Tromsø: Aurora Safari Chase by big bus with Camp meal

When it comes to chasing the aurora borealis, Tromsø truly earns its reputation as one of the best spots in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned aurora hunter or a first-timer, this tour offers a balanced mix of comfort, local charm, and potential for those magical green and pink skies. We’ve looked into this experience to give you an honest take on what it involves, what makes it special, and who it suits best.

What we love about this tour? First, the expert guidance from passionate locals who know how to maximize your chances of seeing the lights. Second, the cozy private camp environment that offers warmth and comfort after hours of standing outdoors. Third, the delicious Norwegian food and drinks that add a tasty, authentic touch to the night. The only thing to consider might be the dependence on weather conditions, which are always tricky with nature’s unpredictable show.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comfortable yet authentic experience, with a focus on both sighting the lights and enjoying local culture. If you’re after a reliable, well-organized adventure that balances education, comfort, and a chance of a spectacular aurora, this will likely suit you admirably.

Contents show

Key Points

Comfort and Convenience: Big bus transport with onboard toilet, Wi-Fi, and charging stations make the journey pleasant.
Authentic Atmosphere: Private Aurora Camp with local hosts and a cozy shelter add authenticity.
Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides help you capture photos and maximize aurora viewing.
Food and Warmth: Hot drinks, Norwegian cake, and a hot meal (fish or reindeer stew) keep you warm and satisfied.
Flexibility: If weather conditions turn poor, guides will move to a different spot for better chances.
Photo Opportunities: Tripods and professional photos ensure you leave with memories, even if the skies stay quiet.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Aurora Safari Chase Tour

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Tromso

The Journey Begins: Comfort on the Bus

Starting at the Tromsø Bus Terminal Prostneset, you’ll board a spacious, modern bus equipped with toilets, Wi-Fi, and charging stations. This setup makes the roughly 5 to 7-hour trip more comfortable than your typical coach ride. As you settle in, the guide will screen a Northern Lights documentary, setting the scene and giving you context about what you’re about to witness.

One review highlights the “smart and comfortable coach,” emphasizing the ease of the journey. The bus itself is a big plus, especially in winter, when staying warm and connected can make all the difference in your overall experience.

Heading Out: Chasing the Clear Skies

The guides use weather forecasts to pick the best spot for a good aurora sighting, which is key since clear skies are essential. The tour’s flexibility to switch locations if the weather turns sour is a huge advantage. As one traveler noted, “The guides checked whether it would be better to move location,” which shows they’re committed to giving you the best chance to see the lights.

The Aurora Camp: A Warm, Local Welcome

Once you arrive at the private Aurora Camp, you’ll be greeted by local hosts who offer a warm welcome. Here, you’ll get warm overalls to stay comfortable outdoors, plus access to a shelter and bonfire (weather permitting). One reviewer remarked that arriving at camp was “super warm, spacious, and had enough tables/chairs for everyone,” making waiting for the lights far more relaxed.

The camp environment creates a genuine, cozy atmosphere — perfect for chatting with fellow travelers or simply soaking in the quiet beauty of the Arctic wilderness. The experience is more than just a night out; it’s a chance to connect with locals and learn about their way of life.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Food and Drink: A Tasty Norwegian Touch

Food plays a surprisingly important role in this tour. Expect hot chocolate, coffee, tea, and a sweet local cake called lefse during the wait. When the aurora appears, you’ll be served a hot meal, either fish or reindeer stew, with a vegetarian option on request.

Numerous reviews praise the deliciousness of the food. For instance, one guest mentioned the “fish soup was delicious,” and others appreciated the plentiful drinks and cozy setting. The warmth from food and drinks, coupled with the campfire (if weather allows), helps keep you comfortable during the long Arctic night.

