Hot Spring and Northern Lights Photography Tour

Exploring the enchanting combination of natural hot springs and the captivating Northern Lights is an opportunity too captivating to pass up. On this comprehensive tour, we’ll immerse ourselves in Fairbanks’ winter wonderland, savoring local cuisine, admiring stunning ice sculptures, and chasing the elusive aurora borealis. With expert guidance and ample time to soak in the restorative hot springs, this experience promises to be both rejuvenating and unforgettable. Shall we dive in and uncover the magic that awaits?

This experience made our article of 10 Best Photography Experiences In Fairbanks (With Prices).

Key Points

• This tour based in Fairbanks, USA, offers diverse experiences beyond just Northern Lights, including hot springs and ice sculpture viewing.
• The 8-hour tour is priced at $185 per person and accommodates up to 12 participants, with hotel pickups, dinner, and entry fees included.
• The tour travels over 120 miles to increase the chances of Northern Lights sightings, led by knowledgeable guides and offering stroller accessibility.
• Guests can soak in hot springs, view award-winning ice sculptures, and enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant during the tour.
• While Northern Lights visibility is not guaranteed, the tour provides engaging activities and receives positive feedback from guests for the hot springs and ice sculptures.

Tour Overview and Details

Although this photography tour is based in Fairbanks, USA, it offers a diverse range of experiences beyond just capturing the Northern Lights.

From soaking in hot springs to admiring ice sculptures, this 8-hour tour packs a lot into the day. Priced from $185 per person, the tour accommodates up to 12 participants and includes hotel pickups, dinner, and entry fees.

While sighting the elusive Northern Lights is a highlight, the tour travels over 120 miles, increasing your chances.

With knowledgeable guides and amenities like stroller accessibility, this tour provides a well-rounded Alaskan adventure.

Inclusions and Amenities

The photography tour includes a variety of amenities and experiences that enhance the overall experience.

Guests can soak in the hot springs, view ice sculptures at the Ice Alaska Festival, and enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

The tour provides towels for the hot springs and includes gratuity, making it a hassle-free experience.

We’re pleased to offer stroller accessibility and accommodate service animals, ensuring the tour is inclusive for all.

Participants will receive confirmation within 48 hours and can cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty, providing flexibility.

Experiences and Activities

On the photography tour, we’ll get to experience a variety of engaging activities. We’ll visit Ice Alaska to see the incredible ice sculptures at the annual Ice Art Championships. Next, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner at the Chena Hot Springs restaurant. After dinner, we’ll have the opportunity to soak in the relaxing hot springs and hunt for the elusive Northern Lights.

Activity	Description
Ice Alaska	View award-winning ice sculptures
Chena Hot Springs Dinner	Savor a meal at the local restaurant
Northern Lights Viewing	Seek out the stunning aurora borealis

Although Northern Lights visibility isn’t guaranteed, the tour travels over 120 miles in prime viewing areas to maximize our chances of catching this natural wonder.

Guest Feedback and Highlights

Many guests have shared their positive experiences on the Hot Spring and Northern Lights Photography Tour.

They’ve enjoyed soaking in the hot springs and viewing the stunning ice sculptures at Ice Alaska. Travelers appreciated the pre-arranged dinner reservations and knowledgeable guides who provided insights about the local culture and nature.

However, some reported disappointment over not seeing the Northern Lights due to weather conditions. Guests have suggested bringing water, flip flops, and removing jewelry before entering the hot springs.

While photo delivery delays have been an issue for some, overall, the tour offers a great opportunity to experience Fairbanks’ natural wonders.

Guide Performance and Guest Interaction

According to the provided information, the guides on the Hot Spring and Northern Lights Photography Tour, such as Tabitha and Kevin, have been praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and effective time management.

Guests have appreciated the guides’ assistance with photography and the insights they provided about local culture and nature.

However, some participants experienced delays in receiving the photos taken during the tour.

Here are 4 key takeaways about the guide performance and guest interaction:

1. Knowledgeable and friendly guides
2. Efficient time management during the tour
3. Helpful with photography and cultural insights
4. Potential delays in photo delivery post-tour

Exploring the Ice Art Championship

As we arrive at the Ice Alaska exhibition, we’re immediately captivated by the intricate ice sculptures that line the grounds.

Our guide points out the renowned Ice Art Championships, where artists from around the world compete to create these breathtaking works of art.

We wander through the icy gallery, marveling at the level of detail and craftsmanship.

Our guide shares insights about the techniques and inspirations behind the sculptures, bringing the exhibition to life.

We linger, snapping photos and admiring the ephemeral beauty of these frozen masterpieces before continuing our adventure.

Rejuvenating at Chena Hot Springs

After admiring the intricate ice sculptures, we board the bus and head to our next destination – the renowned Chena Hot Springs.

Soaking in the soothing, mineral-rich waters, we unwind after an eventful day. The hot springs offer us:

1. Relaxation and rejuvenation
2. Stunning views of the surrounding mountains
3. An opportunity to connect with nature
4. A chance to soak up the local culture

Our knowledgeable guide ensures we make the most of our time here, providing insights and recommendations.

As we reluctantly depart the hot springs, we feel refreshed and energized, eager to continue our Northern Lights adventure.

Hunting for the Elusive Northern Lights

Where will our Northern Lights adventure take us next? Though we can’t guarantee sightings, the tour covers over 120 miles of prime viewing areas.

With luck, we’ll catch the elusive Aurora Borealis glimmering across the night sky. Our knowledgeable guides will lead us to the best spots, sharing insights about this natural phenomenon.

Despite some guests reporting disappointments, we’ll keep an open mind and enjoy the search. Even if the Northern Lights elude us, the overall experience – from the Ice Art Championship to the relaxing soak in hot springs – promises unforgettable memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to See the Northern Lights?

The best time to see the northern lights is typically from September through March, when the nights are longer and darker. We’d recommend planning your trip during this period for the best chance of witnessing this natural wonder.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Hot Springs?

We didn’t find any age restrictions mentioned for the hot springs. The tour seems suitable for all ages, with features like stroller accessibility and infant seats available. Just be sure to follow any safety guidelines provided by the guides.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Tour?

We encourage you to enjoy the dining experience provided as part of the tour, but you’re welcome to bring your own water or snacks if needed. The tour includes dinner at a local restaurant, so additional food isn’t necessary.

Is There a Wait Time to Enter the Hot Springs?

We don’t have information on the specific wait time to enter the hot springs. However, the tour includes entry, so you won’t need to worry about purchasing tickets or dealing with lines on your own. Just relax and enjoy the soak!

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Northern Lights Photography?

For the best Northern Lights photography, we recommend bringing a DSLR camera, tripod, and remote shutter release if possible. This equipment will help us capture the magnificent colors and movements of the Aurora Borealis. Let’s get ready for an unforgettable experience!

The Sum Up

This unforgettable tour combines the relaxation of hot springs and the thrill of chasing the northern lights. With knowledgeable guides, delicious meals, and accessible activities, it’s an excellent way to experience the wonders of Fairbanks. Whether you’re admiring ice sculptures, soaking in natural springs, or hunting the elusive aurora, this tour offers an unparalleled Alaskan adventure you won’t soon forget.