Tromsø: Express Aurora Hunt with Wandering Owl
Tromso, Norway
Tromsø: Express Aurora Hunt with Wandering Owl
Recommended by 92% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Tromso, Norway
- 4 hours (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
Overview
Searching for the northern lights usually means staying up until the wee hours and spending the following day feeling exhausted. Skip the late nights with this express aurora tour from Tromsø, which maximizes your chances of seeing the dazzling lights while still getting back to the city center within 4 hours of the start time.
- Maximize your chances of seeing the northern lights on this guided tour
- Benefit from your guides' experience in aurora hunting
- Keep warm with provided hot drinks and snacks
- Be back in Tromsø at a reasonable hour
What's Included
Meeting and Pickup
Itinerary
Additional Info
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews
4.7
based on 65 reviews
laurap2185, Feb 2026
Delighted I picked the express tour as I didn't want to spend up to 8/9 hours chasing the lights and potentially still not see them. As it happens we did see them and our guide, Evgeni, was great at explaining the scientific and cultural background to them as well as keeping us entertained and warm. I'd recommend this tour to anyone else going to Tromso.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Hello,
Thank you so much for sharing your experience!
We’re really happy to hear that the express tour was the perfect choice for you and that you were able to see the Northern Lights without spending the whole night on the road.
Evgeni will be happy to know that his explanations, energy, and care helped make the evening both enjoyable and memorable. Your recommendation truly means a lot to us.
Thank you again and we hope to welcome you back to Tromsø for another Arctic adventure in the future!
Hayley_R, Feb 2026
Express tour booked. Evgeni made the whole night perfect took us to the best places to view and wow wow wow!
So fortunate to see Aurora we were truly blessed! Also shooting star!
Couldn't ask for more perfect guide who was even going to go over and above to work longer hours if needed so we could get to see Aurora as it was no need as perfect spot and wonderful information and stories told to us. We definitely learned a lot.
Lovely warm drink and biscuit too was so kind.
What an end to the most wonderful break in Tromso.
Thank you Evgeni
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Hello,
Thank you so much for this wonderful review!
It is wonderful to know that your Express Tour was such a magical finale to your Tromsø trip. Seeing the aurora and even a shooting star is truly special. Evgeni will be so happy to hear your kind words, his dedication, knowledge, and passion really shine. We’re glad you enjoyed the stories, warm drinks, and the perfect viewing spot.
Thank you for choosing us, and we hope to welcome you back to the Arctic one day!
Victor_H, Jan 2026
The crew was super friendly and prepared, Jordan kept giving us rich information about the region and the lights. The van was comfortable, the driver Michael was super careful, and the little dinner was delicious and warm. We saw beautiful lights, and even saw them dancing right above us, really a magical moment.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you for your wonderful review!
We’re delighted to hear that Jordan and Michael helped create such a magical experience for you. Sharing knowledge, ensuring comfort and safety, and providing warm refreshments are all important to us, and we’re so glad you were able to enjoy such a beautiful display of the Northern Lights.
We truly appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you again soon!
Joshua_s, Jan 2026
Was an amazing experience all around ! Saw beautiful views and learned the history and science of the northern lights!
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you for your lovely review!
We’re very happy to hear that you enjoyed the beautiful views and learning about the history and science of the northern lights. It’s great to know the experience was so memorable for you.
We hope to welcome you again in the future!
Constance_V, Dec 2025
-5 stars would be the appropriate rating. We waited at the meeting point for about 1 hour. Tried to call the operator but no answer. No communication about any schedule updates. Extremely disappointed.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Hello,
Thank you for your feedback.
Unfortunately, on this night, we had an unexpected after-hours system issue. This tour was not scheduled for this day and should not have been bookable online. Due to the system issue, the bookings have been open after our team has left the office which is why there was no communication to you on the night. Once this issue was discovered in the morning, we reached out to all guests via email explaining what happened and issued full refunds immediately. We sincerely apologise, we would never intentionally leave guests waiting at the meetup point. We have since put measures in place to ensure this does not occur again with our booking system.
