vip northern lights tours

Discover the Northern Lights

The aurora belt in Interior and the Far North in Alaska is one of the most active in the world, making Alaska one of the top worldwide destinations to spotting the elusive northern lights. The colorful Aurora Borealis is best viewed near Fairbanks, Coldfoot on the Arctic Circle, or in the villages of Alaska’s North Slope during the fall and winter, October through March. You can combine a relaxing stay in a comfortable Alaskan lodge nestled in wilderness with nightly, guided excursions to the best northern lights viewing locations. When you see the Northern Lights for the first time, you will instantly understand why experiencing this natural phenomenon and life-changing event is on so many travelers’ bucket lists. The natural lightshows of Aurora Borealis will dazzle you and they are even more intoxicating when you realize that what you are seeing will never happen quite the same way, ever again.

Marvel at Alaska’s magical lightshows…

Choose from 10 tours related to Searching for the Northern Lights

Sheldon Chalet

Suggested duration: 5 nights

Arrive by private helicopter at your exclusive, luxurious mountain retreat at the foot of Denali’s slopes, perched 6,000 feet up and towering over glacier-carved valleys below. Adventure awaits. Glacier trekking, ice caves, Alaskan style sledding. Fine wines and cuisine.... Read more

Iditarod & Northern Lights Fun

Suggested duration: 6 nights

Get a taste of Alaska during the winter with this 7-day winter adventure beginning in the northern city of Fairbanks and traveling south for the annual ceremonial start of the annual Iditarod Sled Dog Race, which begins each year... Read more

Alaska Winter Wonderland

Suggested duration: 7 nights

Take advantage of all winter has to offer beginning with a stay at the luxury Alaska ski resort at Alyeska Resort. Ski the steep and scenic slopes of Mt. Alyeska while you enjoy the hospitality and amenities of this... Read more

Lodge at Black Rapids (Winter)

Hand-built by the Hopper family, the Lodge at Black Rapids offers quintessential Alaskan luxury. Showcasing the wilderness of the Eastern Alaskan Range, this elegant lodge is uniquely situated to offer a truly magical experience for those who love the... Read more

Winterlake Lodge (Winter)

Temporarily Closed for Renovations in 2024 and 2025 Winterlake Lodge is a 20-person, intimate wilderness retreat located deep in Alaska’s interior on the historic Iditarod trail just south of Denali National Park. Surrounded by glaciers and mountain peaks, Winterlake... Read more

Luxury in Winter Wilderness

Suggested duration: 10 nights

Experience the best that Alaska has to offer with a stay at three of our premier winter lodges. Begin with dazzling nights spent under the northern lights at the unique Borealis Basecamp. In private yurts with clear-ceiling domes, you... Read more

Photographing Alaska’s Northern Lights

If a private, guided Northern Lights adventure vacation is what you are looking for, especially if you love photography, this is the classic Alaska bucket list trip for you! Learn how to capture these dancing lights with help from... Read more

Alaskan Backcountry: Alyeska to the Lodge at Black Rapids

Suggested duration: 8 nights

Experience the highlights and hidden gems of Alaska’s backcountry on this 9-day adventure into winter wilderness. Visit a luxury mountain resort in Girdwood, sample homebaked treats in Talkeetna, and relax in comfort at wilderness lodge nestled at the base... Read more

Borealis Basecamp

Suggested duration: 4 nights

Perched atop a north-facing slope, surrounded by nature, your own private oasis at Borealis Basecamp offers the perfect winter escape in the heart of Alaska’s Arctic. From the comfort of your bed, watch the colorful flickering of aurora borealis... Read more

Aurora Borealis Winter Adventure

Take in the most popular winter outdoor activities in Interior Alaska including dog-sledding, relaxing in hot springs and aurora viewing. Get certified as you cross the Arctic Circle and tour the sights in Fairbanks while you enjoy winter in... Read more

Loading Tours...

We’ll send you our latest sample itinerary ideas to help you choose the activities, destinations and adventures for your personalized Alaska vacation!

Privacy & Cookies: This site uses cookies. By continuing to use this website, you agree to their use. To find out more, please read our Privacy Policy Close & Accept This site uses cookies. Click here to accept.

Best Northern Lights Tour Packages in 2024/2025 [with Prices]

Home | Northern Lights | Best Northern Lights Tour Packages in 2024/2025 [with Prices]

If you’re interested in taking a Northern Lights tour but don’t know where to start, don’t worry. This complete guide will introduce you to the best destinations and guided Northern Lights trips .

There are several beautiful places to see the aurora borealis, from Alaska and Canada to Norway and Iceland. We even organize annual Iceland photography trips and Lofoten photo tours specifically for those who want to learn how to photograph the Northern Lights .

Needless to say, you have many different options! To help you out, I’m sharing the best Aurora Borealis tours in 2024. You’ll find a variety of tour packages for all budgets and interests:

• Northern Lights tours in Alaska
• Northern Lights tours in Iceland
• Northern Lights tours in Canada
• Northern Lights tours in Norway
• Northern Lights tours in Finland
• Northern Lights tours in Sweden

At the end of this article, I’ll provide some useful information for your aurora adventure, so be sure to read until the end! Also, if you prefer to organize your own itinerary, I’ll give you some tips on where to see the Northern Lights , how to predict the aurora , the best time to see the Northern Lights , and more.

Best Northern Lights excursions in 2024 + prices

First, I want to give you a rough picture of how much it costs to see the Northern Lights . There are all kinds of tours as well as the option of organizing your own trip, so the price can vary greatly. Even so, this table with the best Northern Lights excursions should give you a better idea of how much you should budget:

Please note that the prices in this chart only reflect the cost of the Northern Lights tour packages. You’ll have to add the cost of your flights.

