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10 Best Tromso Northern Lights Tours & Packages in 2024

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Taking a Tromso Northern Lights tour is the best way to ensure an unforgettable aurora experience. Not only will you have the highest chances of seeing the Green Lady, but you’ll also have the benefit of an expert guide who knows exactly which locations and weather conditions are best for aurora viewing. In addition, an organized tour often includes transportation, snacks, and more, so it’s a great deal.

In case you don’t know, Tromso is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights , but you should make sure you plan your trip for the right time of year (September to April). Otherwise, you’ll miss your chance to see one of the most spectacular Northern Lights shows in the world.

Another decision you must make is which Northern Lights tour from Tromso to take. There are all kinds of options, from overnight stays to sledding activities and Tromso Northern Lights tour packages for photographers.

To help you out, I’m sharing the 10 best Northern Lights tours in Tromso . No matter your budget or interests, you’ll find the perfect excursion to see this beautiful natural phenomenon.

10 Best Northern Lights tours in Tromso

Whether you want to take the most amazing pictures, or you’d like to immerse yourself in the local culture, there is an aurora tour in Tromsø for you. To sum up, these are the top 10 Tromso Northern Lights tours :

• Guided bus tour , the best cheap Northern Lights tour from Tromso
• Minibus tour , a small-group Northern Lights tour from Tromso
• Aurora photo tour , a Tromso Northern Lights tour package for photographers
• Half-day tour with husky visit , another good Tromso Northern Lights tour package
• Aurora & Sami culture experience , a unique Northern Lights tour from Tromso
• Sailing excursion , the best Tromso Northern Lights tour by boat
• Cable car ride , a fun and convenient Northern Lights tour in Tromso
• Lavvu stay , an overnight tour to see the Northern Lights in Tromso
• Ice domes visit , another full-day Northern Lights tour package from Tromso
• Private aurora chase , the best private Northern Lights tour from Tromso

I’ll share the details and prices for each option below, as well as some tips to help you make the most out of your experience .

1. Guided bus tour , the best cheap Northern Lights tour from Tromso

A bus tour is the cheapest and most convenient way to go aurora hunting in Tromso . I like this option , which departs from downtown Tromso and travels outside the city to give you the best chances of seeing the Dancing Lady for yourself.

During this Tromso aurora tour , you’ll learn what the Northern Lights are , what causes them, and how to properly photograph them. In addition to providing interesting stories and tips, your guide will even offer to take your picture in front of the aurora borealis, so you’ll have a memento to bring home.

Another nice thing about this Northern Lights tour from Tromso is that you’ll travel in a heated bus with a restroom, so if you get chilly or need a break, you can rest on the bus. Throughout the night, you’ll enjoy hot chocolate, tea, coffee, and snacks to keep you going while you chase the Northern Lights.

• Price from : $91 per person
• Duration : 7 hours
• Highlights : Northern Lights tour, drinks and snacks included

2. Minibus tour , the best small-group Northern Lights tour from Tromso

Another affordable Northern Lights tour package from Tromsø is this minibus tour , which has the added benefit of being a small group excursion. If you don’t want to battle large crowds, this is one of the best tours in Tromso you can take.

The tour is limited to 21 people and includes a thermal suit for each participant so you can stay comfortable throughout the excursion. Your guide will also provide a tripod that you can use to keep your camera steady while you photograph the dancing lights. You can even have the guide take pictures of you and your companions for a fun souvenir.

This Northern Lights tour from Tromso also includes some time to gather around the campfire for hot drinks and food like soup and roasted marshmallows. While you warm up and enjoy your goodies, your guide will tell you about the science and local myths surrounding the aurora. Overall, it’s one of the most interesting Tromso aurora tours you can take.

• Price from : $130 per person
• Highlights : Small-group Northern Lights tours, drinks and snacks included

3. Aurora photo tour , a Tromso Northern Lights tour package for photographers

If you want to photograph the Northern Lights but you don’t have any experience, this excursion is perfect. It’s a Northern Lights tour package from Tromso designed specifically for photographers and enthusiasts and includes an expert-led workshop so you can capture incredible images.

During the tour, you’ll learn from a professional, who will share tips and tricks for photographing the aurora and finding interesting compositions. You can also have the guide take a professional portrait of you with the aurora for an extra fee. However, if you’d rather have someone take the pictures for you instead of learning how to do it yourself, then this tour may be a better option for you.

If you want to hone your photography skills, then, I definitely recommend this Tromsø aurora photo tour . But don’t forget to check out our guide on the best camera for Northern Lights photography ! In addition to professional instruction, the tour also includes hot drinks and snacks throughout the night.

• Price from : $107 per person
• Highlights : Northern Lights tours, photo tutorial, drinks and snacks included

4. Half-day tour with husky visit , another good Tromso Northern Lights tour package

If you’re an animal lover, this half-day excursion is a great choice. Not only will you enjoy a Tromso aurora hunt , but you’ll also be able to visit a husky camp and meet some furry friends.

You’ll travel just 30 minutes outside of downtown Tromso, to a husky camp with dozens of cute and cuddly canines. After meeting the pups and saying hello, you’ll enjoy some hot drinks and roasted marshmallows over the campfire.

Then, experience the inside of a lavvu , a traditional tent used by the indigenous Sami people of Scandinavia. While you wait for the skies to turn dark, your guide will share tips and answer any questions over a meal of Norwegian cod. Then, it’s time to watch the Green Lady make her appearance!

If you’re looking for a relaxed experience seeing the aurora borealis in Tromso, Norway , this is one of the best options.

• Price from : $111 per person
• Duration : 4 hours
• Highlights : Northern Lights tour, husky camp visit, lavvu visit with dinner

5. Aurora & Sami culture experience , a unique aurora tour from Tromso

This excursion is another cool Northern Lights tour from Tromso that immerses you in Sami culture. You’ll board the bus and travel to a traditional Sami camp, where you’ll get to feed a herd of wild reindeer and go sledding. If you’re visiting Tromso during Christmas , this is definitely the tour to take!

After spending some time with the reindeer, you’ll go inside a Sami hut, or gamme , to warm up. Enjoy hot drinks while your hosts prepare a three-course meal over a roaring campfire. When you’re done eating, you’ll head to a lavvu for some traditional Sami songs and stories.

Once you’re well-fed, it’s time to go outside and see the Northern Lights dancing in the night sky.

• Price from : $160 per person
• Duration : 4.5 hours
• Highlights : Northern Lights tour, reindeer sledding and feeding, traditional Sami dinner in a lavvu

6. Sailing excursion , the best Tromso Northern Lights tour by boat

For something a bit different, consider taking a Northern Lights boat tour from Tromso like this one . It departs from the city center and visits several nearby locations, granting you multiple opportunities to see the aurora borealis flashing through the sky.

Even with Tromso’s winter weather , you’ll stay warm and cozy thanks to the provided thermal suits. Plus, you’ll be aboard a luxury catamaran with indoor and outdoor seating, so you can always go inside if you get chilly.

This Northern Lights cruise from Tromso is limited to 12 participants, so you’ll have plenty of room to spread out and get a good view of the aurora. The skipper and tour guides have years of experience, so they know the best spots to sail to for the highest chances of seeing the Northern Lights. So, sit back, grab a hot drink, and enjoy the show!

• Price from : $143 per person
• Duration : 3.5 hours
• Highlights : Catamaran cruise, Northern Lights, drinks and snacks included

7. Cable car ride , a fun and convenient aurora hunt in Tromso

If you’re short on time but still want to take a Tromso aurora tour , consider this option . You’ll meet at the Tromso Cathedral, one of the most iconic attractions in Tromso , then head to the famous Fjellheisen cable car .

This is one of the best Northern Lights spots in Tromso , granting you magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and the peak of Tromsdalstinden. The cable car rises 4,060 feet above sea level, so you’ll enjoy unobstructed views and minimal light pollution since you’ll be above Tromso. In addition to the beautiful Arctic landscape, you’ll be able to see the dancing lights of the aurora.

This Tromso Northern Lights tour includes your cable car ticket and a food tasting of some traditional appetizers. That said, the cable car station is right outside a mountain restaurant, so if you want to get dinner there after your tour, it’s a great option.

• Price from : $178 per person
• Duration : 3 hours
• Highlights : Fjellheisen cable car ride, Northern Lights tour, food tasting

8. Lavvu stay , a unique overnight tour to see the Northern Lights in Tromso

For an exciting Northern Lights holiday in Tromso , consider an overnight excursion like this one . It departs from Tromso and includes a ferry ride past the Lyngen Alps to the Aurora Wonderland Basecamp.

The base camp is surrounded by spectacular fjords and mountains and has minimal light pollution, so you’ll have an even higher chance of seeing a phenomenal light show. But first, make yourself comfortable and tuck in for a hearty lunch.

While you still have some daylight, you can take advantage of fun outdoor activities like cross-country skiing, hiking, or snowshoeing. Or, you can take a rest in a crystal lavvu while you wait for the skies to darken.

Later, you’ll get a photography workshop from your professional guide, then fuel up with a warm dinner before going in search of the Northern Lights. Afterwards, you’ll return to your lavvu for some sleep. In the morning, enjoy a traditional Norwegian breakfast and return to Tromso.

I recommend this Tromso Northern Lights tour package if you’re not sure where to stay in Tromso . This way, you’ll have your accommodation and excursion taken care of in one package.

• Price from : $260 per person
• Duration : 1 day
• Highlights : Northern Lights, ferry view of Lyngen Alps, snowshoe hike, photography workshop, overnight stay in a crystal lavvu , meals included

9. Ice Domes Stay , the best Northern Lights tour package from Tromso

On the other hand, if you want to stay in one of the best Northern Lights hotels in Norway , then this excursion is for you.

This Northern Lights tour package from Tromso takes you to the famous Ice Domes , a popular attraction with ice sculptures, an igloo bar, and, of course, an ice hotel. Your guide will walk you through the Ice Domes and share interesting facts about its construction. Then, your group will stop by the igloo bar for a drink.

Afterward, your guide will give you a thermal suit and snowshoes for a hike through the surrounding wilderness. Here, there is very little light pollution, so you’ll have a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights. Settle around the campfire and enjoy a three-course meal while keeping an eye on the skies.

After dinner, you’ll head back to the ice hotel for some sleep. The next day, savor a traditional Norwegian breakfast and get ready for another one-of-a-kind activity: dog sledding. Later, warm up by the fire for lunch, then board the bus back to Tromso.

• Price from : $1,479 per couple
• Highlights : Northern Lights, snowshoe hike, dinner, overnight stay in an ice dome

10. Private aurora chase , the best private Northern Lights tour from Tromso

Finally, if you want to make your Northern Lights trip extra special, book this private tour . This small-group Northern Lights tour from Tromso is limited to 8 people, so it’s ideal for a group of friends or family members.

You’ll get picked up at your Tromso hotel and board a private minivan. Depending on the forecast, you may venture to the western fjords of Tromso or go to the Finnish border in search of auroras. Your guide will share tips and camera techniques to help you capture the Green Lady in your photographs.

Once you arrive at your destination, you’ll wait for the Northern Lights to make an appearance. Coffee, tea, and muffins will keep you energized during this Tromso aurora hunt , and after the excursion, you’ll be dropped back off at your Tromso hotel.

• Price from : $886 per group of up to 8 people
• Duration : 6 hours
• Highlights : Private tour to see Northern Lights, drinks and snacks included

Tromso Northern Lights tour prices

You’ve probably noticed that there are all kinds of Northern Lights tour packages in Tromso . From boat cruises to overnight stays, there is an option for every budget and interest. Of course, that also means that the cost of a Tromso Northern Lights excursion varies significantly, ranging from around $100 to over $700 per person.

To give you a better idea, here are the prices for each tour I mentioned, as well as what they include:

Best time to take a Tromso Northern Lights tour

It’s important to choose the best Northern Lights tour in Tromso for your budget and interests, but it’s also crucial that you know when to book. The best time to see the Northern Lights in Tromsø is between mid-September through April.

If you can, try to book your Tromso aurora tour around the Equinoxes, when the solar activity usually ramps up, which is ideal for aurora viewing. The Fall Equinox takes place during the last two weeks of September, while the Spring Equinox is in the second or third week of March.

You can check the Northern Lights forecast up to 15 days in advance, so if you’re flexible with your travel dates, you can plan to visit Tromso according to the forecast.

Weather forecast is also important but unfortunately, it’s difficult to plan based on weather because it can change a lot.

Tips for booking a Northern Lights chase from Tromso

Now that you know the best time to visit Tromso for the Northern Lights , here are some tips for booking your tour and preparing for your trip:

• Northern Lights tours in Tromso are popular, so book your spot in advance !
• Make sure you wear lots of warm layers , including a winter coat, wool socks, boots, gloves, and a hat. Many aurora tours in Tromso include thermal suits, but it’s always a good idea to come prepared.
• The best months to see the Northern Lights in Tromso are September to April , so try to book your tour within that time frame.
• You can make things easier and streamline your trip by staying in one of the best hotels in Tromso .
• Read our guide on how to photograph the Northern Lights so you can get the best images during your tour!

Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be able to make the most of your experience seeing the aurora borealis in Tromso .

