Best Northern Lights Activities in Tromsø
What trip to Scandinavia would be complete without the breathtaking vibrant colours of the Northern Lights? If you’re travelling to Norway’s fabled city of Tromsø this winter, don’t miss our pick of the area’s best Northern Lights excursions!
For thousands of years, the mystical dancing colours of the Northern Lights have been at the heart of myths, legends, and spiritual beliefs for countries situated in the Northern Hemisphere. With spectacular swirls of green, red, blue, and purple gracing the skies from late September to early April and a peak viewing period from November to February, it's not hard to imagine why. We remain enchanted by the captivating colours of the Aurora Borealis to this day! Due to its location in the Aurora Oval and proximity to the Arctic Circle, the famed city of Tromsø and its surroundings are among the most amazing places in the world to observe the Northern Lights. Read on for the best Northern Lights activities in Tromsø!
Minivan Northern Lights Chase from Tromsø
This hunt for the Northern Lights in Tromsø begins in the centre of the city, where you’ll be picked up by your experienced guide. Following the Aurora Borealis forecasts for the evening, this tour is truly a chase and may take you as far as the Finnish border (don’t forget your passport just in case). Stopping at several remote locations for the best photo-taking and nature experience, you’ll have ample time to soak in the glory of the Northern Lights in Tromsø! However, our favourite part of this activity is the relaxing outdoor bonfire with hot drinks and snacks. As you warm up around the fire, your guide will share fascinating facts about the Northern Lights. An excellent way to end this Northern Lights hunt!
Hot Tip - While thermal suits and winter boots are provided it's better to be safe than sorry and bundle up in warm layers of clothing for the cold Arctic night temperatures. In addition, tripods are subject to availability but it never hurts to ask! Vegetarians, please make sure to indicate your dietary requirements when booking.
Reindeer Sledding Excursion under the Northern Lights in Tromsø
This immersive outdoor Aurora Borealis experience takes you outside of the bustling city of Tromsø to the picturesque Tamok Valley and a traditional Sami reindeer farm where friendly and knowledgeable guides are waiting to welcome you. Once you’ve geared up in thermal overalls, you’ll set out on a serene reindeer sledding tour under the Northern Lights. In addition, you’ll have a chance to feed and pet the reindeer afterwards, an animal lovers’ dream! But what makes this one of the best Northern Lights activities in Tromsø is learning about the rich cultural heritage of the Sami people (the Indigenous peoples of Norway and Lapland) in a warm Sami hut while being served traditional delicacies. Educational, fun, tranquil, and unforgettable!
Hot Tip - This Northern Lights activity in Tromsø is family-friendly and welcomes explorers ages 4 and up. Also, the transfer from Tromsø to the reindeer farm is 90 minutes (one way). Bringing snacks and water is always a good idea.
Northern Lights Dinner Cruise from Tromsø
What sounds more enchanting than an evening cruise in Norway’s scenic fjords coupled with a delicious 3-course Arctic tapas meal under the backdrop of the awe-inspiring Northern Lights? Another one of the Northern Lights activities in Tromsø that has it all! Departing from Tromsø city centre, this 3-4-hour cruise takes place onboard a fully modernised and comfortable electric boat. As you silently glide through the waters of the Arctic with an experienced Captain at the helm, you’ll be treated to traditional Norwegian gastronomy with a contemporary twist. As you dine, the hosts share entertaining facts about Tromsø, its culture and the importance of its fishing industry, which further adds to the overall delightful experience.
Hot Tip - A wide selection of alcoholic beverages are available for purchase onboard at an additional cost.
Overnight Northern Lights and Whale Watching Cruise from Tromsø
Last on our list of the best Northern Lights activities in Tromsø is this overnight Northern Lights and whale watching cruise. If you liked the concept of the last Northern Lights activity in Tromsø we listed, you’ll fall absolutely head over heels for this one! This overnight Northern Lights and whale-watching cruise is the ultimate Arctic adventure combining traditional Norwegian cuisine on a comfortable vessel with a chance to see the Aurora Borealis far from city lights in addition to a cosy night’s stay in a warm cabin. However, the whale-watching tour the following day rivals the Northern Lights, dare we say. After a delicious lunch, you’ll suit up and hop into a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) for an excursion to remember as your Captain takes you to the best places to spot whales in the region. Don’t forget your camera, witnessing and capturing these incredible creatures on film is a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Hot Tip - This excursion welcomes Arctic explorers ages 12 and up. Also, passengers have 24-hour access to the ship’s deck, perfect for spending a special moment with your loved one under the Northern Lights!
An almost otherworldly sight to behold, taking in the grandeur of the Aurora Borealis in Scandinavia is an extraordinary and unforgettable experience. When travelling to Norway’s beautiful city of Tromsø, maximise your Northern Lights viewing by joining professional Aurora guides and setting out into the Arctic wilderness on an adventure to remember!
Can’t get enough of Tromsø? Our articles on the Best Family-friendly Activities in Tromsø and our Sami Culture and the History of Tromsø may pique your interest.