They are committed to ensuring you have a good time while you wait for the aurora, whether or not she shows up.
However, be prepared for cold weather, potentially long waits, and the possibility of not seeing the northern lights.
If seeing the aurora borealis is your biggest dream and a once-in-a-lifetime experience, consider booking tours on multiple nights to increase your chances.
The guides work hard in challenging weather and temperatures, often under a lot of pressure to provide the best experience possible. Be nice to them and appreciate their efforts! 🙏🙏🙏
Every company has its own approach when it comes to canceling northern lights tours. At the core, guests want to see the northern lights, and tour operators don’t want to cancel tours. But there are times when the chances of seeing the aurora are low—due to heavy clouds or potentially unsafe conditions like extreme weather, heavy rain or snow, avalanche risks, landslides, or polar lows.
Some companies operate under the philosophy that guests are more disappointed if they cancel the tour and the aurora unexpectedly appears than if they go out and see nothing. So, they’ll run the tour even when the conditions seem hopeless—and sometimes, this gamble pays off.
Other companies take a more cautious approach. If the conditions seem unfavorable, they may cancel the tour outright or at least give guests the option to reschedule or cancel. For those who still want to take their chances, the tour might still go ahead.
It’s important to understand that it’s impossible to please everyone and that northern lights guides often work under intense pressure from clients.
Weather forecasts in the Arctic are not always precise. Conditions here can change rapidly. A prediction of heavy clouds across the region might suddenly give way to clear skies—or the forecast might promise gaps in the clouds that never appear. The weather forecast and aurora forecast are not a Swiss train running perfectly on schedule.
As for the northern lights forecast itself, guides only receive somewhat accurate data about an hour in advance. Tours go ahead regardless of what the forecast predicts, as it’s impossible to know in advance which night will give you the best chance to see the aurora.
So, keep your expectations realistic, be kind to your guides, and remember that seeing the northern lights isn’t just about experience—it also takes a bit of luck. 🌌
When it comes to finding the best northern lights tours in Tromsø, there is no one-size-fits-all solution.
It’s essential to do some research before booking—read about the company, check their social media, and read reviews from past guests. Also, be sure to check the cancellation policy to avoid any surprises.
❗Set the right expectations: The tour may involve long drives and waiting periods, and sometimes, the aurora might not appear even if the sky is clear. However, don’t panic if the aurora activity is low; it’s possible to see the northern lights in Tromsø even with Kp=0-1.
❗Make sure you’re properly equipped for the cold. While some companies provide thermal suits, you should still have appropriate footwear and winter clothing. Always read the tour description carefully to know what to expect.
❗To maximize your chances of seeing the northern lights, consider staying in northern Norway for at least four days, ideally a week, and book multiple tours.
With the right preparation and expectations, your Northern Lights adventure in Tromsø can be an unforgettable experience.
Good luck with the aurora chasing! 🐉✨
Ivar & Radka 💚
👉 What to expect from Tromsø in winter – where we cover how to get there, get around, what the weather’s like, and more.
👉 The Best Northern Lights tours in Tromsø —not all tours are the same, so we recommend providers we’ve had great experiences with, from small active tours to big buses or stationary Aurora camps.
👉 Best time to see the Northern Lights in Tromsø – we break down why there’s no “perfect” time and why joining a tour might be your best bet.
👉 The ultimate guide to whale watching in Tromsø – where we discuss ethical whale watching (or the issues around it) and give tips for tour providers we trust.
👉 Our guide to the best hotels in Tromsø – we don’t just throw names around; we’ve actually stayed at 8 different hotels in Tromsø and share our honest reviews.
👉 Visiting a reindeer farm in Tromsø – hands down, our favorite activity in Tromsø and a must-do if you’re traveling with kids.
👉 Best Apps for Aurora Tracking – for those who want to dive into the science behind the Northern Lights or try chasing them on your own.
👉 Winter Packing List – originally written with Lofoten in mind, but honestly, you can use it for all of northern Norway.
The success rate of seeing the northern lights on tours in Tromsø is generally quite high (some companies report up to 98%), thanks to the region’s location directly under the auroral oval. This means that even on nights with low auroral activity (KP 0-1), there’s still a good chance of seeing the lights.
However, cloud cover is the key factor that affects the likelihood of witnessing the aurora. Tour operators chase clear skies, sometimes traveling as far as Finland to find a good viewing spot.
