Northern Lights by Minibus. Photos Under the Lights included. Tromso

Getting a good look at the Northern Lights is often the holy grail for travelers heading to Tromso, especially since spotting them in town can be hit or miss. That’s why I appreciate tours like this one, which carefully take you out of the city to where the skies are darker and clearer—more or less the key to seeing those elusive shimmering curtains aloft. This particular 6.5-hour experience by minibus, offered by EnjoyTheArctic, consistently earns near-perfect reviews, with a strong 5-star rating based on 170 reviews, and a price tag of $174.43 per person. It’s a well-thought-out way to chase the lights, especially if you’re eager for some professional help with photography and warm gear.

What I really like about this tour is the combination of expert guidance and authentic Arctic comfort. The guide, Alan, or other knowledgeable drivers, aren’t just out to drive and hope—you get on-the-spot advice, tips for capturing photos, and a genuine effort to find the best viewing spots. Many reviewers reported how Alan actively communicated, looked for clear skies, and even took photos of the group under the lights himself, which is a real bonus for shy shutterbugs. Plus, the thermal suits, hot drinks, and fire adds a cozy, communal feel to an otherwise cold and unpredictable night. It’s clear that this tour values making sure everyone stays warm and has a chance to witness the Aurora Borealis—despite how unpredictable Mother Nature can be.

A key consideration here is that Aurora sightings are never guaranteed. Several reviews note variable weather conditions, with some nights cloudy or low activity. But even with the occasional disappointment, many travelers appreciated the guides’ efforts. One review from Wayne T. said his guide “went to several locations” and was “memorable and thoroughly enjoyable,” and others praised guides like Alan who “really tried his best” and were very enthusiastic about hunting for the lights. That speaks to the tour’s commitment—if the Aurora is shy, your guides are still doing their best to make it a worthwhile night out.

Key Points

• Expert guided experience with photography tips and local knowledge.
• Warm gear, hot drinks, and fire help keep the cold at bay during long waits.
• Small group size (max 8 passengers) ensures a more intimate experience.
• Flexible location choices based on weather and Aurora activity maximize your chances.
• Photos included—your guide takes pictures, and you can instantly share them via onboard Wi-Fi.
• Weather resilience—tour operates in all weather, with a full refund if canceled due to poor conditions.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Pickup and Starting Point

The tour begins at the Magic Ice Bar in Tromso’s city center at 6:00 pm, a convenient spot close to public transportation and central hotels. From there, it’s a quick overview of what to expect—guides like Alan often share tips about camera settings, what weather conditions mean, and how the Aurora’s activity can fluctuate. This initial briefing is small but useful, especially for first-timers or those concerned about the cold.

The Journey Out of Town

The minibus, comfortably fitted for up to eight people, takes you into the darkness, away from Tromso’s light pollution. Many reviews mention the guide’s dedication—Alan, in particular—who actively scouted locations, sometimes adjusting routes based on weather updates and Aurora forecasts. This flexibility makes a difference; as one traveler noted, Alan “took his time to make informed decisions” and “got us to a place with a clear view” of the skies.

The First Stops and Fire-side Comforts

Once at a promising spot, the group often gathers around a bonfire. It’s a simple but effective way to stay warm, and the provided thermal suits add a layer of comfort. Hot drinks, snacks, and cake are served as the sky darkens, and you watch for flickers of green or purple dancing overhead. Several reviews highlight the warmth of the experience—”Alan lit a fire, served hot chocolate, and kept spirits high,” said one reviewer. The small group size and the sharing of hot drinks create an inviting atmosphere to wait out uncertain conditions.

Watching the Aurora

This is the heart of the tour. Some nights the lights appear within minutes, sometimes after hours of waiting. As one guest pointed out, they experienced “faint but perfectly visible” Aurora, and then later “danced across the sky,” thanks to the guide’s patience and dedication. Many reviewers appreciated how guides like Alan helped with camera settings and even took professional photos of the group, often sharing them afterward via a provided link. The instant Wi-Fi allows you to post your snaps immediately, a nice touch for social media lovers.

