Northern Lights Chase by Minibus

Review of the Northern Lights Chase by Minibus in Tromso, Norway

If you’re dreaming of witnessing the Northern Lights, a 7-hour guided minibus tour from Tromso might just be your best shot. Limited to only 15 people, this small-group adventure promises a more personal, flexible experience—an important factor when chasing elusive Aurora Borealis. The tour, operated by Arctic Wild Tours, combines comfort, expert guidance, and the chance to see this natural spectacle in a setting designed to maximize your chances.

Two features I particularly appreciate are the small group size, which fosters a relaxed atmosphere and better interaction with the guide, and the professional photographer guide, ensuring you leave with stunning photos. You’ll also enjoy hot drinks and snacks at the viewing spots, which makes all the difference in the Arctic chill. One consideration is the additional cost for photos—190 Norwegian Krone per picture—which might surprise some travelers if not explicitly communicated beforehand.

While this tour offers a lot, it’s worth noting that not included is a drop-off service, meaning you’ll need to plan your return. The tour starts at 6:30 pm in Tromso’s city center, making it convenient for most travelers staying nearby. Overall, if you’re after an intimate, well-organized Northern Lights experience with the chance to capture beautiful images, this tour offers solid value in an unforgettable setting.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Small group size enhances the experience and allows for more personalized attention.
• Professional guide-photographer helps you get great Aurora pictures, though at an extra cost.
• Flexible location stops based on weather maximize your chances of seeing the lights.
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned minibus keeps you warm during the long Arctic night.
• Food and hot drinks are provided at the viewing spots, adding to the comfort and enjoyment.
• Cancellable with full refund if weather conditions spoil the experience or if plans change.

Entering the Arctic: What the Tour Looks Like

Starting from Kaigata 4 in Tromso, the tour kicks off at 6:30 pm, just as the Arctic night begins to settle. The small minibus, cozy and climate-controlled, is a smart choice—especially when you’re trying to stay warm while waiting for the Aurora to make an appearance. The overall ride is about 7 hours, and during that time, your guide will make real-time decisions based on weather reports, trying to find the clearest skies and best viewing spots.

What makes this tour stand out is the flexibility to chase the lights. Your guide, who is a professional photographer, will be on hand to help you shoot the Aurora—an invaluable benefit when the Northern Lights dance across the sky. Jurgen_T’s review highlights this: “Alles war gut organisiert und wir hatten einen netten Guide. Zudem hatten wir Glück und haben tolle Polarlichter gesehen.”

The guide’s expertise extends beyond photography; they’ll also provide food and hot drinks, ensuring you’re comfortable at each stop. This makes a significant difference because waiting in cold Arctic weather can be uncomfortable, and having warm snacks keeps spirits high.

The First Stop: Tromso City Center

The tour begins with a pickup from Tromso’s lively city center. Once out of town, the real adventure starts, with the guide choosing the best location based on current weather and Aurora forecasts. Expect to see some of the most breathtaking Aurora displays—if the weather cooperates.

According to reviews, the experience of seeing the lights is a highlight. One traveler mentioned, “We had luck and saw amazing polar lights,” which emphasizes how unpredictable and special each viewing can be. The guide’s role becomes critical here, as their local knowledge and real-time weather updates mean you aren’t just stuck in one spot hoping for a miracle—you’re actively chasing it.

Viewing Spots and the Experience

Once at the selected location, the group gathers around, with hot drinks and snacks provided to keep everyone warm and comfortable. The guide-photographer helps everyone capture the moment, often offering tips on how to get the best shot.

The stunning visuals of the Aurora Borealis—green, sometimes with hints of red and purple—are what most travelers come for. It’s a reminder that patience and luck play a role, but a good guide and flexible plans increase your odds. As Jurgen_T notes, “We had a nice Polarlichter Fahrt,” underscoring how rewarding these moments can be.

Price and Value Analysis

At $220.80 per person, this tour isn’t exactly cheap, but it’s comparable to other small-group Aurora tours in Tromso. The value lies in the small group size, expert guidance, and the chance to photograph the lights with professional help. The inclusion of food, hot drinks, and snacks adds to the comfort and makes the long Arctic night more enjoyable.

One caveat is the additional cost for photos—190 NOK per picture—that caught some travelers off guard. If capturing the Aurora is a priority, be prepared for this extra expense, or bring your own camera gear to maximize your investment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you value personalized attention, expert guidance, and flexible chasing, this tour is well suited for you. The intimate size means better interaction, and the professional photographer can help you get those memorable shots. It’s perfect for travelers who want a balance of comfort, authenticity, and a good chance to see the lights without spending a fortune on larger, less personal tours.

Keep in mind that if you’re traveling with young children or have mobility issues, the minibus’s comfortable indoor environment makes this a more manageable option. However, if you’re on a tight schedule or budget, there are other options available.

Why This Tour Can Make Your Tromso Trip Special

The Northern Lights are one of those extraordinary natural phenomena that stay with you long after you leave Tromso. This tour’s small-group format and professional guidance give you a real advantage, increasing the likelihood of seeing the Aurora and capturing perfect photos. The hot drinks and snacks keep you cozy, and the flexibility to chase good weather spots means you’re not stuck in one place.

The 7-hour duration is long enough to give you a real chance of witnessing the lights at their best, without feeling rushed. Plus, the local guide’s knowledge and photography skills add value that’s hard to beat for those serious about capturing this magical moment.

Summary: Is It Worth It?

In the end, this Northern Lights minibus tour offers a combination of comfort, expertise, and intimacy. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to maximize their chances of seeing the Aurora while enjoying a relaxed, personalized atmosphere. Though the extra cost for photos might be a point to consider, most travelers find the experience worthwhile—especially with the added bonus of hot drinks and snacks.

If your priority is to see the Northern Lights in a setting that balances adventure and comfort, and you appreciate small groups and expert guides, this tour is a solid pick. It’s best suited for those who want an authentic, well-organized Arctic adventure with the flexibility to chase clear skies and photograph the lights in style.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the start time of the tour?
The tour begins at 6:30 pm in Tromso’s city center, making it convenient for most travelers staying nearby.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 7 hours, giving ample time to chase the Aurora and find the best viewing spots.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation in an air-conditioned minibus is provided for the entire journey.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, snacks, hot drinks, and dinner are provided at the viewing locations.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for children or travelers with mobility issues?
The comfortable minibus makes it suitable for most, but always check individual needs.

Do I need to pay extra for photographs?
Yes, professional photos are available at 190 NOK each, which is an optional extra.

Where does the tour end?
It concludes back at the meeting point in Tromso; there’s no drop-off service included.

This Northern Lights Chase by Minibus manages to combine the thrill of Arctic adventure with the comfort of a small, thoughtful group. If you’re after a personal, flexible, and photo-friendly experience, it’s a solid option for your Tromso itinerary.