How much does a Northern Lights trip cost?

The price of a Northern Lights tour in 2024 varies depending on several important factors. Not only should you consider your destination, but also the departure point and the transportation costs to get there. The price also depends on your travel dates, the duration of the tour, included activities, etc.

If you’re planning your own Northern Lights trip , that can also change the price quite a bit. However, the cost of a Northern Lights trip isn’t always more expensive than going on your own. There are cheap tour packages that can save you money if they include accommodation, meals, and transportation.

For example, an aurora tour in Canada can cost $160/day (€150/day) and include your hotel, guide, and transportation. This is significantly cheaper than organizing all the details on your own. On the other hand, a tour in Iceland costs more – about $295/day (€275/day) – which is still pretty affordable considering everything it includes. Of course, there are more expensive Northern Lights tour packages , such as the ones in Alaska, which cost around $675/day (€630/day).

Obviously, the overall price depends on lots of moving factors, so let’s break it down below. We’ll look at the costs for flights, hotels, rental cars, and tours so you can better calculate the total cost and budget accordingly. Remember, these prices are approximate .

Cheap flights to see the Northern Lights

No matter where you’re taking your Northern Lights vacation , you can find cheap flights on Kiwi.com . I recommend you start looking for flights 3-5 months before your trip. What I like about Kiwi is that it searches all the available flights so that you can find the best deals quickly. It’s always worked great for us!

This chart will give you a better idea of the flight costs to Alaska, Iceland, and other top Aurora destinations. These prices are just examples of the lowest round-trip flights I found during my search:

Be sure to check out our guide on how to find cheap flights for more tips and tricks that will help you get the best deals.

Hotel prices to see the Northern Lights

If you book a Northern Lights tour , your accommodation will be taken care of for you. However, if you’re planning your own getaway, read our guide on how to find cheap hotels .

There are all kinds of options, although if you stay in the best Northern Lights hotels in the world , you can expect to pay a lot more. No matter where you stay, be sure to book in advance; rates typically increase the closer you get to your travel dates, especially during Northern Lights season.

If you’re on a tight budget, you can find cheap lodges and hotels, although they won’t be as strategically located. In that case, it’s a good idea to book a guided tour or use a rental car so you can easily travel to the locations with the highest probability of Aurora sightings.

The chart below gives you an idea of the average cost of hotels in some of the top Northern Lights destinations. These prices reflect the approximate cost per night for 2 adults:

Again, the rates will vary throughout the year, and the total price will depend on the time of year you travel, how long you stay, and the number of guests. It’s worth reading our specific guides to learn more about the accommodation options at your chosen destination:

Best hotels to see the Northern Lights in Iceland

Best hotels to see the Northern Lights in Canada

Best hotels to see the Northern Lights in Norway

Best hotels to see the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska

Best hotels to see the Northern Lights in Finland

Best hotels to see the Northern Lights in Sweden

Northern Lights trip by rental car

If you decide to plan your own Northern Lights getaway , consider renting a car at your destination. This way, you can reach more remote locations where the light pollution is minimal and there are optimal conditions for seeing the Dancing Lady.

If renting a car isn’t a viable option, I recommend booking an organized Aurora tour . A knowledgeable guide will take you to the places where you are most likely to witness the Northern Lights.

Now, if you want to rent a car, I suggest booking it through the DiscoverCars platform. We always use this website, which scours the Internet for the cheapest rental car deals. That said, the price of your rental will depend on the type of vehicle, your travel dates, how many days you’re renting it for, etc. The chart below shows the approximate costs for rental cars at the top Northern Lights destinations.

For this table, I chose the cheapest 4×4 vehicle since this type of car will let you travel just about anywhere:

It’s always a good idea to book in advance to get the best deal. I also recommend our guide on how to find cheap rental cars , which will give you more tips for securing the lowest price possible.

Cost of a Northern Lights tour

If this is your first time taking a Northern Lights trip and you’re overwhelmed by the task of planning everything on your own, I highly recommend booking a guided overnight tour.

These Northern Lights excursions are led by guides who know exactly where to see the Northern Lights and the best times to spot them. Plus, they’ll be with you throughout the tour, so you can learn all kinds of interesting information about this natural spectacle. You can discover what causes the Northern Lights and how they’re formed, which adds a unique layer to the overall experience.

The cost of a Northern Lights trip depends on where you go and how long the tour lasts. To give you a rough idea, Northern Lights tours in Tromso, Norway , start at $120/person. Northern Lights tours in Reykjavík, Iceland , begin at around $60/person.

I’ll share more top-rated tour options later in this guide, but you can also check out our specific articles:

Best excursions to see the Northern Lights in Tromso, Norway

Best excursions to see the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska

Best excursions to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik, Iceland

In addition to flights, hotels, rental cars, and tours, you should also factor other expenses like meals into your trip budget. It’s a good idea to get one of the best no foreign transaction fee credit cards so you can avoid extra fees when making purchases abroad. Also, read our guide on how to travel cheaply for more money-saving tips we’ve learned over the years .

Northern Lights tours in Alaska – 2024 Prices & dates

Alaska is one of the best places to take an Aurora Borealis tour . That said, the tour options here are more limited compared to other destinations. The best one we found is this Northern Lights and snowshoeing tour , which departs from Anchorage and goes to Fairbanks.

This 6-day Northern Lights travel package is ideal for those who enjoy the outdoors and hiking. Be aware that the excursion involves 3-8 miles of snowshoeing each day, so you should be in good physical shape. Not only will you enjoy the charming landscapes of the Last Frontier, but you’ll also see the Northern Lights in Alaska .