There's plenty more to explore in Tromso

Capturing the Moment: Photos and Memories

One of the tour’s standout features is the opportunity to take home professional photos with the aurora as your backdrop. Guides help set up tripods, and many travelers appreciated the personalized shots. As one reviewer fondly noted, “The guides took excellent pictures and helped us with camera settings,” ensuring you don’t miss out on this key souvenir.

Even if the sky stays quiet, web-resolution photos are available for free download shortly after the tour, so you’ll leave with at least a digital memory of the night.

Flexibility and Weather Dependence

Nature is unpredictable, and even the best planning can be foiled by cloud cover. The guides are transparent about this, and if the aurora remains elusive at one location, they’ll move elsewhere. One traveler mentioned that “we only saw colored clouds,” which highlights that seeing the lights isn’t guaranteed, but the overall experience remains worthwhile thanks to the comfort, food, and company.

Timing and Duration

The tour lasts around 7 hours, starting in the evening and ending back at the meeting point. This allows plenty of time for waiting, eating, and chasing the lights without feeling rushed. It’s a good length for those wanting a comprehensive experience, balanced with comfort and flexibility.

The Value and Who It’s Best For

When evaluating the cost, consider that this tour includes transport, a private camp experience, food, hot drinks, professional photos, thermal suits, and guided expertise. For many travelers, this represents good value—especially given the effort to maximize aurora visibility and the comfort offered.

This experience is well-suited for those who prioritize comfort and local authenticity over just chasing the lights. If you’re looking for a well-organized, informative, and cozy night with a high chance of seeing the aurora, this trip ticks those boxes. It’s also ideal for travelers who want to capture quality photos and enjoy a genuine Norwegian campfire atmosphere.

It might not be the best choice if you’re on a tight budget or have mobility issues, as it involves some walking outdoors and is weather-dependent. Also, if seeing the aurora is the sole priority, remember that the natural display can be unpredictable despite the guides’ efforts.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour offers a comfortable, authentic way to experience Tromsø’s famed Northern Lights. With expert guides, a cozy camp environment, and hearty food, it balances adventure and relaxation beautifully. It’s especially good for travelers who appreciate local charm, good organization, and the chance to photograph the lights in a supportive setting.

The flexibility to move locations if needed means your chances of seeing the aurora are maximized, but patience is key. Given the positive reviews and the focus on quality experiences, this tour provides solid value, especially if you’re after more than just a quick peek at the skies.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, well-rounded Arctic adventure with chances to meet locals, enjoy traditional food, and capture stunning images, this Aurora Safari Chase is a solid pick.

FAQs

Do I need to bring warm clothes? Yes, it’s recommended to wear warm clothing, including a hat, gloves, waterproof shoes, and layers, as you’ll be outside for extended periods.

Is pickup included? No, the tour starts at the Tromsø Bus Terminal Prostneset, where you check in.

What if the weather is cloudy? Guides will assess conditions and might move to a different location if the weather hampers visibility, aiming to give you the best chance to see the aurora.

Can I see the Northern Lights every night? Not necessarily; the aurora depends on weather, solar activity, and clear skies. The tour’s flexibility helps improve your chances.

What food is included? Hot chocolate, coffee, tea, local sweet cake (lefse), and a hot meal (fish or reindeer stew). Vegetarian options are available if requested.

Are photos included? Web-resolution photos are free and downloadable after the tour. High-resolution prints can be purchased later.

Is this tour suitable for children? It’s not recommended for children under 4 years or people with mobility issues, due to outdoor conditions.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 7 hours, including transportation, waiting time, and the camp stay.

Is there Wi-Fi on the bus? Yes, Wi-Fi is available for most of the journey, making it easier to stay connected or share your experience in real-time.

In the end, this Tromsø Aurora Safari Chase offers a well-rounded, cozy, and well-guided Arctic adventure—ideal for those who want a genuine taste of local culture while chasing the elusive Northern Lights. With the right expectations, you’ll find it’s a memorable part of any Tromsø trip, blending comfort, authenticity, and a dash of Norwegian magic.