Tromso: Northern Lights Hunt with Bonfire & Photos

Summary

Chasing the aurora near Tromso with hot soup and wild stories

You’ll feel the cold bite of Arctic air as you chase northern lights outside Tromso, warmed by local soup and laughter around a crackling bonfire. With an experienced guide handling all logistics (even if it means crossing into Finland), you’ll get pro photos under the aurora plus help with your own camera. Expect real wilderness—and maybe a story or two you’ll remember later.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the crunch of snow under my boots when we stepped out of the van — not that soft powder you see in movies, but this crisp, squeaky stuff that almost echoed in the dark. Our guide, Marius, handed out these huge thermal suits (honestly, I felt like a blueberry), and then started checking the sky with this quiet intensity. He kept muttering about “clear patches over Finland,” which sounded like a joke until he actually pointed us toward the border. You could smell woodsmoke already — someone was getting the campfire going before we’d even found the lights.

I didn’t expect to drive so far from Tromso, but apparently that’s part of any real northern lights hunt. We passed maybe two other cars in hours — just endless black and a weirdly comforting silence broken by Marius telling us stories about Lady Aurora and how she sometimes hides behind clouds just to mess with guides. There was this moment when we all stood around the fire eating marshmallows (mine caught fire instantly) and sipping hot chocolate, and suddenly someone gasped — there it was: a green ribbon curling across the sky. Not as bright as postcards make it look, but real enough to make everyone go quiet for a minute.

Marius took photos for us — he knew exactly where to stand so you didn’t look like a frozen penguin in front of the aurora (though I still did). He also helped me fiddle with my phone settings; I’m hopeless with night shots. The soup they served was surprisingly good — something local from Tromso, thick and peppery enough to warm your hands through gloves. It’s funny what sticks: I still think about that taste every time I smell woodsmoke now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Northern Lights chase around Tromso

• Receive thermal suit
• Drive up to 200km around Tromso
• Travel towards Finland if needed
• Search for clear sky spots
• Observe northern lights
• Enjoy campfire with marshmallows
• Drink hot chocolate
• Try local arctic expedition soup
• Listen to northern stories and legends
• Receive photos of the adventure
• Get help with camera settings

Top questions

How far do you travel from Tromso to see the northern lights?

The tour can cover up to 200km around Tromso and may even cross into Finland if needed for better viewing conditions.

Is hotel pickup included in this Tromso northern lights hunt?

The tour includes hotel drop-off within central Tromso; check pickup details when booking.

What food is served during the northern lights tour?

You’ll get warm soup made in Tromso (vegan option available), plus marshmallows and hot chocolate by the campfire.

Are thermal suits provided for cold weather?

Yes, thermal suits are provided to keep you warm during the night outdoors.

Will I get professional photos of myself with the aurora?

Yes, professional photos are included—your guide takes them and helps with your own camera or smartphone too.

Can children join this northern lights chase?

The minimum age is 12 years old; children must be accompanied by an adult.

Are there toilets available during the tour?

Access to toilets is very limited or sometimes impossible in Norwegian wilderness—use facilities before departure.

Do I need my passport for this tour?

A valid passport is required since you may travel into Finland depending on weather conditions.

What’s included

Your evening includes hotel drop-off in central Tromso after chasing northern lights up to 200km away (sometimes into Finland), guided by an expert who shares stories and legends along the way. You’ll get thermal suits for warmth, hearty local soup (with vegan options), hot chocolate, marshmallows roasted at a wilderness campfire, plus professional aurora photos sent afterward—and help with your own camera if needed.