Wishing you safe onwards travels.
mvb, Dec 2025
We had a wonderful evening with our guide, Bart. Unfortunately, the weather was quite bad and the Northern Lights barely showed up. But Bart did everything he could to make it a fun experience for us. We enjoyed listening to his stories over hot chocolate. Bart definitely deserved five stars, but the tour operator itself could still make some improvements. For example, you had to sign a very detailed declaration beforehand, which, considering the simplicity of the tour, was quite excessive. The same can be said for the many reminders they keep sending about it. Finally, the asking price for a digital photo is simply ridiculous. The price of €25 for one photo, you don't even pay at large amusement parks. It's fine that a tour operator wants to earn some extra money, but this is ridiculous!
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Hello,
Thank you very much for sharing your feedback!
We’re really happy to hear that you had a wonderful evening with Bart and that his stories and guidance made the experience enjoyable despite the challenging weather. We’ll be sure to pass along your kind words to him.
Regarding the eWaiver, we completely understand that it may feel lengthy. However, under Norwegian law, we are required to provide and have guests sign this detailed declaration for safety and liability reasons. We also send three reminder emails because, based on our experience over the years, this approach works best to ensure all our guests complete it ahead of the tour without any issues.
About the photos, our guides invest time and effort in capturing great shots during the tour. The editorial process, which includes reviewing, editing, and preparing the images, is also time-intensive. This is why the price for digital photos is set accordingly. We also want to note that in most of our tours, photos are included in the tour price.
We truly appreciate your honest feedback and hope to welcome you on another tour in the future!
Diane_B, Dec 2025
Highly recommend this tour with Wandering Owl. Conditions were not good for a Northern Lights hunt, and the fact we were on a cruise ship and the captain advised us to be back earlier than originally posted created even more issues for us. Thankfully Wandering Owl worked with us and collected us from the port and returned with time to spare. Conditions were not optimal, the expensive ship excursion did not sight the lights, but our experienced guide, Ellie took us further away and to a great viewing area where Aurora made her appearance!! Well done Ellie and thanks again for a spectacular evening.
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Hello,
Thank you so much for your feedback!
We’re happy to hear that, despite challenging conditions and time constraints from the cruise ship, your guide was able to make your Northern Lights experience a success. It’s wonderful that you got to see the aurora and enjoy a memorable evening. Ellie will be happy to hear your kind words.
We really appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back for another Arctic adventure in the future!
Jerry_K, Nov 2025
I changed my plans to join the tour, bought dinner to be on time. Completed liability form, received paid confirmation number.
Was absolutely at correct address from early to late.
YOUR BUS DID NOT SHOW UP.
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Hello,
Thank you for your feedback. We are confused as to what has happened on this night which has caused you to miss the tour. This tour went ahead as normal with the 6 other guests who were picked up from the pickup location at 9pm. Our guides arrive at the pickup point 10 minutes prior to ensure everyone is able to be located and the tour is able to depart on time. Since we didn't have your contact information in your original booking, we couldn't contact you at the pick up point. . However, we also did not receive any phone call, messages or emails from yourself, just this review.
We would appreciate if you could reach out to us at info@wanderingowl.com with more details, so we can ensure this doesn't happen again.
Thank you.
MonicaJ_H, Oct 2025
Despite challenging weather, we managed to find a good gap and blessed with some luck for the northern light activity!
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Hello,
Thank you for taking the time to write a review!
We are so glad that despite the challenging weather you were able to find a clear gap and catch some Northern Lights. Our guides do their best to find a gap even when the conditions are challenging.
We are happy you got experienced Northern Lights and we thank you for joining us!
We hope to welcome you back in the future!
Telemahos_L, Oct 2025
The Wandering Owl guides know their stuff. We had fantastic views of the lights. Pick up and drop off at the cruise terminal worked well.
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Hello,
Thank you for your kind feedback!
We are happy to hear that you had fantastic views of the Northern Lights and that the pick-up and drop-off at the cruise terminal went smoothly.
Our guides always try their best to make the experience memorable and enjoyable. They really like to share their knowledge with the guest.
Thank you again and we hope to welcome you back in the future!
Catherine_T, Oct 2025
Gerard was wonderful! Vitek the driver also was great. They brought us to a secluded spot where we saw 360 degree lights. Got us back to the cruise ship exactly as promised.
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Hello,
Thank you for your kind review!
