1 Day Shared Tour Arctic Circle and Aurora Viewing in Alaska
Badge of Excellence
Fairbanks, USA
- 12 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Grab your camera and prepare to see some of winter’s best work as you venture into the Alaskan Arctic Circle and go aurora hunting. Capture snow-capped forests, ice fields, and gushing rivers–and, of course, that obligatory photo at the Arctic Circle sign. As the sun and moon swap shifts, get ready for a spectacular display of aurora dancing in the night sky.
- Relax and enjoy the views while somebody else takes care of the driving
- Enjoy in-depth explanations about the region, its geology and wildlife
- Follow the aurora around to get the best views/photo opportunities
- Maximum of 10 travelers for an intimate and personalized experience
What's Included
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- aurora pictures
- Dinner
Meeting and Pickup
You can head directly to your preferred meeting point, or request pickup.
Itinerary
1
Elliott Highway
1 hour • Admission Ticket Free
2
Yukon River Bridge
50 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
3
BLM Arctic Circle Monument Sign
40 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
4
James Dalton Highway
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- The remaining hour will be dedicated to the duration of the journey and any scheduled layovers.
- For last minute bookings or bookings that are booked the same day as the travel date of the booking. Please don't hesitate to reach us via phone number so that we will be able to check your booking and accommodate you.
- During May, June, and July, the Northern Lights cannot be seen because of sunlight and weather conditions.
- If you select the "Aurora Viewing + Photograph" option, this provides a 4-hour experience only and does not include the Arctic Circle. Available: Tue, Thu, Sat for 10:00 PM.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travelers
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews
4.5
based on 58 reviews
Shankar_K, Mar 2026
Absolute once in a life time experience. As mesmerizing the Aurora and Arctic circle were, I wanted to give a shout out to our guide and tour operators Sultan. He was very resourceful and courteous and professional to the core and shared a passion for the main elements of the tour. Let me highlight what I liked about him
1. Was able to quickly accommodate changes when a couple of family members arrived late due to missed flight connections
2 . Gave very good directions up front via text message on what to bring and what to expect
3. Was very patient, without hurrying. made extra stops to enjoy the Aurora and almost allowed 1-2 hours extra because the Aurora watching was too good
4. Was also an excellent photographer and provided memorable pictures and also dashcam videos of the scenic drive
5. Was professional to the core and passionate about Aurora, the Arctic circle and Alaska and help the guests truly get more than their money’s worth
6. Skillful and safe driver, you want on your side when driving on the icy Arctic circle roads
Shuyi_C, Mar 2026
Sultan was absolutely amazing. In just one day, we made it to the Arctic Circle and were lucky enough to see the Northern Lights. Everything was arranged so well, and the whole experience felt smooth and stress-free. Sultan was incredibly dedicated throughout the trip, and he also took so many professional aurora photos and videos for us, which made the experience even more special. Everything was perfect, and I highly recommend this tour.
Silvia_Q, Mar 2026
Experienced enthusiastic guide. The ride across the frozen landscape to the arctic sign was well worth the lightshow we saw on the way back. It was a challenging trip through a frontier style land!
Tatiana_C, Mar 2026
What a tour! It was a great experience. Long but worth it. Was able to se the northern lights leaving the Artic Circle. The driver/guide was wonderful. Very knowledgeable about Fairbanks. Felt safe in his van.
Srihari_P, Feb 2026
Our trip was excellent, and Sultan was a fantastic guide who was incredibly fun to talk to. The drive itself was breathtaking and the landscape was so unique it felt like being on another planet. We successfully chased the Northern Lights and got a spectacular view of them. Sultan even went the extra mile by taking some cool photos for us to remember the night. I highly recommend this experience.
Carla_S, Feb 2026
It was a wonderful experience! Sultan is very enthusiastic about Alaska. He wants to share that enthusiasm. He was determined for us to see the northern lights and we did. He also took pictures and shared them with us when we got back to Fairbanks. He is the best! It is a long trip, so be prepared.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Good weather, good aurora forecast, always good luck for seeing Aurora activities! Come again for much stronger solar storms!
