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Northern Lights Tours & Trips in Norway

20 northern lights tour packages in norway with 38 reviews.

Northern Lights Family Christmas & New Year +1

Best of Northern Norway Classic - 71° North Cape ( Private Tour)

"Great tour! Highly Recommended!" Le, traveled in February 2024

Tailor-Made Private Norway Trip to Chase the Northern Lights

"Jann was a fantastic guide / driver who was kind and considerate and wanted the best experience possible for his guests!!" David, traveled in January 2024

• Book With Flexibility View tour Download Brochure

Explorer Active Family Arctic Northern Lights Sightseeing +3

Northern Norway Explorer

"The trip was ideal for sightseeing and different forms of travel as well as a great Tour Leader." Simon, traveled in June 2019

Explorer Northern Lights Ocean Cruise Christmas & New Year +2

Norway Fjords and Northern Lights (8 Days)

"Test review, please disregard." Cristian, traveled in November 2022

• €100 deposit on some dates

Explorer Family Northern Lights +1

Polar Nights in Northern Norway - 5 days

"Die Aktivitäten haben spass gemacht. Er war super freundlich, informiert undifferenziert erreichbar!" Alexandra, traveled in February 2024

Arctic Active Family Northern Lights Explorer Sightseeing Christmas & New Year +4

Under the Northern Lights: Arctic Dreams Norway

"You get it all - the Northern lights, the wildlife, the people and the culture all in one pack." Maryia, traveled in December 2019

Tromso and the Northern Lights - 5 days

Polar Family Northern Lights

Sailing, Northern Lights and Whales

Orcas and Humpback Whales Under The Northern Lights

In-depth Cultural Family Northern Lights Explorer Coach / Bus +3

Northern Lights of Scandinavia (Small Groups, 10 Days)

"The tour was very well designed to maximize the experience. The fair lady put on a fantastic show." Allison, traveled in February 2023

What people love about Northern Lights Tours in Norway

Very exciting and perfectly organised Tour. Very friendly Team. We really recommend this tour!

Jann was a fantastic guide / driver who was kind and considerate and wanted the best experience possible for his guests!! Jann was friendly and educated/answered all questions even with personal stories! We were very lucky and had a great viewing night and Jann had prepared us for the post that we would not see anything, would highly suggest the Jann experience to everyone!

This was a bit challenging for me The guide Shane was wonderful

Regions in Norway

• Norwegian Fjords (17)
• Northern Norway (16)
• Lofoten Islands (9)

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• Northern Lights
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in February 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in January 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in March 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in April 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in October 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in November 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in December 2024/2025
• 10 Amazing Northern Lights Tours & Trips 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Trips For Single Travellers 2024/2025
• 10 Romantic Northern Lights Getaways For Couples 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours For Seniors 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in September 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in August 2024/2025
• Norway Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 10 Day Norway Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

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Home  -  Tours  -  Northern Lights Holidays

Northern Lights Holidays

Northern lights holidays 2024 & 2025.

Our Northern Lights holidays are meticulously planned to enhance your experience of the North Norway’s stunning scenery and nature. With a maximum of 8 guests you will get that personal attention that larger group trips cannot provide. Staying in modern, cosy hotel accommodation and enjoying local cuisine our award-winning guides will lead you on scenic daytime excursions through picturesque Arctic landscapes and Aurora Chasing each night. 

Whether you’re seeking a 3-night escape or a week-long Bucket List adventure, we promise a seamless blend of education, exploration, and relaxation.

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2024 & 2025 Northern Lights Holidays

October 5-night Northern Lights Holiday

October Half Term Family 4-night Northern Lights Holiday

October/November Half Term Family 4-night Northern Lights Holiday

November 4-night Northern Lights Holiday

November 3-night Northern Lights Holiday

December 5-night Northern Lights Holiday

December 4-night Northern Lights Holiday

New Year Northern Lights Holiday 2025

January 5-night Northern Lights Holiday

March Spring Equinox 5-night Northern Lights Holiday

March Spring Equinox 4-night Northern Lights Holiday

March 5-night northern lights holiday.

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▷ The 7 Best Norway Northern Lights Tours [2024 Reviews]

The best place to see the Aurora Borealis dance across the sky is inside the Arctic Circle.

If you’re visiting Norway, the northern city of Tromsø is a fantastic base from which to explore the Arctic countryside in search of those elusive Northern Lights.

If seeing this natural light phenomenon is high on your bucket list, you can find enthusiastic and professional guides in Tromsø.

They’ll take you straight to the best locations from which to observe this surreal light show.

Be sure to see our reviews of Norway Fjord Cruises and Norway Whale Watching Tours .

Best Northern Lights Tours In Norway

Quick answer: the 7 best rated norway northern lights tours for 2024.

• Best Northern Lights Cruise: Northern Lights Photo Cruise From Tromsø
• Best Value Tour: Northern Lights Experience With Aurora Camps From Tromsø
• Best Adventure Tour: Northern Lights & Husky Experience With Dinner From Tromsø
• Best Luxury Tour: Northern Lights tour – All inclusive – Northern Horizon
• Best Small Group Tour: Small-Group Aurora Hunt Northern Lights Tour from Tromso
• Best Guided Tour: Northern Lights Minibus Chase From Tromsø
• Best Northern Lights Sailing: Northern Lights Sailing Trip From Tromsø

We have reviewed the top rated Northern Lights tours in Norway providing overviews and highlighting the details of each. We also make recommendations on staying in Norway in our guide section.

Norway Northern Lights Tour Reviews

1. best northern lights cruise: northern lights photo cruise from tromsø.

• Departure Point : Harbourside of Kystens Hus, Tromsø
• Departure Time : 7:00 PM
• Duration : 4 hours
• Includes : Experienced tour guide, 4-hour cruise through the Arctic fjords, warm safety suits, snacks, hot drinks, and use of a camera tripod.

If you want a clear view of the sky unhindered by the civilization’s light pollution, what better place to go than out on the water?

This Northern Lights hunting tour takes you out along the fjord and beyond in search of the Aurora Borealis. Of course, you’ll be exposed to icy conditions in those Arctic waters. But don’t worry.

You will be provided with a warm safety suit, a hat, gloves, and boots to wear during the cruise, and you can choose between indoor and outdoor seating to watch the light show.

Your experienced skipper will know all the best spots with the greatest probability of viewing the Northern Lights.

Because your group will be small and intimate (12 passengers or less), you’ll have the guide’s full attention when you want to ask questions or need help setting up your camera.

As the tour progresses, you’ll be provided with hot drinks and snacks. If you want to take steady photographs, a tripod will be made available for your use.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy:, 2. best value tour: northern lights experience with aurora camps from tromsø.

• Departure Point: Clarion Edge Hotel, Tromsø
• Departure Time : 6:00 PM
• Duration : 8 hours
• Includes : Expert guide, hunt for the Northern Lights in a luxury coach, lavvo experience at an Aurora camp, warm winter clothing, meal, hot drinks, photographs, the new coach has Wi-Fi, toilets, and a coffee machine.

If you want to combine your Northern Lights tour with a taste of the local Sami culture, this tour will appeal to you. The tour is broken into two parts.

First, you’ll be driven into the Norwegian countryside aboard a new coach. The luxury coach is fitted with Wi-Fi, toilets, and a coffee machine. You can upload your photographs onto Instagram instantly during the tour.

The aim of this initial drive is to reach the location most likely to afford views of the Northern Lights.

Your experienced guides will research local weather patterns, geomagnetic forecasts, and use their local knowledge to find the best vantage point. After a few hours of searching, you’ll move on to the second part of this tour.

Your guides will drive you to one of 3 Aurora camps situated in Kvaløya, Lyngen, and the Tomok Valley. The choice of camp will depend upon which location is most likely to experience the Aurora Borealis later that night.

Once at the selected camp, you’ll join one of two smaller groups inside a traditional Sami lavvo, which is a broad, conical-shaped tent similar to a tipi. Inside your lavvo, you’ll gather around a campfire.

There you’ll be served hot drinks and given the chance to grill your own supper over the fire.

Your guides are professional photographers, so they will be able to help you adjust your camera to take the best possible photograph of the Northern Lights. If you need a tripod to steady your camera, one will be provided.

3. Best Adventure Tour: Northern Lights & Husky Experience With Dinner From Tromsø

• Departure Point: Radisson BLU Hotel, Tromsø
• Departure Time : 6:45 PM
• Includes : Expert guide, warm clothes, transportation to the camp, meet the huskies, campfire, hot meal, coffee, and cake

If you want to sample traditional local food and hospitality, this is a great choice for you. This is by far my favorite of the Northern Light tours, because huskies!

You’ll be driven just 30 minutes out of Tromsø to the husky camp, where you’ll have an opportunity to cuddle husky puppies. There are over 300 huskies in the camp, and you’ll be entertained by their antics.

After that, you’ll be shown into a traditional Sami lavvo (conical tent), where you’ll sit around the fire, drink coffee, and maybe grill some marshmallows.

Your guide will entertain you with traditional Sami stories connected with the Northern Lights.

As the evening progresses, you’ll be served a traditional hot meal of bacalao, which is made from stockfish (dried, preserved cod) and tomato.

The husky camp is a great location from which to observe the Aurora Borealis. You can wait in comfort for the lights to appear, either inside the warm lavvo or outside where you can lay down on reindeer skins.

4. Best Luxury Tour: Northern Lights tour – All inclusive – Northern Horizon

• Departure Point: Hotel pickup in Tromso area
• Duration : 6 to 9 hours
• Includes : Expert guide, bus tour, winter boots, hat, mittens, thermal suit, head torches, use of tripod, dinner, photographs, hotel drop off

If your main aim in visiting Norway is to see the Northern Lights, this is a great tour for you.

With your small group up to eight people of Aurora hunters, you have a good chance of seeing the world’s most famous natural light show in the Arctic wilderness.

After leaving the city center and its light pollution behind, you’ll be whisked away into the Norwegian countryside.

Your expert guide will rely upon his local knowledge, experience, the weather forecast, and geomagnetic forecast to predict where the best location is to view the Aurora Borealis.

Because you’re inside the Arctic Circle, the night will be colder than you’ve ever experienced. For this reason, your guide will provide you with specially designed winter boots, mittens, a hat, and a thermal suit.

Once you’ve arrived at the most promising location, your guide will assist you to set up your cameras, offer photography tips concerning the Northern Lights, and entertain you with stories about the local people and their history.

If conditions allow, he will also build a bonfire to help you keep warm. As the night progresses, your guide will offer you a home-cooked meal.

He will also take photographs of your adventure with his professional camera, which he will email to you the following day. To end the night, you will be dropped off at your hotel.

5. Best Small Group Tour: Small-Group Aurora Hunt Northern Lights Tour from Tromsø

• Departure Point : Scandic Ishavhotel
• Duration : 7 hours approx
• Includes : Lively and informative guides, a minibus ride into the Norwegian countryside, bonfire, a small meal, snacks, hot drinks, thermal suit, photographs taken by the guide, use of a tripod to mount your camera.

Something you’ll appreciate about this tour is that it is a small and intimate group. That means you’ll always have the 2 guides’ attention, and you can ask for help when it comes time to take photographs of those elusive lights.

Your tour minibus will collect you from the meeting point in Tromsø city center and drive you out into the surrounding countryside.

Because you’re within the Arctic Circle, the guides will provide special thermal suits for you to wear in order to prevent you from getting too cold as the night progresses.

Passing the star-lit mountains and fjords, you’ll leave behind the city’s light pollution and head to less populated, darker places in search of the clearest patches of sky.

Your guides will keep you entertained with Sami tales, funny stories, and even songs! Your guides are experts on both local geography and the Northern Lights.

By communicating with other Aurora hunters and keeping their eyes on the geomagnetic forecast, they can predict the most likely location to see the Earth’s most beautiful natural light display.

At some point, your guides will halt in a safe location to light a bonfire. Gathered around the dancing flames, you will have the opportunity to chat with your new-found friends while eating a small meal.

Hot drinks and snacks are provided as the night progresses, and the guides will take photographs with their professional camera.

At the end of the tour, the guides will share the pictures they have taken so you have a visual souvenir of the amazing sights you’ve witnessed.

6. Best Guided Tour: Northern Lights Minibus Chase From Tromsø

• Departure Point : Storgata 64, 9008 Tromsø, Hotel pickup (in city centre)
• Departure Time : 6 PM (but may be as late as 8 PM when nights are shorter during fall and spring)
• Duration : 6 to 10 hours
• Includes : Experienced tour guide, minibus ride into the countryside, snowsuit, photographs, snacks, and hot chocolate.

If you want to be part of a small and cozy group of Aurora hunters, you’ll love this tour. With a maximum of 8 participants, you won’t have any problem getting to know your fellow passengers and the friendly guide.