The reason why there are so few organized excursions in Alaska is because there are excellent Northern Lights hotels in Fairbanks , so many travelers come here to watch the aurora from their own room. There’s no place in the United States like Fairbanks to see the Northern Lights , so if you can get here, it’s totally worth it. A good idea would be booking a multi-day package and one of the Northern Lights tours in Fairbanks , giving you plenty of chances to spot the aurora.

• Departs from : Anchorage
• Duration : 6 days
• Price from : $4,060 USD/€3,777 EUR
• Highlights : Tour to see the Northern Lights, snowshoeing through the most amazing landscapes between Anchorage and Fairbanks

Northern Lights tours in Iceland – 2024 Prices & dates

Iceland is one of the best countries to see the Aurora Borealis, so there are many great tours here. If you want a Northern Lights excursion that takes care of everything for you, I recommend this 5-day tour or this 8-day trip .

In addition to the Northern Lights, these organized trips to Iceland take you to some of the country’s top attractions, such as Reykjavík , the Golden Circle , and the Blue Lagoon . The 8-day package, in particular, includes a visit to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and some natural wonders in Southern Iceland. Of course, both options will let you enjoy the Northern Lights of Iceland , which are visible for 8 months of the year.

I really can’t recommend a trip to Iceland enough, not just for the Aurora Borealis, but for this country’s breathtaking landscapes. We love this place so much that we host photography trips to Iceland every year. So, if you’re a photography lover and want to learn how to photograph the Green Lady, consider joining us!

Otherwise, I suggest looking through the best Northern Lights tours in Iceland , especially these two:

Aurora Lights tours in Canada – 2024 Prices & dates

Canada is another good place to take a tour of the Northern Lights , especially if you’re traveling from the U.S. The best Aurora Borealis tours in Canada are this 4-day tour in Whitehorse , this 8-day tour from Yellowknife and this 15-day excursion from Vancouver .

If you’re looking for a Northern Lights package deal , consider the Whitehorse tour . You’ll spend 4 days in the capital of the Yukon, Canada, and join an expert guide to go aurora hunting. You’ll also visit the AuroraCentre, one of the top places in the area with a high probability of aurora activity, thanks to its minimal light pollution. This excursion also includes opportunities to explore other Whitehorse attractions like the S.S. Klondike National Historic Site and the Old Log Church Museum.

There is also this tour to Yellowknife, which lasts 8 days. Discover the interesting attractions in Yellowknife and its surroundings by day, then head out at night in search of auroras. You’ll also spend a few days enjoying the beautiful scenery and natural landmarks of Banff National Park , Jasper National Park , and Yoho National Park .

Yet another option is this excursion from Vancouver , which takes you to one of my favorite places in the world, the Canadian Rockies. This multi-day Northern Lights trip is the most comprehensive option. Not only will you see the aurora borealis, but you’ll also visit impressive sites like Jasper and Banff, Vancouver, Whistler, and Yellowknife. We saw many of these places during our Canadian Rockies trip , so I can tell you that you’re in for a treat. In addition to seeing the Northern Lights in Canada , you’ll witness stunning landscapes.

Northern Lights tours in Norway – 2024 Prices & dates

Norway has some of the cheapest Northern Lights trips , and its excursions appeal to all types of travelers. You’ll find everything from multi-day tours to hotels designed specifically for aurora viewing here. We love the gorgeous scenery of this country, so we also offer photography trips to Lofoten , one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Norway .

If you’re not into photography, I recommend this Arctic experience , a Northern Lights expedition that goes to Tromso and the Lofoten Islands . There’s also this tour to the North Cape from Tromso, which includes unique activities like cruises, snowmobile tours, and visits to igloo hotels.

Aurora Borealis tours in Finland – 2024 Prices & dates

Finland , particularly Finnish Lapland , is one of the most popular places to take a Northern Lights vacation . If you go during the Christmas season, you can even meet Santa Claus! Given Finland’s extensive aurora borealis tourism , it’s home to some of the best Northern Lights hotels in the world .

If you want to join us in this gorgeous country, consider joining our photography tour in Finnish Lapland . Otherwise, I recommend this 5-day trip to Rovaniemi and the Arctic Circle or this 8-day tour from Helsinki to Rovaniemi and other sites in Lapland.

Rovaniemi is the best place to see the Northern Lights in Finland , which is why most Aurora tours go there. In addition, you can do other things in Rovaniemi, such as see Santa, visit a reindeer and husky farm, and ride snowmobiles.

If you take the tour that departs from Helsinki, you’ll visit Rovaniemi, then travel even further north to Yllastunturi , where your chances of spotting the Aurora are even better. Both of the tours below are especially fun to do with kids, thanks to the Christmas theme. That said, people of all ages will have a magical experience, as Finland is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in the world!

Aurora Lights tours in Sweden – 2024 Prices & dates

If you’re interested in Northern Lights package deals in Sweden , I recommend this 5-day trip or this 8-day trip . Both excursions start in Luleå and explore the remote parts of Swedish Lapland, where there is minimal light pollution.

During the 5-day excursion, you’ll enjoy an icebreaker session aboard a boat, where you can spot wildlife like elk and reindeer. You’ll also have free time to explore, followed by a guided Northern Lights tour at night.

The 8-day trip gives you more time to see the Northern Lights in Sweden , along with its exciting tourist attractions. In addition to Luleå, you’ll see the town of Jokkmokk, spend a couple of nights in a Sami camp, and enjoy activities like skiing and snowshoeing.

Sweden is an excellent destination if you’re traveling from Europe, and you can find well-priced flights. So, if you’re still planning a 2024 Northern Lights trip , this country is a great choice!

