“a journey in search of the Northern Lights” | Photography

Experience the Northern Lights with Northern Soul Adventures in Tromso

This small-group tour in Tromso, Norway, offers an engaging and well-organized way to chase the elusive aurora borealis. Priced at around $228 per person, it runs roughly 6 to 9 hours, making it a full evening of Arctic adventure. What sets this experience apart is how it prioritizes getting away from light pollution and crowds, often venturing into Finland or remote fjord areas where the night sky can truly shine. Best of all, the company’s reputation on reviews is stellar, with a 5.0 rating from over 800 travelers, and 99% recommend it.

Two things I really appreciate about this tour are the expert guidance on photography, especially to help you capture those fleeting light displays, and the attention to comfort with thermal suits, heated insoles, and hot beverages. This isn’t just about watching the lights—it’s about making sure you’re warm, well-fed, and able to take great photos. From reviews, guides like Bogdan and Joaquin are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and dedication—they truly make a difference.

A potential consideration is the unpredictability of the Northern Lights itself. Even with meticulous planning and a knowledgeable guide, the aurora depends on weather conditions and solar activity, which means sometimes your chances are better than others. If the skies stay clouded, the guides will keep trying or offer alternative dates, but it’s worth remembering that nature is at the mercy of weather.

Key Points

• Expert guides help you optimize your chances of seeing the aurora and teach you how to photograph it.
• Remote locations away from Tromso’s light pollution significantly increase your odds of witnessing the Northern Lights.
• Comfort is prioritized with thermal clothing, hot drinks, campfire, and a cozy atmosphere.
• The small-group size (maximum 15 travelers) adds intimacy, making the experience more personal and less touristy.
• The tour costs about $228, offering good value considering all amenities, expert guidance, and remote locations.
• Flexible cancellation policies provide peace of mind if weather or circumstances change.

A Comprehensive Review of the Northern Lights Photography Tour from Tromso

Setting the Scene: An Arctic Adventure with a Purpose

Imagine cruising through Norway’s stunning fjords and rolling into the Arctic night with a small, eager group. That’s exactly what you get with Northern Soul Adventures, a highly-rated company that specializes in chasing the Northern Lights in Tromso. The tour, costing around $227.63 per person, is designed to give you the best chance of spotting this natural wonder while helping you capture it on camera. The 6 to 9-hour adventure begins in Tromso’s historic city center and leads you into the Arctic wilderness, far from light pollution, where the sky offers its most dramatic displays.

From the get-go, it’s clear this tour balances adventure, comfort, and education. It’s not just about driving around hoping for a miracle but about understanding what causes the aurora, learning how to photograph it effectively, and enjoying the experience at a relaxed, unhurried pace. Guided by knowledgeable professionals like Bogdan and Joaquin, you’ll find yourself not just watching lights dance but actually understanding the science behind them.

Why I Like This Tour

First, the guides’ expertise is exceptional. They’re not only friendly and approachable but also passionate about the Aurora and skilled at helping travelers with camera settings. Bogdan, for example, is praised for his ability to explain how to photograph the Lights and even provide individual photos of guests under the aurora. That kind of personalized attention makes the experience memorable and rewarding, especially for photography enthusiasts.

Second, the remote, carefully chosen locations truly boost your chances of seeing the lights. According to reviews, guides often venture into areas like Arctic Finland or secluded fjords, sometimes traveling into Finland itself. Guides like Anna and Bogdan go the extra mile—driving into Finland to find clear skies when the weather in Tromso is overcast. The result? As one reviewer exclaimed, their night produced a breathtaking display that left everyone in awe.

A Possible Drawback

The biggest caveat: the Northern Lights are notoriously unpredictable. Weather conditions, cloud cover, and solar activity all influence the chances of a sighting. While guides work diligently to find clear skies, it’s impossible to guarantee seeing the aurora. That said, many reviewers emphasize that even if the lights don’t appear early, guides keep searching, often reaching into Finland or other remote spots for the best possible viewing conditions.

What the Itinerary Looks Like

The tour kicks off in Tromso’s historic city center, where you’ll meet your driver and guide for the evening. The first stop is often around Tromso Fjords or other scenic spots, chosen for their low light pollution and beautiful Arctic scenery. The custom-built van is fully equipped for the Arctic cold—think thermal suits, heated insoles, and blankets—so you can focus on the sky rather than shivering.

Throughout the night, the guides will take you on several stops—sometimes a short drive, sometimes longer—to areas with the best weather forecast. One highlight, as described in reviews, is the campfire scene, where guests can sit around a cozy fire, sip hot chocolate or tea, and relax while waiting for the lights to appear. Guides often provide local-made expedition food, cookies, and warm beverages, which is a thoughtful touch that turns waiting into a small adventure.

When the aurora graces the sky, guides like Bogdan or Joaquin will help you compose your shots and adjust camera settings—an invaluable service for those eager to capture the Lights with their phones or cameras. Some guests even get time-lapse photos and individual memories taken, then receive high-resolution images afterward, sometimes via email, as one reviewer noted.