FAQs – Northern Lights tours from Tromso

To wrap up this guide, here are the answers to some common questions about Tromso Northern Lights tours :

What is the best Northern Lights tour in Tromso?

The best Northern Lights tour from Tromso depends on your interests. This minibus tour is very popular and a great option if you want to take a small-group Northern Lights tour in Tromso .

How much does a Tromso Northern Lights tour cost?

A Northern Lights tour package from Tromsø ranges from around $100 to over $700 per person, depending on the duration and any included activities.

When is the best time to take a Northern Lights tour in Tromso?

The best time to take a Northern Lights tour in Tromso is in the early fall (September/October) or late winter (February/March).

Do you need a tour to see the Northern Lights in Tromso?

You don’t need a Tromso Northern Lights tour to see the aurora, but it certainly helps! These tour operators have a lot of experience, so they know the best locations and times to see the aurora borealis. Plus, they can offer tips on how to see the Northern Lights in Tromso .

Now you know the best Tromso Northern Lights tours , so all that’s left to do is book your adventure. Seeing the Northern Lights in Norway is a one-of-a-kind experience, and with the help of expert tour guides, you have the highest chance of seeing the dancing lights in all their glory.

You can’t go wrong with any of these Northern Lights excursions from Tromso , but if you want to go aurora hunting on your own, I recommend learning more about the Northern Lights forecast . You can also join us for our yearly Swimming with Orcas & Northern Lights tour or our Lofoten Islands photo tour and experience the Northern Lights and Tromso with us!

Of course, if you have any questions or you’d like to share your experience taking a Tromso Northern Lights tour , feel free to leave me a comment below.

Good luck and have fun chasing the aurora in Tromso !

Ascen Aynat

4 replies on “ 10 Best Tromso Northern Lights Tours & Packages in 2024 ”

Hi Ascen, Thanks for all this useful information. My wife and I are considering a trip to Tromso in September next year to see the Northern Lights and also the Fjords. I will be 70 years old and my wife approaching her mid-sixties. Though we can move around well enough, we are not as active as some years ago. Hence, we would really like to go on comfortable tours, staying as warm as possible and possibly not very long but we would still like to see both the sights. We would appreciate if you could recommend the most suitable tours for us. Many thanks! 🙂

Hi Manas, I think you’d appreciate one of the shorter tours like the Tromso Northern Lights sailing excursion or the cable car ride . Some of the shorter bus tours could also work for you. 🙂

My name is Lilian and I will be in Tromso from 12 to 16 of October to see the Northern Lights. I can walk, but not very long distances. Do you think any of the tours could be suitable for me?. Tbank you in advance!!!

Hi Lilian, I recommend checking out the Northern Lights boat tour from Tromso. You’ll be able to see the aurora without having to walk anywhere. Alternatively, one of the bus tours or the cable car ride should be fine. Once the tour group finds a good place to spot the aurora, you’ll stay put. Have fun!

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5 Best Tromso Northern Lights Tours + Important Things to Know Before Booking

January 14, 2024 by Silvia 32 Comments

I’ve now lived in Tromsø for two full northern lights seasons (late August to late March) and completely understand why Tromso northern lights tours are so popular. It’s certainly been magical getting to see the northern lights so often while living here. Sometimes I’ll be having a terrible day and grumpily take my dog Alfie out for a walk, but then I’ll look up and feel like the luckiest person in the world.

Quick Tromsø Travel Guide

Tromsø Accommodation: Thon Hotel Polar and Thon Hotel Tromsø across the street are both excellent options right in the city center, and the breakfast buffet is incredible. The fanciest hotel in town is the Clarion Hotel The Edge , which is right on the water and home to Tromsø’s only skybar. I’ve also written a full guide to the best Tromsø hotels here . 

Tromsø Activities Hostel is a great option if you’re on a tight budget. And if you want your own apartment, this glass roof loft near the center looks incredible. I don’t recommend booking an Airbnb in Tromsø.

Top Tromsø Activities: 

• Small group northern lights tour

Northern lights sailing excursion

• Fjord cruise with a sauna/jacuzzi on board
• Boat/RIB whale watching tour
• Arctic dog sledding excursion  (or this dog sledding excursion 2 hours from Tromsø)
• Reindeer excursion
• Snowmobile tour

Tromsø car rental:  Tromsø is surrounded by incredible nature, but public transport is sparse so I recommend renting a car, if you can. You can compare prices and book your Tromsø car rental at autoeurope.com .

Packing for Tromsø: You can find my  winter packing guide for Norway here . In general I would say focus on practical outdoors clothing – people dress very casually here, even when going out at night. Don’t forget some warm sweaters, even in the summer! 

When people ask me where in Norway to go to see the northern lights, I always recommend Tromsø first. Tromsø is a good place to see the northern lights because it lies so far above the Arctic Circle so the aurora activity is consistently high, but it’s also on the coast, which means that the temperatures are a lot warmer than other places this high above the Arctic Circle. 

That said, there are some things to know if you are planning a Tromsø northern lights trip. Yes, we see the aurora a lot here, but downtown Tromsø isn’t the best place in Norway to see the northern lights, so if you want to see them you’ll need to take a northern lights tour in Tromsø, or drive out on your own. And if you want to know how to photograph the northern lights read my full guide here ,

Ideally you want to be somewhere really dark, away from city lights to see the aurora. You can often still see the northern lights in the Tromsø city center, however whenever we get a really spectacular lights show here I secretly wish I were in the countryside where it would look even more incredible.

This is why a lot of people coming for the northern lights sign up for a Tromsø northern lights tour that will take them away from the city lights (and hopefully towards clear skies), which is a fantastic option. Then during the day you can explore downtown. Tromsø is a great little city with lots of cafes, galleries, museums, shops, restaurants, and bars to keep you interested when the northern lights aren’t out. I’ve shared a full guide for the best things to do in Tromsø here . 

If you don’t want to sign up for a bunch of northern lights tours from Tromsø, you could also spend a few nights in the countryside. If you’re comfortable renting a car, I would consider flying into Tromsø and then leaving the city to stay somewhere darker. 

Best month to see the northern lights

And if you’re wondering when is the best time to see the northern lights in Tromsø, you will have good chances of seeing them from September to the beginning of April. Personally February and March are my favorite months for northern lights in Tromsø, because there’s snow on the ground and the sun has returned so you can enjoy your days a bit more as well. But if you hate the cold I definitely recommend visiting in September or October, as the weather is more tolerable for nights spent outside watching the sky. 

Best Tromso northern lights tours

If you do choose to stay in Tromsø, you’ll definitely want to book at least a couple northern lights tours. In fact even when my parents visited me here I booked them on a tour instead of driving them out myself. Northern lights tours usually include heavy duty outdoor winter clothing, which is super helpful on those freezing cold nights, especially if you’re traveling from somewhere warmer. Guides are also in contact with each other so they can more effectively scout for the lights than you could on your own.

An added benefit of taking a northern lights tour is that most guides are trained in northern lights photography so usually the tour will include a photo of you under the northern lights (my parents were so pleased with the photos they got)! And tours also often include tripods so that you can try to take photos on your own camera too. While your phone can capture basic northern lights photos, you’ll need a tripod to take sharp northern lights photos because of the long exposures necessary in the dark.

There are so many northern lights tours running out of Tromsø, and to be honest they’re all pretty similar. I would just try to look for a long tour, where your guide will be willing to drive out to Sweden or Finland if necessary to find clear skies. And if your heart is really set on seeing the northern lights, I would absolutely book tours on multiple nights.

You can book northern lights tours on Manawa , GetYourGuide , or Viator . They all offer excellent and reliable service, but my personal favorite is Manawa as the tours tend to be a tiny bit cheaper through them and I love supporting a smaller company. 

You can also  buy a gift card from Manawa here . This would make a wonderful gift! 

These would be my top picks for the five best northern lights tours from Tromsø:

Cheapest Tromsø Northern Lights Tour

If you want the cheapest option for a northern lights bus chase, this 5 hour northern lights minibus tour is your best bet. It’s a bit cheaper than other tours because it only takes you to the neighboring island of Kvaløya to chase the northern lights, not  all the way to Sweden or Finland if necessary. 

I don’t think this is the very best tour option, but if you’re on a budget it’s still an excellent choice. You get a professional guide to find the best location to spot the northern lights, a warm thermal suit to wear, and tripods for your cameras. 

You can cancel up to 4 days in advance for a full refund, and if the tour is canceled due to bad weather you can reschedule or get your money back. 

Best Tromsø Northern Lights Tour

If you’re willing to spend a bit more money, this minibus tour would be ideal. This is the tour my parents did and they loved it.

This tour will drive all the way to Finland if necessary to find clear skies, and they provide a thermal suit, a hot meal and beverages, and a campfire.

The guide will take professional photos of you under the northern lights, but I love that they also bring tripods for your camera if you want to try your own hand at photographing the northern lights! Your guide will help you with all the photo settings so that you can capture the aurora yourself. 

This all inclusive northern lights chase minibus tour is offered by a different company and isn’t the exact one my parents did, but it looks very similar and is a bit cheaper! 

And if you want something more exclusive, this Tesla tour  is even smaller and still provides photos and a tripod to use. 

Husky Northern Lights Excursion

Northern lights tours can definitely be a bit disappointing if you don’t manage to see the aurora, so I love the idea of doing a fun activity outside at night so you’ll have a chance of spotting the northern lights but also a great time even if you don’t see the aurora.

This evening husky visit looks so much fun and will give you lots of chances of seeing the northern lights. You’ll get to play with the huskies and then have dinner around a campfire while waiting for the northern lights to appear. 

I wouldn’t recommend this as your only northern lights tour in Tromsø, as you’ll be staying in one location so you won’t have as high chances of seeing the northern lights as if you were chasing them in a bus. But the huskies are so much fun, so if you like dogs I would highly recommend this as a second tour for one of your other nights in Tromsø! 

Reindeer sleigh ride under the Northern Lights in Tromsø

If dogs aren’t your thing, maybe you would prefer to hang out with some reindeer in Tromsø?  This evening reindeer sleigh ride looks absolutely magical. I did the daytime version of this tour and  loved it. Again, I wouldn’t recommend this as your primary northern lights tour in Tromsø, but this would be an excellent option as a second tour to book. 

This northern lights sailing excursion is actually the cheapest northern lights tour in Tromsø.

Sailing is a big part of life in Tromsø – I even know some students here who live on sailboats to save money on rent. So this is a great opportunity to get out on the water while here! Your chances of seeing the northern lights will be a bit lower as skies tend to be clearer inland. And it’s hard to photograph the northern lights on a moving boat, because you need to keep your camera still for several seconds.

But if you’re lucky, seeing the northern lights dancing over the water is one of the most extraordinary experiences I’ve had!

I also highly recommend filling your days with other fun activities to ensure that you have the best visit to Tromsø, even if you end up unlucky and don’t get to see the northern lights. 

Whale watching from Tromsø

From roughly November through January, you can see humpback whales and killer whales, or orcas, near Tromsø. The time they arrive does vary each year, as well as where you can see them. But luckily for you there are several Tromsø whale safari companies that send boats out to see the whales, wherever they may be (though of course whale sightings cannot be guaranteed). 

If you want to stay on a warm boat the entire time, then  this silent whale watching tour on an electric boat  is perfect, and lasts around eight hours (depending on where the whales are) for optimal whale sighting chances. 

And if you’re feeling adventurous and want to see the whales up close,  this boat/RIB whale watching tour  takes you to the whales on a boat but then you switch to a RIB when you’re near the whales. 

Or if you want a full Arctic experience, this overnight Ice Domes tour includes an evening snowshoe hike, a night in the famous Tromsø Ice Domes, and a morning dogsledding tour.

Dog sledding in Tromsø

For best chances of snow I would do this in January, February, or March, but sometimes there will be enough snow on the ground in November and December for husky sledding. And then if there isn’t enough snow, some companies will take out carts with wheels instead.

There are lots of different husky sledding tours offered from Tromsø  which you can find here , but I recommend going with the Tromsø Wilderness Center. I know several people who have adopted retired huskies from the Wilderness Center and they offer really great care to the dogs when they aren’t working.

This husky excursion is perfect for beginners. Or that one is sold out this dog sledding excursion two hours from Tromsø might have availability. 

I’ve written more about dog sledding in Norway here . 

Reindeer in Tromsø

One of the fun things about living in Tromsø is that there are a lot of reindeer roaming outside the city!

Of course the best way to see some reindeer is to visit a reindeer camp.  This reindeer excursion takes you just 30 minutes from the Tromsø center to feed reindeer, learn about Sami culture, and even take a short reindeer sleigh ride. But personally I prefer this reindeer tour , which takes you out to the gorgeous Lyngen Alps. It is a bit longer of a drive but one of the most beautiful areas outside of Tromsø. I wrote more about my experience doing this tour here . 

They also offer  an evening reindeer sleigh ride  where you’ll have the chance to see the northern lights. 

Cross-country skiing

You can rent cross-country skis at  Tromsø Outdoor  right downtown (I believe rentals are 340 kroner for adults), but if you’ve never been on cross-country skis before you might prefer to go with a guide instead.  This guided cross-country skiing Tromsø tour  includes all the equipment, a ski lesson, hot drinks, and lunch.

Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling is incredibly popular here, and it’s certainly a lot of fun. If you want to experience snowmobiling for yourself there are a bunch of  snowmobile tours offered out of Tromsø here . 

Tromsø accommodation

Tromsø has so many wonderful hotels, so you’ll have lots of options here. I’ve stayed at the Thon Hotel Polar and loved it, and my parents usually stay at the Thon Hotel Tromsø across the street, which is just as wonderful.

But everyone I’ve asked in Tromsø seems to agree that the nicest hotel in town is the Clarion Hotel The Edge. The Edge is right on the water and is home to Tromsø’s only skybar. My parents have also stayed here and loved it. Check current rates and availability here

And then if you are willing to stay outside of Tromsø, here are my top picks for the best places to see the northern lights in Norway (some of which won’t require a car):

I’ve also gathered even more tips for your northern lights trip into  an in depth ebook here . This covers all the necessities for planning a northern lights trip, going into much more detail than my blog posts. 

Sommarøy & Kvaløya

If you want to spend some time in Tromsø but don’t mind renting a car, I recommend staying outside of the city and driving in for a visit during the day. This way you’ll be in the right place when the lights do come out, but you can still have a bit of city experience as well. You can compare prices and book your rental at autoeurope.com .

Kvaløya, the island next to Tromsø, is a wonderful option because it’s only about a half hour drive from Tromsø, but will have dark skies and beautiful landscapes perfect for northern lights viewing.

You could book a cabin here and then drive into Tromsø during the day, though you’ll probably want to spend most of your time here because it’s beautiful. This cabin would be perfect, or this is a great budget option .

Or if you venture a bit farther you could stay on Sommarøy, which is absolutely stunning and one of my favorite places near Tromsø. The Sommarøy Arctic Hotel has a bunch of accommodation options for different budgets, including gorgeous seaside cabins.

The Lyngen Alps is my favorite mountain getaway from Tromsø and just so happens to be home to two of my favorite northern lights hotels in Norway: the glass igloos at North Experience Basecamp  and the mini Aurora Fjord Cabins .

Read about  my stay at the mini Aurora Fjord Cabins here .

When my friends wanted to plan a winter trip to Tromsø a few years ago I convinced them to go to the island of Senja instead. Senja has stunning mountains, lots of winter activities on offer, and it’s the perfect place to watch for the northern lights. Read more about our trip to Senja here .

I hadn’t actually hear of the island of Dyrøy before my visit to Senja, but we decided to add it onto our itinerary and it ended up being my favorite part of our trip. Dyrøy has incredible mountain views, and the owners of the cabin we stayed at were so wonderful. Plus we got to soak in a hot tub under the northern lights.

Read more about visiting Dyrøy here .

Vesterålen & Lofoten

Vesterålen and Lofoten are two archipelagos about a six hour drive south of Tromsø. You won’t get the highest chances of seeing the northern lights here as the weather can be really crazy, but the landscape might be incredible enough to make up for that.

I would say that choosing Vesterålen or Lofoten for your northern lights trip will be a bit of a gamble, but the scenery is so beautiful and there’s so much to do here that you will definitely have an unforgettable trip, aurora or no aurora. Read more about visiting Vesterålen here and visiting Lofoten here .

Alta is a small city of about 19,000 people so it doesn’t have much light pollution, but it’s a big tourist hub for Arctic tours and activities so you’ll find a lot to do here when you aren’t watching the northern lights. This is great because there’s always a chance you’ll be unlucky with the aurora and not get to see any northern lights, but if you fill your days with other fun activities you’ll have an amazing trip regardless.

The best northern lights accommodation is somewhere with a clear roof or at least very big windows, so you can watch for the lights in comfort (and warmth!). This is why I really love Arctic Domes, and the Arctic Dome at Glød Explorer is perfect because you don’t even need a car to visit. You can fly into Alta and they’ll pick you up at the airport. Read more about staying at Glød Explorer here .

Arctic Dome in Kokelv

The Arctic Dome in Kokelv might just be my favorite place I’ve stayed on a northern lights trip in Norway. The dome is perfect for northern lights viewing – I actually had a lot of trouble going to sleep here because the lights kept appearing above my bed. The dome sits at the top of a hill so you’ll get a full, unobstructed view of the sky, and a stay here also comes with a Sami style turf house with a fully equipped kitchen, shower, and sauna.

Kokelv is about a two hour drive from Alta so you’ll definitely need a car for this one, so I do think that Glød Explorer in Alta is a more convenient option. Read more about staying at the Arctic Dome in Kokelv here .

Kirkenes is one of my favorite towns in northern Norway. It’s right by the borders to both Finland and Russia, which I feel like gives it a really interesting vibe, but also offers excellent northern lights viewing opportunities because it’s easy to drive inland where the skies are usually less cloudy.

And you can even stay in an igloo hotel here !

Read more about visiting Kirkenes here .

And then if you want a true Arctic adventure, you have to go to Svalbard! Svalbard’s towns are the northernmost permanently inhabited spots on the planet (aside from a few research bases), and the archipelago is actually closer to the North Pole than to Oslo. Oh and Svalbard is one of the only places where you can see the daytime northern lights!

I was really surprised how easy it is to visit Svalbard – there are quite cheap flights from Oslo and Tromsø. Read more about planning a trip to Svalbard here .

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Travel Center UK says

March 29, 2021 at 3:52 pm

Thank you so much for this informative article 😉 Just asking out of curiosity how about a holiday to Iceland to view the northern lights? What do you think of Iceland?

Melissa says

March 29, 2021 at 4:35 pm

I really like the idea of those long northern lights tours. I mean, as well as seeing the northern lights I love the idea of travelling accross the artic to Sweden and Finland. I think, that is exciting me as much as the idea of seeing the northern lights.

Is it possible to walk from Tromsø airport to the city center or is it just a highway? I read it is only 4KM

April 27, 2021 at 3:31 pm

Hey.. I really like travelling… I was looking for Places in Norway to travel and I got this article.. Very nice information.. Thanks

August 7, 2022 at 7:58 pm

I’m planning a trip to Tromsø and found this – my dog is also named Alfie 🙂 gave me a big smile!

Silvia says

August 7, 2022 at 8:57 pm

What no way! I hope you enjoy Tromsø 😊

Joanna Alberti says

October 5, 2022 at 12:40 am

I’ve found this article most useful in planning our trip to Norway in the hope of seeing the Northern Lights and creating special family memories with my 12 year old son this December. What would you recommend for New Years Eve..Tromsø or Sommarøy Arctic Hotel or somewhere else? Look forward to hearing your thoughts. Best wishes Joanna

October 6, 2022 at 11:32 am

I would recommend Tromsø for New Year’s Eve! The fireworks are beautiful, and it’s a fun night out in the city.

Tirta Darma says

October 11, 2022 at 3:17 pm

Hi Silvia, it is so informative what you wrote. I am planing to visit Tromso on February 2023. How big is the chance to see the northern lights ? And besides Tromso, I will visit Alta and Nordkap as well, is it possible to drive ? Since some of my frepiends say it is possible but have to do convoy with other cars and must check the schedule, is it true ?

October 12, 2022 at 10:09 am

If you’re in the north for a week you should have good chances of seeing the northern lights, especially if you take a couple of northern lights tours that will chase clear skies. You can absolutely drive to Alta and the North Cape as well. We only have to drive in a convoy if there’s a big snow storm, but that is quite rare, so you should be fine.

Carla Wrench says

October 30, 2022 at 2:11 pm

This has been so helpful thank you. Have wanted to see the lights since I was little. Going to book Tromso end of January 23 for 4 nights and stay at Polar hotel recommended. My husband and I would love to spend one night in a glass dome – would this be possible? Where would you recommend if so? Thank you

November 1, 2022 at 9:28 pm

There are glass igloos at Lyngen North, which is a three hour drive from Tromsø. I think they can arrange transport if you’re not renting a car.

November 2, 2022 at 5:16 am

Hey Silvia, I like your posts, they are so informative and helpful. I am in two minds and wonder if I will be able to see northern lights during End April period? I know the chances are really low but with the climate changes, I want to be a little hopeful but I hope you can provide your views on this? Thanks in advance!

November 10, 2022 at 2:53 pm

No, it is too light at the end of April to see the northern lights – you can only see them when the sky is dark, which no longer happens by then.

Postcard Stories says

November 13, 2022 at 12:00 pm

To me Tromso is one of the most beautiful cities in the world 🙂 I’ve spent there a great midnight-sun season, but I wasn’t successful to spot northern lights at least once when visiting during Winter 🙁 But I’ll keep visiting.

November 15, 2022 at 11:54 am

Hi Silvia, Thank you, this has been so helpful for planning my visit in February. If my first Northern Light chase isn’t successful I plan on booking another one. Do you think that it is possible to find a tour on short notice (for the next day or so) or will they be completely booked (doesn’t have to be the same company but should still be a reliable one)? Thank you, Lynn

November 15, 2022 at 11:49 pm

February is a really busy time – sometimes all the hotels and restaurants in town book out too – so I would definitely book a tour in advance. A lot of them allow cancellation if necessary.

January 8, 2023 at 9:15 pm

Hi! You mention that AirBnB bookings fall through in Tromso…how often has this been happening. I have an AirBnB booked for February 2023 and am just reading your article *worry face*

January 9, 2023 at 9:51 pm

Oh hmm I think it’s been happening a lot, but hopefully you’ll be fine. Or you could check if there’s anything available on Booking.com instead.

Debora says

January 23, 2023 at 3:19 pm

We could potentially travel to Tromso to see the Northern Lights for my husband’s birthday in October. We will be accompanied by our 15 month old daughter. Would this be a good idea ? Do you have any tips and tricks of traveling with a baby in that region?

Many thanks!

Ian Hart says

August 14, 2023 at 3:42 pm

Hi Silvia I am really inspired to travel to Norway after reading your blogs. I wonder if I could ask you to check our itinerary and recommend the most appropriate of your guides to support my brother and me for a trip in early March 2024. • 1st Gatwick to Tromso gets in 23.40! • Hire SUV at airport – we are experienced drivers • Drive to Sommaroy? Or stay in Tromso in a cheap bed or sleep in SUV or drive to Lofoten area hoping to see the lights (440km – 6hrs?) • 2nd Stay in Lototen links – 2/3 nights • Tour Lototen, Reine, climb Reinebringen • 4th Drive to Abisko – stay in STF Abisko Turiststation (300km 4.5hrs?) • 5th Drive to Silsand – stay at Norwegian Wild (210km 3hrs?) • 6th Drive to Alta – stay in Sorrisniva Igloo – (400km 6hrs?) • 7th Holmen Husky lodge – Husky sledding • 7th (2 nights min) Kokelv turf house • Drive back to Tromso • 11th 06.15 fly home This leaves us a spare day should we stay in Lototen for 3 nights or somewhere else? We would really appreciate your thoughts before I book the flights. Many thanks in advance Ian

August 14, 2023 at 6:49 pm

Sommarøy is a long drive from Tromsø, so I would stay your first night in Tromsø instead. I don’t think you will be able to climb Reinebringen in March yet as there will likely be snow – at least you definitely wouldn’t want to attempt the hike if there is snow. I would honestly skip Abisko – it’s too big of a detour and the drive isn’t that spectacular. Instead I would maybe stop through Vesterålen ( https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/vesteralen-whales-reindeer/ ) on your way to Senja, or spend an extra night in Senja. The rest looks great, if you don’t mind the long drives!

August 15, 2023 at 3:01 pm

Thank you for getting back quickly. We will skip Abisko.

It’s a pity the ferry is not operating between Vesteralen and Senja in the winter. Also I would guess that its not be best time for whale watching. We will stay in Thon on your recommendation.

Which of your guides would be the most supportive on our trip?

Many thanks again Ian

August 20, 2023 at 11:05 am

My Northern Norway and Northern Lights guides would both be helpful. If going with just one I’d choose the Northern Lights guide: https://heartmybackpack.gumroad.com/

Barbara Cooper says

September 5, 2023 at 8:00 pm

Could you please recommend how to go about finding a rental property near Tromso, perhaps not in Tromso itself – for a week or so. An agency??

Thank you, Barbara

September 13, 2023 at 5:35 pm

Hi Silvia. I have booked the Lyngen North before reading your article! Have you stayed at the Lyngen North? May I know if there is a high chance to see the northern lights at around Nov/Dec?

September 16, 2023 at 9:06 am

Yes I’ve stayed at Lyngen North many times! It’s very beautiful there, and November/December is a great time to see the northern lights. I hope you will have clear skies and get to see them!

Massimo says

October 8, 2023 at 9:12 am

Hello Silvia, awesome article!

Is there any chance of actually seeing any northern lights in June? Asking because I am planning a trip to Tromso with my friends for the Midnight Sun marathon next year and we’ll probably only have about 4 days in Tromso so I have to choose wisely… Wondering what the best activities would be to make the best out of our time there!

Thanks so much and have a great day!