Best deals on Northern Lights vacation packages

One of the best ways to find cheap trips to see the Aurora Borealis is by checking TourRadar’s online discounts . Just select the country you want to visit, and you’ll see a variety of all-inclusive travel packages at a glance.

By booking an organized trip, you won’t have to worry about finding accommodation, a rental car, and Aurora tours , since it’s all included. You won’t even have to look for places to eat since the guides will arrange everything for you. The only thing you must pay for separately is the plane ticket and any extra activities you want to do at your destination.

Getting a credit card with no foreign transaction fees is a good idea so you don’t have to worry about racking up extra unnecessary charges while abroad. Also, these aurora borealis tour packages don’t include travel insurance , so you should take out a policy before your trip. I always get insurance coverage for my trips, and Heymondo is my go-to choice, as they offer an excellent coverage-to-price ratio and pay your medical expenses upfront. You can take advantage of our Heymondo discount to save even more.

5% OFF your travel insurance

Booking a Northern Lights trip package is usually cheaper than organizing the trip yourself. It’s also much more practical and comfortable since all the details are taken care of for you.

Best time to take a Northern Lights vacation

Another nice thing about booking an organized Aurora Borealis trip is that you don’t have to worry about predicting the Northern Lights forecast. This is because these tours only take place during aurora season – typically in winter – when you have the highest likelihood of spotting the Green Lady.

Generally speaking, the best time to see the Northern Lights is from early September to mid-April , when there are more hours of darkness at high latitudes. However, depending on the country you travel to, this period may vary or be shorter.

To sum up, you want to visit during those months with the least cloud cover between September and March and avoid any days that coincide with the full moon.

You can find more information in our article highlighting when to see the Northern Lights in different destinations.

Tips to see the Northern Lights and enjoy your Aurora tour

Finally, I want to share some advice to help you fully enjoy your Northern Lights vacation . Speaking from experience, these tips will come in handy whether you’re signing up for an organized Northern Lights excursion or planning an independent itinerary:

• Choose a destination where the Northern Lights are common , such as those mentioned in this guide.
• Avoid traveling in the summer , as it’s the worst season for aurora viewing. Remember, aurora season runs from September to April, although the exact months may vary slightly depending on your destination.
• Northern Lights tours take place in high-latitude countries where the nights are quite cold, so wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing .
• Download the My Aurora Forecast app, which will help you predict where and when to see the Northern Lights. You can also consult our guide on how to predict the Northern Lights for more information, especially if you’re traveling independently.

• Pay attention to weather changes , as the Aurora Borealis can only be seen when there are clear skies.
• To see the Northern Lights, you need very dark skies, so avoid urban centers or places with light pollution .
• Be patient ! You may not see auroras on the first night, so it’s a good idea to book a multi-day Northern Lights trip .
• Your chances of seeing the aurora are higher if you take a guided Northern Lights tour , so I highly recommend booking an organized excursion.
• Check out our guide on how to photograph the Northern Lights to learn how to take the best souvenir photos. If you’re unsure about your photography gear, we have specific articles on the best cameras for photographing the Northern Lights and the best lenses for photographing the Northern Lights .

Last but not least, remember to enjoy the experience!

Our photography tours to see the Northern Lights

We also organize trips to see the Northern Lights ! These are photography trips , so they’re tailored to travelers who are passionate about photography. Our tours are suitable for all skill levels, and we currently offer Iceland photo tours , photo tours to the Lofoten Islands , and Finnish Lapland photo tours .

We will go hunting for auroras, and you’ll learn different photography techniques to take your skills to the next level. We also go to the most stunning locations, so these tours are perfect if you love photography and travel – like us!

FAQs – Northern Lights excursions & trips

Before we wrap up, here are the most common questions about organized aurora borealis trips and the Northern Lights:

Is it better to book a guided Northern Lights excursion or to go on your own?

It depends, but I will say that guided Northern Lights tours tend to be cheaper than organizing the trip on your own. Many guided excursions include accommodation, guides, transportation, meals, and even some activities. Plus, your chances of spotting the aurora are higher with an expert guide.

Of course, if you prefer to do your own thing, it’s better to take the trip alone.

How long are the Northern Lights visible?

The Northern Lights can be seen for just a few minutes or for hours, depending on the sky conditions and solar activity.

If you book an Aurora tour, are you guaranteed to see the Northern Lights?

It’s impossible to guarantee that you’ll see the Northern Lights on a trip since the Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon. That said, if you travel during the Northern Lights season, you have very good odds of seeing the aurora.

What other activities can I do during a Northern Lights trip?

While taking a trip to see the Northern Lights , you can take advantage of the daytime hours to visit the main attractions in town, go hiking, or do other outdoor activities.

What is the cheapest trip to see the Northern Lights?

This basic tour in Whitehorse, Canada, is the cheapest trip to see the Aurora Borealis .

How much does a Northern Lights tour to Alaska cost?

Northern Lights excursions to Alaska start at $4,060 (€3,777) for 6 days, not including flights.

How much does a Northern Lights travel package to Iceland cost?

Guided Northern Lights tours to Iceland start at $1,179 (€1,203) for five days, not including flights.

How much does a Northern Lights excursion to Canada cost?

You can find Northern Lights trips to Canada from $627 (€584) for 4 days. This doesn’t include the price of flights.

How much does a Northern Lights trip to Norway cost?

You can find Aurora Lights trips to Norway from $1,774 (€1,650) for 6 days. This doesn’t include the price of flights.

How much does a Northern Lights excursion to Finland cost?

You can find Northern Lights tours to Finland from $1,150 (€1,061) for 5 days. This doesn’t include the price of flights.