You’ll also receive close attention when the time comes to photograph the Northern Lights for posterity.

After meeting in Tromsø city center, you’ll be driven through the countryside of Troms County. Enroot, you will be provided with a snowsuit to stop you from getting too cold during the night.

Once you’ve left the city lights behind, the sky will become clear of light pollution.

The experienced and professional guide will use geomagnetic forecasts, extensive local knowledge, and intuition to locate the best viewing spots.

You will stop at several points along the way to admire the fjords and Arctic landscape of the region. Weather permitting, you will leave the minibus to enjoy gathering around a bonfire.

Hot drinks and snacks will be provided. Your guide will tell you local folktales and impart her extensive knowledge of the area.

Don’t worry if your camera or smartphone can’t capture the magic in the sky. Once you’ve found the Aurora Borealis, your guide will take snaps of you in front of the light display with her professional camera.

At the end of the tour, you will be given any photographs she took of you.

7. Best Northern Lights Sailing: Northern Lights Sailing Trip From Tromsø

• Departure Point : Kirkegata 1, 9008 Tromsø
• Departure Time : Contact tour operator
• Duration : 3 hours
• Includes : Guided sailing tour, hot drinks, boots and thermal suit, tour photos

If what you really want is something a little different, this is the tour for you. You will board a catamaran for a 3 hour sailing tour. The best way to see them is from the water so that makes this tour perfect!

The captain is enthusiastic photographer who specialize in images of the Northern Lights. You’ll probably be happy to learn you’ll be part of a small and cozy group of adventurers.

You’ll get to know each other well by the end of the night. And to ensure you keep warm, heat packs and thermal suits are provided.

Your knowledgeable and experienced captain will consult the weather and geomagnetic forecasts to predict the best location from where you can view the Aurora.

Even if the hunt takes you into neighboring Finland, nothing will interfere with their determination to show you the lights.

Once you’ve arrived in a likely position to see a light show in the sky.

When the Northern Lights appear, your guides will take professional photographs of you in front of the lights and direct shots of the lights overhead.

All pictures captured during the tour will be emailed to you the next day. If you bring your own camera, you will be provided with a tripod for your use.

Norway Travel Guide

Norway is a land of sublime mountains, glacier-carved valleys, majestic fjords, sparkling waterfalls, and colorful villages.

It’s no surprise that many visitors come specially to admire the beautiful scenery. But Norway also boasts a rich cultural history that offers plenty for visitors to see and do.

What you personally plan to do in Norway is your choice. However, it is in your best interest to do the research before you go.

This guide was written to help prepare you for your journey to this fascinating land because we want you to have the best vacation possible.

Airports & Entry

It is possible to reach Oslo by ferry from Copenhagen or by train, bus, or car from Stockholm. However, most visitors to Norway come by airplane and land at Oslo Gardermoen Airport .

Rarely will you find so many facilities inside a transportation hub. The single terminal building at Oslo Airport is compact, quiet, clean, and offers adequate seating for waiting passengers.

The airport is open 24 hours, and that includes some food outlets. Economy passengers can purchase an airport lounge pass for additional comfort during a long stopover.

The airport designers considered all your possible needs. Across from Gate A4, you will find an ecumenical chapel for your religious needs. Between Gates C5 and C6, there is a designated Work Zone for passengers who need individual desks and power outlets to work during their stay.

The free Wi-Fi is accessed by connecting to the “AIRPORT” network and selecting “free” on the login page. If you have kids, there are multiple Children’s Play Areas throughout the terminal. Strollers are available for your use, and there are specific Breastfeeding Corners for young babies.

20 restaurants and a range of shops are found throughout the terminal, including a pharmacy for your medical needs and the largest duty-free shop in Europe.

The Information Desk is found in the Arrivals Area. And if you really want to spoil yourself and have the time to spare, the airport spa and saloon offers express 20-minute pedicures and manicures for both women and men.

The airport is 29 miles from Oslo city center, but the train station offers convenient express services into the city that take only 20 minutes with trains every 10 minutes.

You can also take trains directly from the airport station to other parts of the country. 70% of airport passengers utilize public transport rather than hiring a car or jumping in a taxi.

When you book your hotel room, ask about airport shuttle services. Many offer a courtesy shuttle service for guests. If you prefer to drive yourself from the airport, 5 major car rental companies have desks in the Arrivals Hall near the railway station.

The airport is only 3.7 miles from European Route E6 to go north or south and 1.2 miles from E16 to go east or west.

There are also regular coach services between the airport and Oslo city center. Outside the Arrivals Hall is a taxi rank. Stop at the Taxi Information Desk in the Arrivals Hall first so they can explain the fixed rates.

Planning Tips

With so many beautiful things to see and interesting things to do in Norway, I’m sure you’ll have a great time. And to help you do just that, here are 5 tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Tip #1: If you want to see the waterfalls, go in spring or summer

It snows a lot during winter in Norway. Atop the mountains and high places, the snow doesn’t begin to melt until spring. That means that through the spring and into summer, a vast amount of meltwater rushes down from those high places creating seasonal waterfalls throughout the nation, especially alongside some of the fjords.

Tip #2: Check out the SolarHam website

If you’re enthusiastic about seeing the Northern Lights, check out the SolarHam website . There you’ll find a 3-day geomagnetic forecast and a satellite map that shows the current position of the Aurora Borealis . That’s essential information for seeking the best time and place to view this amazing natural phenomenon.

It’s easiest to see the Northern Lights from September through March, when the nights are at their darkest, but avoid new moons. You won’t see the Northern Lights in Northern Norway in summer because the nights are far too short.

Tip #3: Take your time to enjoy all the attractions of Norway

Norway is an amazing country, with a long and interesting history and stunning scenery. Even if your only intention is to cruise on the fjords or to see the Northern Lights, there are other attractions that you would enjoy.

It would be a shame to visit Norway and miss seeing some of the world-famous art in Oslo, the winding railroad between Bergen and Oslo, or the Viking ships that have survived over 1,200 years.

Tip #4: Book in advance

Norway is a small country with a vast number of visitors. Don’t miss out on essential train tickets, the better hotel rooms, or specific tours you really want to take. Book in advance to ensure you get what you want before it’s fully booked.

Many tours offer refunds within a certain time frame, so check when you book. It is possible you will take little risk when booking your tour if you can simply cancel it 24 hours before it begins should you change your mind.

Tip #5: Plan road journeys in advance and with great care

The roads in Norway aren’t like the roads in other countries. With 24-hours darkness during midwinter in the far north, ice on the higher roads, winding mountain routes, and loose moose on the road, delays are always possible. When planning a long road journey, consider local conditions.

Research the route and the specific conditions of the road at the time of year when you visit. Also, keep your eye on the weather forecast for that period.

Remember that some inland, northern, and high ground roads are regularly blocked by high snowfall during winter. Check road reports regularly and allow time for unexpected delays in your journey.

Restaurants & Eating Out

Because this small nation possesses so much coastline with so many fjords, a lot of traditional dishes focus on seafood. Also, with long, dark winters, preservation was especially important in the pre-refrigeration era.

That means that pickled, dried, and salted fish can be found on traditional menus in every region.

Pickled herring is a favorite at breakfast buffets. It is often eaten on rye bread and dressed in a variety of sauces. Lutefisk is another form of preserved fish. A common variety of lutefisk is dried cod cured using a lye solution. Lutefisk is a somewhat acquired taste.

Smoked or cured salmon is found in most Norwegian restaurants or hotel buffets. And an everyday meal in Norway is fiskeboller, which is balls of white fish blended with flour, eggs, and milk.

Reindeer is a popular meat in Norway, and you’ll find it on the menu in many restaurants. It may come in the form of fillets, meatballs, or sausages. If you’ve eaten venison, you’ll probably expect it to have a gamey, beef-like taste, but it doesn’t.

It’s more tender than venison, has a milder but salty taste, and comes with a slight metallic tang. Reindeer heart is a traditional delicacy.

You may see a lot of “hotdogs” around Norway. They probably aren’t. The Norwegians have their own version of hotdogs called pølse, which are made using a different process. You’ll often find pølse wrapped in bacon and served in a bread bun much like a hotdog. Sometimes pølse are made from reindeer meat.

A thin potato pancake called lefse is popular at breakfast time. It is made from potato, eggs, butter, and sugar, and it’s served with cinnamon or jam.

You’ll often find lefse in cafes and coffee shops. Another item popular on the breakfast table is brunost, or brown cheese. It is made using a different process to other cheeses and is often served in thin slivers atop toast.

If you linger for dessert, you’ll love Norwegian waffles. They are heart-shaped, thinner than Belgian waffles, and are topped with jam or brunost.

Or perhaps you’d prefer a little fruit. In summer, berries are abundant across Norway. The most sought after is cloudberry.

Cloudberry isn’t grown commercially, so it must be foraged from the wilderness before it can be served in restaurants and cafes around Oslo.

Nightlife & Entertainment

With a population descended from Vikings, it’s no surprise to discover that the nightlife in Norway is wild. In every region, you’ll find electrifying nightclubs in the larger settlements and crowded bars everywhere.

The 4 places most identified with an active club scene and nightlife are Oslo, Bergen, Tromsø, and Stavanger.

Because Oslo is the capital, the most populous city, hosts the main university, and is the location of many of the main tourist attractions, most of the nightclubs are found there.

Lawo is a popular venue for the younger set in the nation’s capital, where the DJs spin the popular club hits. There the youth of Norway dance until they drop and drink themselves toward Valhalla. A more mature but still lively venue is Café Mono.

There you can listen to live music from a wide range of musical styles while you enjoy food and drink.

To the west, Bergen boasts a buzzing nightlife. Vaskeriet is a venue with a somewhat schizophrenic personality. Before 10 pm, it is a quiet cocktail bar, but after that, it turns into an infamous local hotspot with frequent themed events and guest DJs.

In the north, the Bardus Bar in Tromsø attempts to emulate the bistros of Southern Europe but with a strong hint of Norwegian culture and tradition.

It is especially renowned for its fine dining and lively atmosphere. And over in Stavanger, the Bar Bache is a great place to socialize through the long, long winter nights with relatively affordable drinks.

Getting Around

How you decide to get around Norway largely depends upon your timescale, your budget, and what you want to see.

If you want to go places fast, domestic flights are your best option. There are 52 public airports in Norway, an astounding number for a nation with only 5 million citizens.

SAS Scandinavian Airlines operates regular services to larger towns throughout the country. Some of the local airlines offer special pass tickets for travelers who intend to fly frequently within Norway for a specific period.

However, if you fly, you will miss a lot of spectacular scenery, and it may be more expensive than other means of transport.

Norway has a well-developed railway network with more than 1,900 miles of tracks. Many routes pass through beautiful valleys, curve around mountains, and offer panoramic views of the valleys and fjords.

The Bergen Railway is especially popular with tourists, running between Bergen and Oslo across Europe’s highest mountain plateau. Trains are slower than airplanes, but you will see much more, and they are generally more affordable than other means of transport.

If you want complete freedom, and you want to see every nook and cranny Norway has to offer, then hiring a car is your best option.

You will be able to drive along the famous National Travel Routes and stop anywhere you wish for photo opportunities and to enjoy local attractions. However, there are two problems with hiring a car in Norway.

First, navigating winding mountain roads, with blind corners, icy conditions, and in the dark is not for everybody. Second, car hire is expensive in Norway, so you’ll probably find the train cheaper.

If you decide to hire a car, please remember that the laws and conditions are different in Norway. In particular:

• Headlights must be on 24/7 and seatbelts must be worn
• You must not use your cellphone by hand while driving
• Check whether you’re getting an automatic or manual transmission when you book
• There are lots of speed cameras, and the fines are high
• Norway has super strict DUI laws — don’t drink and drive
• Moose on the road are inevitable
• Gas stations are widely spaced

Accommodations

Every year, tourists flock to Norway to visit its unique cultural and natural attractions, which means there is a wide range of hotels and other places to stay.

However, the attractions are often far apart from each other, requiring a long journey between each. For this reason, when planning a visit to Norway, think carefully about where you need to stay and for how long.

Don’t plan to spend every night of a two-week vacation in Oslo, because you’ll miss out on many natural attractions.

Similarly, don’t plan to spend every night in a hotel in the Arctic north, because you’ll miss out on the many historical and cultural attractions in the south of the country. Plan ahead and book accommodation near each place you plan to visit.

When you’ve chosen where and when you want to stay, you still must choose what kind of accommodation. The many hotels and hostels can be broken into three kinds: convenient, historic, and scenic.

Convenient hotels are those close to the attraction you want to visit and the transport hub—airport, train station, or main road.

You can find many convenient yet relatively affordable hotels throughout the country. Sadly, few will be truly cheap. Norway is an expensive country.

An example of convenient yet affordable accommodation is Hostel St. Svithun in Stavanger , which is a basic 2-star budget hotel in a central location of this popular destination in Northern Norway.