Changing Locations and Flexibility

Several reviews mention how guides carefully moved to different locations—sometimes to the south of Tromso, sometimes to Lake Inlet—based on the weather and the Aurora forecast. This is vital because the lights are very much at the mercy of clear skies and geomagnetic activity. A couple of travelers, especially those who saw the Aurora dance, called it an “unforgettable” or “truly magical” night, showing the value of an experienced guide willing to adapt.

The Photos — Are They Worth It?

Most reviews agree that the photos taken by the guide, Alan, are excellent, with some travelers noting they received beautiful shots after the tour. However, a few mention issues with photo delivery—some expecting more consistent email follow-up or photos on social media. It’s worth noting that the tour states that “professional photos” are included, but delays or missed uploads do happen, so keep expectations realistic.

Pricing and Value

At $174.43 per person, this tour provides quite a comprehensive package. It’s not the cheapest option but offers good value considering the all-inclusive nature: thermal gear, hot drinks, snacks, fireside comfort, Wi-Fi, and professional photography. The small group size ensures personalized attention, often making for a warmer, more engaging experience. Plus, the flexible approach—moving locations based on weather—maximizes your chances of seeing the Aurora, which is what matters most.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re someone who values expert guides, appreciates small groups, and wants a genuine chance to photograph the Northern Lights with help, this tour is a strong pick. It’s especially suited for travelers who don’t want to DIY and prefer someone to handle logistics and weather chasing. Families with children, as long as they’re accompanied by adults, can also benefit from the warmth and safety of a guided tour. However, keep in mind that if weather turns very cloudy, even the best guides can’t produce Aurora magic.

A Well-Balanced, Authentic Experience

What sets this tour apart is the genuine effort made by guides like Alan in pursuit of the Northern Lights. Many travelers have noted how their guides stayed active, even driving into Finland or Sweden if needed, to find clear skies. The warmth of the thermal suits, the fireside hot drinks, and the camaraderie created during long waits help make this a memorable Arctic adventure. While no tour can promise a sighting—Mother Nature is ultimately in charge—the combination of experience, flexibility, and personal touches means you’re as prepared as possible.

The price reflects the level of personalized service, small-group intimacy, and the quality of the experience. It’s a good investment for those serious about seeing the Aurora in comfort and with professional guidance. Also, the added bonus of having photos taken during the tour means you’ll have visuals to remember your Arctic night long after you leave Tromso.

The Sum Up

This minibus Northern Lights tour is especially ideal for travelers seeking a well-organized, personable experience with a chance of capturing beautiful Aurora images. The guides’ dedication shines through in their flexibility, effort, and focus on your comfort. The inclusion of thermal suits and hot drinks makes even the coldest nights bearable, and the small group size ensures you’re not just a number but part of a cozy, focused adventure.

For anyone who wants a genuine shot at experiencing the Aurora Borealis without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, this tour offers a compelling mix of expertise, comfort, and authenticity. While weather can never be guaranteed, the professionalism and enthusiasm of guides like Alan greatly improve your odds—and create a night of memorable stories to tell.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6:00 pm, with pickup from the Magic Ice Bar in Tromso’s city center.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, making it a leisurely evening outing.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly for Arctic conditions—thermal layers, insulated outerwear, and gloves are recommended. Thermal suits are provided to help keep you warm.

Is there Wi-Fi onboard?
Yes, the minibus has Wi-Fi, so you can share your photos immediately after they’re taken.

Are photos included?
Your guide will take photos of you under the lights and provide a link to access them later—most reviews find the photos high-quality and memorable.

What about dietary restrictions or vegetarian options?
A vegetarian option is available; just mention it when booking.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is suitable for most travelers comfortable in winter conditions.

How many people are on the tour?
The group caps at 8, which allows for a more personal and flexible experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before aren’t refundable.

Will I see the Northern Lights every night?
No, sightings depend on weather and aurora activity, but guides do their best to maximize your chances.

This Northern Lights minibus tour in Tromso balances expert local guidance, cozy comfort, and flexible location hunting—making it a practical choice for a memorable Arctic night.