Fairbanks: Northern Lights Aurora Tour with Free Photography

Summary

Fairbanks aurora tour with photos, snacks & flexible chasing

You’ll chase the northern lights from Fairbanks with a guide who knows all the best spots (and backroads). There’s plenty of warmth in the van, snacks to keep you going, and free professional photos so you don’t have to stress about missing anything. Expect some waiting, laughter, maybe a bit of cold — but also those sudden bursts of color that stick in your memory.

What’s the experience like?

“Is that it?” I remember whispering, half-shivering in the van outside Fairbanks. Our guide, Alexei, just grinned and pointed up — not saying much at first, which made me nervous (and honestly, I was doubting myself). But then this pale green ribbon started to flicker across the sky. It didn’t look real at first. The air was sharp and clean — you could almost taste the cold. Someone behind me gasped so loud we all laughed. That’s when Alexei started setting up his tripod for the free photography (he moves fast when the lights show up). I tried taking a photo with my phone but… well, let’s just say I’m glad he was there.

The van was warm inside — thank god for that heater — and we had snacks stashed everywhere (I think I ate three granola bars before midnight). Alexei kept checking his weather app and muttering about “chasing” the aurora; sometimes we’d drive out further if he thought the lights would be stronger somewhere else. He knew all these little backroads outside Fairbanks where it got so quiet you could hear your own boots crunching on the snow. At one stop, someone tried to say “aurora borealis” in Russian and Alexei nearly choked on his tea laughing.

I didn’t expect how much waiting is part of an aurora tour from Fairbanks — hours can go by with nothing but stars overhead. But then suddenly everything changes: green turns to purple or red for a second, and you’re just standing there with your mouth open like an idiot. The photos he took are still on my fridge. Sometimes I still think about that silence out there — not really empty, just kind of full in its own way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Northern Lights viewing and photography

• Drive to best aurora locations
• Observe changing Northern Lights colors
• Enjoy free photography service
• Have snacks and drinks provided

Top questions

How long does the Northern Lights Aurora Tour from Fairbanks last?

The exact duration varies depending on aurora activity and location; tours adapt timing to maximize chances of seeing the lights.

Are snacks and drinks included during the aurora tour?

Yes, snacks and water are included throughout the trip.

Is pickup included for this Fairbanks aurora tour?

The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle; check with operator for specific pickup details.

Do I need special equipment to photograph the northern lights?

No special equipment is needed; complimentary photography is provided by your guide.

Can infants or people with limited mobility join this tour?

The tour offers specialized infant seats and is suitable for all physical fitness levels.

Are service animals allowed on this northern lights tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What’s included

Your night includes rides in a heated vehicle from Fairbanks (with stops wherever conditions look best), complimentary photography so you can focus on watching instead of fiddling with settings, plus plenty of snacks and water along the way before heading back late at night.