How much does a Northern Lights trip to Sweden cost?

Aurora Borealis tours to Sweden start at $1,373 (€1,276) for 5 days, not including flights.

Where is the best place to take a Northern Lights trip from the United States?

The best place to take a Northern Lights vacation in the United States is Fairbanks, Alaska. You can also find cheap getaways to Whitehorse or Yellowknife, Canada.

Where is the best place to take a Northern Lights vacation from Canada?

The best aurora borealis tours from Canada are in Whitehorse or Yellowknife, Canada, or Fairbanks, Alaska.

Where is the best place to take a Northern Lights getaway from the UK?

The best places to take a Northern Lights excursion from the United Kingdom are Tromso, Norway, or Luleå, Sweden.

Where is the best place to take a Northern Lights excursion from Australia?

The best Northern Lights tours from Australia are in Whitehorse or Yellowknife, Canada.

Now that you’re equipped with all the information, it’s time to plan your Northern Lights getaway . Whether you choose a guided tour or prefer to travel independently, this natural wonder is sure to leave you in awe. Don’t forget to share your questions or experiences in the comments below. I’m eager to hear about your Northern Lights adventure!

Stay safe, and enjoy your aurora trip !

Ascen Aynat

14 replies on “ Best Northern Lights Tour Packages in 2024/2025 [with Prices] ”

Curious or an opinion on a trip in late October. We will have 4 full days and can either go to Tromso or Iceland. Lofoten looks amazing but I wonder if we will have enough time given the 8hr drive from Tromso. I know flying into Bodo could be an option but do you think it it would be just too much for too short of a time? I know Senja looks great as well btu I think our preference would be to go to Lofoten if we choose Norway. Thanks for any advice.

Hi Gregg, For a 4-day trip to see the Northern Lights, I recommend going to Iceland. It’s the best option for shorter trips. You need at least a couple of days for Senja and about 4 days on the Lofoten Islands, so it’s definitely worth booking a separate trip for Norway! Ascen

I am 81 and depend pn a wheelchair. Alaska would be of interest and travel by water preferable, but not written in stone. I would have a companion.

Hope you can get to see the Northern Lights in Alaska, it’s an amazing place to see the Aurora 😉

This information is super helpful. However, due to time constraints, we may only have 2 days max for the northern light experience in Sweden. Further more, we are visiting in end sep/early oct. We also realised that most Tour groups only start end oct onwards. Do you think we should drop the plan entirely or would you have any suggested companies we can approach?

Hi Katherine, This one-day tour from Kiruna is a great option, but it’s available starting in mid-October. If you can change your travel dates, it’s well worth it!

Thank you, found your article helpful. I am in Sweden on a short visit and was planning to visit a place to see the Northern Lights either this weekend or next. (I know its way too ambitious to think I will get to see), but given my short trip, don’t have much choice. That said, would you recommend a place that I should attempt to go to?

Where exactly in Sweden are you? The northern, the better when chasing the Northern Lights!

Hello, I am interested on going to the Best Value Aurora Viewing Tour, for me a and my son. I want to know how much is for the tour. We are coming from San Antonio, TX. Do you have military veterans discount. We want to go on spring break around 3/15. What city do we flight into. Is lodging provided? Please advise. Thank you

We have just selected the best Northern Lights trips for 2022 but we don’t run these tours. I recommend you to contact directly with the organizer of the tour that you like by clicking on the links on our article. Anyway, March is a great time to see the Northern Lights and I wish you luck for your Aurora Viewing Tour.

Very interesting; useful information. Planning stages, this helps.

Thanks Mike! Good luck chasing the Aurora on your trips!

This was super helpful thank you! I hope to get myself together to do this before my 40 th birthday in February

Thanks Bradley! hope you can fulfill your Northern Lights dream 😉

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Northern Lights Tours & Trips in North America

• Choose from 27 North America tours
• 100+ verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
• 24/7 customer support

10 best Northern Lights North America tour packages

Compiled by

Nina North America travel expert at TourRadar

Canadian Rockies & Northern Lights

8-day yellowknife northern lights & rockies autumn tour | explore the aurora and national parks, yukon winter dream | active winter adventure, best value aurora viewing | wildlife & hot springs, usa – alaska northern lights winter wonderland, aurora borealis adventure from vancouver, northern lights and winter nights in churchill; photo adventure, alaska northern lights and snowshoe tour northbound, hiking, wildlife, hot springs and northern lights in the yukon with air from vancouver, yukon northern lights holiday premium tour.

• Northern Lights
• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing
• Christmas & New Year
• Discover the natural beauty of Lake Louise and admire its snow-covered banks
• Navigate the frozen waterfalls, ice caves and ice formations of Maligne Canyon
• Gaze at the clear night skies of Peace River and witness the Northern Lights

“The guide was knowledgeable, pleasant, and worked hard to give all tour participants an extraordinary time.”

• Tour Calgary and visit Heritage Park
• Journey through Jasper National Park
• Explore Yellowknife and view the Aurora

• Relax in Eclipse Nordic Hotsprings
• Explore Whitehorse's historical sites
• Mush with huskies and learn sled history

“We didn't see the northern lights but the off grid experience was great with the teepees and yurt.”

• See wildlife at the Yukon Preserve
• Relax at the Eclipse Nordic Hotsprings
• Explore historic Whitehorse on a city tour

“I loved seeing the lights! I really appreciated the Aurora Centre set up and the comfort and pickup and drop-off.”

• Sled across snowy landscapes with Huskies
• Explore downtown Fairbanks on your own
• Hunt for Northern Lights at Murphy Dome

“the tour is amazing. tour guide is very nice.”

