Northern Lights Chase by Large Coach with Photos Tromso

Tromsø, starting point for the aurora chase

Tromsø lies under the auroral oval, so the Northern Lights are seen here more often than almost anywhere else in Europe from September to early April. Yet the lights need dark, clear skies, and the coast around the city is often cloudy. That is why the best Northern Lights tours from Tromsø keep the route open and drive to wherever the sky is clear.

Your evening starts at the harbour in the city centre, with several departure times between about 17:00 and 17:30. Before leaving, the guides compare cloud forecasts and solar data to choose the direction. Eat a proper meal before you go, as dinner is not included and the night is long.

Fjords, mountains and valleys around Tromsø

On the way out of the city you travel through a landscape of snow-covered fjords, mountains and deep valleys. From the coach’s large panoramic windows you can watch the scenery pass, and on some nights the aurora appears early, while you are still close to Tromsø.

When the coast is clear, the stops may be by frozen fjords or open valleys only an hour or so from the city. The guides choose places that are safe for a big group, away from traffic and light. Along the way they explain the science of the aurora, how solar wind meets the Earth’s magnetic field, and share stories of life in the Arctic.

Inland and across the border to Finland or Sweden

If clouds cover the coast, the coach heads inland, where the climate is drier and the skies are often clear even when Tromsø is grey. Some nights the drive takes 2–3 hours each way and crosses the border into Finland or Sweden, where open fells and frozen lakes give wide views of the sky. Bring your passport or ID on every tour.

Long drives are where a large coach shows its strengths: the seats are comfortable, the bus is warm and there is a toilet on board. On longer trips the group may stop for a meal break, so bring money for food or pack your own snacks. Plan for a late return, often well after midnight.

Northern Lights portraits and photos

The guides are aurora chasers and professional photographers. When conditions allow, they take portraits of you with the Northern Lights behind, as well as landscape shots of the sky, and share them in a personal online gallery within 48 hours of the tour, included in the price.

If you want to take your own photos, a tripod makes a big difference, so bring one if you have it. The guides can suggest basic camera settings for long exposures. Remember that cameras often record the aurora more strongly than the eye sees it, especially when the lights are faint. A phone with a night mode, held steady against something solid, can also produce good results.

Hot drinks and a campfire under the stars

Hot chocolate, tea and coffee are served during the night with sweet snacks, a welcome treat when the temperature drops far below freezing. When the weather allows, the guides light a campfire at the viewing spot, where you can warm up while you wait for the sky.

Even with the coach nearby, you spend long periods outside in snow and frost. Dress in several wool layers, a windproof jacket, a warm hat, scarf, insulated mittens and winter boots made for walking in snow. Avoid booking an early morning activity the next day, as the tour can last up to 9 hours. Hand and foot warmers from a local shop are a small investment that makes a big difference.