Tromsø: Aurora Safari Chase by big bus with Camp meal

Discovering Tromsø’s Aurora Safari Chase: A Practical Guide

Our review explores an immersive 7-hour Aurora Safari Chase in Tromsø, Norway—an experience that combines comfort, local charm, and a good chance of catching the legendary northern lights. This tour by Best Arctic AS takes you by a spacious bus to a private Aurora Camp, where warmth and hospitality meet the natural spectacle of the sky’s glow. From hot drinks and traditional Norwegian cakes to friendly guides and professional photos, this experience aims to make your Arctic night both memorable and comfortable.

What I really appreciate about this tour is how much effort goes into creating a cozy, authentic atmosphere. First, the transportation is notably comfortable, with a bus that features an onboard toilet, Wi-Fi, and charging stations, making the long drive more pleasant. Second, the local guides shine, especially those like Paolo and Sojna, whose knowledge and friendly approach turn a potentially chilly night into an engaging storytelling session. The offering of warm thermal suits and tripods ensures you stay warm and can take excellent photos yourself—important because many reviews highlight how helpful the guides are at capturing the perfect shot.

However, it’s worth noting that Northern Lights sightings are never guaranteed. Weather conditions, cloud cover, and auroral activity vary, which is why the tour’s flexibility to change locations is a plus. Still, if the sky stays cloudy or the lights don’t appear, you’ll leave with a warm belly, new knowledge, and a set of web-resolution photos you can share. That said, the value of this tour is in the experience itself—combining comfort, local hospitality, and a real chance to see the northern lights, all wrapped up in a manageable, 7-hour window.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Comfortable transportation with Wi-Fi, charging stations, and onboard toilet enhances the long Arctic night trip.
• Local guides like Paolo and Sojna receive frequent praise for their friendliness, knowledge, and help with photography.
• Private Aurora Camp offers a cozy, warm shelter, bonfire, and the chance to meet the camp owners—adding an authentic Norwegian touch.
• Warm thermal suits and tripods are provided, making it easier to stay warm and get good photos without lugging your own gear.
• Food options include hot chocolate, tea, coffee, Norwegian cake, and a hot stew or soup—vegetarian options are available upon request.
• Weather-dependent: The tour will move locations if conditions worsen, maximizing your chances of seeing the lights but still subject to nature’s unpredictability.

In-Depth Review: The Tromsø Aurora Safari Chase Experience

The Journey Begins: Comfortable Ride to the Aurora Camp

Starting at Prostneset Bus Terminal, I found the check-in process smooth. The bus itself is notably spacious, with Wi-Fi and charging stations, which makes the long drive feel less like a chore. During the journey, a short Northern Lights film sets the mood, offering a gentle primer on what to expect and how to photograph the lights—an appreciated touch for first-timers.

The ride to the private Aurora Camp is about a half-hour to an hour, depending on the weather and route chosen that night. Your guides—who are often local Norwegians—are engaging and eager to share bits of regional lore and practical tips. One guide, Paolo, was highlighted in reviews as being “super informative about Tromsø, the Northern Lights, and how to capture the lights with your smartphone.” That kind of insider knowledge is invaluable for making the most of the experience.

Arriving at the Privately Owned Aurora Camp

Once at the camp, the atmosphere shifts to relaxed and cozy. The owners are friendly, eager to make everyone comfortable, and the site itself is thoughtfully set up. The warm shelter is spacious enough for the group, with plenty of tables and chairs, and a bonfire outside—if the weather permits. It’s the perfect spot to wait for the sky to reveal its magic.

You’ll be handed warm overalls—a crucial detail, given how cold Arctic nights can be without proper gear. Many reviews mention how helpful guides like Kinga or Viktor are at helping guests with gear and photography tips. This attention to detail makes a big difference, especially when you’re trying to catch the elusive green shimmer of the aurora on camera.