• Explore Whitehorse's top sights on a city tour
• Experience nightly Aurora viewing with warm drinks
• Enjoy leisure time and optional afternoon tours

“Enjoyed our time in the Yukon and had fun on nights even with no Aurora.”

• Photography
• Mush through snowy landscapes on a dog sled
• Explore Churchill with a local guide
• Photograph the aurora borealis in a workshop

“I would like to commend PJ - he really did work so hard. He wanted to give us the”

• Hiking & Trekking
• Explore historic Independence Mine
• Watch Northern Lights at Chena Hot Springs
• Snowshoe through Chugach State Park

• Tour Whitehorse and visit SS Klondike
• Fly non-stop from Vancouver to Whitehorse
• Relax at Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs

• Check in for your flight at Vancouver Airport
• Learn snowmobiling on Marsh Lake
• Explore Whitehorse on a guided city tour

Discover TourRadar

Thanks for visiting nordicvisitor.com! For the very best browsing experience on our website, we urge you to upgrade to the most recent version of your browser . Some of our site features may not function properly on older versions.

• Search Suggested Results View All Results
• EUR (€)
• GBP (£)
• Self-Drive i
• Privately Guided i
• Guided Small Groups i
• Northern Lights i
• Honeymoon & Romance i
• Ice & Snow Hotels i
• Multi-Country Tours i
• All Travel Styles
• Show all tours
• Best Sellers
• Special Offers
• Scandinavia
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Book With Confidence i
• Why book with us i
• Travel Update
• Booking Terms i
• Sustainability Policy i
• Manage Booking
• Privacy policy

Iceland Bíldshöfði 20 110 Reykjavík +354 578 20 80 View Map

Sweden Scotland View Details

Northern Lights Tour Packages

Venture to the northern hemisphere to hunt for the aurora borealis and see this breathtaking natural phenomenon first hand. Your northern lights tour package with Nordic Visitor comes with accommodation, activities and transport included.

Witness the aurora borealis dancing above you and explore jaw-dropping landscapes in the Land of Fire and Ice.

Why choose northern lights tours in Iceland?

• Chase the lights on guided excursions from Reykjavík
• Stay at remote lodges with dark skies for aurora viewing
• Discover natural wonders like glaciers and ice caves
• Bathe in hot springs surrounded by wintry scenery

Golden Circle Classic - Winter

Golden circle, blue lagoon & northern lights, northern lights circle tour, iceland's famous ring road.

Winter Highlights & Northern Lights

Ice cave & glacier lagoon.

Hunt for the aurora borealis in Norway and admire the dramatic mountains, coastline and islands of the north.

Why go aurora-hunting in Norway?

• Marvel at the lights on an aurora coastal cruise
• Embark on a dog sledding northern lights safari
• Enjoy guided aurora excursions from Tromsø
• Stay at the extraordinary Kirkenes Snow Hotel

Northern Lights by Train and Cruise

Tromsø, flåm & the fjords, best of northern norway classic - 71° north cape, northern lights & cruise, northern lights norway classic.

Experience snowy scenery, Sami culture and winter activities in Finnish or Swedish Lapland on a northern lights adventure.

Why chase the northern lights in Lapland?

• Enjoy an enchanting aurora tour by snowmobile
• Gaze up at the northern lights from a cosy glass igloo
• Stay in a room made of ice at the legendary ICEHOTEL
• Witness the aurora dancing above Abisko National Park

Best of Lapland - Guaranteed Departure

December 18, 2024, best of rovaniemi - classic, santa claus village & dog sledding, lapland adventure - aurora sky station & icehotel.

Journey to a remote land and seek out the northern lights in Svalbard, an Arctic archipelago at the edge of the world.

Why look for the northern lights in Svalbard?

• Experience the mesmerising light of the polar night
• Visit the world’s northernmost town, Longyearbyen
• Go on thrilling dog sledding and snowmobiling tours
• See polar bears and seals in the wild

Best of Svalbard Winter - Express

Best of svalbard winter - classic, need any help so far get in touch with us.

Live chat with travel consultants

Send your queries using our contact form

Call us toll-free to ask your questions

About Your Northern Lights Vacation

Discover the magic of the aurora borealis* on an unforgettable northern lights tour. Explore beautiful destinations in the Nordics on an itinerary that local travel experts have meticulously organised for you.

When you book a northern lights tour package with Nordic Visitor, you get:

• An authentic travel experience planned by an established and trusted agency • A dedicated travel consultant to organise your tour • All relevant bookings for your chosen package • A detailed online personal itinerary • Handpicked accommodation for a relaxing stay • 24/7 emergency phone support for peace of mind

Nordic Visitor has made it easy to start planning your winter tour. Simply follow these steps:

1. Pick your favourite Nordic Visitor tour 2. Confirm your package 3. Check your confirmation email 4. Book your flights 5. Get ready for your trip

*Please note, the northern lights are a natural occurrence and sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Why choose Nordic Visitor

Book With Confidence

Secure your trip your way with Nordic Visitor. Book a tour with as little as 10% deposit. With a 20% deposit or more, you will receive our Cancellation Protection free of charge. You can also pay the full price right away to guarantee today’s exchange rate. Terms & conditions apply.

Trusted local travel experts

Established in 2002, Nordic Visitor is a highly rated tour agency in Northern Europe. Our travel experts create authentic journeys filled with the best activities and destinations. They are locally based and add their in-depth knowledge to all northern lights itineraries.

Great reviews

Nordic Visitor is dedicated to the best service quality, and this is reflected year after year when Tripadvisor awards us with their Certificate of Excellence. We also take great pride in our customer feedback: 97% of our travellers say they would recommend us to friends and family.