Around Norway, you will find interesting historical hotels that originally served a completely different function, like converted boathouses and farmhouses.

A particularly fascinating hotel is Oscarsborg Castle near Oslo. This fortress was in military service for 350 years until the end of the Cold War and now serves as a resort island.

If you love photo opportunities or waking to a glorious sunrise over a fjord or sunset over a harbor, a scenic hotel is for you. A great example is the modern Clarion Hotel The Edge in Tromsø that overlooks Tromsø Sound and the Arctic Cathedral.

Although the northernmost part of the nation falls within the Arctic Circle, Norway isn’t as cold as you’d expect. In fact, the name “Norway” means “the way north”.

Norway earned its name because its northern coastline is largely free from ice through winter, making it the easiest route north during the coldest months. The Gulf Stream keeps the coastline of Northern Norway warmer than other places at the same latitude.

However, there are vast variations between the different regions of Norway. Generally, the coast receives mild winters, while the inland areas experience cold winters with lots of snow but relatively hot and dry summers.

The mountainous regions remain much colder than other areas throughout the year. The south is considered the most beautiful in summer, but the fjords in spring, when melting ice leads to spectacular waterfalls.

The far north, which falls within the Arctic Circle, experiences 24-hour darkness during midwinter and 24-hour daylight during midsummer. Tromsø is the largest Norwegian town within the Arctic Circle.

Because of the extreme differences in climate from region to region within Norway, it is essential that you research the weather forecast for your specific destinations before you make plans. If you want to see the Northern Lights, 24-hours of darkness is ideal.

But if you want to sightsee, not so much. As a guideline, during summer the average daily high and low are 55 0 F and 46 0 F. In winter, 35 0 F and 27 0 F.

Maybe you think these temperatures are too cold for outdoor fun, but the Norwegians have a famous saying: “Det finnes ikke dårlig vær, bare dårlig klær!” There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes. Bear that in mind while packing for your vacation.

Attractions

Most visitors to Norway come to explore the stunning landscape, famous for its many fjords, snow-capped mountains, and scenic waterfalls.

The coastline of Northern Norway borders the Arctic Sea, and those interested in wildlife can observe creatures adapted to the extreme cold of the far north. The north is also a great place to observe the famous Northern Lights, especially during winter months.

If you are particularly interested in the picturesque scenery of the Norwegian landscape, the fjords and coastline to the west and the mountains of Southern Norway are served by a series of 18 highways designated as National Tourist Routes.

1,150 miles of Norway’s rural roads have been upgraded and their facilities improved to ensure that they are especially tourist-friendly. So, if you’re hiring a car, get your camera ready and check out the National Tourist Routes.

If you’re interested in Norwegian culture and history, then Oslo has it all, and the best area to visit is the Bygdøy Peninsula.

On this tiny peninsula in the west of Oslo, you’ll find the most interesting cultural attractions in the city. Top on my list is the Viking Ship Museum , where you’ll find no less than 3 genuine Viking ships recovered from 9 th -century burial mounds.

Many visitors will be drawn to the spectacular exhibits at the Norwegian Maritime Museum, which boasts several relatively modern ship exhibits along with relocated buildings and a collection of 40 oil paintings relating to Norway’s long relationship with the sea.

Other museums found on the peninsula include the Fram Museum of Polar Exploration, the Kon-Tiki Museum, the Norwegian Folk Museum , and the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History.

Those more drawn to art and architecture should look east toward central Oslo and visit the iconic Oslo Opera House.

This masterpiece of modern architecture not only houses the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet plus the National Opera Theater, but it also boasts a significant modern art collection, including the famous floating steel and glass sculpture She Lies .

In the same area, you will find the Munch Museum. There are few people in the western world who would not recognize Edvard Munch’s The Scream , and here is where you can see it in person along with other examples of the artist’s work.

Tour Guides

The Northern Lights 7-Hour Tour From Tromsø is our Editor's Choice for the best Northern Lights Tours In Norway with its combination of tour guides, sites seen and value.

Robert Baker

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best florence wine tours [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

Northern Lights Holiday Packages 2024-2025

14 min read.

Ready to catch the Northern Lights? If you are planning to go to Northern Norway to chase Aurora, you may want to include a few other activities in your trip. In this article we are going to give you a rundown on what a Northern Lights holiday package could look like in Kirkenes and Tromsø. We’ll start by telling you a bit about each of these nordic cities.

Choose the City For Your Vacation

Tromsø is regarded as one of the best places in the world to catch the Northern Lights and this Arctic Capital offers the best of both worlds – a vibrant city life and Arctic nature just outside the city. Here you can easily combine a Northern Lights chase with other activities such as dog sledding tours , snowmobiling, reindeer sledding, whale watching and different cruises – including Northern Lights cruises. You can also spend a magical night in the snowhotel, Tromsø Ice domes, or take the Fjellheisen cable car.

This city is dubbed "The Paris of the North", and whether you want to experience different festivals, enjoy a bustling nightlife or venture out on an Arctic adventure there is something for everyone.

Kirkenes offers stunning, raw, and diverse Arctic landscapes consisting of tundra, dense forests, beautiful mountains, and thousands of lakes. This is a smaller city and does not offer the same vibrant city and nightlife as Tromsø. Kirkenes is the perfect spot if you just want to immerse yourself in the Arctic nature excursions.

This city offers both husky and snowmobile evening tours where you can catch the Northern Lights should appear during your tour. You can also chill on a comfortable bus escorting you to your ultimate date with the Green Lady.

In Kirkenes, you can also spend a night in the winter wonderland Snowhotel Kirkenes – which is open all year round. This hotel is also the starting point for different tours like husky sledding, king crab fishing, and Northern Lights trips. Curious about ice hotels in Norway ? Read more here!

Quick Northern Lights Packing List

Warm coat (or even better, a thermal suit),

Scarf, hat, gloves and warm winter boots.

Lip Balm/chapstick

Popular Northern Lights Activities in Tromsø

Overnight northern lights & whale watching safari.

Join us for an unforgettable overnight adventure cruise! Venture out in search of orcas, humpbacks, and other majestic sea creatures as we journey through the Arctic fjords, far from city lights.

Northern Lights Visit - Incl. Transport

Journey into the darkness, away from any light pollution and get the chance to witness the mystical northern lights.

Reindeer Camp Dinner with Chance of Northern Lights

Venture deep into the heart of the wilderness, where you'll walk amidst our 300 gentle reindeer, even having the chance to hand-feed these incredible animals.

Northern Lights Safari with Guarantee

Tromsø is the perfect place to chase the Northern Lights. Cruise towards ideal viewing conditions.

Northern Lights Chase by Bus

Prepare to embark on an extraordinary journey with us, chasing the magic in the Arctic skies from the heart of Tromsø. We will be chasing low light pollution and trying to dodge those pesky clouds that might try to steal the show of the aurora borealis from us.

Reindeer Sledding Evening - Incl. Transport

Reindeer sledding has been practiced for thousands of years and is therefore deeply rooted in the traditions and way of life of the indigenous Sami people. It has been an integral part of Arctic livelihoods and transportation for generations, making it one of the oldest forms of transportation in this region. Immerse yourself in their culture on this authentic evening reindeer sledding experience at Camp Tamok.

Popular Northern Lights Activities in Kirkenes

Snowhotel kirkenes - entrance ticket.

While in Kirkenes you should absolutely visit the winter wonderland of Snowhotel 365. From 2019 we are the first hotel completely made of snow and ice to be open 365 days a year!

Snowhotel Visit incl. Dinner

Enjoy unique atmosphere and arctic cuisine in secluded wilderness. You will not only get a meal. You get a story.

Hunting Northern Lights by Husky

Nature covered by snow, a team of strong huskies in front, and a beautiful star-studded sky above. If you are lucky, maybe the northern lights will make an appearance?

Snowhotel Visit incl. Transfer

Enter a real life winter wonderland, all seasons of the year. While in Kirkenes you should absolutely visit the Snowhotel 365.

Snowmobile Hunting the Northern Lights

Learn how to drive a snowmobile with the chance of catching the magical Aurora sky dancing above

Hunting the Northern Lights by Bus

The Northern Lights is perhaps the most beautiful natural phenomenon you will ever have the opportunity of seeing, and Kirkenes is one of the best places to do so.

Note: All the organized outdoor activities in Kirkenes and Tromsø will provide you with warm clothes for the day (a thermal suit and warm boots), but it may be a good idea to bring winter clothes for the days you are not participating in activities.

Northern Lights Vacation in Tromsø

Tromsø has a lot to offer and how you choose to spend your days is up to you. The following is just an example of what 5 days in Tromsø could look like.

Day 1: Familiarize yourself with the city and see what it has to offer. Visit the Arctic Cathedral or take the Fjellheisen cable car to the top of Storsteinen Mountain and have lunch or dinner at Fjellstua Cafe. If you are at the top of the mountain in the evening you might even see Aurora – in any case you’ll get an amazing view of the city at 420 m above sea level.

Day 2 : Go on a silent whale watching safari. This tour has a 8 am departure in order to take advantage of the few hours of daylight Tromsø has during winter. On this trip you can enjoy the magnificent winter landscape as you look for the majestic humpback and killer whales. During the tour, you can buy something to drink and eat in the onboard restaurant. This tour lasts about 7 hours and you’ll return to the city at 3 pm. Season: The exact season varies year to year, but is usually between November and January.

Day 3: Start the day by checking out some of the spots you haven’t seen yet – maybe pay the Polar Museum a visit or go shopping in Storgata. In the evening you can go on a Northern Lights tour – choose between boat, bus, minibus or camp visit. There are also husky, snowmobile and reindeer tours with evening departures, opening up for the possibility to see the Green Diva should she decide to make an appearance. However, If seeing the Northern Lights is your main goal you might want to choose a tour where the main focus is finding the lights.

Season: November to March.

Day 4: Ice Domes and Reindeer Visit

Treat yourself to a guided tour of the magical winter wonderland Tromsø Ice Domes. A comfortable coach will depart from the city centre every day at 10.30 am and transport you to the beautiful Tamok Valley. This ice hotel – the Tromsø Ice Domes – is rebuilt every year for the winter season. The different sections of the hotel will have new ice carvings and art every time it’s built ensuring a new experience each year. There is also a small group of reindeer at the Tromsø Ice Domes you can pay a visit while you are there. During this tour you will get a light lunch and try a drink made from local berries. You can also buy hot and cold drinks at the Ice Domes.

Season: December 10 – March 31.

Day 5: Go on a husky or snowmobile morning tour . For these tours you will be picked up in Tromsø city centre at 9 or 11 am and transported to the Camp Tamok Wilderness Centre. You will get some safety instructions and guidelines before you get to drive your own team of huskies or your own snowmobile. After the adventure you will return to camp, and get a nice warm meal by the fire before returning to Tromsø in the afternoon.The total duration for these tours is 6-7 hours Season : 15. November – 31. March

Top 3 hotels in Tromsø

Thon Hotel Polar is a great choice in the mid-range price area. It’s situated just 100 m from Storgata, the main shopping street, Thon Hotel Polar offers comfortable rooms with flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and a large buffet breakfast

Scandic Ishavshotel is right by the quayside in Tromsø with a view of Tromsø Harbor. This hotel is a 4 minute walk from The Polar Museum and is in close proximity to everything the city has to offer. This hotel has previously won the award for the county's best hotel breakfast.

Clarion Hotel The Edge. If you are looking for a bit of a luxurious feel, Clarion Hotel The Edge is an excellent choice. This hotel is very central, located at the Tromsø Harbor, and features a sky bar and rooftop terrace on the 11th-floor overlooking the Arctic Cathedral.

Top 3 Restaurants in Tromsø

Bardus, Mathallen and Smak offer traditional Nordic food with a modern twist.

Burgr, “ the coolest burger place in town”, has loads of delicious burgers on the menu.

Pastafabrikken offers a huge selection of nice pasta dishes.

Northern Lights Vacation in Kirkenes

Kirkenes is a small city conveniently located in the Arctic circle. If you are here for five days you can have a relaxing vacation and have plenty of time to combine your Northern Lights holiday with several other authentic Northern Norwegian activities.

Here is an example of a 5 Day itinerary in Kirkenes:

Day 1: Chase the Northern Lights by snowmobile! On this trip you will get the chance to drive your own snowmobile into the Arctic wilderness to chase Aurora Borealis. Guided by an expert driver you will head into the remote, dark areas around Kirkenes to increase your chances of seeing the lights. Two people will share one snowmobile, one being the passenger and one being the driver – there are plenty of options to switch places along the way.