Anh_H, Feb 2026
People should know that the seats are so so small and my family had to sit on both side of the wheels hub where we don’t have space for our feet, i had to bend my legs for the entire ride and I am only 5ft tall a very small woman. The van was so so full of people where we don’t even have an inch to move.
And the service was very bad nothing was introduced on the tour where he only drive and yelled at us for the not closing the door🙄 anyhow I do not recommend this company.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Well, Dear Anh Hang, you was just coming in busy season, just like airline service, busy season always full, same as Aurora chasing Arctic circle tour, the van is new 2025 ford transit 15 passenger dually, seats designed from manufacturer but from me, I can’t control that option, if you feel like changing seating, I always ask other customers to rotate, , we stop for Aurora viewing, I always ask to close door properly, first keep the heat inside van, second inside van’s light off, so don’t interfere our aurora viewing activities, no lights pollution! Your four people sitting the last 4 seats, I always ask last person get off the van, close door, there is nothing wrong with it, we live in Alaska, you get out of house or car , always close doors properly in order to prevent heat loss, you are from California, you don’t experience extreme cold weather like us, asking you to close van’s door properly, nothing wrong with it, get it offended, next time, you should charter the van, so more people except your group, you can sit wherever you want, that will solve your problem, most importantly, you saw good aurora shows in that night, that’s most important part of Aurora chasing activities!
tanay_b, Jan 2026
We had a great experience on our trip to Arctic Circle and Aurora chasing with Sultan. He is a phenomenal guide, an expert driver. He knows his job. He took great care of us, knew the exact places from where the strong Aurora view is possible. Took pics of us with aurora. He is a gem of a guide with reasonable price. We will look forward to have a trip with him to the Arctic Ocean in the summer sometime. He is brilliant.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Always my triple G rule: good weather, good aurora forecast, always have good luck for Aurora shows !
Antonette_A, Jan 2026
Our tour to the Arctic Circle was fun. At first, I was worried that we might not see the Aurora because it was overcast/cloudy. But as we get closer the arctic circle, it started to clear up. We made several stops for picture taking and restroom breaks. Our tour guide was very nice and accommodating. He ready made sure that we get enough aurora sighting. Will highly recommend.
Charlene_A, Jan 2026
It wasn't what I expected. We sat in the tour van for four hours. I think I should have done more research before I booked the tour.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Yes, Aurora viewing tour about 4-5 hours, go to Murphy dome area waiting for Aurora show up, that night was not your night, Aurora forecast is very low, kp 0.5, moon light shining, I tried my best to catch Aurora activities for you, after 2:20 am, I went to two different places to see if Aurora activities, unfortunately, Mother Nature is favorable fo us in that night, that is why I am telling people, stay in Fairbanks longer, your chances to see Aurora will increase dramatically, next day, I had Arctic circle & Aurora one day tour , we saw spectacular Aurora shows, go to my website www.5iAurora.com, see for yourself, how people are happy, writing good reviews, lucky customers always write good reviews, unlucky one, write not good reviews, just like I am in control of Aurora activities, you don’t see good aurora shows, I am at fault, well, this is natural phenomenon, it all depends on sun activities, we just see what we can get in that night! Have good luck, next time, cheers up!
Mason_S, Dec 2025
Originally booked shorter tour but were able to work with Sultan to move to longer Arctic Circle tour on day with stronger aurora forecast. Tour itself was wonderful. Sultans’s enthusiasm is infectious and he goes the extra mile to provide an experience that exceeds expectations. Would definitely book again and recommend to others heading that way.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Just like I said before, good weather, good aurora forecast, your luck is always good, this is triple G rule for seeing good aurora activities, next time, if you come to Alaska again. Planning ahead of time, at least one month earlier, I can check the weather forecast, Aurora forecast, tell you what days are good for Aurora viewing activities! Thanks for joining my tour!