Stress-free experience

Our travel consultants will plan and book your trip on your behalf. You’ll receive a personalised itinerary with your accommodation and activities all arranged for you. That way you can leave all the practicalities to someone else, while you relax and look forward to your northern lights adventure.

Flexible tour options

The Nordic Visitor travel team has designed our northern lights packages to include the very best routes and experiences. However, if you’d like to add extra nights, attractions or destinations, your personal travel consultant will happily tailor your northern lights package.

You are in good hands

Should you encounter any unexpected weather or events during your tour, don’t worry. Nordic Visitor will be there for you throughout your trip. We will take care of reworking your itinerary while keeping you safe and informed. You’ll also have access to our 24/7 emergency helpline for peace of mind.

Full financial protection

With Nordic Visitor, you have peace of mind knowing your tour arrangements with us are 100% financially protected. Your payments are safeguarded as we comply with European Union laws on Package Travel regulations. This guarantees you a refund in the unlikely event of insolvency.

NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR REVIEWS

Here’s what our wonderful customers liked about their northern lights experiences.

Larus made the whole experience of organising the holiday very enjoyable.  We are not seasoned travellers but... read more

Larus made the whole experience of organising the holiday very enjoyable.  We are not seasoned travellers but this experience has given me no doubt in using Nordic Visitor again to book a holiday in the future to another Nordic destination.

Kim Singapore

Overall an amazing experience, accommodation were excellent, transfers and check-in were smooth. Will certainly use... read more

Overall an amazing experience, accommodation were excellent, transfers and check-in were smooth. Will certainly use Nordic Visitor again for future vacations.

Northern Lights Vacation Highlights

Picture yourself in a stunning winter landscape in the northern hemisphere. You’re wrapped up warm and the world’s greatest light show is about to begin. Opt for a Nordic Visitor northern lights tour, and you could…

• Take a guided tour from Reykjavík to hunt for the northern lights in Iceland
• Explore ice caves on a guided glacier hike in Vatnajökull , home to Europe’s largest glacier
• Venture to the remote Westfjords to chase the aurora and try snowshoeing
• Go dog sledding and snowmobiling in Tromsø , Norway, or Longyearbyen , Svalbard
• Discover charming fishing villages, mountains and marine wildlife in the Lofoten Islands
• Sample Norwegian delicacies in Kirkenes , such as red king crab, Arctic char and cloudberries
• Join an unforgettable snowmobiling , dog sledding or snowshoeing aurora safari in Lapland
• Visit the Aurora Sky Station in Abisko National Park for dinner with a view of the northern lights
• Stay in an ice hotel or glass igloo, such as the ICEHOTEL , SnowCastle or SnowHotel

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT NORTHERN LIGHTS TOURS

For tips on viewing the northern lights, read on. We’ve answered the most commonly asked questions about Nordic aurora borealis tours here to help you make your dream trip a reality.

Alternatively, find out how to make a booking , have a look at our FAQs , or learn about our Book With Confidence travel plan.

1. ARE THE NORDICS SAFE TO TRAVEL TO?

Yes, the Nordics are widely regarded as safe for visitors. Actually, the Nordic nations – Iceland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland – continually rank among the top 10 safest places in the world . This is because they have low crime rates, good standards of healthcare, and excellent road safety.

2. WHAT ARE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are a natural phenomenon. You can see them illuminating the sky when charged particles from solar flares collide with atoms in the Earth’s atmosphere, near the North Pole. This collision creates varied shapes and colours that ripple, flash or glow in the sky.

3. WHAT MONTHS CAN YOU SEE THE AURORA BOREALIS?

You have the best chance of spotting the aurora borealis in the winter months – October to April. To make out the colours of the aurora, you need dark winter nights. In the summer, daylight hours are so long that you’ll find the sky is too bright to see the glowing lights.

As it is a natural occurrence, spotting the northern lights is not guaranteed. But you can increase your chances of witnessing them by visiting the Arctic Circle in winter.

4. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

As you need a dark sky to distinguish the aurora, the best time to see the northern lights is at night. The peak hours tend to be between 11 PM and 2 AM, which is why your guided tour will likely depart after 9 PM.

You could also stay at a hotel with an aurora wake-up service. The staff will let you know if the lights come out late in the night, so you don’t have to stay up waiting for them!

The best time of year to see the northern lights is winter, between October and April. This is when Nordic nights are the longest and darkest, which means you have higher chances of catching sight of the aurora.

Winter is a great time to visit the Nordics for other reasons too. Check out these guides to the top winter activities you can enjoy:

Things to do in Norway in winter

Things to do in Iceland in winter

Things to do in Lapland in winter

5. WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

You can see the aurora borealis at high northern latitudes, especially around the Arctic Circle, as this is where solar activity is strongest. That’s why the Nordic region is the best place to see the northern lights. Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Svalbard all lie within or near the Arctic Circle.

In fact, Iceland and the northern regions of Norway, Sweden and Finland are located within the “aurora zone”. Also known as the “northern lights belt”, this is a latitudinal band between 65-72°N where high auroral frequency and intensity occurs. Visit this zone for the best chance of seeing the aurora.

Learn more about where and when to see the northern lights with these expert guides:

Best times and places to see the northern lights in Europe

Best times and places to see the northern lights in Iceland

Best times and places to see the northern lights in Norway

6. WHERE CAN YOU SEE THE AURORA BOREALIS IN SCANDINAVIA?

Norway, Sweden and Denmark are the countries that make up Scandinavia. If you want to go to Scandinavia to hunt for the aurora borealis, your best bet is to visit the northern parts of this region – Swedish Lapland and Northern Norway. It is unlikely you’ll see the aurora in Denmark.