Day 2: Pay a visit to the Snowhotel Kirkenes 365! This magical winter kingdom is the first ice hotel to stay open all year round. The tour called Snowhotel Kirkenes 365 Visit is one of many options to see the hotel, and for this trip you will be picked up in Kirkenes at 09:30 or 13:00. Upon arrival you will get a two hour guided tour and hear all about Snowhotel 365 and the surrounding area. At the site there is a husky and reindeer park where you can visit over 180 huskies and puppies and watch the reindeer walk around peacefully. Season: All year

Day 3: Andersgrotta is Kirkenes ’ largest bomb shelter, built in 1941 and is one of the most significant historic attractions in Kirkenes. Here you learn about the life of civilians during world war II. A viewing of a documentary film based on archives and new recording is also included in this tour, allowing you to experience the atmosphere during wartime.

Season: All year

If you want to soak up another piece of Aurora, you can go on a Northern Lights husky tour in the evening. The tour will start at 9 pm at Snowhotel Kirkenes, Sandnesdalen, a transfer from Thon and Scandic hotels are included. Guided by a seasoned musher you will travel by dog sled far into the Arctic wilderness to search for the lights. The only sound you will hear as you go is the sound of the snow under the sledge, the dogs breathing, and the Arctic wind. Season: 1. December – 15. April

Day 4: Go on a King Crab safari! Kirkenes is known as the King Crab City! During winter you can go out on a snowmobile sled to the fjord ice to catch your own dinner. This trip starts from Snowhotel Kirkenes, and you will be picked up from the Thon and Scandic hotel at 9.30 in the morning. You will spend the day helping the crew pull the crab pots up from the Barents sea, before heading back to the Snowhotel Restaurant. Here you will have the chance to taste your freshly caught crab Northern Norwegian style – with bread, butter, mayonnaise and lemon. This crab is the biggest, freshest and most delicious shellfish you will ever taste.

Season: 01. December – 30. April.

Day 5: Try Ice Fishing! Ice fishing is another authentic Kirkenes experience picking you up from Kirkenes city centre at 1pm. A seasoned fisherman guide will drill a hole in the ice before you sink your line into the water and wait for the catch to bite. The most common catch is cod, but you might be able to catch other types of fish too. The tour lasts 3 hours, and once you (hopefully) have pulled the biggest catch on land, you will be transported back to your hotel in Kirkenes.

Season: 10. January – 30. April

Top 3 hotels in Kirkenes

Scandic Kirkenes – A nice and central hotel who previously won the award for the best breakfast in the county. This hotel has an ideal location and if you are going on a tour, a lot of them will include a transfer from this making things as easy as can be for you.

Thon Hotel Kirkenes – Thon Hotel Kirkenes is located on the shore of Bøkfjorden, about 5 minutes’ walk from Andersgrotta Museum, tne World War II bomb shelter. A lot of the tours include a transfer from this hotel, which is very practical.

Barents Hotel – This hotel is centrally located in the town of Kirkenes on Bøkfjorden. ​​Each of the rooms is simply decorated in bright or neutral tones and the guest lounge has a breakfast area for you to enjoy.

Top 3 Restaurants in Kirkenes

Snowhotel Kirkenes Restaurant (Låven) – Offers an authentic northern Norwegian menu in arctic surroundings.

Surf & Turf Restaurant – Serves anything from fish soup to steaks, pasta and whale.

Ritz – A pizza restaurant offering pizza, snacks and desserts.

Hot tip: if you want a unique start to your Arctic adventure, Snowhotel Kirkenes offers one of the most unique airport transfers in the world – by dog sled! If you are planning to visit the Kirkenes Snowhotel, a team of huskies could be waiting for you when you step off the plane. This transfer is available at various times during the winter season.

Want to know more? Read more Northern Lights Articles here

Northern lights tours in tromso.

12 min read

Northern Lights Cruise in Tromso, Norway

Best place to see northern lights in norway.

10 min read

Weekend Getaway in Tromsø

Just visiting for a weekend? Tromsø is a great place for a weekend getaway as you can take part in a lot of different things in just a few days.The city and nature are in close proximity to each other, making it possible to customize the weekend of your dreams.

The following is an example of what a weekend in Tromsø could look like.

Day 1: Get to know Tromsø. Walk around the city and do some shopping or sightseeing (The Arctic Cathedral and the Polar Museum are good choices) You can also take Fjellheisen up to the mountain ledge Storsteinen and enjoy a nice view of Tromsø city.

Day 2-3 If you are in Tromsø for just a couple of days, you may want to check out one of the Tromsø Northern Lights Packages. The Full Day Package let’s you spend an entire day at Camp Tamok and includes one morning activity and one afternoon activity of your choice. Choose between dog sledding, snowmobiling or reindeer sledding. For the afternoon activity you can also choose to go on the Northern Lights Visit activity. There are also overnight packages where you could spend the weekend doing an evening activity one day and a morning activity the next day before heading back home.The different packages are explained in more detail in the section “Northern Lights Package Tour in Tromsø”.

Weekend Getaway in Kirkenes

Going on an Arctic Adventure in Kirkenes? This is what a weekend in Kirkenes could look like.

Day 1: Go on a Northern Lights Chase by Husky ! If you want to combine an old Northern Norwegian tradition with an Aurora chase, this trip is the perfect choice. This tour has a 9 pm pick up from downtown Kirkenes and you will return around midnight. On this trip you will be escorted deep into the Arctic wilderness guided by an experienced guide as you chase the Green Diva. The huskies need no incentive to pull the sled – these dogs live and breathe to run! If you are lucky the Northern Lights will be dancing all evening.

Season 01. December – 15. April

Day 2: Visit the Kirkenes Snowhotel! Treat yourself to a visit and dinner in the winter kingdom. The Snowhotel Kirkenes 365 Visit & Dinne r tour includes a tour of the hotel and a 3 course dinner at Låven Restaurant. See the 14 stunning ice suites with different ice carvings and sculptures and have a drink in the ice bar. You also get to visit the husky and reindeer farm and greet and play with the dogs and puppies.

Day 3: Go on a morning snowmobile safari . This 2-hour adventure is a great and unforgettable experience allowing you to explore the magical landscape above the Arctic Circle. You can choose between three starting times: 9.30 am, 1 pm or 3 pm – transfer from and back to Kirkenes are all included.

If you are an adrenaline and action buff this is the perfect opportunity for an adventurous experience. Before turning the engine on, your guide will give you a practical demonstration and driving instructions. There will be two people per snowmobile – one as the driver and one as the passenger, with plenty of chances to switch places along the way.

Tailored Package Tour – Full Day Package in Tromsø

If you want to combine more than one adventure, you have the option to create your own tailored full day package. Upon booking you can choose your first activity starting at 09 am (you have your pick of dog sledding, reindeer sledding, snowmobiling or a combination tour including snowshoes, Tromsø Ice Domes and a reindeer herd visit. You will be picked up in Tromsø city centre in the morning and brought to the wilderness centre Camp Tamok, which is a 75 minute drive trom Tromsø.

This camp is the start and end point for a lot of activities during winter. When tailoring your package you also have the option to include a Tromsø Ice Domes visit for 200 NOK per person.

After the first activity you will relax at the camp (approximately from 2:30 – 6:30 pm) You will get a hot meal in a traditional North Norwegian setting around the open fire in a reindeer herder’s tent.

Your second activity starts at 6.30 pm. When booking the tour you choose between dog sledding, snowmobiling, reindeer sledding or Northern Lights Visit. Please note that the activities you can choose between are subject to availability on your chosen dates). When the activity is completed you will return to Tromsø – the aim is to be back in the city by midnight. Ready for a Northern Lights adventure in Norway? Book here.

Camp Tamok is our wilderness centre located in an area with optimal conditions for experiencing the Northern Lights. Although Camp Tamok is located only a 75-minute drive from downtown Tromsø, it is in a different and drier climate zone, with clear inland mountain weather. The dry climate generates many cloud-free night skies in winter, as well as during summer

Tailored Package Tour – Overnight stay 1 night/2 days

This overnight package includes an evening adventure, an overnight stay and a morning activity the following day. You will be picked up in the centre of Tromsø at 4.30 pm. From there you will be transported to Camp Tamok for your evening activity at 5 pm. On your first day you’ll choose between Northern Lights Visit, dog sledding, snowmobiling or reindeer sledding. After the activity you’ll spend the night at the accommodation of your choice; Aurora Chalet or Char Cabin.

The next morning you’ll enjoy a nice breakfast before you set off on your second adventure (dog sledding, snowmobiling or reindeer sledding) at 10.30 am. You will return to Tromsø around 4 pm. Book easily here .

Season: 15 November – 31 March

Norwegian Travel is a premium brand aiming to offer high-quality experience-based tourism in selected unique destinations in Norway. From the fjords to the mountains. From the sandy beaches to the rough cliffs. From urban buzz to the massive stillness of the old mountains. We wish to inspire people to explore the treasures to be found in Norway. At our destinations you can explore amazing nature, good food and exciting activities all year round.

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all inclusive northern lights trip.

Join our all-inclusive Northern Lights trips to maximize your chances of witnessing this spectacular natural phenomenon.

Small groups – Big experiences

Join our all-inclusive Northern Lights trips to maximise your chances of witnessing this spectacular natural phenomenon. We enjoy sharing our passion for the Northern Lights and will provide you with a unique and unforgettable adventure with a personal touch. What sets our trip apart from other Northern Lights trips is that we are two local guides on every trip. Nothing can beat local knowledge when it comes to finding the best spots to experience the Northern Lights. The season 2019/2020 is our 10th season of Northern Lights trips. This makes us one of the most experienced Northern Lights companies in Norway, and you will be in the best hands-on your adventure.

Exciting chase

Don’t worry about the weather in Tromsø. We usually find clear skies in the nearby areas by using the weather forecasts and a wide network of knowledgeable locals, other guides and our experience from many Northern lights seasons. If the skies are expected to be clear along the coast, we usually go there and enjoy the breathtaking fjord landscapes and the dramatic mountain peaks. If the weather is predicted to be cloudy on the coast, we normally drive further east since the weather conditions often are different along the borders of Finland and Sweden. Please bring your passport/ID-card in case we have to cross the border to Finland. As a rule, we don’t care about the length of the trip as long as there is a chance to find clear skies. Our local knowledge of the area, understanding of the weather conditions and patience really set us apart.

However, there will always be a few evenings every season when the whole area is covered by clouds. If we do not see any chance at all to find gaps in the clouds, we will cancel the trip. For us, it is important that we have a fair chance to see some Northern Lights when we take the trip. In case of a cancellation, you can choose to join another day or get a 100% refund. Please be available on your phone and email in case we have to reach you.

What to expect

Our Northern Lights trip is designed for those who like a real chase, which often involves travelling long distances and returning late. The reward is an excellent success rate in finding clear skies and experiencing the Northern Lights. Before we start the trip we give you a briefing about the plan for the evening and the latest weather forecasts. Then we start the drive to the area we expect will have the best conditions. Once we’ve found clear skies we will look for a scenic spot. We often change the location a couple of times during the evening to get different backgrounds. A dinner with local specialities will be served around a campfire, accompanied by hot drinks. We always bring a vegan option. During the trip, you will learn about the science, local myths and folklore around the Northern Lights. We will also tell you about the area, its history and wildlife.

Two local guides, a documentary about the Northern Lights, campfire, dinner, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, thermal suit, winter boots, shoe grips, socks, hat, gloves, hand warmers, foot warmers, tripod, headlamp and pictures from the trip.

Practical information

Discover the northern lights.

This tour is conducted by Explore the Arctic 

Getting there

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Coordinates

• Lattitude: 69.649205
• Longitude: 18.955324
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Northern Lights Tours in Norway

Seek the aurora borealis on these Norway northern lights tours. Whether you decide to travel by land or sea, the magnificent night’s sky above could be ablaze with nature’s finest light show. Your personal travel consultant will arrange a truly special Norway aurora trip for you.

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Northern Lights by Train and Cruise

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Countries Visited Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark

Best of Scandinavia & Iceland - Winter

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About Your Aurora Tour

Get ready to wrap up warm to enjoy one of our northern lights winter tours, during which you’ll discover Arctic Norway on your quest to seeing the thrilling northern lights. These packages are designed to give you an authentic Norway travel experience and get you in the right place at the right time to catch the auroras*. When you book an aurora tour with Nordic Visitor, you can expect:

• An authentic travel experience operated by an established and trusted agency • A dedicated travel consultant who will arrange your tour • All relevant bookings for your chosen package • A detailed online personal itinerary and all of your tickets emailed at least a month in advance • Handpicked accommodation for a comfortable stay • 24/7 phone support during your adventure for peace of mind

Nordic Visitor has made it as easy as possible to plan your tour. Start your journey by following these simple steps:

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

*The northern lights are a natural phenomenon so 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.