October 9, 2023 at 6:58 pm

You can only see the northern lights when the sky is dark, and the sun is up all day and night in June, so there’s no way to see the northern lights. It’s a wonderful time to visit though! I’ve shared all my Tromsø tips here: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/things-to-do-in-tromso/

Alphabet says

January 22, 2024 at 5:16 pm

This place is my dream destination. I have no words to express this…..beauty

February 28, 2024 at 6:58 pm

We are really looking forward to starting our tour in Tromso in 2 days (14th August 2023 post). I have just tried to download the https://www.tinacinc.com/AuroraForecast/ app (for Android) but it seems that the app has not been updated for newer versions of the operating system (V14). Can you recommend another app?

Many thanks in advance Ian

Karen Cross says

March 17, 2024 at 8:25 pm

Big thank you, Silvia, for such an informative article. I will definitely get your e-book before we visit Norway. Planning on a short trip with husband Feb 2025, but wondering whether you would recommend a tour agency to do an all-inclusive short trip to see Northern Lights, husky-sledging, etc etc or whether you would recommend buying our own flights and arranging the hotel and all the activities ourselves ourselves? Many thanks, Karen

March 18, 2024 at 8:55 pm

I think you should be fine booking the flights hotel and activities yourself. Just make sure to book everything well in advance, as northern lights season is very busy and everything does book up.

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• Northern lights safari

Northern Lights Chase from Tromsø

Enjoy the northern lights on this spectacular boat tour from tromsø.

The season is over. You are welcome back next season! 

See the magical Northern Lights on a 2.5-hour fjord cruise in beautiful scenery along Tromsø’s coast. Quickly get away from the city’s light pollution and be amazed by the Northern Lights at their best!

Leaving city lights behind is key to getting the best out of the Northern Lights’ magnificent show. On this adventures tour aboard our spacious and comfortable catamaran, MS Rygerdorningen, we quickly sail away from the main city in Norway’s Arctic and into the magical darkness of Polar Night for an Aurora Borealis light show. 

The tour includes:

• Fjord cruise on board a quiet, stable and environmentally friendly catamaran
• Knowledgeable guide who speaks Norwegian and English
• Free coffee or tea
• Warm and spacious cabin with comfortable leather seats

Tromsø – one of the world’s best places to see the Northern Lights

Tromsø is perfect for chasing the fascinating natural phenomenon. In part, that is because the Arctic city is in the middle of the Aurora Borealis oval that surrounds the Earth. It is also slightly warmer than other Arctic cities. The months of October into March are the best times for spotting the lights in Norway. Tromsø’s ideal location increases the odds of a Northern Lights display even during periods of low Aurora Borealis activity.

Want to capture the magical sky? Read more about taking the perfect picture of the Northern Lights here. 

Didn’t see the Northern Lights? Don’t despair! We guarantee a second chance! Our experienced crew will do everything they can to ensure that you see the lights on your trip. However, if you don’t see this fascinating natural phenomenon, we will give you a free voucher for our next available Northern Lights safari (within the same season). NB: This do not apply to our last Northern Lights safari this season, 10 March.

Sustainable Northern Lights safari

One of Rødne’s key values ​​is “respect”. That includes respect for nature and our surroundings. We believe that we have a duty to care for the environment so future generations can also enjoy our beautiful, unspoiled natural beauty. We are proud to be certified as a sustainable tour operator under the strict criteria set by Norway’s Eco-Lighthouse foundation .

Departure point

Practical information.

1 February 2024 – 10 March Daily departures at 21:00–23:30

Adults: NOK 950 Children (age 4-15 ): NOK 475. Free under the age of 4. Student: NOK 750

2.5 hour round trip with modern catamaran . No disembarkation during the trip.

For a guaranteed ticket, book at rodne.no. Also available for purchase at the boat or at the Tourist Information. Please contact us if you want an invoice .

Meet up at 20:40  at the pier by the Nerstranda shopping center.

Guiding with local guide in Norwegian and English.

October – March

Accessibility

There is a lower water level in Tromsø, which results in a steeper gangway for disembarkation and boarding. This requires that the wheelchair user have the mobility to walk on and off the boat, and up and down stairs. Our crew will be helpful in getting both the passenger and wheelchair safely on board. This also applies to baby carriages. Attendants travel free with documentation. Choose number of attendants in the booking. Do not hesitate to send us an e-mail at [email protected] if you have any questions.

Warm and comfortable clothes for being out in the Polar Night: warm jacket, hat and gloves/mittens.

Facilities on board

Facilities on board MS Rygerdronningen:

• Panoramic windows
• Spacious outdoor viewing decks
• Kiosk with a large selection of hot and cold drinks, snacks, and meals
• Charging points
• Wheelchair accessible

Come to Tromso in Norway and winds with us beautiful northern lights.

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What is the northern lights?:

A light phenomenon observed in the upper layer of the atmosphere close to the magnetic poles.

It appears in the higher latitudes, mostly into the polar circles. However, in favourable conditions it can be seen as far as the 50 degrees latitude North or South.

In the northern hemisphere the northen lights are called by its Latin name Aurora Borealis whereas the lights in the southern hemisphere are called Aurora Australis.

Aurora is one of the seven nature wonders. It appears mostly within the polar circles in the areas around Earth's magnetic poles.

Tromsø is located in the centre of such an area and together with its scenery and easy flight connections it provides the best conditions to hunt the northern lights.

Aurora is a light spectacle appearing on a night sky in shapes of curtains, ribbons, arches and rays coming down vertically above the observers' heads. One can interpret some of her appearances as snakes, dragons or angels. Sometimes it is static, at other times it dances on the sky with unbelievable speeds, changing shapes and colours. Most often it is fluorescent green, sometimes with a touch of pink, purple, violet and blue. It is best to experience it in a dark place, far from city lights and necessarily on a clear sky.

On our tour we will take you to the right spots and we will chase the clear sky by driving even 200km one way.

We will take care of your comfort and safety - we have experience in that. It is an unforgettable experience to see the northern lights, a fascinating encounter with nature, seeing the world from another perspective. Your photo with the Aurora will be a priceless souvenir.

Get acquainted with our northern lights chase tours, it can be the adventure of your life!

or contact with us:

e-mail:   [email protected]

phone:   +48 883 080 480

- Individual reservation. - We don’t have schedule time of this trip. - You can send us your proposition, which will be the best for you. - We can tell if we can organize this tour for you!

To book, please contact us:

Website coming soon: Chiefone.eu

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• About this activity

From Tromsø: Aurora Borealis Tour

• Free cancellation available
• Mobile voucher
• Instant confirmation
• Travel in a comfortable coach to hunt the Northern Lights
• Benefit from two experienced Northern Lights guides
• Take high-quality pictures of this one-of-a-kind experience

Activity location

• Tromsø, Troms og Finnmark, Norway

Meeting/Redemption Point

• Meet your guide outside the Scandic Ishavshotel.
• Tue, Mar 26 -
• Wed, Mar 27 -
• Thu, Mar 28 -
• Fri, Mar 29 -
• Sat, Mar 30 -
• Sun, Mar 31 -
• Mon, Apr 1 -
• Tue, Apr 2 $171
• Wed, Apr 3 $171
• Thu, Apr 4 $171
• Fri, Apr 5 -
• Sat, Apr 6 -
• Sun, Apr 7 -
• Mon, Apr 8 -
• Tue, Apr 9 -

Tromsø: Aurora Borealis Tour

• Activity duration is 6 hours 6h 6h

What's included, what's not

• What's included What's included Guide
• What's included What's included Transportation
• What's included What's included Thermal suit
• What's included What's included Hot drinks
• What's included What's included Photo workshop and portrait photo
• What's included What's included Tripod
• What's included What's included Hotel drop-off
• What's excluded What's excluded Hotel pickup
• What's excluded What's excluded Food

What you can expect

Increase your chance of seeing the dazzling northern lights on this bus tour from Tromsø. Keep warm with a thermal suit and hot drinks. Ensure you get great pictures on your tour with camera help from your guide. Depart from Tromsø in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus and hunt for the dancing lights of the Aurora Borealis. Relax in the comfortable bus on your way to wherever meteorologists have predicted the lights will be at their best. Get an honest assessment of the likelihood of spotting the lights from your guide for that evening. To get stunning views of the sky, head for areas with good solar activity and clear skies.

Enjoy flexibility regarding stops, activities, and decisions on the length of the trip. Your guide will assist you with the camera settings and use of a tripod for the best pictures. After the tour, you will be dropped off at your hotel.

Northern Lights in Tromsø

Experience the aurora borealis in beautiful norway, best northern lights tours in tromsø, norway (+best deals & tips).

Have you ever dreamed of seeing the northern lights in Tromsø, Norway? This magical natural phenomenon is a breathtaking sight to behold and one that you will remember for the rest of your life. Tromsø, located in the northern part of Norway, is known as one of the world’s best places to witness the Aurora Borealis.

With its dark winter nights and clear skies, Tromsø provides a perfect backdrop for the dancing colors of the northern lights. In this guide I’ll share with you everything you need to know to plan a trip to Tromsø to see the northern lights and create unforgettable memories.

Are you planning a last-minute trip to Tromsø?

Plan ahead to visit Tromsø and its surroundings like a pro with these top northern light tours, hotels, and more!

Top 5 Best Northern Light Tours in Tromsø:

Northern Light Minibus Tour

Aurora chase with professional photographers.

• Northern Lights Husky Visit
• Northern Lights Cuisine Cruise
• Tromso Northern Lights Cable Car Excursion

Top Accommodation to Sleep Under The Northern Lights :

• Tromsø Aurora Lodge & Camping
• Melishome: Aurora Observatory

What causes the northern lights, and why are they visible in Tromsø?

The northern lights are caused by the interaction between electrically charged particles from the sun and the Earth’s magnetic field. These charged particles, also known as solar wind, are constantly streaming from the sun towards the Earth. When the solar wind collides with the Earth’s magnetic field, it creates a magnetic storm. This storm causes the charged particles to spiral along the magnetic field lines towards the Earth’s poles.

As the charged particles approach the Earth’s atmosphere, they collide with the gas molecules in the atmosphere, such as nitrogen and oxygen. This collision causes the gas molecules to become excited and release energy in the form of light, creating the northern lights.

Tromsø is located within the auroral oval, an area around the Earth’s magnetic poles with a high concentration of auroral activity. This means that Tromsø is in an ideal location to witness the northern lights.

Additionally, Tromsø’s latitude and longitude also make it a prime spot to see the Aurora Borealis. Its location at 69° 40′ N, above the Arctic Circle, means that it is within the auroral zone, where the northern lights are most frequently visible.

What are the different colors of the northern lights, and what causes them?

The Northern Lights can appear in different colors, including green, pink, purple, yellow, and white. The colors are caused by the interaction between charged particles from the sun and the Earth’s magnetic field.

Green is the most common color of the Aurora borealis and is caused by oxygen molecules colliding with charged particles. The higher the altitude, the more likely it is that the aurora will appear green.

Pink and purple auroras occur when particles collide with nitrogen molecules, which produce a reddish or purplish hue. Yellow and white auroras are also caused by collisions between charged particles and oxygen and nitrogen atoms, but they occur at lower altitudes and are less common.

The intensity and color of the aurora borealis can vary depending on the strength of the solar wind, the Earth’s magnetic field, and other atmospheric factors.

When is the best time of the year to see the northern lights in Tromsø?

The best time to see the northern lights in Tromsø is between late September and early April . During these months, the nights are long and dark, providing optimal viewing conditions.

Keep in mind that the northern lights are a natural phenomenon, and their appearance is not guaranteed. However, by visiting during this time frame and being patient, you increase your chances of seeing the lights.

What time of day can you see the northern lights?

The Northern Lights appear in the evenings, often between 19:00 and 2:00 (7pm and 2am) ; however, there is no set time, as they’re naturally-occurring and don’t follow a schedule.  They can last anywhere from 10 minutes to several hours . The length of time depends on the magnitude of the solar wind the charged particles are traveling on. 

Where is the best spot to see the northern lights in Tromsø (and can you see them in the city)?

The best spot to see the northern lights in Tromsø is away from the city lights, where the skies are dark and clear. One great tour option to see the northern lights is the Tromso Northern Lights Cable Car Excursion . This tour takes you up Mount Storsteinen on the Fjellheisen Cable Car, where you’ll have a spectacular view of the northern lights from an altitude of 421 meters. Click here to get the best ticket deal!

The tour starts at the cable car station, where you’ll board the Fjellheisen Cable Car for a scenic ride to the top of Mount Storsteinen. As you ascend to the top, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Tromsø and the surrounding fjords.

Once you reach the summit, you’ll step out onto a large viewing platform, where you’ll have an unobstructed view of the night sky.

What are your chances of seeing the northern lights in Tromsø?

While the chances of seeing the northern lights in Tromsø vary, it’s estimated that visitors have about an 80% chance of seeing them during a three-night stay under favorable conditions . However, it’s important to note that the Aurora borealis is a natural phenomenon, and sightings cannot be guaranteed. You will need clear and dark skies without snowy or cloudy conditions.

What should you wear when chasing the northern lights in Tromsø?

When chasing the northern lights in Tromsø, it’s important to dress warmly and in layers. Temperatures can drop significantly at night, and you’ll want to stay warm and comfortable. Dress in thermal layers, a windproof jacket, and warm boots. Don’t forget gloves, a hat, and a scarf to protect your extremities.