The Remote Locations

Many reviews mention that guides sometimes drive into Finland or Arctic fjords, seeking clear skies and little light pollution. This extra effort often pays off with spectacular displays, sometimes in areas where other tour groups don’t go. For example, one reviewer described going almost to the border of Finland, which resulted in a truly unforgettable night of dancing auroras.

Comfort and Amenities

This tour truly puts an emphasis on comfort. Thermal suits, heated insoles, campfire, hot drinks—these aren’t just nice-to-haves but essential in the Arctic night. Several reviews praise the friendly guides’ efforts to keep everyone warm and engaged, making the experience more than just a waiting game. The small group size enhances this, providing a more personal atmosphere where guides can give tailored advice and photos.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind waiting outdoors in potentially cold weather. It’s ideal for photographers or anyone eager to learn how to capture the aurora. If you’re traveling with children, note the minimum age of 8 years, and ask about booster seats if necessary. For those who might find cold nights challenging, the thermal gear and hot drinks will be particularly appreciated.

What to Expect in Terms of Price and Value

At nearly $230 per person, this tour offers a lot of value—especially considering the expert guidance, thermal gear, hot refreshments, and remote locations it includes. Many reviews emphasize that guides are dedicated to finding the lights, often going as far as Finland or other secluded spots for the best viewings. The price also covers professional photos, which many guests treasure afterward.

Compared to larger bus tours, the small-group size means more personalized attention and a quieter, more intimate experience. For those serious about photography or simply wanting to maximize their chances of witnessing the Aurora, this tour delivers a high-quality experience with knowledgeable guides who genuinely care.

Flexibility and Cancellation

Booking in advance, typically about 39 days ahead, is recommended, given the high demand. The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving some peace of mind in case weather forecasts worsen unexpectedly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Travelers passionate about photography and Arctic scenery will love how guides offer photo tips and personalized assistance. Because of the small-group setup and dedicated guides, it’s perfect for those wanting a more intimate experience. Families with children over 8 are welcome, but it’s wise to check about booster seats if needed. If a budget option is your main concern, keep in mind that this experience offers value through quality and comfort, not just a quick drive-and-watch trip.

If your goal is seeing the Northern Lights in a relaxed, well-organized setting with expert supervision, this tour checks all those boxes. But if the weather doesn’t cooperate, remember that guides will do their best, and no one can control Mother Nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be at least 8 years old and over 120cm tall. It’s a good choice for families who enjoy outdoor winter activities, but be prepared for cold weather and outdoor exposure.

What should I wear?
Thermal suits, heated insoles, and warm layers are provided, but it’s best to wear thermal underwear, wool socks, hats, and gloves underneath. The guided gear helps keep you warm, but dressing in layers is always smart.

Will I see the Northern Lights?
While guides work tirelessly to find clear skies and good viewing conditions, Aurora visibility depends on weather and solar activity. Many reviews mention multiple sightings, but it’s not guaranteed. The experience’s value is in the journey and the scenic Arctic landscape.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes local expedition food, cookies, hot beverages, thermal suits, heated insoles, campfire, and professional photos. Hotel drop-off on Tromsø Island is also part of the package.

How long does the tour last?
Expect approximately 6 to 9 hours, often starting in the early evening and returning late at night, sometimes around 2 AM, depending on Aurora activity and weather.

What are the main highlights?
Remote Arctic scenery, expert guidance, photo assistance, cozy campfire, hot drinks, the chance to see the Aurora, and the opportunity to learn about how to photograph it.

Final Thoughts

This Northern Lights photography tour from Tromso offers an excellent mix of adventure, comfort, and expertise. Whether you’re a dedicated shutterbug or a traveler eager to experience one of nature’s greatest spectacles, guides like Bogdan and Joaquin ensure your night is both enjoyable and memorable. The emphasis on remote locations, combined with thermal gear, hot drinks, and professional photo tips, creates a well-rounded Arctic experience.

What truly makes this tour shine is the dedication of the guides and their willingness to go the extra mile—whether by exploring Finnish borders or patiently explaining how to capture the Lights. Several reviews mention how these guides—often praised by name—are the reason the experience exceeds expectations. The small group size fosters a relaxed, personal atmosphere, making it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a memorable adventure.

While the Aurora’s appearance is never guaranteed, the tour’s effort, professionalism, and focus on comfort significantly boost your chances. It’s perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and those who simply want a tailored Arctic experience with good amenities.

In summary, if catching the Northern Lights in Tromso tops your bucket list, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated, expert-led journey that balances spectacular scenery, helpful tips, and cozy comforts. Just bring your patience, a warm layer, and an open mind—Mother Nature might just deliver her most dazzling show.

Additional Resources

If you’re interested, similar experiences include coastal roadtrips, fjord tours, and the renowned “Fellowship of Light” chase—each offering unique Arctic adventures. For those booking early, especially during peak Aurora season, planning ahead is key for a seamless experience.

Note: Booking early, checking weather forecasts, and having realistic expectations about Aurora sightings can help ensure this tour becomes one of your Arctic highlights.