Book With Confidence

Trusted local travel experts

Nordic Visitor is a leading travel agency that has been creating tour packages to Norway since 2005. Our English-speaking travel experts have all lived and travelled in Norway and add their local knowledge to each itinerary. Whether you’re seeing the northern lights by cruise, or with a guide, choose our packages to create unforgettable memories.

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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 attentive team takes the hassle out of travelling, leaving you to experience the beauty of Norway without any of the worry. All of your accommodation, transport and activities are booked before you arrive and you’ll be sent a personalised itinerary, listing all of the fantastic attractions you’ll see, well in advance. As well as this, you will benefit from our tried and trusted network of hotels, guides and more

Customisable tour options

We want you to go home with amazing memories so we add as many stunning sights and hidden gems as your itinerary will allow. However, we appreciate everyone’s travel wishlist is different, so we’ll be delighted to help you customise your package with extra activities, extended stays and more.

You are in good hands

We strive to provide you with the very best service imaginable and we want to make sure you’re happy before, during and after your trip. This is why you’re assigned a dedicated travel consultant to ensure you’re well taken care of. Should anything arise during your travels, you won't be on your own. Our team will swiftly modify your itinerary as needed so you don’t miss a thing.

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.

OUR TOUR REVIEWS

Listen and read what our fantastic customers have to say about our northern lights tours.

Anne-Mari Finland

It was unforgettable in so many ways, highlights after highlights. We knew to expect a lot after our trip to Iceland... read more

It was unforgettable in so many ways, highlights after highlights. We knew to expect a lot after our trip to Iceland a couple of years ago, also organised by Nordic Visitor. Our expectations were exceeded and more. We saw northern lights three times, the food everywhere was excellent, experienced dog sledding in the moonlight and sleeping in the SnowHotel, and we saw a white reindeer! How lucky we are to have experienced all that. We have now returned home, happy and full of awe.

James Australia

Very well-organised tour and a great experience. Nordic Visitor were very professional and their experience was... read more

Very well-organised tour and a great experience. Nordic Visitor were very professional and their experience was evident in choosing the well-located and comfortable accommodation they selected for us. Best of all we got to see the northern lights!

Your Northern Lights Tour Highlights

Picture yourself in the wilds of Norway, listening to the sounds of nature whilst waiting for the elusive northern lights to flicker and dance in the sky above. Book our tours and soon you could...

• Join an aurora safari through the Tromsø countryside, and hunt the famed northern lights with an expert guide
• Taste traditional Norwegian delicacies in Kirkenes , such as the famed red king crab
• Wander through the picturesque fishing villages of the Lofoten Islands where you’ll see typical fisherman huts
• Visit the “Gateway to the Arctic” Tromsø , where you will learn to command a dog sled pack and ride a snowmobile
• Gaze in wonder at the startling natural beauty of Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, Sognefjord
• Board the charming Flåm Railway and leisurely ride through stunning wintry landscapes
• Stroll through Norway’s grand capital Oslo, and discover Bergen and its UNESCO World Heritage site Bryggen
• Watch local wildlife amongst the panoramic landscape of the North Cape , mainland Europe’s northernmost point
• Stay in the famous Kirkenes Snow Hotel , and sleep on a bed made of ice

Northern Lights Tour Advice

Read our insider tips to prepare for your trip. 

Northern Lights Guide

Learn about this fascinating natural light show and how to see it.

What to bring

Layers, layers, layers! Come prepared for all types of weather.

Time & Daylight

When to expect sunrises, sunsets, northern lights and the midnight sun

What’s the weather like in Norway? You just might be surprised.

Frequently Asked Questions About Northern Lights Tours

We know you may have some questions before you book, so we’ve answered the most important ones for you. You can also find more detailed answers and travel ideas in our Norway Travel Guide . Or, if you want to know more about our processes and payment details, check out our FAQ page .

1. Can I customise my tour package?

We appreciate that our customers have travel wishlists when they come to Norway, so we use our local knowledge to add in as many must-see attractions and hidden gem recommendations as we can into our packages. However, should you have any requests, we will do our best to arrange this for you!

You can add on days at either end of your trip to have more time to explore, or, if you have a particular activity or place in mind, please discuss it with your travel consultant who will try to build it into your itinerary.

2. When should I organise my flight tickets?

We advise that you book your package first to secure your tour and your preferred dates. It is useful to check potential flight times and prices, but be aware some airlines and flight booking websites raise their prices between visits, so remember to do research using Private or Incognito mode.

Once we confirm your tour by email, purchase your flights to make it all official. If you have missed out on flights, please get in touch with us to change your tour dates.

3. What causes the aurora borealis?

Norse Vikings believed that the northern lights were reflections of heavenly Valkyrie armour. Nowadays there’s a scientific explanation for them, of course.

Auroras appear when the sun blasts charged particles towards our planet. The particles collide with atoms in our upper atmosphere, which create bursts of glowing light. The movement, shapes, brightness and colours depend on the type of atoms involved as well as the pull of Earth’s magnetic forces and the intensity of the solar flares.

4. Where is the best place in Norway to view northern lights?

The best places to see the northern lights in Norway are inside the Arctic Circle, including Tromsø, Kirkenes and the Lofoten islands. Your chances increase depending when you visit, solar activity and your distance from city light pollution.

For a detailed guide on when and where to go, read our blog on the best places to see the northern lights in Norway .

5. When is the best time to see aurora borealis in Norway?

In Norway your chances of seeing the northern lights are greatest between September and April, with October through March being the best months.

To see the lights clearly you need a dark night sky, which means the summer months are largely ruled out. During this season, the sun may not set at all in northern areas of Norway due to a phenomenon called the midnight sun .

Peak time for seeing the northern lights is between 11pm and 2am, so make sure to stay up late! Northern lights ‘hunting’ tours will often leave late to ensure you have the best chances. If you’d rather stay warm in bed, some hotels in the countryside may offer a special "wake up" call if the lights come out.

6. Can you see the northern lights in May, June, July or August?

Sightings of the northern lights during the late spring and summer months are very rare. The reason for this is that while aurora activity is year round, the nights are not dark enough to view them clearly. We want you to have the best opportunity of seeing them in all their glory, so we recommend visiting in winter to increase your chances.

7. What months are the northern lights visible in Norway?

The lights at their most vivid during the months of:

Want to learn more? Read our blog on the northern lights in Norway .

8. What’s my best chance to see the northern lights?

By visiting Norway, you’ve already boosted your chances of witnessing the northern lights exponentially, as the closer you are to the Arctic Circle, the clearer the lights appear.

If you want to be in the middle of the northern lights’ famous show, then head north to further increase your chances! We also recommend getting away from the light pollution of cities and towns. When you’re hunting the aurora on one of our northern lights trips, remember to stay up late as the darker the night, the clearer the lights. Be patient and wait for this natural phenomenon to surprise you!

9. What to wear to see the northern lights?

Winter is the prime aurora-viewing season, with this in mind we recommend that you wrap up when searching for the northern lights. Bring and wear plenty of woolly layers and remember to have on gloves, hats and thick socks. In between viewing locations, keep warm in the brisk weather by taking a flask of a tasty hot drink with you.

Here's a quick list of the basics:

• Hat, gloves, scarf
• Thermal coat
• Insulated undergarments or long johns
• Sensible walking shoes or boots
• Woollen jumpers or fleeces

If you want more packing ideas, make sure to check out our handy guide .

10. How best to photograph northern lights?

We know that you’ll bring home amazing memories, but bringing home photos of the mesmerising (and elusive) northern lights would be the cherry on top to show all your friends and family. Here are our top photography tips for capturing the aurora:

• Bring a DSLR camera with manual focus and, if possible, a tripod and a remote trigger to avoid blurred images
• Pack extra batteries as freezing temperatures can deplete battery levels quickly
• Wear a headlamp or bring along a flashlight to see what you’re doing, even in the dark
• Turn off image stabilisation as when the lights move it can cause blurriness

Read our Norway northern lights guide for more expert aurora tips.

Do you have a question about our northern lights tours Whether you want to extend your stay in Oslo or add to your trip with a dog sledding session, we are here to help. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team today.

Our Scandinavian phone number is +46 8 666 23 30

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

Blog Articles

The best ice hotel in norway, how to see the northern lights: viewing tips, best time & place to see northern lights in norway, 10 things to do in norway in winter.

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

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Feedback - Northern lights tour : Dear Team Thanks a lot for a wonderful tour of Scandinavian countries which was specially designed to see the northern lights. We were lucky enough to see them on the first 2 days and few people saw it later too. The pre departure mails, zoom meetings, personal phone calls and messages were very helpful and made us feel at ease from the beginning. I am extremely grateful to Ms Reshma Butala for a detailed description about the tour, Ms Pradnya for visa related queries and the Veena World staff at Pune office for their constant support. Prashant Potdar, the tour manager was very good and looked after us very well. He ensured that everyone felt comfortable in the tour. The local and Indian food at all the places was very delicious. Wishing Veena World all the best for future tours. Best wishes Anita

Feedback : Most wonderful n Memorable tour with Veena world.Good hospitality as always from team Veena world.Our tour manager Mr.Prashant Potdar made this trip very enjoyable n easy with his important tips .we had a wonderful time.Thank you.

Journey to explore the Northern Lights with the Veena World group was the most wonderful experience in my entire life. I was accompanied by my son Siddhant who is just 10 years old and this was his first international experience. During the first day of our visit to Tromsø, we saw a glimpse of Northern Lights and we gathered at a campfire. On the second day while returning from the Reindeer ride, we saw a spectacular show of Aurora Borealis for almost 30 mins, everyone was thrilled and excited. The visit to Rovaniemi was cherry on ice-cream, such an unforgettable moment and life time experience, we experienced almost 3 hours of spectacular show of Northern Lights, visit to Santa Claus Village and Husky ride were the most joyful movements. The tour guide Prashant Potdar was so lovely and enthusiastic – he was giving clearcut instructions both in text and voice at whatsapp group. Helped to take a photo of Northern Lights at extreme cold. The group was full of charming people, just like a family member taking care of my son. The hotel stays and food was awesome, it was well organised and would recommend this to my friend circle. I felt that no matter the conditions, they'd help find the clear skies. Thank you guys so much - appreciate your efforts and good humour! Undoubtedly the best experience ever for me and my dear Siddhant. He enjoyed the snow a lot. Nilesh Parsekar

Dear, Journey to explore the Northern Lights with the Veena World group was the most wonderful experience in my entire life. I was accompanied by my son Siddhant who is just 10 years old and this was his first international experience. During the first day of our visit to Tromsø, we saw a glimpse of Northern Lights and we gathered at a campfire. On the second day while returning from the Reindeer ride, we saw a spectacular show of Aurora Borealis for almost 30 mins, everyone was thrilled and excited. The visit to Rovaniemi was cherry on ice-cream, such an unforgettable moment and life time experience, we experienced almost 3 hours of spectacular show of Northern Lights, visit to Santa Claus Village and Husky ride were the most joyful movements. The tour guide Prashant Potdar was so lovely and enthusiastic – he was giving clearcut instructions both in text and voice at whatsapp group. Helped to take a photo of Northern Lights at extreme cold. The group was full of charming people, just like a family member taking care of my son. The hotel stays and food was awesome, it was well organised and would recommend this to my friend circle. I felt that no matter the conditions, they'd help find the clear skies. Thank you guys so much - appreciate your efforts and good humour! Undoubtedly the best experience ever for me and my dear Siddhant. He enjoyed the snow a lot. Thanks, Nilesh Parsekar

Tour Includes

Key highlights.

Note: The highlights and sightseeing's may change depending on the departure date you choose.

Select departure city, dates & add guest to book your tour

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1. Select departure city & date

All departure date (1).

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• 5% GST is applicable on given tour price.
• Mentioned tour prices are Per Person for Indian Nationals only.
• TCS (5% or 10%) is applicable for international.

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• Tour Details

Tour Information

Need to know.

• Policy & Terms

Itinerary (Day Wise)

Tromso (2 nights).

‘Mumbai to Mumbai Tour’ guests will report at Chhatrapati Sivaji International Airport, Mumbai as per the scheduled flight departure time and proceed to Tromso – a major cultural hub above the Arctic Circle where nature and culture go hand in hand. Upon arrival, Veena World Tour Manager will guide all guests for airport formalities and proceed to the city. Joining and Leaving tour guests will join the group on their own at the designated place or hotel. Today evening we will enjoy a guided tour to experience the Northern lights. Note: As per the Schengen visa rule, we need to process your Schengen visa from the consulate of the country we’ll be entering first on our Europe tour or staying in for the maximum number of days. 'Joining & Leaving' guests will also have to get their visas processed from the consulate of the same country; otherwise, boarding might be denied by the airline, or even entry into that country can be banned.