Gian_D, Dec 2025
The tour got off to a bad start. We were picked up in a van that was in very poor condition and taken on an unexpected detour to the guide’s house to pick up a tripod we never used. Waiting there in the dark felt suspicious and unsafe. Seeing that the guide had another van in much better condition made it frustrating that we were taken in the run-down one.
The driving was fast and bumpy, and my partner was being knocked around in the backseat. At one point, the driver pulled over and got out without explanation, which startled everyone; turns out we were already at our destination. We were confused because we were only about 25 minutes away from the city and could still see all the light pollution.
We understand the northern lights aren’t guaranteed—that wasn’t the issue. The problem was the lack of effort to get away from light pollution despite a strong forecast. Instead of chasing the lights, we sat in the van for hours while watching videos of what the aurora *could have been* like on the guide’s more expensive tour, which felt like an upsell. If it weren’t for the two other people on the tour, I would have asked to end the night early—I don’t doubt they were also ready for it to be over.
Aside from the van being warm and the guide’s enthusiasm, this wasn’t worth the time or money. We’re still trying to get a refund and wouldn’t recommend this tour.
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Dear Gian De Leon :First of all, you booked Aurora viewing tour , not Arctic circle & Aurora one day tour chasing Aurora activities, in December 9, 2025, Aurora forecast appears not very strong, weather was cold, still have strong moonlight, there were aurora activities, i took aurora pictures, , as for naked eyes, it appeared not very strong, those are mother nature, I have no control of it, just bad luck for you, as for van, it is fairly new van, 2022 GMC Savana van 15 passengers van , in December 9, 2025, I picked you earlier than 10:00 pm, in order for you see more Aurora activities, we went to out of town towards Murphy Dome area, that is one of best places around Fairbanks to see Aurora activities, but December 9’ s night is not your night, Aurora activities in December 10 turned out to be stronger & Better, but you staying In Fairbanks is only one night, that is your choice. For better aurora viewing in Fairbanks, you got to stay 4 nights 5 days, so you have better day to choose to see aurora activities, December 9, moon light pollution so strong, it doesn’t matter which part of Fairbanks you go, you gonna see same aurora activities, good weather, weak aurora activities, your luck is not Always good, I have not control of it, you see what Mother Nature offer you in that night, I just tried my best, to pick you up earlier around 9:00 pm , going out of town to see aurora, as for bumpy roads in Alaska, we have a lot of dips around road systems due to permanent frozen tundra underground, not just like California. we used to the bumpy roads, have to put up with it, as for darkness, you want to see aurora activities, go out of town, go dark places without street light or other lights pollution, in December 9’ night, only light pollution we got was big shining moonlight pollution, in wildness of Alaska in winter, no bear, no big foot, why are you afraid for, next time, you should spend more time in Fairbanks, Alaska, not just one night, try to see spectacular aurora shows, inside van, I tried to explain stay longer , better chances to see aurora! Always good weather, good aurora forecast, good luck, in December 9, for you, it didn’t happen, just bad luck, wish your next aurora experience much better!
Tiffany_Y, Dec 2025
Our guide was very friendly, he helped us took a lot of pretty photos, but this tour is not a tour to the artic circle, it's only around 40 mins away from Fairbanks.
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Yes, there are two tours available, the tour you selected & paid is Aurora viewing tour $150/ per person, Arctc circle & Aurora one day tour is $289/per person, I talked to you earlier, explained this is Aurora viewing tour from 10:00 pm -2:00 am.
Tim_R, Nov 2025
The guide was pretty inflexible. Drove to one location and sat there for 5 hours. We finally did see a pretty dismal showing of the northern lights, then took us back to the hotel. It was a crowded van and most felt like we were being held hostage. Guide kept telling us to be flexible, although he wasn’t. While he did eventually show us some lights, we didn’t like the constant upselling to his more expensive arctic circle trip. We do NOT recommend this tour.