Minibus or bus tours, in particular, have a high success rate because they can cover large areas to find clear skies, while other tour types, like sailing, are more stationary and may not offer the same flexibility to chase clear weather.
Yes, you can still see the northern lights when it’s snowing or raining, though it’s not as straightforward as it sounds. Tromsø’s weather is super localized—so while it might be raining or snowing right above you, there could be patches of clear sky just a short distance away.
The auroras themselves are much higher in the atmosphere than any clouds, so if you’re lucky enough to find a break in the clouds, you might catch a glimpse of the lights even if it’s snowing or raining around you.
It’s all about being in the right place at the right time and sometimes just a bit of patience.
You do not need to book a tour with a travel agency to see the northern lights. If the sky is clear and the northern lights activity is good, you can see northern lights even from the city center of Tromsø.
However, booking a tour with an experienced guide is always better if you want to increase your chances of seeing them.
On cloudy days, the guides are excellent at reading the local weather forecast and choosing the spot with the most significant chance of a hole in the cloud cover. If the weather forecast looks dim, they might drive you all the way to Finland and back if that is the spot that promises the best chances for the night.
In addition, you will learn a lot about the region, local legends, and the northern lights themselves. The guides will also take pictures of you and the lights, which requires some practice, and they will give tips on taking great pictures with your own camera.
However, exploring on your own gives a certain satisfaction and peace that joining a tour cannot provide. If that´s what you are looking for, then you need our Interactive Map of Tromsø, which includes 48 spots around Tromsø that the professional northern lights tours use.
You might also want to check out our article about which Aurora tracking apps to use and how to read the Aurora forecast.
You do not need to book a tour with a travel agency to see the northern lights. If the sky is clear and the northern lights activity is good, you can see northern lights even from the city center of Tromsø.
However, booking a tour with an experienced guide is always better if you want to increase your chances of seeing them.
On cloudy days, the guides are excellent at reading the local weather forecast and choosing the spot with the most significant chance of a hole in the cloud cover. If the weather forecast looks dim, they might drive you all the way to Finland and back if that is the spot that promises the best chances for the night.
In addition, you will learn a lot about the region, local legends, and the northern lights themselves. The guides will also take pictures of you and the lights, which requires some practice, and they will give tips on taking great pictures with your own camera.
However, exploring on your own gives a certain satisfaction and peace that joining a tour cannot provide. If that´s what you are looking for, then you need our Interactive Map of Tromsø, which includes 48 spots around Tromsø that the professional northern lights tours use.
You might also want to check out our article about which Aurora tracking apps to use and how to read the Aurora forecast.
There is a common misconception about Northern Lights tours going to Finland. It is not a given that you will go to Finland on your Aurora Borealis tour. The first option will always be some location close to Tromsø.
It is a long drive from Tromsø to Finland (3 hours one way), meaning that out of a 7-hour tour, you would spend 6 hours driving!
Therefore, Finland is always the last option when the weather forecast in the near and far surroundings of Tromsø does not look promising.
When I worked for a travel agency in Tromsø, many guests asked if the tour would be canceled when it was windy/cloudy/stormy/snowing in Tromsø.
Tromsø is such a popular location for northern lights watching because there are different microclimates in the city’s surroundings. Finding a clear sky within a 1-3 hour drive from Tromsø is possible, even though the city’s weather does not look very promising.
Do not give up your hopes when the forecast for Tromsø doesn’t show a clear sky. Our guides had many successful hunts on the days when the guests were doubtful.
The tours will get canceled/rescheduled only in the case of extremely bad/hazardous weather.
To maximize your chances of seeing the northern lights in Tromsø, plan to stay for at least four days, but ideally a week. This gives you a better shot at catching clear skies and active auroras, especially since the northern lights are unpredictable and can vary with solar activity.
Plus, Tromsø’s weather can be quite stormy, with periods of heavy clouds and rain that might last for several days.
Having a longer stay increases your chances of experiencing a break in the weather and catching the lights. It also allows you to book different tours, from bus chases to unique activities like sailing or reindeer sledding.
Hi! We are Ivar & Radka, an international couple who runs the Guide to Lofoten. We met in Trondheim and lived together in western Norway, Narvik and Tromsø. At the moment we call western Lofoten our home. We hope our page will make it easier for you to explore the beautiful places that made us chose Norway for our home.
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