Today we explore city of Tromso, we visit Polaria – an Arctic aquarium to see the interesting knowledge based exhibits, a panoramic cinema and feeding of the seals, Tromso University Museum – the oldest scientific institution in Northern-Norway, and the Polar Museum – known as Gateway to the Arctic here we discover exiting stories of risky arctic trapping and sea mammal hunting as well as courageous Polar explorers. In the evening we will experience the phenomenal magical lights famously known as Northern lights in the sky in different shades right from luminous green, often with a hint of pink along the edge, and occasionally with a deep violet centre. To enjoy these amazing phenomena we proceed to Risvika. Upon arrival we enjoy a Reindeer sledging ride and further proceed to the northern part of Kvaloya, which offers amazing chances of seeing the Northern Lights. Here we enjoy the guided tour which takes through the Sami Culture and their lifestyle. Sami camp is something to remember forever

• Breakfast , Lunch & Dinner
• Tea/coffee during Tromso city tour

Tromso – Harstad (1 Night)

Today we board the Cruise from Tromso and travel to Harstad - The cultural capital of the north, a region with unforgettable nature experiences, local food with excellent chefs, genuine shops, music festivals, an untouched archipelago and much more

Harstad – Narvik (1 Night)

Today we proceed to Narvik – an ideal winter holiday destination and a gateway to Arctic experiences. The exceptionally clear sky over this region gives perfect conditions for observing the northern lights. Today evening we visit Narvik Cable car station to experience Northern Lights, We take a beautiful cable car ride up to the station, and enjoy guided tour.

• Tea or Coffee during Harstad to Narvik journey

Narvik – Gällivare(1 Night)

Today we proceed to Gällivare– a small mining town in Swedish Lapland. En route we visit Kiruna – a small mining town in Swedish Lapland. Upon arrival we explore Kiruna town, we visit Jukkasjärvi church - the oldest preserved church in Swedish Lapland, known for its altar painting inspired by the Sami culture. Later we visit an Ice hotel - world’s first Ice Hotel and the famous `Absolut Ice Bar'. Ice hotel has been reincarnated in a new rendition every year for the last three decades, with brand new art to experience.

• Tea or Coffee during Narvik to Gallivare Journey

Gällivare– Rovaniemi – Kemi (2 Nights)

Today we proceed to Rovaniemi – an urban oasis amidst the Arctic wilderness, where culture, wild activities and fairy tales come together. Upon arrival we explore Rovaniemi city we see, Lappia House, Library and Town Hall – the most famous of architect Alvar Aalto’s works in Lapland. City Library of Rovaniemi was the first building to be completed, in 1966, followed by the Lappia House, functioning as a theatre and congress hall, in 1975 and the Town Hall, finished after Aalto’s death, in 1988. Together, these three buildings form a composition enclosing a spacious plaza, highlighting the individuality and purpose of each building. Further we see Arctic Center-Finland’s national institute for Arctic expertise. Later cross the Arctic Circle (66°31'N) to enter incomparable unspoiled Lapland and stop at the Santa Claus Village with a chance to meet Father Christmas himself. Further we proceed to Kemi- a town on Bothnian Bay in Lapland, Finland.

• Tea or Coffee during Gallivare to Rovaniemi

Kemi – Ranua Zoo – Kemi

Today we visit Ranua Zoo – specializes in arctic and northern animal species, with a history of almost 40 years.

Kemi – Helsinki (1 Night)

Today we fly to Helsinki - capital city of Finland and a vibrant seaside city. Upon arrival we explore Helsinki City, we see Modern Finlandia Hall- a dynamic, multipurpose venue located in the centre of Helsinki, City Hall- a central administrative building of Helsinki, Parliament House- the official location of the governing body of Finland, Presidential Palace- the official residence of the President, although today it is used primarily for presidential functions and receptions, the Monumental railroad station- one of the most visited and well-known site in the city. There are over two hundred thousand passengers that pass through this place every day, Lutheran Cathedral- the symbol of Helsinki. The church was originally built from 1830-1852 as a tribute to the Grand Duke of Finland, Olympic Stadium- built in 1938. Olympic Games were held here in 1952. Today it hosts both national and international sporting events and outdoor concerts, Sibelius monument- dedicated to the Finnish composer Jean Sibelius, the abstract monument resembles a soundwave made of clusters of organ pipes. The jagged monument consists of over 600 steel pipes, Market Square- the most famous market in Finland, it has been a centre of trade for hundreds of years. Even today, it still hosts some of Finland’s most well-known events and is a major shopping location for both locals and visitors.

• Soft drink during Helsinki city tour

Helsinki – Departure

It’s time now to say goodbye, Phir Milenge! Let’s stay in touch with each other through email, phone, WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, etc. and meet again on yet another memorable Veena World tour. See you all! ‘Mumbai to Mumbai’ tour guests will proceed to the airport as per their scheduled group flight departure time and start their journey back home. 'Joining & Leaving' tour guests will proceed on their own to their scheduled departure destination, like an airport, railway station, bus terminal, or cruise terminal. Tour concludes. Please note: Airline: On group tours, we generally fly well-reputed airlines that are group-friendly. During your air travel, refreshments and meals are provided as per the airline policy. However, we recommend you carry dry snacks of your choice for the flight journey. Transport: For transfers and sightseeing, we use mini coaches, big coaches, or small vans, depending on the respective tour group size. If you wish to have a separate vehicle solely for yourself or your family, it can be arranged at an additional cost, subject to availability. Sightseeing attraction: Given the current dynamic situation, some monuments or sightseeing places may be closed temporarily without any prior notice; in such cases, every attempt will be made to visit an alternate sightseeing place if possible. Hotels: The hotels on tour are comfortable and have been appreciated by Veena World’s guests in the past. The category of hotels on international tours is a mix of three-star, three-star superior, and basic four-star. Meals: On tour, we provide all meals, from day one to the last day, as mentioned in the itinerary. Breakfasts are generally continental on European tours, whereas, lunches and dinners are Indian OR Indian along with a local dish OR local cuisine, OR at times fast food meals from Subway, McDonald’s, etc., depending on the convenience and ease of execution of the itinerary or the availability of food at the respective destination. Visa: Veena World takes maximum tourists from India to Europe through group tours, customised holidays and corporate tours (MICE). Every month Veena World Visa Facilitation Team of 80+ members assists thousands of our guests for visa documentation, visa application and submission to VAC/VFS/ consulate, collection of passports from the VAC/VFS/ consulate on guest’s behalf when applicable.However, all guests should be aware of the fact that ‘issuance or granting of visa to any guest’ is at the sole discretion of respective country’s consulates/embassy. Veena World does not play any role in the actual granting of the visa. Veena World cannot be held responsible for delay or rejection of the visa by the respective consulate. In the rare event of a visa delay or rejection, cancellation charges will apply as per the policy. We request all our guests to start the visa application process well in advance or immediately after the tour booking.

Tour details

Best facilities with no added cost.

Departure & Arrival

Reporting point, dropping point.

Note: Flight details are tentative only. The airline, departure, arrival times and routing may change. Hotel details are tentative only. The hotel or place of accommodation may change.

Read this to prepare for your tour in the best way!

• To and fro economy class air travel for ‘Mumbai to Mumbai Tour’ guests as mentioned in the itinerary
• Airfare, Airport taxes and Visa Fees
• Baggage Allowance as per the airline policy
• Tour Manager Services throughout the tour
• Travel by comfortable A/C coach as per the tour itinerary
• Entrance fees of all sightseeing places to be visited from inside
• Accommodation in comfortable and convenient hotels on twin sharing basis
• All Meals – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (set menu) as mentioned in the itinerary
• All Tips – Guide, Driver & Restaurants
• Cost of internal airfare as mentioned in the itinerary
• Complimentary insurance up to 59 years of age
• Govt Tax of 5% over and above the Tour Cost mentioned
• TCS (5% or 10%)is applicable on GST inclusive price for international tour.
• Any increase in Airfare, Visa fees, Airport taxes, Govt Taxes, Fuel Surcharges and any applicability of new taxes from Govt
• Any up gradation in Airline class or hotel room category
• Cost of Air ticket deviation charges
• Any Increase in the rate of exchange leading to an increase in all land arrangements which may come in to effect prior to departure
• Cost of pre or post tour hotel accommodation
• Any extra expense such as route change, Airline change, Date change, Accommodation facilities, etc incurred due to the unforeseen, unavoidable forced majeuere circumstances during the tour
• Cost of insurance for 60 years and above
• Porterage, laundry, telephone charges, shopping, wines & alcoholic beverages, items of personal nature and food or drink which is not part of a set group menu
• Any extra cost incurred on behalf of an individual due to illness, accident, hospitalization, or any personal emergency
• Any services or activity charges other than those included in the group tour itinerary
• To and fro Air fare, Airport transfers, visa fees to join/leave the group for joining and leaving guests
• Anything specifically not mentioned in the ‘tour price includes’ column
• As everyone is becoming a frequent traveller now, we suggest that you make your own travel accessories kit to ensure a stress free holiday.
• Always make sure to carry less and light luggage, use a four wheel small or medium suitcase and please make sure that you are carrying only one suitcase per person. This will ensure that you will travel smartly and without any inconveniences.
• It is also recommended that you have one cross shoulder bag or haversack for your handy needs which will ensure that you are comfortable at the time of sightseeing and also easy for photography during your tour.
• A smart cap/hat and sunglasses are definitely something that you should have in your kit.
• Though Veena World provides all three meals, that is breakfast, lunch, dinner and Veena World treats as per the itinerary, you can carry dry snacks of your choice in small sealed packets for munching during air travel or road journeys.
• If you are travelling during the monsoon or to destinations where it is rainy, please carry a small umbrella or poncho.
• For international tours, please carry a universal adapter for charging your cameras and mobile phones.
• Ensure that your clothing and footwear is suitable for the destination you are travelling to.

Things to consider before the trip!

• For detailed Information about weather kindly visit www.accuweather.com

Air Travel:

• Mumbai - Tromso //Rovaniemi - Helsinki //Helsinki - Mumbai. We use combination of Airlines like Turkish Airline /Qatar Airways /Scandinavian Airways etc.

Coach Tavel

• A/C coach - Seating capacity depends upon group size

Documents Required for Travel

• Original passport with minimum 6 months validity from the date of tour arrival along with sufficient blank pages for the stamping of visa
• A valid Tourist Visa for the duration of the tour
• For all Schengen countries passport validity should not exceed more than 10 years
• Handwritten passport is not acceptable

Cancellation Policy & Payment Terms

We keep it transparent, crystal clear!

Payment Terms

Guest can pay by Cheque/ Demand Draft/ Debit card / Credit card/ NEFT/ RTGS/ IMPS. For Debit / Credit card payment additional 1.8 % convenience charge will be applicable Cheque / Demand draft should be in favour of "Veena Patil Hospitality Pvt ltd"

• All meals are provided by Veena World in case the flight reaches the stipulated destination early morning or leaves destination late in the evening.
• Standard Check-in and check-out time of International hotels is usually 1500hrs and 1200hrs respectively.
• Guests may please note that for Domestic flights or internal flights from one city to another city on international tours, the baggage allowance will be as per the respective airline baggage policy and weight regulations. Guests are requested to pack their belongings and carry luggage in accordance to the respective airlines baggage allowance. Excess baggage (if any) will be chargeable as per the airline policy and the same has to be borne by the guest.

Upgrades Available

Want luxury? Add luxury at minimum cost!

Need to upgrade to business or first class? Please get in touch with our team on 1800 22 7979 for more details.

You can select the prime seat(s) in your coach at an additional cost. Please get in touch with our team on 1800 22 7979 for more details.

Veena World tour reviews

What are you waiting for chalo bag bharo nikal pado.

"Feedback - Northern lights tour : Dear Team Thanks a lot for a wonderful tour of Scandinavian countries which was specially designed... Read more

"Feedback : Most wonderful n Memorable tour with Veena ... Read more

"Journey to explore the Northern Lights with the Veena World group was the most wonderful experience in my entire life. I was accompanie... Read more

"Dear, Journey to explore the Northern Lights with the Veena World group was the most wonderful experience in my entire life. I was acc... Read more

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Welcome to Lofoten Lights

Excursions & guided services - lofoten islands.

We’d like to help you share in our passion for this incredible show wich nature offers us. We’ll help you explore the history and culture of this amazing archipelago.

We want you feel the excitement of the lights , as their thousands of ever­changing colours draw your gaze heavenwards. All year round, we offer services of highest quality.

Our desire is to make our “travelling friends” find themselves completely at their ease with the strong arctic nature of Lofoten, independent of who they are, or what they are doing.

We can try with only words, even if they’ll never be enough, to describe what our eyes see every day…but we want, above all, even if only for a day, that YOUR eyes photograph this amazing land…and whatever type of excursion you do, we are sure that you will remember it forever.

Choose our best tours to visit the Lofoten Islands

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The magic of Lofoten

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CRUISE TOUR – departure from Svolvær harbour

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Special packages

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Tailor-Made Excursions

Unique lofoten experiences, tailor made to your particular interests and needs, ideal for:.