Response from Host, Dec 2025
I did pick you up earlier, usually aurora viewing tour from 10:00 pm -2:00 am, you paid what you got, I used my 14 passenger GMC van for eight people in that day, that was not full capacity, you came in during thanksgiving season, don’t expect just only your group only, you got to share with other customers as well, if you want to only your group, you got chartered the van, pay more, as for Aurora activities in that day, weather kind of cloudy, we tried our best to see aurora, you got what Mother Nature offered you in tha night, I have not control of any weather & Aurora activities, Aurora viewing tour only, you go to best places to wait & see aurora, Arctic circle & Aurora one day tour, you go to Arctic circle sign, from there start to chase Aurora activities, some people like this aurora chasing activities, some don’t, I have to explain those two tours difference, but in that night , not good weather, not strong aurora activities, your luck was not good, so you wrote me this review!!
Jennifer_P, Nov 2025
This was an awesome tour. A once in a lifetime experience. We saw the Northern Lights, went to the Arctic Circle, witnessed the “magical forest,” and were entertained by owner/operator Sultan. He was very knowledgeable and excited about every part of the adventure. I will say the Dalton Highway is not for the faint of heart, but well worth the journey. When it says “chase the Northern Lights,” that’s exactly what we did on the trip back from the Arctic Circle. We stopped at several spots to see the lights. Sultan took pics of everyone and reveled in the experience with all the participants. We wouldn’t change a thing about the tour and would highly recommend it. We went on a couple other excursions while in Fairbanks and this one was by far the best, and was the most reasonably priced one considering all the adventures we experienced. Thank you, Sultan!!
Lisa_B, Nov 2025
Sultan was amazing! Very safe driver, took great care of us! Explained when all the stops would be. After the Arctic Circle, he found the Northern Lights twice and gave us plenty of time to photograph them. He even took pictures with his own camera on a tripod and shared them with us! I would definitely take another tour with him when I come back to Fairbanks!!!
Nathaniel_S, Oct 2025
We went ahead with the tour even though it looked like the weather wasn't great leading up to our tour date. Sultan was upfront and made sure to communicate the conditions and was even kind enough to offer flexible cancellation if we changed our mind in case.
Sultan really put in the effort to try and find us a good spot with the best chance in spite of unlikely viewing conditions. Thankfully we eventually somehow caught a glimpse of the aurora and he took some great pictures for us in that brief span of time.
If we're ever in town again we won't hesitate to book this tour! Great overall experience
Next time we'd like to hear more about Fairbanks and Alaska history, facts, etc but maybe that's more part of the other tour package
Jay_M, Oct 2025
It was nice but would have been better if the driver opens and closes the door of the van for us. That door was so heavy. But can say he was a good driver.
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Yes, I should, I was lazy in that day, I should get out often, do more exercises.
Ashutosh_S, Oct 2025
This Arctic Circle road trip and aurora tour was nothing short of magical! 🌌🚗 From start to finish, our guide Mr Sultan made the experience unforgettable. The road to the Arctic Circle "Dalton Highway" isn’t paved, but he navigated it with care—constantly checking in to ensure we were comfortable and safe. Along the way, he introduced us to scenic spots we’d never have discovered on our own, each with its own story and history that he shared with genuine passion.
His knowledge was impressive—not just about the landmarks, but also about the science and folklore behind the Northern Lights. He gave us practical tips on how, when, and where to chase the aurora on our own, which was incredibly helpful for future adventures.
The highlight, of course, was the aurora viewing itself. Mr Sultan took us to a perfect spot, away from light pollution, where the sky danced in vivid colors. He even helped us capture the moment with stunning photos, making sure everyone had a chance to pose under the shimmering lights.
This tour was a blend of adventure, education, and awe—and Mr Sultan was the heart of it all. Brownie points to him for being so thoughtful, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic. Highly recommend this experience to anyone seeking the magic of the Arctic and the Northern Lights!
Stacey_O, Sep 2025
Great experience! Definitely worth it. Our tour guide Sultan was great, knowledgeable, and skilled in driving the dalton hwy. Be prepared for the elements depending the season you visit. Experienced rain and mud a bit. Overall a pleasant ride with great company.
