If the big coach feels too crowded, the small-group chase is the sensible upgrade. It carries a maximum of fifteen travellers, meets at Vestregata 42 in central Tromsø and is led by an expert local aurora guide and a photographer. Everything you need for the cold is included: a full Arctic thermal suit and boots, so you can stand still for an hour in the dark without suffering. The guides chase clear skies across the region and, once the lights appear, help you photograph them, take a portrait of you under the sky and email the pictures the next day. Coffee, tea, snacks, cookies and reindeer sausages are served by a campfire. The trip lasts anywhere from six to nine hours and, like every aurora tour, cannot promise a sighting.
How it works: you assemble at the Vestregata meeting point about twenty minutes before departure and leave in a comfortable small vehicle. The guide checks cloud cover and the aurora forecast and chooses a base that may be on the fjords, in the mountains or near the border. With only a dozen or so guests, stops are quick to organise and everyone gets a turn at the best spot. The photographer explains camera settings if you want to try your own shots.
What to know: the operator advertises a high success rate in finding clear skies, which is not the same as a guaranteed aurora, and some reviewers saw nothing on their night. Refunds are available only for cancellations made at least 24 hours ahead. Vegetarian options can be requested when you book. The gear provided means you can wear ordinary warm clothing underneath, but still bring a hat and gloves.
Pairing: because the departure is in the evening, spend the day on something gentle, such as Polaria or the Polar Museum, and eat early. A small group suits couples and photographers, and works well as the second chase if the first night was cloudy.
What to expect
The experience
A small-group aurora chase with thermal suits, a photographer, portraits and a campfire snack stop.
Best time
A clear, moonless night during the dark season, leaving in the evening.
How long
Six to nine hours, depending on where the guides find clear sky.
Tips
Arrive twenty minutes early, ask for vegetarian food when booking and wear a hat and gloves under the provided suit.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Couples, photographers and anyone who prefers a small vehicle to a full coach.
- Families
- Better for older children, since the night is long and the stops are outdoors in the cold.
- Couples
- The campfire stop and the included portrait make this the more romantic chase.
- Pair with
- Polaria or the Polar Museum during the day.
- Time needed
- A full evening and night, so keep the next morning free.
Good questions
How many people are in the group?+
The tour has a maximum of fifteen travellers, and reviewers report groups of around ten. That keeps the stops flexible and the viewing spots uncrowded.
What is included?+
A thermal suit and boots, hot drinks, snacks, reindeer sausages and cookies, plus photos shared by email the next day. Transport from the Vestregata meeting point is also included.
Is the aurora guaranteed?+
No, the operator talks about finding clear skies, not promising a display. Only cancellations at least 24 hours ahead are refunded.
Can vegetarians join?+
Yes, vegetarian options are available if you request them when you book. Mention other dietary needs at the same time.
Is it better than the big bus?+
It is more comfortable and personal, but costs more. The big bus is the budget choice, and both chase clear skies.