• Individual Travellers
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Winter & Summer Excursions

Fun excursions around lofoten islands all year-round.

• Midnight Sun Hiking
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Excursion & guiding service in Lofoten

Claudia Gasperini Maurizio Massaccesi

• Kirkegata 13, 8300 Svolvær
• +47 95 00 59 77
• +47 95 00 86 31
• [email protected]
• Lofotenlights

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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.

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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.

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Aurora Tracks See Northern Lights

Most Popular Tours to NORWAY Northern Lights (2024-2025)

If you’re planning to visit Norway, joining a tour is an easy and stress-free way to help you see the aurora borealis. In this guide, we share some of the most popular short and long tours to Norway northern lights that you can book for 2024-2025.

We know everyone has their own travel preferences and budget, so in this article we’ve brought together a variety of Norway northern lights tours. Whether you are looking for a short one-night excursion, or 3-4 day tour as part of your self-planned vacation, or a luxury tour package in Norway, there is likely to be something here for you.

Of course, this is not an exhaustive list, but it does represent the most popular northern lights in Norway tour options available today. After you’ve finished up here, make sure to have a look at our article on the best cruises for visiting Norway northern lights – aurora cruises are huge in Norway and there are plenty to choose from.

But for now, let’s dive into some of the most popular Northern Lights in Norway tour options.

One-Night Tours to Norway Northern Lights

In this section we bring together the most popular one-night tours to northern lights in Norway. Booking into a one-night Norway tour of northern lights is the cheapest way to enjoy an aurora tour, but also the riskiest as you are rolling your chances for seeing the aurora into one-night; if there is cloud cover, your tour experience may be a downer. Having said that, even if you don’t see the lights you will still have the opportunity to enjoy a trip into the Norwegian countryside, experience some local culture, food and drink, and chat with the locals.

Northern Lights Minibus Chase

• Where:  Tromsø, Norway
• Tour Provider:  Pukka Travels https://www.pukkatravels.com/
• More Information:   https://www.pukkatravels.com/product/t/en-us/tours/northern-lights-minibus-chase
• Duration:  6-8 hours
• Price:  Starting at $180

Discover the beauty and splendor of the aurora borealis, from Tromsø, the heart of Norway.

Tromsø is a popular destination for viewing the northern lights. Every year, thousands of people make their way to the country in order to hunt for the elusive lights. For those who visit Tromsø during the wintertime, the best way to go on a hunt for the auroras is by taking a minibus into the Norwegian countryside. This popular 6 to 8-hour tour starts and finishes at the Pukka base camp, which is located in the heart of the Tromsø city center.

Itinerary Overview

The 6 to 8-hour tour starts at the Pukka base camp where you will meet your English-speaking tour guide, and prepare for your trip out into the Norwegian countryside. Throughout the length of your trip, the guide will take photos of all of the guests, and send you copies of them free of charge within 72 hours of the trip. Towards the end of the hunt for the elusive lights, the tour guide will light up a campfire, where you will be able to sit back, relax, and enjoy a warm meal and hot chocolate.

What’s Included

• English speaking guide
• Hot chocolate, tea, and coffee
• Arctic suit and boots
• Camera tripod access
• Free trip photos
• Access to base camp

Why It’s Popular

Although there are many great ways to hunt for the elusive Northern lights, Pukka tours aim to make it a stress-free and enjoyable experience. Thanks to their experienced English-speaking tour guides, you will spend the evening wandering through the Norwegian countryside headed towards the best destinations for viewing the natural phenomenon. No trip would be complete without a campfire side meal and a warm drink. Come and experience Norway, the way it was meant to be seen.

Aurora Dinner Cruise

• Where:  Tromsø, Norway
• Tour Provider:  Chasing Lights https://chasinglights.com/
• More Information:   https://chasinglights.com/tour/aurora-dinner-cruise/
• Duration:  3-4 hours
• Price:  Starting at $165

There is nothing more magical than a dinner cruise into the pristine waters of the Tromsø fjords under the starlit Norwegian skies.

There are many different unique and interesting ways to view the northern lights, but nothing beats a world-class dinner under the stars. This popular Aurora dinner cruise departs from Tromsø and makes its way into the darkness of the local fjords to give you some of the most panoramic views of the aurora borealis. The electric-powered boat, silently sails through the pristine waters, as you sit back and enjoy a delectable meal made from the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. While you enjoy your meal, the captain of the ship will keep his eye out for the elusive lights, and inform everyone when they are visible.

The ship will pick up guests from the Skarven, which is located along the shores of Tromsø. From there, it will sail out into the local fjords where dinner will be served soon after. The English-speaking guides will provide you with information about the surrounding countryside and the myths, legends, and lore that make Norway truly unique. The silent, electric boat will sail along as you enjoy a wonderful meal under the starlit skies. All the while, you can rest assured that both the captain and the tour guides will keep their eyes open for the elusive northern lights.

• English-speaking tour guide
• Hunt for the northern lights
• Wonderful atmosphere
• Views of the surrounding fjords

For many, the ideal evening is dinner and a movie. What better movie, than a nature film showcasing the starlit skies and the pristine waters of the fjords around Tromsø? Create memories that will last a lifetime, as you enjoy a wonderful Scandinavian meal aboard an electric ship as it makes its way through fjords that were carved out of the land by centuries of glacial melt.

3-Night Tours to Norway Northern Lights

In this section we share a couple of popular 3 night tours of the Norwegian northern lights. Although pricier, they offer a more immersive experience and a better chance of seeing the lights than a one-night excursion. They are a great option if you want to include a short tour into your self-planned holiday, or want a short break from the UK or mainland Europe for a few days.

Autumn Aurora in Northern Norway

• Tour Provider:  Baltic Travel Company https://www.baltictravelcompany.com/  
• More Information:   https://www.baltictravelcompany.com/packages/autumn-aurora-in-northern-norway/
• Duration:  4 Days / 3 Nights
• Price:  Starting at $1,130

Departing from London UK, spend 3 nights enjoying the memorable Norwegian countryside surrounding the beautiful historic city of Tromsø.

Tromsø is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world who are seeking expeditions into the Arctic. The city is home to one of the largest universities in Norway, and it is nestled comfortably between the ancient fjords that were carved out by countless centuries of glacial melt. For those seeking to view the northern lights, Tromsø is the perfect destination to hunt for the natural phenomenon. This popular 4-day, 3-night tour of Tromsø, provides you with many opportunities to seek out the elusive lights.

After your arrival in Tromsø, you will be picked up at the airport and taken to the local hotel, where you are free to spend your first day and Norway exploring the historic city and look for the northern lights on your own. The following morning, you will be treated to breakfast in the hotel and will have the entire day to wander through the city to visit many of the popular destinations located within its borders. But you will want to be back to your hotel by nightfall because that is when the experienced guides show up to take you to some of the best locations surrounding Tromsø to view the northern lights.

On your third day in Tromsø, there are countless excursions to keep you busy. Not only can you go cycling along the Blue Harbor, but you can also take a cruise through the fjords, or go on a dog sledding adventure through the countryside. Sign up for a dinner cruise on your third night, before returning to the hotel for your final evening in Norway. After eating breakfast, you will still have some time to view several popular attractions around Tromsø before the shuttle takes you back to the airport.

• Return flight to London Gatwick
• Airport shuttles
• 3 nights’ accommodation
• Daily breakfast
• Northern lights chase

The huge drawcard for this tour is that it departs from London, and return flights are included. If you live in the UK and want a short break, that’s really tough to beat. Over the course of your 4 day stay, you will have plenty of opportunities to catch the northern lights as they shimmer through the Arctic skies. During the daytime, go on excursions through the countryside or even visit the reindeer farms on the outskirts of town. Considering all the inclusions, for the price tag, that’s great value.

Northern Lights & Arctic Resort

• Tour Provider:  Arctic Holiday https://www.arcticholiday.co.uk/
• More Information:   https://www.arcticholiday.co.uk/tours/northern-lights-arctic-resort/
• Price:  Starting at $1390

Stay in one of the most popular resorts in Tromsø, where you will have the opportunity to view the splendor of the Norwegian fjords and northern lights from the comfort of your room.

Over the course of your 3-night stay in Norway, you will have plenty of opportunities to hunt out and find the elusive auroras. Your first night will be spent in the historic city of Tromsø, which is also known as the gateway to the Arctic. From there, you will be transferred to one of the most popular Arctic resorts that is located within the picturesque Norwegian fjords. From there, not only will you have plenty of opportunities to view the northern lights, but you will find a number of excellent excursions into the Norwegian countryside.

After you arrive in Norway, you will be picked up by shuttle service and taken to a four-star hotel located in the heart of Tromsø. You’ll have the entire day to yourself, and even spend the evening exploring the historic city. If you want to see the area from above, a cable car will take you up to a popular local vantage point.

After enjoying a breakfast buffet, you’ll be transferred to a mountain resort that is located a mere 100 miles away from Tromsø. Here, you can enjoy local cuisines, or simply relax in the sauna, far away from the light pollution created by the city. On your first night in the resort, you will head out on a Norway northern lights chase, where you will have the opportunity to seek out the elusive lights in the arctic skies.

Spend the rest of your time choosing between a wide variety of available excursions including snowmobiling, dog sledding, reindeer sledding, and much more. You will be able to enjoy breakfast each morning and have ample time to hunt for the elusive lights at night time. On the day of your departure, you can enjoy a final breakfast before being transferred back to the airport in Tromsø for your flight home.

• Return flights from London airports
• 1-night stay in Tromsø
• 2-nights stay at Arctic resort
• Breakfast every morning
• 2 dinners at the resort
• Lots of activities
• Arctic gear

Spend most of your time at a beautiful Arctic resort, where there are plenty of excursions out into the surrounding Norwegian countryside, up through the mountains, and along the fjords. You will have opportunities to go on dog sledding adventures, and even learn all about the indigenous Sami. Don’t forget, that no trip to Tromsø would be complete without viewing the phantom lights, all from the comfort of a mountainside hot tub.

4-Night Tours to Norway Northern Lights

The following two tours are some of the more popular longer options for seeing the Northern Lights. They are also some of the more luxurious offerings, reflected in the higher price tag. As well as seeing the aurora borealis, they give travelers the opportunity to experience other aspects of the Norwegian landscape and activities such as dogsledding and skiing.

Chasing the Northern Lights in Norway

• Where:  Lofoten, Norway
• Tour Provider:  Agate Travel https://www.agatetravel.com/
• More Information:   https://www.agatetravel.com/norway/northern-light-trip.html
• Duration:  5 Days / 4 Nights
• Price:  Starting at $3,429

See Norway as you have never seen it before on this trip from Lofoten to Tromsø, including accommodations, plenty of food, and more excursions than you could ever dream of.

This popular chasing the northern lights tour starts off in Lofoten and heads to Tromsø via Svolvær. It is a private tour that is both flexible and customizable. You will have an English-speaking tour guide and driver throughout the entire length of the trip and stay in some of the best hotels in the region. You will even have a large selection of cuisines to choose from, including local as well as Western-style meals.

You will start your trip in Lofoten before being transferred to Svolvær. After you check into your hotel, you will find that there are plenty of things to do in and around the city. From the pristine blue seas to the crystal-clear skies and densely populated forest, there is a little bit of something for everyone in the surrounding Norwegian countryside. Don’t forget to get back to your hotel in time for your guided northern light tour. When you wake up the following morning, you’ll have breakfast in the hotel and have the entire day to yourself to explore all that Svolvær has to offer.

From Svolvær, you will fly all the way to Tromsø where you will be able to enjoy the aurora borealis even more. After arriving at the hotel in Tromsø, you will have the rest of the day to explore the historic Arctic city. Once the sun has set, it is time to meet up with the rest of the guests as you head out into the countryside to hunt for the elusive lights. The following day, you will be able to explore Tromsø and the surrounding countryside before heading over to Camp Tamok.

• Flights between Svolvær and Tromsø
• Accommodations
• Breakfast Each Morning
• Northern lights tour
• Dog Sledding Excursion
• Travel Guide

Enjoy everything that Norway has to offer, as you spend your first day in Svolvær before flying to Tromsø for the remainder of your trip. The flight between the cities is included in the price. You will be able to enjoy breakfast every single morning, and there will be plenty of other excellent meals included on your trip. During the daytime, take a sledding excursion into the Norwegian countryside, and at night go on hunts for the elusive natural phenomena.

Northern Lights Stay at Lyngen Lodge

• Where: Lyngen Alps, Norway
• Tour Provider:  50 Degrees North https://www.fiftydegreesnorth.com/
• More Information:   https://www.fiftydegreesnorth.com/eu/tour/northern-lights-stay-at-lyngen-lodge
• Price:  Starting at $3,850

Why spend your time in Norway in the historic town of Tromsø, when you can spend your trip in the majestic Lyngen Alps?