In addition to dressing warmly, it’s also important to wear the right type of clothing. Avoid cotton, as it will absorb moisture and can make you feel colder. Instead, choose synthetic materials that wick moisture away from your body, such as fleece or wool. You may also want to consider bringing along hand warmers and toe warmers, especially if you’re planning on spending an extended amount of time outside.

It’s also a good idea to bring a small backpack with you to carry extra layers, snacks, and water. Many tours will provide warm beverages like hot chocolate or coffee, but it’s always a good idea to bring your own water bottle just in case.

Lastly, don’t forget to bring your camera! Seeing the northern lights is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and you’ll want to capture the moment. Make sure your camera is fully charged and has enough memory to store all your photos. Keep reading to get the best tips on photography and the Aurora borealis!

Can you see the northern lights without a tour?

Yes, it is possible to see the northern lights in Tromsø without a tour. However, going on a tour increases your chances of seeing them as tour operators have experience and knowledge of the best viewing spots and can take you to locations with optimal viewing conditions.

If you’re planning to go on your own by car, it’s important to research the best spots for viewing and to check the weather forecast. It’s also important to remember to dress warmly and be prepared for a long wait as the Northern Lights can be unpredictable and may not appear at all.

What are the best northern lights tours in Tromsø?

Are you planning a trip to Tromsø to witness the spectacular northern lights? With over 50 different tours to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to book.

To help you out, we’ve narrowed down the list to two of the best northern lights tours in Tromsø that we personally visited and highly recommend. These tours offer unique experiences and opportunities to witness the Aurora borealis in all its glory.

This tour is an all-inclusive, small-group tour that takes you on a hunt for the northern lights in the Tromsø region. The tour includes a knowledgeable guide who will share interesting facts and stories about the northern lights, as well as hot drinks and snacks to keep you warm and comfortable during the trip.

The minibus is equipped with Wi-Fi and power outlets, so you can share your experiences and photos with your friends and family in real-time.

The tour operator has a high success rate in spotting the Northern Lights, and they even offer a northern lights guarantee: if you don’t see the lights, you can join another tour for free. The tour also includes a professional photographer who will take photos of you with the Northern Lights and share them with you after the trip.

Click here to find the best deal!

This tour is a small-group tour that takes you on a chase for the northern lights in the Tromsø region. The tour is led by professional photographers who will provide guidance on how to capture the best photos of the Northern Lights using your camera or smartphone. The photographers will also take photos of you with the northern lights and share them with you after the trip.

The tour includes transportation in a comfortable minibus, hot drinks and snacks, and warm clothing and equipment, such as tripods and headlamps. The tour operator has a high success rate in spotting the northern lights, and they will take you to the best locations based on the weather and solar activity.

Both tours offer a unique and unforgettable experience of seeing the northern lights in Tromsø.

The Northern Light Minibus Tour is great for those who want a comfortable and hassle-free tour with all the necessary amenities provided, while the Aurora Chase with Professional Photographers is perfect for those who want to learn how to capture stunning photos of the Northern Lights with the help of experts.

Whichever tour you choose, make sure to dress warmly and bring your camera to capture this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon.

How much does a northern lights tour cost in Tromsø? 

On average, a northern lights tour in Tromsø will cost around 120-200 Euros or 140-240 USD per person. The cost can vary depending on the type of tour and the inclusions.

The duration of the tour can range from 4-6 hours for a minibus tour to 7-8 hours for a more comprehensive tour that includes a meal. It’s important to note that while these tours can be a bit pricey, they often provide transportation, warm clothing, and knowledgeable guides to ensure the best possible experience of viewing the lights.

Northern lights tours combined with other activities

If you’re looking for a complete experience while in Tromsø, consider combining a northern lights tour with other exciting activities. Two excellent options are the Northern Lights Husky Visit and the Northern Lights Cuisine Cruise.

The Northern Lights Husky Visit takes you on a thrilling dog sled ride through the beautiful Arctic wilderness while also giving you the opportunity to meet and learn about the huskies. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a warm meal and hot drinks in a traditional Sami lavvo, followed by a Northern Lights presentation.

The Northern Lights Cuisine Cruise is a unique way to experience the Northern Lights while also indulging in delicious local cuisine. You’ll sail through the fjords on an eco-friendly electric catamaran, enjoying a 3-course dinner made from fresh local ingredients. If the Northern Lights make an appearance, you’ll be able to witness them from the comfort of the catamaran’s deck.

Both tours are led by knowledgeable and experienced guides who will ensure that you have an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to combine two or more amazing activities in Tromsø.

The history and culture of the northern lights in Tromsø and Norway

The northern lights have a long history and cultural significance in Tromsø and Norway. In ancient times, the indigenous Sami people believed that the northern lights had spiritual power and were a bridge between the living and the dead. They also thought that the lights had the ability to heal the sick and bring good luck.

Norwegian folklore is also filled with stories and legends about the northern lights. One such tale tells of a man who angered the gods and was banished to the ends of the earth, where he became the northern lights. Another story suggests that the lights are the spirits of the dead, dancing across the sky.

In Tromsø, the northern lights have become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world. The city has embraced its connection to the aurora borealis, and many businesses offer northern lights tours and experiences.

In addition to the cultural significance, the northern lights have also played an important role in scientific research. Tromsø has long been a hub for auroral research, and the city’s location within the auroral oval has made it an ideal location for studying the lights. Today, Tromsø continues to be a center for auroral research, with scientists from around the world coming to study the phenomenon.

Overall, the northern lights have had a significant impact on the history and culture of Tromsø and Norway. They continue to captivate and inspire people from all over the world, and their beauty and mystery will undoubtedly continue to be studied and celebrated for generations to come.

Northern lights festivals and events in Tromsø

Tromsø is not only a great place to see the northern lights, but it’s also home to various festivals and events celebrating this natural wonder. One of the most popular events is the Northern Lights Festival , which takes place annually in late January or early February. This festival features a variety of concerts and performances held in venues across the city, showcasing local and international artists.

Another notable event is the Sami Week , which celebrates the culture and traditions of the Sami people, an indigenous group that has lived in Northern Norway for thousands of years. This week-long festival includes various activities such as reindeer racing, traditional Sami music and dance performances, and lectures on Sami culture and history.

Attending one of these festivals or events can be a great way to experience the unique culture and traditions of Tromsø and Norway, while also enjoying the breathtaking beauty of the northern lights.

Where are the best accommodations in Tromsø to sleep under the northern lights?

When it comes to unique accommodations in Tromsø where you can sleep under the northern lights, there are a few options that stand out. Here are two accommodations that are worth considering:

• Tromsø Aurora Lodge & Camping – This campsite offers the chance to sleep in a traditional Sami lavvo, a tent-like structure used by the indigenous Sami people. The lavvos are equipped with wood-burning stoves for warmth, and there are communal facilities such as showers and a kitchen. The campsite also offers guided tours to see the northern lights.
• Melishome Aurora Observatory – This accommodation is situated on a hill overlooking the city and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and sea. The rooms are designed with large windows and skylights for optimal northern lights viewing, and there is also an outdoor hot tub. The observatory also offers guided tours and lectures on the northern lights.

Both of these accommodations offer unique experiences for those looking to sleep under the northern lights in Tromsø. Prices vary depending on the season and availability, but generally start around €100-€150 per night for two people. The average length of stay is typically one to three nights.

How to photograph the northern lights in Tromsø?

Photographing the northern lights in Tromsø can be a truly breathtaking experience. However, capturing this natural phenomenon on camera requires some knowledge and preparation. Here are some tips on how to photograph the northern lights in Tromsø:

• Use a tripod: To avoid blurry photos, it’s important to keep your camera steady. A tripod is essential for stable shots.
• Use a wide-angle lens: A wide-angle lens will help capture the entire aurora and any surrounding landscape.
• Manual focus: Autofocus can struggle in low light, so it’s best to manually focus your lens to get a sharp image.
• Use a high ISO: In low light, using a high ISO will help capture more light and detail in your photos.
• Slow shutter speed: A slow shutter speed will capture the movement of the aurora and create a more dynamic image.
• Experiment with white balance: Different white balance settings can create different colors in your photos, so it’s worth experimenting to find the best setting for the conditions.
• Dress warmly: Photographing the northern lights in Tromsø can mean spending long periods of time outside in cold temperatures, so it’s important to dress warmly and bring extra layers.

Remember, photographing the northern lights takes practice and patience. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different settings and compositions to capture the beauty of this natural wonder.

Where can I find a good Aurora borealis forecast for Tromsø?

To find a good aurora borealis forecast for Tromsø, there are several websites and apps that can provide up-to-date information on the current and predicted northern lights activity. Here are a few options:

• The Norwegian Meteorological Institute provides a three-day aurora forecast for Tromsø on their website. The forecast is based on several factors including solar wind activity, and is updated daily.
• The Aurora Forecast app is a popular choice among aurora hunters. It provides an hourly aurora forecast for Tromsø and other locations around the world, as well as real-time alerts when the northern lights are active.
• The Space Weather Prediction Center , run by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), provides a 27-day aurora forecast for Tromsø and other locations in the northern hemisphere. The forecast is based on solar activity and is updated daily.
• Aurora Watch UK is a website that provides a real-time aurora alert system for the UK and northern Europe. Users can sign up to receive email or SMS alerts when the aurora is predicted to be visible in their area, including Tromsø.

It’s important to note that while these forecasts can provide helpful guidance, the northern lights are a natural phenomenon and can be unpredictable. It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the weather and aurora forecasts, but also to be flexible and ready to head out on short notice if the conditions are right.

How to See the Northern Lights in Tromsø, Norway (+Best Tours & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 4, 2024

Looking for information on the Northern Lights in Tromso, Norway? This article should answer all your questions and – hopefully – help you see auroras in Tromso.

Tromsø’s unique location over 300 km North of the Arctic Circle in Norway and its stable mild weather make it one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in the world.

Many people I met in Tromsø told me that seeing the Northern Lights was the ultimate dream and the main reason to visit Northern Norway in winter. But what to expect and what to know before you go aurora hunting in Tromsø? Find out!

Before we continue with the Northern Lights, I just want to say that there are so many more reasons to visit Tromsø in winter. Seeing auroras is a wonderful experience, but the Tromsø region has a lot more to offer. You can read all about it in our previous post – best things to do in Tromso in winter .

And now back to chasing the Northern Lights in Tromsø…

TIP: If you stumbled upon this guide looking for the best Northern Lights tours in Tromso , this is the best small-group tour that I recommend the most. If you are mainly interested in photography, then check out this big-bus tour with professional photographers .

You can also read about our personal experience with Tromso Northern Lights tours further below, where we also compare big bus aurora tours vs. small group tours. Read on!

PRO TIP: If you are planning to book a tour, do it well in advance! Recently, most tours in Tromso (whether it be dog sledding or aurora hunting) have been completely sold out 3-4 weeks in advance!

When is the best time of the year to see the Northern Lights in Tromso?

Generally speaking, the best time to see the Northern Lights in Tromso is from mid-September to April .

You may get lucky and see auroras even at the very end of August or mid-April. But if you want to increase your chances, it’s probably best to come between October and March.

Northern Lights tours in Tromsø are bookable from the 15th of September until the 15th of April. So it’s a good indication that the chances are probably still quite high as early as mid-September and as late as mid-April (see below for more information).

What is the best spot to see Northern Lights in Tromsø (and can you see auroras in town)?

The best way to see the Northern Lights is to go to a place where there is no light pollution. So ideally you travel far outside the city. That being said, sometimes auroras are really strong and it is possible to see the Northern Lights in town as well.

If you are in Tromso on a cloudless evening, one of the best places to go aurora hunting is up the mountain which can be reached by  Fjellheisen   cable car . If you are lucky, it will be an amazing spectacle as the views from there are simply stunning.

What time of the day can you see the Northern Lights?

Our Northern Light tour guides told us that usually, the best chances of seeing auroras near Tromso are late in the evening towards midnight.

But you never know – sometimes you can see them as early as 6 PM or as late as 6 AM, or they can be dancing the whole night too. So as long as it’s dark, keep looking.

How big are the chances to see the Northern Lights in Tromsø?

As I already said, Tromso is one of the best places to see Northern Lights in the world . You need dark skies without (too many) clouds in order to see the auroras. So if it’s really cloudy and snowing, it might be difficult.

On the other hand, Tromso has relatively stable weather. So if you are in the area for at least 3-4 days in winter, you should be able to catch the auroras at least once.

Our Northern Lights tour guides said that there are very few nights when they don’t get to see at least some auroras. However, you won’t easily see them in town, so you need to go looking for them. And if you don’t know where to start, it might be wiser to join a guided tour (see further below).

Where can I find the aurora forecast for Tromsø?

There are several websites where you can check the aurora forecast for Tromso (like this one by the Arctic University of Norway ). But our local guides said that they aren’t that trustworthy and certainly not if you check more than a few hours in advance.

Local guides said that they see auroras in Tromso practically every cloudless night in winter.

So it’s more a matter of looking for a place with no light pollution and no clouds rather than following an aurora forecast.

What to wear when chasing the Northern Lights?