Ashish_J, Sep 2025
Our guide was patient, punctual, and explained everything clearly. He took stunning photos of the aurora and shared them with us, which made the trip even more special. We felt safe and well taken care of throughout the long journey. Highly recommend!
Donald_C, Sep 2025
Bad weather. To long of a drive for very little and just a driver not an informative guide. Kind of sad
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Mother Nature, I can’t change, we went to Murphy dome, just like other tour companies do, I also drove to different locations, but weather is bad, sorry not see aurora activity.
Kaihui_S, Aug 2025
Do NOT go, felt like a scam! We called before booking it, and we were confirmed that it was a 12.5-hour tour going to the Arctic Circle sign, with a few other stops in between as advertised. I really wanted to see the aurora and it says going to the Arctic Circle sign so we allocated two days without sleep only for this tour. However, when we got there, we were told to go somewhere near Fairbanks and we stood there for 2-2.5 hours, which took us less than 3.5 hours for the total trip. The sky was clear, but the place we were taken was so close to Fairbanks and had lots of light pollution.
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Dear Kaihui Song, you paid $150/ per person for Aurora viewing + photography activities for August 26, 2025, from 10:00 pm -2:00am. you didn’t pay $289/per person, which is Arctic circle + aurora one day tour from 2:00 pm -2:30 am, since you paid $300/two person for Aurora viewing tour, I tried my best to help you, even offer your next day arctic circle tour, but you are not happy, wanted to see Aurora in August 26, 2025, we saw aurora, but not very strong, from 12:00 am -1:30 am, then weather got cloudy, it is mother nature, I can’t change the reality, you paid aurora viewing tour , not Arctic circle tour!
rlino25, Aug 2025
It is a long bumpy ride so be prepared! But Sultan has plenty of stops planned.
He is very knowledgeable of the area and has a keen sight for Aurora although it was simply too cloudy to see anything during our trip.
We brought our food and drinks with us. There were just a few in the van so there was ample room.
John_S, Aug 2025
Sultan was a great guide. Knew the territory well and ensured stops to meet needs of tour participants. Good safe driver over long distance and managed time to get the best outcomes.
Yan_X, May 2025
An excellent trip, with an experienced tour guide, and a well-arranged itinerary. Although it was a long journey , we were able to reach the Arctic Circle and see polar light.
Lorelei_M, Apr 2025
This tour was a last minute change for my party of 5 as our prior vendor had to cancel last minute. Sultan was responsive and had texted me right away about the booking. The tour is long but we had fun. He communicated the pit stops for photo ops and bio breaks. We initially brought our own sandiches since it was a 10+ hour tour but he did bring us to a truck stop where we were able to order some food ahead of time. They offered Pho and Bahn Mi sandwiches. Not the best but also not the worst especially if you don't have food. There's a microwave you can use and also snacks for purchase. This is the place to get some souviers as well. There were a total of 8 on the tour which I guess made for a more "comfortable" ride. The road is gravel and lots of potholes so its going to be bumpy. There is a reason car rental places do not want you driving the Dalton Highway. So if you're expecting a boujie smooth ride like a fancy VIP - don't bother going to the Arctic Circle. If you're up for it, Sultan knows his stuff. For the price, it was worth it. Save your sanity driving 4+ hours one way in the middle of nowhere with no signal. Sultan even took videos and photos of us during one of the stops as we were fortunate to see the Northern Lights on our way back.
BIMALKUMAR_B, Mar 2025
Amazing experience. Sultan is the best host for this. He has been doing this for more than 25 years now, still the enthusiasm was very much there. He made sure we reached Arctic Circle just before sunset. He got us to the best spots for Northern Lights
yuchen_z, Mar 2025
nice experience, got fantastic view for sunset and aurora. Tour guide is very nice as well. Help us take beautiful photos
Adam_D, Mar 2025
Sultan was great! He doesn’t have a microphone, so make sure to sit in the first row so you can hear him and ask him questions. He will gladly answer anything and is very knowledgeable. He did a good job of chasing the northern lights and made the trip well worth the time and money!
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1 Day Shared Tour Arctic Circle and Aurora Viewing in Alaska
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