The Food and Drink: A Taste of Norway in the Arctic

The tour offers hot chocolate, tea, coffee, and traditional Norwegian cakes like lefse—sweeter treats that add a warm, comforting touch. Plus, a hot stew or soup—reindeer, fish, or meat—comes with the package, with vegetarian options available on request. Many reviewers praise the deliciousness of the food, noting that it really enhances the overall experience. It’s not just a snack but a hearty meal that keeps guests warm from the inside out, especially during the long waiting periods.

Chasing the Lights: Flexibility and Photography

The core thrill is seeing the aurora borealis, and guides do their best to help guests photograph the spectacle. They set up tripods, take professional shots, and give tips for capturing the scene with smartphones. One reviewer mentioned how guide Sojna was “very informative, friendly, and patient,” even taking photos of everyone—an underrated kindness in such a busy environment.

Weather can play spoilsport; clouds or sleet may obscure the sky. The guides are quick to assess conditions and will suggest moving to another location if needed, which many reviewers find reassuring. The ability to switch spots maximizes your chances without feeling like the experience is over just because the sky is cloudy at one point.

The Return Journey: Final Moments and Photos

On the way back, guides often stop along the route for additional photo opportunities. Some guests appreciated this extra effort, saying it allowed more chances to capture the lights or simply enjoy the Arctic scenery under a starry sky. Those web-resolution photos are provided afterward for free, making them a great memento—even if high-res versions for purchase are available.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This Aurora Safari Chase is ideal for travelers who value comfortable transportation and a cozy atmosphere. It suits those who want a blend of adventure and comfort, with a good chance to see the lights but without the extreme cold or rough conditions of some smaller, more rugged tours. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy social settings will find this tour welcoming.

If you’re a photography enthusiast, the guide’s tips and provided tripods give you a solid shot at capturing the lights. If you’re more casual and just want to enjoy the Norwegian hospitality with hot drinks and good food while hoping for a glimpse of the aurora, this tour delivers.

Price and Value

While the tour isn’t cheap, the inclusion of transportation, meals, thermal suits, professional photos, and a private camp make it a solid value. The experience isn’t just about seeing the lights but about creating a full, comfortable Arctic memory, which many travelers find worth the investment.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those wanting a well-organized, comfortable, and authentic Northern Lights experience, this tour ticks many boxes. The knowledgeable guides and cozy camp environment create a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. The food—especially the hot stew and Norwegian cake—is a real highlight for many, adding warmth both physically and culturally.

Keep in mind, the aurora is unpredictable, and no one can guarantee a sighting. Still, with the flexibility of moving locations and the guidance of local experts, your chances are as good as they get.

This experience is particularly suitable for travelers who prefer comfort over rugged adventure and appreciate the chance to capture good photos without lugging heavy gear. It’s an excellent choice if you want a stress-free, engaging, and cozy Arctic night under Norway’s legendary skies.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It lasts between 5 to 7 hours, depending on the conditions and how long the lights stay visible.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, including a hat, gloves, waterproof shoes, and warm shoes. The tour provides thermal suits, but layering is key.

Is it suitable for children?
Not for children under 4 years old, and those with mobility impairments might find it challenging due to the outdoor environment and pace.

What if the weather is bad?
Guides will assess conditions and may move to different locations to maximize your chances of seeing the aurora.

Are high-resolution photos included?
Web-resolution photos are free and available afterward. High-resolution images for print can be purchased through the provider’s website.

Can I participate if I’m a solo traveler?
Absolutely, the tour’s group setting makes it easy to meet fellow travelers and enjoy the experience together.

To sum it up, this Tromsø Aurora Safari Chase offers a warm, well-organized way to chase the northern lights with the help of knowledgeable guides, delicious local food, and cozy surroundings. It’s especially good for those seeking comfort, good company, and a genuine taste of Norway’s Arctic hospitality. While nature’s unpredictability can’t be controlled, the thoughtful planning and flexible approach make this a worthwhile adventure for most travelers looking to add a magical night under the northern sky to their Arctic itinerary.