What to wear when hunting for the Northern Lights will depend a bit on how you are planning to do it. Small group tours provide thermal suits, whereas if you go on a big bus tour on your own, you’ll have to do with your own clothing (for more explanation, please also see the comparison between the tours below). In any case, you have to dress really warm.

Here you can find our complete Norway winter packing list , it has a specific section on the clothing for watching auroras.

You can also download your copy of the Norway winter packing list by filling in the form below.

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Can I see the Northern Lights without a tour?

Yes, of course, you can see the Northern Lights in Tromso without taking an organized tour. If you have a car, make sure to check the weather forecast (local cloud radar would be the most useful to keep an eye on) and look for a nice dark place outside of town.

You can also drive to several places on the same night. But if there are no clouds and you found a nice open spot with good visibility in all directions, you can just as well stay there and wait. If the aurora is visible that night, you will see it.

It might be a bit tricky to find the best spots and optimal conditions if you don’t know the area very well, but it’s definitely something you can also do on your own.

What are the best Northern Light tours in Tromso?

There are dozens of different  Northern Lights tours in Tromsø , so it might be difficult to decide which tour to choose. Before my trip, I was convinced that small group tours are better as they are more flexible, but my experience shows that it doesn’t really matter. Further below, you can find more information on big-group tours vs. small-group tours. But first – my personal experience.

I joined two different aurora tours on two connective nights in Tromsø. The first night I went on a small group tour with a minibus (8 people) . It was a very cloudy night and the chances of seeing auroras were very slim. There was just one area where the weather radar showed fewer clouds and so every single tour company in town drove to that same area that night.

In the end, the clouds parted a little bit and we got to see a rather weak aurora. It didn’t really matter which tour company you went with – everyone was at the same place and everybody got to see pretty much the same.

The second night the skies were clear and so the chances of seeing the auroras were much bigger. That night I was traveling on a big group Northern Lights bus tour (there were two buses actually). They brought us to a beautiful remote beach that was so big that people just scattered in all directions and nobody disturbed anyone. I saw several small group tours on the same beach that night as well.

We were lucky to see the most amazing aurora display that lasted for several hours. Once again – it didn’t really matter which tour you were on.

Contrary to what I expected, I preferred this big bus Northern Lights tour . It was extremely well organized and had everything I needed. It provides comfortable transportation to the place where the chances to see auroras were best for that night.

There are guides to answer all your questions and people to hang around and chat with if you feel like it. At the same time, you are free to do your own thing and have the freedom to go where you want, take pictures, and never have the pressure to join the group when you don’t feel like it.

But if you are less interested in photography and more in the experience , then a small group tour is definitely more special. In that case, I recommend this highly rated aurora tour (the BEST Tromso Northern Lights small-group tour). After all, there are few experiences that can compare to roasting marshmallows and chatting by the bonfire with the Northern Lights dancing above you…

Important! While in the past, you could usually find a tour just a few days in advance, nowadays, aurora tours often sell out weeks in advance. So reserve it as soon as you know your travel dates! The website we use and recommend has a very flexible cancelation policy, so it’s a hundred times easier to cancel a tour if you can’t go rather than find one without planning well in advance.

Northern Lights tours comparison – small group vs. big bus

As I said, your chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Tromsø are pretty much the same, no matter which tour you choose. That doesn’t mean that small-group and big bus tours are identical. Not at all!

Below you can find my observations as to the main differences between the small group and big bus Northern Light tours in Tromsø .

What to expect on a SMALL GROUP Northern Lights tours in Tromsø

• Thermal suit is included.
• They put up a bonfire and serve a warm meal (soup, some local specialty, or sausages that you can bake – depends on the tour). They also offer some warm drinks and some cookies . Our tour guide had a bag of marshmallows we could roast by the fire. Sitting by the bonfire in winter is a nice experience and something extra to keep yourself busy while waiting for the Northern Lights.
• Small group tours usually also have tripods available and the tour guide will help you with the camera settings to help you get a good picture of the Northern Lights. Most guides also take pictures with their own camera. The pictures are offered to you for free after the tour.
• In general, small group tours last a bit longer (7-8 hrs), they drop you off at your hotel after the tour.
• If the weather is really bad and the chances of seeing the auroras are very slim, they usually contact you in order to reschedule the tour .
• Small group tours are of course more expensive than the big bus tours, but you also get more for your money. The price differences are quite big between the tours, so keep this in mind. This highly-rated  small group aurora tour offers the best price/ quality ratio at the moment.

TIP: Be sure to book your Northern Light tour in advance. When I was in Tromsø in the first week of March, all the small group tours were fully booked for the nights when the weather was good (also because they rescheduled people from the previous nights and those who booked in advance, of course, got priority). If the tours above are fully booked, check for more tours here .

What to expect on the Northern Lights BUS TOURS in Tromsø

• Big bus Northern Lights tours are extremely well organized . Bus tours have a somewhat stricter schedule, so they are less flexible in terms of staying longer. On the other hand, it might be an advantage as well – they will not go back to town earlier just because one or two people decide that they had enough.
• They have dedicated guides who don’t drive and therefore have the time to tell you more about the Northern Lights and answer any questions you may have.
• The guides are usually also experienced photographers who help everybody with the settings of their cameras, answer questions, etc. They also have their cameras available to take pictures of you. One big difference is that you don’t get these pictures for free . After the tour, you receive a link to their website where you can view and purchase the images if you want to. It’s not cheap, but it’s not something that is obligatory either. However, if you want a really nice souvenir from a memorable night, the guides will make sure to get a really nice picture for you. I found that they try really hard and all the pictures I saw after the bus tour were of excellent quality (see mine below).
• Big group tours don’t offer thermal suits.  However, they always keep the bus warm and people who want to can just stay on the bus and only come outside when there is something to see. I spent hours outside and it wasn’t that cold at all. You just need to be dressed right for the cold. Check our winter packing list for Norway .
• They also offer all kinds of warm drinks and cookies on the bus, so you can always warm up with a cup of hot chocolate or tea.
• The main big advantage of the big bus tour is that they have toilets on the bus , which may be very useful for a 5-7hr tour, especially if traveling with children.
• From what I understood, big bus tours don’t offer free cancellation in case the weather isn’t great. They still go and do their best to see the auroras. If you don’t see the Northern Lights the first night, usually you can book a tour for the next night at half the price.

TIP:  Here you can book the  big bus aurora photography tour that I did (and highly recommend for photographers). It’s also somewhat cheaper than most other Tromso aurora tours.

Northern Lights tours in combination with other activities

Since the days are short in the Arctic in winter, many companies offer a wide range of activities that can be done in the evening.

You can choose to go dog sledding , reindeer sledding , and many other tours at night. If you are lucky, you will also get to see the Northern Lights during one of these tours.

However, in these cases,  you are not flexible in terms of location . It can be an amazing experience, but it is not really comparable to booking a dedicated aurora tour where they drive to places where the chances of seeing the auroras are highest for that specific night.

I went on a reindeer sledding tour near Tromso one night. We didn’t get to see the auroras that night, but it was still a really nice experience. I imagine that it would have been extraordinary if auroras were visible too.

Try to see it that way – if there are no auroras, at least you get to do something else for your money. And our guide said that they get to see auroras on average 3 out of 4 nights.

READ ALSO: Best Tours in Tromso

So, this is my experience when searching for the Northern Lights in Tromso. As always, feel free to leave a comment below if you have a question that I forgot to cover in this post.

TIP: If you are interested in the aurora photography, don’t miss our beginners’ guide to Northern Lights photography .

More tips for your winter trip to Tromso:

• Accommodation:   Best Hotels in Tromso
• Airport transfers: Book your Tromso airport transfer here
• What to see:   Things to Do in Tromso in Winter
• Itinerary:  Tromso Itinerary for 3 Days in Winter
• Bucket-list:   Dog Sledding in Tromso
• Ice Hotel:  Tromso Ice Domes
• Budget:   How Expensive is Norway
• Travel inspiration: Svalbard in Winter & Best Things to Do in Lofoten & Northern Norway Itinerary

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Tuesday 26th of December 2023

Hello, we are looking at traveling to tromso mid September 2024 for about 3 nights, do you think we will be able to see the northern lights?

Wednesday 27th of December 2023

Hi Susanne, yes, there is a good chance to see the Northern Lights in Tromso from about mid-September. The rest depends on Mother Nature. Have a great trip!

Fernanda Vale

Sunday 27th of August 2023

Hi, thanks for the very informative article. I am living in Oslo for the next 3 months and have the option to choose between Oct or Nov to go to Tromso to chase the Northen lights in a weekend, which month would you pick to have the best chance to see it, Oct or Nov?

Monday 28th of August 2023

Hi Fernanda, if you don't have to decide now, I'd just wait and see how the weather forecast looks like and then book last minute. Otherwise, it's always a gamble anyway. It's not that much about the chances to see the auroras, more about the weather and cloud coverage. Statistically, November has fewer rain days than October, but you just never know in advance. One more thing to consider is that October will normally be much warmer than November which might be important if you are planning on doing some hiking or other outdoor activities. If you go and the weather isn't great, try booking a Northern Lights tour since they'll drive outside the city and look for the places that have the best chances on that specific night. Good luck!

Cam Rampersad

Wednesday 23rd of August 2023

Grreings Ms Jurga, I am planning a first visit to see the northern & looking into Nov. 2023, please advise flying out of Orlando,,what is the best possible options to flying into Tromso? I’m in my 60s & planning a solo trip. Planning on a week. Regards Cam

Friday 25th of August 2023

Hi Cam, to get to Tromso in winter, you'll likely need to fly via Oslo. There are very few places from where you can fly to Tromso outside of Norway. There are tons of websites where you can research all the possible flight options for you - Google Flights, Skyscanner, Momondo, Kiwi, etc. Try any of them and see what they suggest. Hope this helps. Enjoy your trip!

Monday 20th of March 2023

The links is not poiting to a specific company. Can you please tell me the name of the companies you took the tours?

Hi Caroline, the very first tour link points to the exact Northern Lights tour and I think I already explained to someone else that the first tour you see, is normally the one we link to. We can't always control what other websites show when we link to them... Anyway, here it is once again. Have a great trip!

Sunday 9th of October 2022

Very informative article. Thank you. Can you please provide names of the tours recommend here? The links don't necessarily take you to the correct sites. Thanks again.

Hi Ankit, sometimes, the tours disappear and then appear again and they get redirected, etc. Anyway, when possible, I'm linking directly to the tours that I took so it should open correctly. For the big bus tour, I took this one with Northern Shots. For the small groups, the one I took isn't available anymore, but this one with Polar Adventures is great. I took another tour with this company and it was excellent. Hope this helps.

• About Tromso
• Airbnb Accommodation

Enjoying the Northern Lights

Experience the magic, chasing the aurora: unforgettable tromso northern lights tours.

In this tour we all go hunting for the famous and sometimes elusive Aurora Borealis . Our minibus can fit comfortably up to 16 guests. Enjoy the Arctic will take you to beautiful locations either around the city or far away in Finland. Weather will be the final judge of that !!! The Northern Lights tour can take up to 9 hour, therefore make arrangements so that you get to rest before your flight. The guide* and driver  of the tour is an experienced photographer who will take pictures of you under the Lights and be of assistance if help requested with your own devices. Take note that weather is very unpredictable up here so make sure you are dressed properly and be prepared to be up until late hours. The nights are long and cold and waiting for the Lights to appear can take up to several hours. Once on location, we will build a bonfire and enjoy knekkebrød and gulrotcake (carrot cake ) with hot drinks and maybe share some spooky stories while we wait :). If you are the type that enjoys a more solitary approach to your experience, you can step away and explore around the area ( lanterns provided ). Our bus has an additional heating system, thus making things easier and more comfortable for those of you who just can’t bear the cold.

Embark on an Unforgettable Tromsø Northern Lights Adventure

Are you ready to witness the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights in Tromsø? Join our exclusive Tromsø Aurora Tour for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Arctic Circle. Our expert-guided Northern Lights bus tour is designed to offer you the best chance of experiencing the magical phenomenon of the aurora borealis.

Key Highlights:

• Prime Northern Lights Viewing Locations : Our carefully curated tour takes you to the most optimal locations for viewing the Tromsø Northern Lights. Away from city lights, you’ll have the perfect vantage point to witness the celestial spectacle.
• Expert Guides: Our experienced guides are passionate about the Northern Lights and the Arctic environment. They will share their knowledge about the science and folklore behind the auroras, enhancing your overall experience.
• Comfortable Transportation: Relax and enjoy the journey in our specially equipped Northern Lights bus tour. Designed for both comfort and optimal viewing, our vehicles are equipped with large windows, ensuring you won’t miss a moment of the breathtaking light show.
• Photography Assistance: Capture the beauty of the Tromsø Northern Lights with our photography tips and tricks. Our guides will help you set up your camera for the best chance at capturing stunning aurora-filled memories.
• Small Group Experience: To ensure a personalized and intimate adventure, our Tromsø Aurora Tour operates with small groups. This allows for a more flexible and tailored experience, catering to the preferences of our guests.

Secure your spot on the Northern Lights bus tour in Tromsø now! Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Arctic night sky and create memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring Tromsø Northern Lights.

