Tromso: Northern Lights Minivan Tour, Camera Tips & Warm Gear

Summary

Northern Lights chase in Tromso with photo tips and warm gear

You’ll join a small group in Tromso for a northern lights chase by minivan, guided by a local who knows where to find clear skies — even if it means crossing into Finland. You’ll get help with your camera settings, bundle up in warm gear, sip hot drinks while you wait, and maybe catch yourself holding your breath when those first green lights appear overhead.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the sound — boots crunching on icy gravel outside the Radisson Blu in Tromso, and then this nervous little laugh from someone else in our group as we shuffled into the office for our minivan northern lights excursion. Our guide, Erik, was already waiting inside, fiddling with a tripod. He showed us how to set up our cameras for aurora shots (I nearly gave up after three buttons), but he was patient. The smell of coffee was stronger than I expected — maybe nerves made it sharper.

We bundled into thick overalls and boots (honestly, I looked ridiculous but everyone did) and piled into the minivan — just eight of us. Erik checked his phone for weather updates again before driving out of Tromso. He said sometimes they even go as far as Finland if the sky’s clearer there, which sounded wild but also reassuring. The drive itself was quiet except for occasional bursts of chatter; someone tried to guess what color the lights would be tonight. We stopped once so Erik could check the sky — nothing yet, just cold air and that clean snow smell.

When we finally parked near Sommaroy, it was dark enough that my breath felt louder than usual. We waited with mugs of hot tea and muffins (blueberry? I think so). Then suddenly Erik pointed up — there she was: green ribbons starting to swirl above us. It wasn’t dramatic at first; more like something waking up slowly. My hands shook trying to get a photo but Erik helped steady my camera. I still think about that moment when everything went quiet except for a few gasps from our group — nobody cared about perfect pictures anymore.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Northern Lights chase from Tromso

• Meet at Radisson Blu Hotel at 7 pm
• Walk to office for photography tips
• Receive warm overalls and boots
• Drive to best clear sky area
• Wait with coffee and muffins if needed
• Enjoy Northern Lights viewing
• Drive back after 6 hours

Top questions

How many people are in each minivan on this northern lights tour?

Each minivan has 8 guests; up to 4 minivans may run on busy nights.

Where does the tour pick up guests in Tromso?

Pickup is outside the main entrance of the Radisson Blu Hotel in Tromso.

Is warm clothing provided for the northern lights excursion?

Yes, warm overalls and boots are included for all participants.

Do I need my own camera for aurora photos?

No — guides help with your camera or take photos for you and send them by email.

Are snacks or drinks included during the trip?

Coffee, tea, and muffins are provided while you wait for the northern lights.

How long does this Tromso northern lights tour last?

The excursion lasts about 6 hours total each night.

Will we always see the northern lights on this tour?

Sightings depend on weather; guides choose locations nightly for best chances but sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes — it’s easy level and suitable for most travelers unless you have poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your evening includes pickup at Radisson Blu Hotel in Tromso, guidance on night photography settings (even if you don’t have your own camera), warm overalls and boots to borrow, a small-group ride by minivan chasing clear skies (sometimes as far as Finland), plus coffee, tea, muffins while you wait under the stars — and photos sent straight to your email after.