You can witness the northern lights in the neighbouring Nordic nations of Finland and Iceland too. Although these countries aren’t technically part of Scandinavia, they have many similarities and also happen to be great places to catch the aurora borealis!

Lapland – an area covering northern Sweden and Finland – is a fantastic destination for aurora chasing. You could head to Rovaniemi and Kemi in Finnish Lapland, or Abisko National Park near Kiruna in Swedish Lapland.

Or visit Northern Norway for your aurora borealis tour. Take your pick from Norwegian destinations such as Tromsø, Svalbard, Kirkenes, the Lofoten Islands and Nordkapp (North Cape).

Alternatively, go in search of the aurora borealis in Iceland. With its wide open skies and location near the Arctic Circle, you could see the lights from anywhere in the country. For your best chances though, head away from towns with street lights so you can spot the colours more easily.

In Scandinavia you could seek out the aurora borealis in the countryside or on the coast. Plus, not only can you enjoy northern lights tours, but also bucket list activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and staying in an ice hotel.

Discover more reasons to visit Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland on our ultimate Scandinavia guide .

7. HOW TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

To see the aurora borealis, you need to be in a northern country on a clear, dark night, away from artificial lights. Although the aurora don’t show up on demand, these top tips will give you the best chances of witnessing them.

Firstly, make sure you visit northern regions close to the Arctic Circle. Iceland, Northern Norway, Svalbard and Lapland are the best destinations to see the northern lights in Europe.

Secondly, time your aurora borealis tour for the European winter. The long, dark nights will help you spot the colours lighting up the sky.

Thirdly, avoid light pollution found in built-up areas. This means heading into the countryside where there is less artificial light compared to towns and cities. You could spend some days out in remote areas, or opt for guided evening tours from your city base instead.

Another thing you can do for northern light viewings is check the weather and aurora forecast . Although you can’t do this very far in advance, during your trip you’ll be able to find out if the evening will be clear of cloud or rain and if solar activity will be strong.

You’d also increase your chances of seeing the aurora borealis by taking a guided tour. A local expert would accompany you and take you to all the best spots, sharing their insider knowledge with you.

Read our article on how to see the northern lights for more viewing tips.

8. HOW LONG DO THE NORTHERN LIGHTS LAST?

When the aurora borealis are treating you to their glorious light show, you might find they glow for a few minutes. The lights can show up several times in one night, or last for a couple of hours in one go.

There is no rule as to how long the aurora borealis last, of course, as they are a natural occurrence. If you see them for yourself, no doubt you’ll cherish every second of their beautiful magic.

9. HOW DO YOU PHOTOGRAPH THE AURORA BOREALIS?

The northern lights can be tricky to capture on camera, but with some preparation and the right equipment you can do it. Here are some top tips for photographing the northern lights:

• Use an SLR camera with manual focus
• Bring a tripod as you’ll need to do a long exposure shot
• Get a remote shutter release so you don’t have to touch the camera at all
• Use a slow shutter speed of between 15 and 30 seconds

For more tips on photographing the aurora, see our northern lights travel guide .

10. WHAT SHOULD YOU WEAR TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

It can get rather cold in the Nordic winter, especially if there’s a cool wind. The last thing you want is to feel the chill while you hunt for the aurora borealis at night. That’s why it’s important you pack the right clothing before your trip.

Many northern lights tours will provide you with thermal suits to help you stay warm while you’re out chasing the aurora. It’s also recommended that you wear warm layers underneath.

Here is an essential packing list:

• Insulated jacket and trousers (windproof and waterproof)
• Thermal wool underlayers
• Warm hat, gloves and scarf
• Warm and sturdy boots

Get more packing advice by reading our experts’ tips and tricks on dressing for northern lights viewing .

11. CAN I CHOOSE THE ARRIVAL DATE?

Yes, you can select your chosen arrival date online when reserving your Nordic Visitor tour. For northern lights packages, the arrival dates are between October and April as this is the aurora viewing season.

12. CAN I EXTEND MY TOUR BY A DAY OR TWO?

Absolutely! If you’d like to spend more time in a particular destination, you can request this when booking your tour online. Your dedicated travel consultant will get in touch to confirm the extra days with you.

If you are taking a small group tour, you can add extra nights to the start or end of your trip. This is because the group tour itself is fixed as you will be exploring with fellow visitors on a fixed itinerary.

13. WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY FLIGHT TICKETS?

You should book your flights once your Nordic Visitor package is confirmed. We recommend you check flights beforehand to find appropriate dates and prices, but only purchase them after your travel consultant has secured your northern lights tour.

Your Nordic Visitor consultant will send you a confirmation email with all the details you need to buy suitable flights.

14. WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR MY TRIP?

The weather is somewhat unpredictable in the Nordics, no matter the time of year you visit. In winter you should always come prepared for cold temperatures, which means bringing warm clothing. Here are the essential items that we recommend you pack for your trip:

• Warm jumpers or fleeces
• Waterproof and thermal jackets
• Gloves, scarves and hats
• Insulated, waterproof boots
• Thermal underlayers
• Waterproof trousers

For more detailed information on what to pack for your Nordic tour, read our travel guides for Iceland , Norway and Lapland .

Get in touch with us to start planning your trip or for more advice on how to see the aurora borealis. Our travel experts will be delighted to arrange an unforgettable northern lights tour for you.

Our main phone number is +354 578 20 80

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts

Blog Articles

How to see the northern lights: viewing tips, best times & places to see the northern lights in europe, best times and places to see the northern lights in iceland, a little something about the northern lights.

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.