Good to know Tour details

Starting time 6:00 pm

Duration 6-7h up to 9 sometimes

Pick-up location Magic Ice Bar

Drop-off location Tromsø center

-Water (we provide hot drinks only)

-It is recommended to have warm clothes and if possible in brighter colors*. -Bring Passport or any ID we might have to drive to Finland depending on the weather

*Brighter colors look better in photos:).

*Toilets are available sometimes depending on the direction we drive

-Hot drinks and cake -Tripods for your camera. -Tutorial about how to capture Aurora on your camera -Thermal suits -Camping chairs -Professional pictures free of charge -Campfire -The guide/driver with driving experience on ice -Use ”Enjoy the Arctic” discount code for the Magic Ice Bar 10%

Enjoy the Arctic cancellation policy :

-24 hours before the tour 95% refund

-No refund less than 24 hour

Tromso Northern Lights Tour photos

Northern Lights Tour with smallest group in Tromsø

Northern lights tour.

Welcome to the beginning of your dream story, how you found the elusive Northern Lights as we have perfect tour for you.

We have been guiding Northern Lights tours in Tromsø for past 10 years. Our awesome 4x4 modified Mercedes Benz minivan is perfect to overland in Arctic conditions and as a result, it will take us to the best locations and back home safely. We value the adventure and highest quality on our tours - as a result, equipment and homemade food provided on our tours is as much ecological and environmentally sustainable as possible. With a well seasoned guide and a group of no more than 8 people, this tour is very personal and cozy.

With a very high success rate (97% last season) of finding the Northern Lights, we will make everything possible to chase the Aurora for you. We love what we do and are conscientious about making sure our guests get what they have come for. If it means driving long distances, even all the way to Finland and staying connected with tens of other guides, we will do it! The tour lasts approximately 6-9 hours and drops you comfortably off to your hotel after the tour.

We provide you all the gear needed, hence you can fully enjoy this tour, even if it is freezing cold outside. Thermal suit and -30C winter boots, we provide that with no extra cost. Please consider, Northern Norway is super cold during winter time, come prepared!

In addition, you will get awesome Aurora portrait photos from us, without extra charge. The link for all the photos will be delivered on your email within 24 hours after the tour. Your guide is progressive photographer and will use locations selected knowingly to get excellent content for your photos, weather permitting. Check out our Facebook and Instagram accounts for examples!

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Spoken language on a tour is English. To fully enjoy the tour, at least basic English would be needed.

Pick up location is at the main entrance of Scandic Ishavshotel/Fredrik Langes gate 2.

Pick-up time of a tour.

1st of September - 30th of September  - 19:00

1st of October - 31st of October  - 18:00

1st of November - 20th of March - 17:30

21st of March - 31st of March - 19:00

WHAT WE OFFER

• Smallest group in Tromsø, of no more than 8 people!
• Professional photographer
• Hot drinks (organic herbal tea + hot chocolate)
• Hot vegetable soup, vegan-friendly, gluten free
• Thermal suits
• Winter shoes, if requested
• Campfire (as long as conditions allow)
• Professional photos of you and Aurora - no extra charge
• Pro tips for you and your camera
• Sturdy tripods, so your camera won't fall into million pieces
• Pick-up at Scandic Ishavshotel and drop-off at your hotel in the city centre / AirBnB up to 1km from Scandic Ishavshotel

WHAT TO BRING

• Warm winter clothes (e.g. thermal socks and mittens)
• Hat and gloves
• Your camera, if you have one. Also spare batteries, as the cold can drain batteries fast!
• Good mood 🙂
• Please read our FAQ page

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Booking for northern lights tour with smallest group in tromsø.

Terms&Conditions

• Tromsø, Northern Norway
• [email protected]
• greenlandertromso

Best places to see the Northern Lights around the world – and when to visit

O ne of the world’s most famous natural sights, the Northern Lights attract people to areas around the Arctic in hopes of seeing the rare display.

Caused by the redirection of particles from the sun that hit the Earth’s atmosphere, the stunning atmospheric phenomenon is seen as the Holy Grail of skywatching and mostly occurs in areas around Norway , Finland , Sweden and Greenland.

The lights can be seen in other parts of the world; the UK has even had sightings in Scotland, Merseyside and Wales this winter during a period of heightened geomagnetic activity.

Unfortunately, such sightings are rare and most people wanting to see the aurora borealis (the scientific name for the phenomenon, coined by Galileo Galilei) will have to travel further north.

To help you in your quest to see the spectacular light show, we’ve put together a list of the best places for seeing the Northern Lights and when to go to maximise your chances.

Read more on travel inspiration :

• Ghostbusters is turning 40 – so I explored the streets of New York like one
• Where’s hot in June? Best destinations for summer sun to escape the crowds
• Barcelona for Valencia and other holiday swaps to make to avoid the crowds

Tromso, Norway

Tromso sits at the centre of the Northern Lights’ oval, meaning that the lights can be visible even when activity is low. According to the tourism website, Tromso is “one of the places in the world with the highest probability of seeing the lights”, and there is “always a good chance of seeing” them between September and April.

Temperatures are moderated by the Norwegian Sea and westerly winds, meaning that they are much milder than usual for the latitude, with averages of between 2C and -1C during peak viewing times (compared to Svalbard, where the average January high is -13C).

When to visit Tromso

Your best chance of seeing the lights in Tromso is between September and April, when the skies are dark enough for them to be visible.

Svalbard, Norway

This Norwegian archipelago is home to more polar bears than people and experiences harsh winters, with the sun not properly rising over the horizon between mid-November and mid-January.

While the islands do not experience total darkness (and therefore you aren’t guaranteed to see the lights), the main island, Spitsbergen, hosts several different types of expedition to give you the best chance of catching the phenomenon. If you’re lucky, you may even see some polar wildlife such as reindeer, Arctic foxes and walruses too.

When to visit Svalbard

The lights season here is slightly shorter than in Tromso, running from September until the middle of March. The best time of day to try and see the lights is between 6pm and midnight.

Rovaniemi, Finland

Located in Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi markets itself as the ‘Official Home of Santa Claus’ and contains a Santa Claus Village and Santa Park. The Northern Lights are visible here on “around 150 nights a year” from August, and the tourism websites provides ideas for nearby locations to view them.

Among its suggestions are the Arctic Garden (a 10-minute walk away) and the top of Ounasvaara fell (a longer, 45-minute walk from the town). Among other snow-based activities – such as sledding – you can join snowmobile trips and ice floating tours as special ways to enjoy the lights.

When to visit Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi is one destination where the lights season is exceptionally long, running from late August to early April. However, the best time to visit is during the Polar Night period, from mid-November to mid-January.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland is located roughly 65 degrees north, making the country an excellent option for those trying to see the Northern Lights. They can be viewed in several locations, such as Thingvellir National Park or Kirkjufell Mountain, but the best place to stay when visiting has to be Reykjavik . The Icelandic capital is a typical Nordic city in style and acts as an excellent base for seeing the natural sights of the country in the day before going on a guided trip to see the lights by night.

When to visit Reykjavik

Iceland has a fairly typical length to its lights season, running from September to April.

Abisko, Sweden

Situated in Swedish Lapland, right at the heart of the aurora oval, Abisko National Park receives no light pollution and has one of the lowest rainfall climates in the Nordic area. With many surrounding mountains to keep the skies clear, Abisko also offers the chance to try out several activities such as snowmobiling, fishing and hiking.

The Aurora Sky Station markets itself as “the best place on Earth to experience Northern Lights”, but it seems that this confidence isn’t unfounded: if you were to stay for three nights in Abisko, you’d have an 88 per cent chance of seeing the lights, while the government website also claims that the area sometimes receives “more than two weeks of consecutive northern lights nights”.

When to visit Abisko

Maximise your chances of catching the lights by visiting between mid-September and early March.

Yukon, Canada

With a land area of 483,450sqkm, the Yukon is a vast region which is almost as large as the entirety of Spain. Roughly 80 per cent of the territory is wilderness; it’s home to the longest river in Canada , the second tallest peak in North America (Mount Logan, at 5,959m high), the smallest desert in the world (Carcross, at 1.6sqkm) and dozens of animal species, from moose to brown bears.

With this in mind, while exploring on your own may be tempting, when it comes to viewing the lights you’re best off booking a tour. It’s a good idea to base yourself in Whitehorse (the capital, with a population of just over 28,000), where guided tours will take you to nearby spots to give you the best chance of seeing the light show.

When to visit Yukon

Another place with a lights season lasting nearly eight months, Yukon’s most active time for light displays is between October and mid-November.

Ilulissat, Greenland

The most sparsely populated country in the world, Greenland offers the chance to see the lights with uninterrupted calm and tranquility. With a population of just under 5,000 people, Ilulissat is “rich in Inuit history” and is home to “millions of icebergs”. Low levels of light pollution and many clear nights will offer a good chance of seeing the lights during your stay.

With a population of just over 500, locations such as Kangerlussuaq also offer good opportunities to see the lights but may be too remote for some.

With three new airports coming to the island , access will soon be easier than ever.

When to visit Ilulissat

Along with the rest of Greenland, Ilulissat has a fairly typical season, lasting from September to March.

Outer Hebrides, Scotland

Home to “some of the darkest skies in the UK”, some of the islands in the Outer Hebrides sit on the same latitude as parts of Norway and Alaska . The aurora has been seen as far south as Edinburgh , but the islands of Lewis, Harris, Uist and Barra are your best chance for seeing the lights in the UK .

More accessible than most of the other locations on this list, the islands are also generally an excellent spot for seeing different astronomical sights, such as the Orion Nebula, the Milky Way and the Andromeda Galaxy.

When to visit the Outer Hebrides

Lights season in these islands runs from September to April, although the best time to see the lights is during the Equinox and Solstice, so between March and April and September and October respectively.

Fairbanks, Alaska, USA

The second largest city (by population) in Alaska, Fairbanks is situated near the centre of the state and is home to just over 32,000 people. Located on a similar latitude to Iceland, conditions here are perfect for viewing the lights: dark skies, dry conditions and a lack of light pollution.

One of the main benefits of Fairbanks (versus some other locations on the list) is the fact that you don’t even have to leave the city to see the lights, and as a major settlement, all the necessary amenities are available alongside the many tours on offer.

When to visit Fairbanks

The season here lasts slightly longer than usual, stretching from late August to April.

Finnish Lapland

While Rovaniemi has already been mentioned on this list, there are so many worthy destinations in Finnish Lapland that the entire area has to be recommended. Levi is the largest ski resort in Finland but is less crowded than other European resorts, and offers the chance to see the lights on snowmobiles or on reindeer-drawn sleighs. Harriniva is another resort that offers similar activities, with the Muonio River adding another scenic touch. Saariselka offers a different, village setting with excellent spots for viewing the lights only half a kilometre away.

When to visit Finnish Lapland

The official Finnish tourism website states that the best times to see the lights are in autumn and spring, at the beginning and the end of the season, with the season itself running from mid-August until early April.

Seeking a digital detox? Here’s how to go phone-free in Finland

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Aurora Tourism in Iceland: You Can Seek, but You May Not Find

The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights — especially this year, which is a peak time for solar activity. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found.

In Reykjavík, Iceland, aurora borealis tourism is a booming business. Hopeful tourists board buses to head out into the night in search of the northern lights. Credit... Sigga Ella for The New York Times

Supported by

By Amelia Nierenberg

Amelia Nierenberg spent four nights searching for the northern lights in Iceland.

• March 25, 2024 Updated 5:48 p.m. ET

From the outside, it may seem like the northern lights dance across Iceland’s skies each night. On Icelandair ads, planes fly across shimmering curtains in the sky. On social media, travelers gaze at the green bands above them . The lights are even on some recycling bins in Reykjavík, the capital: “Keep Iceland Clean.”

In the past decade or so, an aurora borealis industrial complex has boomed in Iceland. Many rent a car and go out on their own, but there are northern lights big bus tours and northern lights minibus tours and northern lights Super Jeep tours . There are private guides and boat cruises . There’s an observatory base camp . There’s even a museum .

But the lights can be elusive.

“Tourists sometimes expect, like, ‘At what time do you turn them on?’” said Björn Saevar Einarsson, a forecaster at Iceland’s meteorological office , chuckling. “Like we have a switch in the back room.”

This year, the letdowns are especially intense.

The northern lights, which are also called the aurora borealis, are most visible when there are solar flares, which are big eruptions on the sun that send charged particles toward Earth. This year, the sun is approaching the peak of its 11-year cycle of activity , which some assume means that the displays could peak, too.

But the enhanced solar activity doesn’t necessarily mean the northern lights will be brighter or more frequent, scientists wearily explain. Instead, they mostly mean that the lights can be seen farther south than usual: In recent months, they have been visible in Arizona , Missouri and southern England .

That doesn’t mean much for Iceland.

In fact, Icelanders and scientists said, this winter is nothing special. Sometimes, the lights are there. Sometimes, they aren’t. Just like always.

Hunting the lights

But nothing special, with the northern lights, is still very special. And so tourists keep coming .

Last month, I joined the fray. For four nights, I looked for telltale sky shimmers in and around Reykjavík.

