Northern Lights Big Bus Chase with Free Photos
Traveler rating
4.8/5
Based on 185 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Northern Lights Big Bus Chase with Free Photos worth booking?
Northern Lights Big Bus Chase with Free Photos is a 7-hour experience in Tromso, Norway, from $1100 per person. It scores 83 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 185 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 83 / 100
- Rating
- 4.8/5 (185)
- Duration
- 7 hours
- From
- $1100 per person
The Ultimate Aurora Experience – Comfort, Adventure, and Free Photos Join the Northern Lights Big Bus Tour – Tromso’s best-value aurora experience, trusted by over 60,000 guests since 2012. With Arctic Explorers, you’re
What you get
- On-board WiFi
- Pictures sent to you, free of charge
- On-board restrooms
- Snacks
- Warm drinks
About this experience
The Ultimate Aurora Experience – Comfort, Adventure, and Free Photos Join the Northern Lights Big Bus Tour – Tromso’s best-value aurora experience, trusted by over 60,000 guests since 2012. With Arctic Explorers, you’re guided by real aurora experts and passionate photographers. Our spacious, heated big bus offers onboard WiFi and toilets, ensuring a warm and comfortable ride even on the longest chases. We assign 1–2 experienced guides with cameras, capturing amazing photos of you under the auroras – completely free. Tours last 7–9 hours, and we often drive deep into the wilderness, even into Finland or Sweden, to find clear skies. We never give up early – this is a real chase. Avoid booking early morning tours the next day, as we may return as late as 02:30 AM. ✔️ Ideal for families, friends, and first-time aurora hunters ✔️ Includes free portraits – no hidden fees ✔️ Big bus = lower price per guest ✔️ Arctic passion and personal service from Tromso’s aurora pioneers
What's included
Included
- On-board WiFi
- Pictures sent to you, free of charge
- On-board restrooms
- Snacks
- Warm drinks
Not included
- Dinner
- Warm clothes
- Tripod
What you'll see and do
Troms
Our professional guides will meet you outside the bus, and together you will search for the breathtaking northern lights in the Tromso area
500 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Tromso
At the harbor in front of Fiskekompaniet fish restaurant (big glass windows), Killengreens gate 6, 9008 Tromsø, just next to the Clarion Collection Hotel Aurora.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
At the harbor in front of Fiskekompaniet fish restaurant (big glass windows), Killengreens gate 6, 9008 Tromsø, just next to the Clarion Collection Hotel Aurora.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Arctic Explorers
Know before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 185 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Photo opportunities
5 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Value for money
3 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Organization
2 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Traveler reviews
185 verified traveler reviews for Northern Lights Big Bus Chase with Free Photos. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Magical night of aurora
Booked the big bus tour (directly) because there was a bathroom on board and felt it might be more comfortable for a long night tour than a small bus/van. Met at the designated meeting spot, where they called out names and directed you to the bus. The aurora was already starting as we were leaving. There was one family that was very late and the driver was nice enough to accommodate a pickup location across the bridge just for them, but it delayed the start time (don't be those people!). We drove less than an hour before the guide decided it was a good time to pull over because the aurora was getting stronger. They managed to find a pull off where we had an hour of pure magic. I took so many photos, as did the 2 photographers (I paid extra for their photos, and they provided the link after they uploaded them to Dropbox). They took pictures of just aurora and people with aurora in the background. People went inside the bus when they got too cold, but we were geared up well and stayed out until the guide was ready to move on to the final destination. We went all the way out to Skibotndissa (about 1 hr 30 drive time). There wasn't much activity at first. There was a swing that was good for photos. The guides made a bonfire and provided hot drinks and snacks. By the end, most people had made their way back to the bus. There was another little aurora show most people missed. We stayed about 2 hours at this spot. We helped the guides bring their supplies back to the bus. It was a little icy walking from the parking lot to the water. Since we had seen aurora twice, the guides called it a night early. I was relieved since we had an early morning flight to Lofoten.
via Tripadvisor
If you are hesitating - don't. And here is why...
I took the aurora tour in February and it was hands down the best decision I made. If you’re looking for a tour that feels personal rather than commercial, this is it. The organization was top-notch, but what really stood out was the human approach of the staff. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, sharing fascinating facts about the lights that you won't find in a basic brochure. Even though we were there for the Aurora, some of my favorite memories are actually from the "downtime." Sitting by the fire, drinking delicious hot chocolate, and making s'mores while chatting with new people from all over the world was a magical experience. It felt like a gathering of friends rather than a group of strangers. As for the main event—the Aurora was breathtaking. I managed to get some stunning photos that I will cherish forever. It was a truly incredible event and worth every cent. If you're on the fence about booking, just do it. You won’t regret it! P.S. If you are like me and forgot a tripod (which turned to be quite important) a small pot or a big coffe mug works just as good :) Saying from experience.
via Tripadvisor
Didn't delivered as promised. Only 2/3. The word "Chase" in the title is misleading.
Albeit NL sightings not promised, I dont think the tour delivered what it said. They mentioned we will touch 3 locations but ended up only 2: Hansnes and Stornes. The weather was harsh with the strong wind and cloudy skies plus the rain. Most of us anticipated a 3rd venue so we stayed put as we waited to leave but to our disappointment, we were already headed back to Tromso at midnight. The word "Chase" in the title is misleading. It's just 2 spots. Lucky if they even make good with their words. On board: Angel, Nana (asst), Oge (driver, local). Tragic. I immediately canceled the other tour with this provider.
via Viator
Once in lifetime experience
Very nice adventure! They drove far to find clear skies, we could also have warm chocolate and a expedition food that was better than expected.
via Tripadvisor
An awesome experience
Our tour guides and drivers are very nice and patient. They speak clearly and true facts about the Aurora Borealis.
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 7 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- 18+
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $1100 to $1500
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 65
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by Arctic Explorers, who run 5 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 72.5 and 1 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Arctic Explorers runsWhy this scores 83
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Northern Lights Big Bus Chase with Free Photos: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Tromso.
How much does Northern Lights Big Bus Chase with Free Photos cost?
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Prices start at $1100 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Tromso usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Northern Lights Big Bus Chase with Free Photos take?
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Plan for about 7 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Tromso is not rushed.
Is Northern Lights Big Bus Chase with Free Photos worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 83 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 185 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Tromso, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Northern Lights Big Bus Chase with Free Photos?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Northern Lights Big Bus Chase with Free Photos suitable for kids and families?
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The operator sets a minimum age of 18. Older children generally do well here, and families should factor in the 7-hour running time when deciding.
How far in advance should I book Northern Lights Big Bus Chase with Free Photos?
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Around 65 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Tromso can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Tromso and add a light layer if any part of the 7-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Northern Lights Big Bus Chase with Free Photos start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Tromso within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Tromso?
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On Outty we rank every Tromso experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Northern Lights Minibus Chase from Tromsø with Chasing Lights, Northern Lights Big Bus Chase with Chasing Lights, Tromsø Northern Lights Chase We Go Where The Lights Appear. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Tromso?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Tromso?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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