Aurora Chase with professional photographers (Northern Lights)

Experiencing the Northern Lights is often considered a bucket-list moment for many travelers, and Tromsø, Norway, is one of the best places to catch a glimpse. This tour, offered by NorthernShots Tours, promises to boost your chances of witnessing this magical phenomenon, especially when guided by professional photographers skilled in capturing the perfect shot.

While the promise of seeing the aurora is enticing, it’s important to remember that natural light shows are unpredictable. That said, this experience earns high marks for its knowledgeable guides, stunning Arctic scenery, and expert assistance in photography. On the flip side, some reviews highlight the variability of weather and the challenges of large groups, which might impact your overall experience.

This tour is especially suited for those eager to combine a light chase with tips on how to photograph the lights beautifully. If you’re a photography enthusiast, a curious traveler, or simply someone seeking a well-organized adventure in the Arctic, this tour offers a lot of value—provided you’re prepared for the cold and the unpredictability of nature.

Key Points

• Expert Guidance: Led by professional photographers who know how to spot the aurora and help you capture it.
• Strategic Locations: Takes you out of Tromsø into the Arctic countryside for better light conditions.
• Weather Flexibility: Tours run regardless of weather, increasing your chances to see the lights.
• Value-Added Photography Tips: Assistance with camera settings and composition from guides who are also professional photographers.
• Cost Consideration: Priced at $161.35 per person, offering a solid balance of experience and value—plus, a 50% discount on a repeat tour if no sighting.
• Group Size & Duration: Tours can last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, accommodating up to about 50 travelers depending on vehicle size and weather conditions.

The Experience Breakdown

Meeting Point & Check-in: Starting Off

The adventure kicks off at Roald Amundsens plass 1B, Tromsø, where you’ll check in about 30 minutes before departure. This early start ensures that everyone is accounted for before hit the road. The check-in process is straightforward, and staff are available to answer questions about the day ahead.

Transportation & Comfort

The tour uses comfortable, heated vehicles capable of accommodating a sizable number of travelers—up to 50 per bus depending on the vehicle. Although the inside of the bus is heated, reviewers note that temperatures can drop inside during the night, especially in colder months. Dress in warm layers—thermal underwear, hats, gloves, and insulated boots—becoming essential for comfort during long waits outside.

The Arctic Drive & Location Scouting

Once on the road, the guides—who often double as drivers—navigate through Tromsø’s outskirts into the Arctic wilderness or even across the border into Finland if conditions call for it. This flexibility is crucial because the goal is to find clear skies and optimal viewing spots. Some travelers have praised the guides for their expertise, with one noting that their guides, like Gerard, patiently waited for the aurora even in challenging conditions, ensuring a good chance to see the lights.

Spotting the Aurora: The Main Event

The core of this tour revolves around finding the best location and waiting for the lights to appear. Some reviews mention that the guides are exceptionally knowledgeable about geomagnetic activity and know where the aurora is most likely to show up. You might find yourself sitting in the cold for several hours, although hot beverages and snacks are available to keep everyone warm and comfortable.

While many travelers do see the lights—some even multiple times—others, like Douglas, caution that weather can be brutal, and sometimes the forecast can be misleading. The tour’s policy is to run regardless of weather, which increases the chance of a sighting but also means you may end up waiting outdoors for long stretches.

Photography Assistance

One of the tour’s biggest draws is the expertise of the guides. Several reviews commend guides like Gerard, Merco, and Tom for their patience and knowledge, especially when it comes to photographing the aurora. They offer tips on phone photography, helping even novice photographers capture the lights’ dance across the sky. As one reviewer said, “they teach you how to take photos on your phones,” which adds great value for those wanting to remember the moment.

Hot Beverages & Snacks

Waiting in the cold can be uncomfortable, but the tour provides hot drinks—like coffee and tea—and snacks to keep spirits high. This small but thoughtful touch makes a big difference, especially if faced with a long night in sub-zero temperatures.

The Potential for Variability and Group Size Challenges

While some travelers cherish the experience, others have found the large group sizes—sometimes up to 52 people—can make it tricky to get a good shot or find a quiet spot. For instance, one review noted waiting in a crowded beach area with hundreds of others, which can be less atmospheric and more chaotic.

Final Hours & Return

The tour can last from 4 to 8 hours, depending on weather conditions and the likelihood of sightings. If you’re lucky, the lights will appear early, and the tour might wrap up sooner. Conversely, if the aurora is elusive, guides will keep searching or move to different locations, sometimes extending the experience.