A mere 100 miles outside of Tromsø, is a traditional Norwegian Lodge situated within the Lyngen Alps. The Lodge itself is located along the shores of a fjord that was carved out by centuries of glacial melt. It is the perfect destination for those who want a little bit of peace and quiet as they relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Norwegian countryside. See the elusive Northern lights in style, as you relax in this beautiful timber lodge.

The moment you arrive in Tromsø, you will be transferred straight to the majestic Lyngen Lodge, which is nestled comfortably in a forest clearing along the shorelines of the ancient fjord. With the towering Lyngen Alps in the background, you will find that this destination is truly unique. After your arrival, you can spend the afternoon checking out the local sites, and even sign up for a number of different excursions. Don’t forget that dinner will be served at 7:30, after which there will be a northern lights presentation.

After enjoying your breakfast each morning, you can head out into the Norwegian countryside for any number of excellent activities. One of the most popular activities is to go dog sledding. You will be driven to the beautiful Reisa Valley, where you will meet up with a dogsledder, who will outfit you and prepare you for the exciting adventure. On the following day, head out onto a frozen lake on a snowmobile, or visit one of the many excellent vantage points in the Lygen Alps. If you are feeling really adventurous, you can even go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing into the wilderness.

• 3-4 nights in a wilderness lodge
• Room and board in the Lyngen Alps
• Breakfast lunch and dinner included
• Shuttles to and from the airport
• Northern lights excursions
• Many countryside excursions
• Sauna and Jacuzzi

A week in the Lygen Alps will provide anyone with ample opportunity to rest and relax along the shores of a majestic fjord, as they wait for nightfall. After the sun has set, and the stars begin to shine, stare up at the Arctic sky as you begin your hunt for the elusive lights. Situated far enough outside of Tromsø, there is very little light pollution that could interfere with such a memorable experience. Here, nestled along the edges of the majestic Lygen Alps, one can truly get closer to nature.

Final Thoughts on Norway Tour Northern Lights

This wraps up our list of the most popular tours to Norway northern lights, taking bookings in 2022-2023 and beyond. This is not a comprehensive list, but should give you a few ideas for great northern lights tours in Norway that you can explore further.

Tours are a great option for travelling if you don’t like spending the time to organize your own vacation, or feel apprehensive about booking an international trip in a foreign country. Tours also offer you the expertise of a professional guide and access to local ‘secret’ viewing spots, that you would not otherwise experience on a self-planned or self-drive holiday. For solo travellers, they also give you the opportunity to meet other like-minded travellers.

Another reason that you might like to join a tour is if you are worried about not speaking the local language. Throughout Norway this isn’t something you should be concerned about however. Learning English in school is mandatory for Norwegians, so most locals can speak English fluently. This includes workers in shops, restaurants, buses, taxis, hotels, attractions, and anyone walking down the street. So, if this is the main thing steering you towards booking a tour rather than doing a self-planned vacation, then it’s a fear that you can happily drop.

Having said that, there are many reasons apart from language for why you might want to book a tour as we’ve just discussed. So, whether you are looking for a fun one-evening aurora-spotting tour, or a longer luxury trip, then a northern lights in Norway tour is certainly something to consider. Now that you’ve seen these tour options, you might want to take a look at these Norway northern lights cruises as well.

Happy travels!

This article was first published 14 August 2022, and updated 18 January 2024.

Related posts:

• Best Cruise to Northern Lights NORWAY in 2024-2025 (Comparison Guide)
• Where are the Best Cruises to Northern Lights in EUROPE? [2024-2025]
• Your Guide to Northern Lights Hotels NORWAY
• Where to See Northern Lights NORWAY | Complete Guide

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This Northern Lights tour starts with a night in Oslo, then 3 nights in the Arctic town of Tromso before you return to Oslo. The tour includes 3 Northern Lights trips, Dog sledding & Arctic lunch at Emma's. You can add nights & activities in Tromso , such as Wilderness camp stay, Snow mobile, Whale safari, Reindeer sledge & Northern lights dinner cruise.

Independent/unescorted  trip with escorted activities, starting & finishing with overnight stays in Oslo or at an airport hotel at your choice. Duration 5 nights. 

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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.

15% 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 😉

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• Best time and places
• Camera gear
• Best settings
• Aurora composition
• Other tips and tricks

11 of the best things to do in Lapland

T he modern-day home of Santa Claus, a popular skiing destination and one of the best places to see the Northern Lights , Lapland is at the top of plenty of travellers’ wishlists for a reason.

Many who visit will stop by in the Finnish Lapland capital, Rovaniemi, take to the pistes in Levi or Yllas and save some time for classic activities like husky sledding or snowmobiling.

But this region, which extends through parts of Finland , Norway and Sweden , has a host of other wonders to explore, from vast hiking trails to cultural centres and unique accommodation options.

And although the winter wonders are well-documented here, the sometimes overlooked summer months provide amazing opportunities to see incredible scenery and enjoy outdoor activities, all while basking in the never-ending light of the midnight sun.

Whether you visit for Christmas or in the middle of summer, Lapland will provide an excellent variety of things to do. Below, we’ve collated a list of some of the best.

See the Northern Lights

This area of the Artic Circle is the best place in the world to see the Northern Lights , with towns and cities in all three countries providing a great chance of seeing the aurora if you stay for long enough.

In Norway, the city of Tromso and the more remote Lofoten Islands are the best place to go, while in Finland Saariselka is perhaps the most popular light-spotting destination (though they can be seen throughout, including in Levi, Inari and Rovaniemi).

The top bucket-list destination for seeing the Northern Lights would probably be Abisko, a small village in the north of Sweden. It is home to the Aurora Sky Station, sat at an impressive 900m above sea level, which is self-styled as the ‘best place in the world to see the Northern Lights ’ due to low precipitation rates and its location within the so-called ‘aurora oval’.

This area, surrounded by snow-capped hills and placid lakes, sees the aurora so often that the tourist board website confidently states that anyone staying for four or more nights between September and April is “almost certain” to see the Lights.

Read more on Europe travel :

• Best European holiday destinations to visit by train from London
• The best winter holiday destinations
• Europe’s best road trips to try in your lifetime

Visit Santa Claus

Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland – a city of around 60,000 people that is worth visiting for the excellent Arktikum Museum, which explores Lapland’s culture and history, and the plethora of classic Lapland-related activities such as Northern Lights excursions. One particular draw of Rovaniemi is the Santa Claus Village, the official home of the man himself.

If you’ve brought the kids along (and even if you haven’t), you’ll enjoy the magical setting of wooden, Alpine-style buildings adorned with twinkling lights and surrounded by deep snow. Kids can meet Santa Claus, visit his work stations and meet a range of Lappish wildlife, including reindeer and alpacas.

Unsurprisingly for a territory covered in snow, Lapland is home to a handful of popular ski resorts . The main ones are found in Finland , and include Yllas, Levi and Saariselka (most of which are offered as destinations by UK-based ski tour operators such as Crystal Ski and Inghams).

Skiing here is on fells rather than mountains, and overall is more low-key – and far more quiet – than the rest of Europe, with fewer pistes and parties than the Alps or the Dolomites. However, the near-guarantee of a blanket of deep snow, the incredible scenery and a range of activities away from the slopes make Lapland a popular skiing destination. It caters to different abilities too, being a great place for learners, while the presence of floodlit slopes and World Cup runs means more advanced skiers should still be happy enough.

Discover Sami culture in Inari

Inari is a large, remote region that lies around 40 miles from Saariselka, in the north of Finland. While renowned for its magnificent natural beauty, the beautiful Lake inari and a high likelihood of witnessing the Northern Lights (the town lies further north than aforementioned Abisko), it is mainly known as the capital of the indigenous culture of the Sami people.

In the village, Sajos is the people’s cultural and administrative centre, housing the Sami Parliament and promoting and preserving Sami culture, history and tradition. Though primarily for use by Sami people, visitors can attend guided tours that give a respectful introduction to Sami culture.

Husky or reindeer sledding

Husky sledding, reindeer sledding and visits to reindeer farms are all activities that can be done in the majority of Lappish destinations, and are often included in holiday packages if visiting at the right time (usually between November and March).

For reindeer visits and sledding, the obvious destination is Rovaniemi, home to plenty of Santa’s favourite animals and providing the perfect flat, snow-covered plains for an extended, fast-paced journey through the Lappish wilderness. For dog lovers, the town of Kiruna, around one hour south of Abisko, is the centre of husky sledding, where a vast frozen tundra and sections of pine forest provide the ideal terrain for a multi-day trip or a couple-of-hours excursion.

Stay in the Icehotel

Igloos, as well as other unique accommodation such as glass-ceilinged pods, are prevalent throughout Lapland, offering chances to see the Northern Lights and experience a once-in-a-lifetime overnight stay. But the most remarkable Lapland accommodation is Sweden’s Icehotel, located in Jukkasjarvi (around 20 minutes from husky sledding capital Kiruna).

Operating for just over three decades, this unique hotel is built anew every winter with ice blocks from the nearby Torne River, with each part providing captivating, fleeting beauty before melting in spring. The rooms, all individual and elaborately designed and carved by ice artists, provide a truly memorable stay in the Arctic wilderness.

Snowshoeing or snowmobiling

Snowshoeing and snowmobiling are another set of activities that are common in most popular Lappish destinations. Many places offer trips combined with Northern Lights tours for the ultimate evening snowmobile or snowshoe experience, but there are plenty of other ways to try out two of Lapland’s most sought-after activities.

Snowshoeing, essentially hiking using special boots to make walking in the snow easier, is popular around the fells and canyons of areas such as Inari and Kainuu, and in national parks like Urho Kekkonen and Salla. The same is true for snowmobiling – as any area of open plains, and many forest areas, are suitable, these excursions are popular from Rovaniemi and Inari to Pyha and Luosto.

Visit Norwegian Lapland

The Norwegian part of Lapland may be less thought of than its Finnish and Swedish counterparts, but this part of the country offers some of the most striking landscapes in all of Norway.

Tromso is the main city in the region, itself a popular Northern Lights spotting destination and a thriving destination that showcases Norwegian culture, history and tradition alongside dramatic fjord scenery and snow-capped mountains. The Lofoten Islands are the other oft-visited location, providing some of the most dramatic landscapes in Europe, with their rugged mountains, steep cliffs and serpentine fjords, as well as opportunities to see the aurora and the midnight sun while visiting the many charming fishing villages throughout the archipelago.

Explore a national park

There are a host of national parks in Lapland, but a few stand out for their raw natural beauty, extensive wilderness areas and opportunities for much-loved activities like hiking, ice fishing and snowmobiling.

Some 95 per cent of Sweden’s national park area is found in Swedish Lapland. The Abisko park is most renowned due to its Northern Lights activity, though Unesco-listed Laponia boasts high mountains, primeval forests, vast marshes, beautiful lakes and well-preserved river systems that showcase ongoing geological processes and the ancestral Sami way of life.

Lapland’s most-visited national parks are concentrated in Finland. Urho Kekkonen, Pyha-Luosto and Pallas-Yllastunturi are three of the most popular, replete with snowy hiking trails, dense areas of forest, towering fells and a palpable sense of remoteness.

Discover the region in summer

While the default choice for many coming to Lapland would be to visit for the snowy conditions, the warmer months hold many highlights that are hidden in the winter weather. The midnight sun is perhaps the most striking phenomenon during the summer, with parts of Lapland seeing 24 hours of sunlight from May to August.

Archipelagos like Lulea and Lofoten offer vast spaces for kayaking alongside otters and even whales, while beaches like that at Lake Livojarvi become the epicentre of Lappish leisure in summer.

There are hundreds of miles of hiking trails to explore too, with one of the most famed being the 270-mile Kungsleden trail that runs through the highlights of the Swedish wilderness, taking walkers across rivers, valleys, lakes and the highest peak in the country. In Finland, the Karhunkierros is a legendary 50-mile route through the Oulanka national park, while there are dozens of shorter hikes too, such as the popular five mile route up and down Saana fell.

Drive Sweden’s Wilderness Road

Known in Swedish as the Vildmarksvagen, the 230-mile Wilderness Road is one of Lapland’s longest and loneliest stretches. It runs between the towns of Stromsund and Vilhelmina, and is best driven between June and October, before the snow begins to cover the majority (and leave you even more at the mercy of the elements).

This route contains some of the most striking scenery in Lapland, from the peaks of the Marsfjallen mountains and waterfalls like Hallingsafallet, to sections of undisturbed birch forest and even Sweden’s longest canyon. The area is sparsely populated and home to few accommodation options or petrol stations, so be sure to plan ahead. And look out for Sweden’s largest bear population, who call this region their home.

Read our reviews of the best hotels in Europe

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