I booked my tickets riding high — this was the best year yet, right? But as I learned more, and as my flight neared, my hopes ebbed. Scientists and tour leaders gently told me that the skies were cloudy and the solar activity seemed quiet.

“Just to let you know the forecast doesn’t look too good” Inga Dís Richter, the chief commercial officer at Icelandia , a tourism agency, wrote in an email two days before I planned to take a minibus trip with Reykjavik Excursions , one of its tour operators.

“But,” she added, “this can change.”

To find the lights, guides and travelers often rely on aurora forecasts, which overlay cloud cover and solar activity. They check them constantly, like a bride with an outdoor wedding in mid-April.

Some of the forecasts are free, like the aurora forecast run by Iceland’s meteorological office or Iceland at Night , which includes space weather. (Some are not — Aurora Forecast , which costs $12.99 a year, sends alerts.) Many people also turn to Facebook pages , where enthusiasts hungrily swap sightings.

Luck, though, is everything.

“There’s only one thing less predictable with the northern lights, and that’s the Arctic weather,” said John Mason, a global expert on the northern lights. “An aurora forecast is barely worth the paper that it’s written on.”

The guides work hard to explain the science, and set expectations. Most companies offer a free rebooking option if the lights do not show.

On my first night of aurora stalking, despite Ms. Richter’s warnings, I joined an expectant group on the Reykjavík Excursions minibus. For $88, I got a seat on the 19-person bus, which left the city’s central bus station at 9:30 p.m.

Over the next three to four hours, we would drive through the Icelandic night together. I’d either see something astonishing with these strangers — the sky, banded with light — or shiver with them shoulder-to-shoulder, awkward in the cold.

As we pulled onto the road, Gudjon Gunnarsson, the guide, set the mood early. “We are going hunting for the lights,” he said, emphasizing the word “hunting,” “similar to going out fishing in a lake.”

He drove for about 45 minutes, letting Reykjavík’s glow fade behind us. The city has about 140,000 people, and no real skyscrapers, so there’s limited light pollution. Although the northern lights can appear over the city, it’s best to see them in total darkness.

Then he paused and consulted with another guide.

“It is too cloudy here,” he told his flock. “So we will keep driving.”

But as we kept driving, clouds turned to a dense fog, so thick that the moon all but disappeared.

Mr. Gunnarsson turned off the main highway about an hour after we left Reykjavík. He parked in a parking lot. Or maybe it was a side street? The darkness was so deep that I could only make out the moonlight on the ocean, and only then after my eyes adjusted.

We disembarked and stood dutifully beside him, staring up at the sky. Then, one woman pointed toward Reykjavík. Were those the lights? (No. That was light pollution.)

Christof Reinhard, 65, who owns a medical laser company and was visiting with his family from Paris, mused that our search was a little bit like a safari. Sure, the desert is amazing, but it’s much better with lions. Or, maybe, was this more like a whale watch?

“Instead of a boat,” he said, “you have a bus.”

Mr. Gunnarsson watched the group stomp their feet and bend into the wind. Fifteen minutes. Then, half an hour. The clouds hung thick above. “There’s nothing happening here, as you can see,” he finally said to relieved chuckles. “It’s one of those nights where you just have to give up.”

Tourists can get mad, Mr. Gunnarsson and other guides said. It’s rare, but it does happen.

“It’s the trip that has our worst reviews,” said Eric Larimer, the digital marketing manager for Gray Line Iceland , a day tour and airport transport company.

A wake-up call for the aurora

For some, the joy is in the search, even if there is no find. A few focus on astronomy, often opting to stay at Hotel Rangá , which is just off the main ring road (Route 1) near Iceland’s south coast.

The hotel looks unassuming — low-slung and wooden — but it’s one of the most famous in Iceland. (The Kardashians stayed there . So did the Real Housewives of Orange County .) A standard room costs more than $300, depending on the season.

But Rangá doesn’t just cater to celebrities. It also draws astronomy buffs, enticed by its “aurora wake-up call” service and its observatory, which has state-of-the-art telescopes.

“One thing is to sell them,” said Fridrik Pálsson, the hotel’s owner, speaking of the northern lights. “Another thing is to deliver them.”

About 20 years ago, before the northern lights industry took off, he delegated the night security guard to monitor the sky. The guard pokes his head out every few minutes to look for the telltale flicker. If he sees the lights, he alerts the guests.

The service aims to address one of the main issues with hunting for the northern lights: They are usually only visible on winter nights, when it is very cold, very windy and very late.

“To be a good northern lights observer, you need the constitution of an insomniac polar bear,” Dr. Mason said.

My room phone, alas, stayed silent. But I did dream about the lights — great Wonka colors swirling, strangely, behind the Chrysler Building.

Mr. Pálsson built the observatory, too. Even if the lights didn’t show up, he figured, the stars are still magnificent — and, for city dwellers, also rare. The hotel contracts astronomers to work the telescopes and explain the stars to guests.On my second night in Iceland, as twilight slipped below happy-hour skies, I crunched across the snow to the observatory with Saevar Helgi Bragason, an Icelandic science communicator who leads the astronomy program.

He bent into a toddler-size telescope, focusing it on the moon’s craters. They looked clearer than the hotel, just a short walk away. It was too early for the lights, he said. And that evening seemed too cloudy (on Earth) and too quiet (on the sun).

Mr. Bragason joked that the lights can get in his way — they create a mist over the stars he really wants to see. But tourists often come specifically to see them. And sometimes, he said, as they wait impatiently, they can miss the real wonder.

“You’re left with these beautiful skies above you,” he said. “Basically, literally, another universe opens up.”

Creating a lights season

Hotel Rangá was a pioneer in Iceland’s northern lights tourism industry: About two decades ago, people came to Iceland for the long summer days, and left as daylight slipped farther south.

“I found it rather stupid in the beginning,” admitted Mr. Pálsson, the owner of Rangá, speaking of northern lights tourism.

But spreading tourism throughout the year made sense. Partly, that was an environmental concern. The tourists would crowd the country’s extraordinary natural sites over just a few months. It was also economic. When the visitors left Iceland, tourism jobs would ebb with the sunlight.

So the northern lights, which are reliably visible from September to March, became the backbone of the country’s winter branding, said Sveinn Birkir Björnsson, the marketing and communications director at Business Iceland , which promotes the country.

“To be able to sell this product of cold and darkness, you have to have something to offer,” he said.

Now, even though June, July and August are the busiest months, tourism has evened out over the seasons. In 2023, there were about 1.1 million international visitors to Iceland during the aurora months, based on departures from Keflavík Airport, according to data from Iceland’s tourist board . From April to August, there were about 1.1 million, too.

About a decade earlier , when tourism overall to Iceland was lower, there were about 336,000 departures from the main airport in colder months, and about 446,000 in the spring and summer.

The winter travelers are drawn by the lights — and the hot springs, glaciers and icy waterfalls. It’s also cheaper than the summer season.

Some try to visit volcanoes , but the country recently warned tourists to avoid the lava flows — Iceland is living in an unusually active period of seismic activity . In January, lava flowed into a small town and last week a volcano erupted with just 40 minutes’ notice near the Blue Lagoon thermal springs, one of the country’s biggest attractions.

The final attempts

Near midnight on my last night, a Sunday, I drove to the Grótta Lighthouse , a popular spot on the outskirts of Reykjavík.

A few die-hard experts had warned me off — many tourists go there because it’s darker than most of Reykjavík, but then don’t think to turn off their headlights. It was also raining, greatly diminishing my chances of seeing the lights.

But I only had three hours before I had to leave to make my predawn flight. I felt a little desperate, a little dazed. I parked, and approached two people who were sitting in the rain on a wet wall, looking at the water in the darkness. I climbed over seaweed, and introduced myself. What would it mean to them, I asked, if the lights suddenly appeared?

“It’d be a little bit like the cherry on top,” said Catherine Norburn, 29, who was visiting from England.

She and her husband were set to fly out the next morning. They had not yet seen the lights.

“We don’t have high hopes,” said her husband, Reece Norburn, 29, “but it’s now or never.”

We didn’t see the lights. And I didn’t see them later, even after pulling off the highway halfway between Reykjavík and the airport at 3:30 a.m., half convinced by a shimmery cloud.

But I did spend more time looking up at the sky. And it’s a marvel.

In New York City, where I live, the night sky blooms orange-mauve. In Iceland, the nighttime darkness is just that — darkness. Clouds roll, breaking the deep blue. Stars actually shine. Northern lights or no northern lights, it was still cosmically beautiful.

Amelia Nierenberg writes the Asia Pacific Morning Briefing , a global newsletter. More about Amelia Nierenberg

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

Italy :  Spend 36 hours in Florence , seeking out its lesser-known pockets.

Southern California :  Skip the freeways to explore the back roads between Los Angeles and Los Olivos , a 100-mile route that meanders through mountains, canyons and star-studded enclaves.

Mongolia : Some young people, searching for less curated travel experiences, are flocking to the open spaces of this East Asian nation .

Romania :  Timisoara  may be the most noteworthy city you’ve probably never heard of , offering just enough for visitors to fill two or three days.

India: A writer fulfilled a lifelong dream of visiting Darjeeling, in the Himalayan foothills , taking in the tea gardens and riding a train through the hills.

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

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The equinox might fuel powerful Northern Lights by creating 'holes' in Earth's magnetic field

• March 2024 may be the best month in the best year to see the Northern Lights, aka aurora borealis .
• That's because the sun is hyperactive, and the equinox can create holes in Earth's magnetic field.
• Here's everything you need to know to spot the northern lights.

This could be the best month, of the best year for two decades, to see the Northern Lights, in part, thanks to openings in Earth's magnetic field.

The aurora borealis, commonly called the Northern Lights, are the stunning ribbons of shimmering green, pink, purple, and red that dance in the skies of the Arctic.

When conditions are just right, they can appear as far south as Arizona or even Florida.

If you're lucky and you plan right, you might be able to see the Northern Lights this month. This all applies to the aurora australis (the Southern Lights) as well, in places like Australia and New Zealand.

Why the sun and holes in our magnetic field make good auroras now

The Northern Lights occur when charged particles and magnetic fields flowing out of the sun , called the solar wind, wash over Earth.

Our planet's magnetic field channels the solar wind toward the poles, where the charged solar particles interact with molecules in the atmosphere to make the colorful aurora.

Both steps of that process are ramped up right now.

For one, the sun is near the peak of its solar cycle . Powerful eruptions, solar flares, and bursts of solar wind from coronal holes in the sun's atmosphere are becoming more common, sending more winds rushing over our planet.

Secondly, once those winds reach Earth, spring and fall are the best times for them to produce a spectacular aurora. Scientists think that's because of the equinoxes.

The equinox happens when Earth's axis is perpendicular to the sun's rays. That causes a special alignment where our planet's magnetic field points in precisely the opposite direction of many of the solar wind's magnetic fields.

This alignment causes the Earth and sun's magnetic fields to merge. The process, called magnetic reconnection, creates openings in Earth's magnetic field that allow the solar wind to transfer energy to our atmosphere, and potentially cause more aurora.

Though he doesn't like the analogy, Matt Owens, a professor of space physics at the University of Reading, told Business Insider in an email that "the reconnection process could be very loosely described as making holes or cracks in the magnetosphere."

The below NASA visualization shows what our magnetic field looks like around the equinox.

Specifically, March was the most active month for auroras in a NASA study of 75 years of data. October was a close second, then April, then September.

Related stories

March 2023 saw the biggest aurora event of that year, for example. At the end of the month, a series of solar activities triggered auroras so powerful that they appeared across the US, as far south as Phoenix, Arizona.

It happened quickly, though, and most people missed it.

How to see and photograph the aurora

First, check the aurora forecast on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration website. If things are happening on the sun, this can change day-to-day.

When the northern lights come to lower latitudes, including most of the US, they can be fainter than they appear in photos from Alaska or Norway.

Instead of this…

… you might be looking for something like this:

So if you live in a city, do your best to leave it. Find a safe spot with clear, dark skies far from city lights.

Prepare for cold weather with blankets and hot beverages. You may have used your phone or looked at screens to get you where you need to go, so be patient, and let your eyes adjust to the darkness.

If you can't leave the city, do your best to block out its light pollution. Go to a nearby nature reserve, or the top of a hill, and try to keep the city lights out of your gaze.

Look for anything colorful and out of the ordinary. There are several different types of aurora .

You can try to snap pictures of the auroras with a camera, but make sure not to transfer it too quickly from a hot to a cold environment to avoid condensation, according to the Royal Photographic Society .

Preset your camera before leaving a warmer space so your fingers don't get too cold — higher aperture may be better, but you may have to adjust your settings if the aurora is moving quickly. You can find information on how to set SLR cameras here .

This could be your best chance for another decade

The sun could reach solar maximum this year or next year. That happens when our star's poles flip, causing havoc in its magnetic fields and peak solar activity.

That's why in the past year, we've seen a plasma vortex swirling like a whirlpool around the solar pole, a massive coronal "hole " in our sun, and a solar "tornado" the size of 14 Earths.

It's been about a decade since the last solar maximum , and when it's over the sun's activity will die down and it will be another 11 years until the next one.

Watch: A small Australian town was treated to a rare hybrid solar eclipse

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