What We Loved About the Tour

Knowledgeable Guides: From Gerard to Merco and Tom, reviews repeatedly praise the guides for their expertise and patience, which is crucial in unpredictable Arctic conditions. Their understanding of geomagnetic activity and tips on photographing the lights elevate the experience.

Location Flexibility: The ability to travel beyond Tromsø into areas with less light pollution and better viewing conditions significantly increases the odds of a sighting. Some tours even venture into Finland, adding a bonus to the adventure.

Photography Focus: If you’re keen on capturing the Lights, this tour’s emphasis on professional guidance helps you get the best shots. Many reviews mention guides explaining camera settings and helping with composition, making your photos more than just memory snapshots.

Warmth & Comfort: Hot beverages and snacks are small but meaningful perks—especially when waiting outside in freezing temperatures, which can dip as low as -30°C.

Repeat Discount: Not seeing the aurora on your first attempt can be frustrating, but the half-off deal on a second tour offers reassurance—though availability is limited during peak seasons.

Things to Keep in Mind

Weather & Unpredictability: Despite the guides’ expertise, Aurora sightings are never guaranteed. Tours run regardless of weather, but cloud cover, snowstorms, or poor geomagnetic activity can thwart even the best plans.

Large Groups & Crowds: The experience might be less intimate during peak season when the tours are fully booked. The crowded beaches or parking spots can make photography and peaceful viewing difficult.

Timing & Duration: The tour length varies, so prepare for a long night. Flexibility is key—sometimes you’ll see the lights early, other times after hours of waiting.

Dress Appropriately: Arctic temperatures are extreme, and staying warm is vital. Layered clothing, insulated boots, hats, and gloves are must-haves.

Cost & Value: At about $161.35, this tour offers a comprehensive experience, especially with expert guidance and photography tips. The inclusion of hot drinks and the possibility of a second tour at half price adds to the overall value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Aurora chase is ideal for photography lovers eager to improve their night sky shots, adventurers seeking a guided Arctic experience, and people who value expert knowledge about the Northern Lights. It’s suited for travelers who are prepared for the cold and don’t mind long waits under dark skies.

If you’re after a more intimate, less crowded experience, keep in mind that some reviews mention large groups and busy locations. For those who don’t mind the unpredictability of nature and want the best chance guided by pros, this tour hits many marks.

Final Thoughts

The Aurora Chase by NorthernShots Tours provides a well-organized, knowledgeable approach to experiencing the Northern Lights. With experienced guides helping you find the best spots and offering photography advice, it appeals particularly to those wanting more than just a fleeting glimpse.

While weather and group size can be unpredictable factors, the overall value lies in expert guidance, strategic locations, and the chance to learn how to photograph one of nature’s most stunning displays. If you’re visiting Tromsø and are prepared for long, cold nights in the Arctic, this tour can reward you with unforgettable memories and, hopefully, a dazzling light show.

FAQs

Is booking in advance necessary?
Yes, the tour is quite popular and is usually booked around 42 days in advance, especially during peak Northern Lights season.

What is the typical duration of the tour?
It lasts roughly 4 to 8 hours, depending on weather conditions and when the aurora appears.

Does the tour guarantee seeing the Northern Lights?
No, since the Aurora is a natural phenomenon, sightings cannot be guaranteed. However, the guides are experienced and will do their best to find clear skies.

What should I wear?
Dress in warm layers, including thermal underwear, insulated boots, hats, gloves, and a windproof outer layer. Temperatures can go as low as -30°C.

Are snacks and drinks provided?
Yes, hot beverages like coffee and tea, along with snacks, are available during the tour to keep you warm and energized.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely. Guides are professional photographers or have photography experience and will help you take better pictures of the lights.

What happens if I don’t see the Aurora?
You can get a 50% discount on a second tour, subject to availability. It’s a good way to try again without paying full price.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the vehicles are heated and suitable for Arctic conditions, but temperatures inside can drop, so extra warm clothing is advised.

Can I cross into Finland during the tour?
Yes, the tour may cross the border into Finland if conditions require, so bring your passport or ID card.

What if the weather turns dangerous?
The tour operator reserves the right to cancel tours if weather conditions are unsafe, offering a full refund or rescheduling options.

This detailed review aims to give you an honest, thorough look at what to expect from the Aurora Chase with professional photographers in Tromsø. With the right preparation and expectations, it’s a fantastic opportunity to chase the Northern Lights in one of the best locations on earth.