If you decided not to rent a car in Tromsø but still want the best chance at seeing the Northern Lights, this guided tour is one of the best options in our opinion. My husband and I joined it on our very first trip to Tromsø in November 2024, and while it tested our patience (and tolerance for the Arctic cold), it turned into one of the most magical experiences of our life.
The Experience
This is a 6–9 hour evening tour starting in the city centre where local expert guides drive small groups in comfortable minibuses or vans into the Arctic wilderness in search of clear skies. The route changes every night depending on the weather and cloud coverage—sometimes they drive just outside Tromsø, other times all the way to Finland. In our case they drove us to Ringvassøya (roughly 1 hour drive from Tromsø).
The guides were passionate, knowledgeable, and full of photography tips. They provided tripods, , headlamps, hand and foot warmers, and even took professional photos of us under the Aurora (included in the price). They drove us to the spot for the evening and then set up a campfire and served us tomatoes soup, some cookies, tea, coffee, and hot chocolate to help keep us warm while waiting.
In our case, it took a few long, freezing hours before the lights showed—but when they finally danced across the sky, it was unforgettable. Some nights the Aurora shows up quickly, other nights you need more patience, and occasionally, you may not see them at all. That unpredictability is part of the adventure.
Highlights
Knowledgeable & friendly guides who go above and beyond to make sure you have a memorable experience.
Flexible route—sometimes chasing the lights as far as Finland.
Thermal suits, warmers, and gear provided.
Professional photography included (plus tips if you want to shoot your own).
Small groups for a more intimate experience.
Practical Info
Meeting point: Tourist Shop Tromsø Havn (white house with blue writing, near the harbor).
Duration: 6–9 hours.
Language: English-speaking guides.
Price: From £168 per person (~€197 / $216 USD / 2,220 NOK).
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24h in advance when booking on Get your Guide (link below).
Includes: Transport, guides, thermal suits, warm food & drinks, campfire, photos, tripods, and hand/foot warmers.
Not suitable for: Children under 8, or anyone with limited mobility.
💡 What to bring: Passport (in case the tour crosses into Finland), skiing-level warm clothing, gloves, waterproof shoes, and lots of patience. Even with all the gear and a fire, you’ll be standing still in freezing Arctic temperatures for hours.
Our Take
If you don’t have a car in Tromsø, this tour is one of the easiest and most reliable ways to see the Northern Lights. We loved the atmosphere, the care of the guides, and the fact that they shared photos afterward. Be ready for long, cold waits—but if the Aurora appears, the reward is beyond words.
