Tromsø: Northern Lights Aurora Tour with Bonfire & Portrait

Summary

Northern lights chase from tromsø with bonfire warmth and stories

You’ll step out under Arctic skies near Tromsø, wrapped in a thermal suit as your guide chases clear views across Norway and Finland. Warm up by a bonfire with cinnamon cake and hot chocolate while waiting for the northern lights to appear—and leave with an aurora portrait as proof you were really there.

What’s the experience like?

You know that weird silence when snow absorbs every sound? That’s what hit me first when we stopped somewhere outside Tromsø, headlights off, just the crunch of boots and a soft “here we are” from our guide, Li. He handed out these thick thermal suits—honestly, I looked like a blue marshmallow—and we shuffled into the dark. The air smelled sharp, almost metallic, and my breath made little clouds in front of my face. I kept glancing up, half-expecting the aurora to just switch on like a lamp.

We drove for ages—I lost track after Li mentioned we’d probably cross into Finland if the weather wasn’t right. He kept checking his phone for cloud maps and muttering in Norwegian (or maybe Finnish? I never asked). When we finally parked again, he set up a little bonfire. There was this cinnamon cake—sweet but not too sweet—and hot chocolate that steamed in my hands. Someone tried to roast marshmallows but dropped one straight into the fire; everyone laughed, even Li. He told us about old Sami beliefs around the aurora—apparently whistling at it is bad luck. I almost did it by accident.

The northern lights didn’t appear right away. We waited, toes numb, faces tilted upward. It was quiet except for someone’s camera clicking and Li’s low voice explaining how to set up night mode on our phones (I still messed it up). When the green ribbons finally showed up—slow at first, then brighter—it felt unreal. Not loud or dramatic, just sort of drifting overhead while we all stood there open-mouthed. Li took our aurora portraits; mine looks awkward but honest, cheeks red from cold.

I still think about that moment—the cold biting my nose, everyone whispering so they wouldn’t scare off the lights (as if you could). If you’re looking for some big show or perfect photos…well, nature does what it wants out here. But honestly? That’s kind of why I loved it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Aurora tour around Tromsø area

• Meet at the meeting point
• Travel up to 300 km around Tromsø
• Go to best aurora viewing spot
• Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies
• Set up bonfire if weather allows
• Roast marshmallows on bonfire
• Listen to aurora stories and facts
• Receive your aurora portrait

Top questions

How far do you travel on this northern lights tour?

The tour covers up to 350 km around Tromsø and can extend into Swedish or Finnish territories depending on conditions.

Is pickup included for this Aurora tour?

Yes, pickup is included at a meeting point before heading out of Tromsø city lights.

What food or drinks are served during the tour?

You’ll get hot chocolate with local traditional cinnamon cake and can roast marshmallows on a bonfire if weather allows.

Do I need special clothing for the northern lights tour?

No need to worry—thermal suits are provided to keep you warm during your Aurora hunt.

Can I take good photos of the northern lights?

Your guide will help set up your phone or camera for night shots; plus you get an Aurora portrait included.

Is this suitable for solo travelers?

Yes, solo travelers are welcome and there are offers available—just ask when booking.

Will I hear stories or facts about the Aurora?

Your guide shares facts, traditions, beliefs and superstitions about the northern lights during the wait.

What happens if there’s bad weather?

The guide checks weather conditions constantly and may drive deep into Finland or Sweden to find clear skies.

What’s included

Your evening includes pickup from Tromsø’s meeting point, transport in an air-conditioned vehicle across Norway (and possibly into Finland), use of thermal suits so you stay warm outside, hot chocolate with local cinnamon cake plus marshmallows roasted over a bonfire if weather allows—and your own Aurora portrait along with help setting up your camera or phone for those tricky night shots before heading back late at night.