We’re thrilled to hear that Gerard and Vitek made your Northern Lights experience so memorable and that you enjoyed the spectacular display. It’s great to know you made it back to your cruise ship right on time.
We’d love to welcome you back for another trip!
Dinosaur_T, Mar 2025
Entertaining guide and very professional. Best of the tours in Tromsø. Thomas is the best guide in the world. He is excellent. And it will be sad if he ever leaves Tromsø.
Response from Host, Mar 2025
Hi,
Thank you so much for your amazing review!
We’re thrilled to hear that you had such a fantastic time on your tour and that Tomas made it so memorable for you. His passion and professionalism truly shine through, and we’re so glad he made such a positive impact on your experience.
We’ll be sure to pass along your kind words to him – we agree, he’s a real gem!
We hope to welcome you back for another incredible adventure in Tromsø, and we’ll be sure to keep Tomas around as long as possible!
Warm regards,
Wandering Owl
Javier_B, Feb 2025
Mia was extremely personable and engaging. The service was prompt and we even managed a glimpse of the aurora despite the unfavorable conditions.
Response from Host, Feb 2025
Hello Javier,
Thank you so much for your kind words!
We're happy to hear that Mia made your experience enjoyable with her personable and engaging approach.
It’s also fantastic that you managed to catch a glimpse of the aurora despite the tough conditions—what a magical moment!
We appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you on another tour soon for even more unforgettable memories!
Warm regards,
Wandering Owl
rjwoodroffe, Feb 2025
Long drive, disappointing refreshments
(herbal tea and an overcooked - but home made- biscuit) but the main disappointment was standing in a lay-by, next to an idling lorry ( with its lights on) by the side of a busy road to view the Northern Lights…I expected somewhere more quiet…I do appreciate that the lights appear and do their thing unpredictably, but it would have been nice to be more than 20 feet from the main road…
Response from Host, Feb 2025
Hello,
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We are happy to hear that your guiding team was able to find clear skies so that you had the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights on your tour.
The auroras can appear suddenly and unpredictably, and we never know how long they will last or how their intensity will change. Because of this, when they appear, we sometimes need to stop as soon as possible to ensure our guests don’t miss the opportunity to witness them. On the Express Aurora Hunt, which is a shorter tour, our absolute priority is to find clear skies and the auroras within the available timeframe.
Regarding the drive, the Express Aurora Hunt is designed to be a more time-efficient option, meaning we are limited in how far we can travel while still ensuring a return by midnight. However, we drive as far as necessary within this timeframe to maximize the chances of finding clear skies and witnessing the northern lights. Our team follows the latest weather updates, combined with local knowledge and experience, to determine the best locations for optimal viewing conditions.
Since this is a more compact version of our full Aurora Hunt, the focus is on making every effort to give our guests the best possible chance to experience the Northern Lights, rather than prioritizing additional inclusions. The warm drink and homemade cookies are meant as a refreshment to keep our guests comfortable in the cold. However, we do appreciate your feedback as we continuously look for ways to enhance our guests’ experience.
We hope you still enjoyed witnessing the Northern Lights and wish you safe onward travels!
Mike_G, Jan 2025
Couldn't have asked for a better trip. He went above and beyond to find a tiny clearing amongst thick clouds. Also, he explained the Northern lights and how to find it. Must do excursion!
Response from Host, Jan 2025
Hello Mike,
Thank you for your kind words!
We're so happy to hear that you had an amazing experience. Our guides really do their best to make sure you get the best chance to see the Northern Lights, and it's great to know it made a memorable trip for you. We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you on another adventure soon!
Warm regards,
Wandering Owl
Marcilynn_S, Oct 2024
Henrik and Vitek did a good job for our group. They were accommodating. Vitek drove for a bit trying to find a spot that was clear on a rainy/cloudy eve. Weather cannot be predicted so no fault of theirs we didnt have a clear night. We were able to get a brief look and the Northern Lights in a secluded and dark area. Henrik was friendly and approachable. I was hesitant to go on a 6+ hour tour. The thought of driving around for several hours without the possibility of spotting the lights didnt appeal as much to me, therefore the express tour was a great compromise. When it was all said and done, I was not unhappy with my choice to reserve the express tour.
Response from Host, Oct 2024
Thank you for sharing your experience!
We're glad to hear that Henrik and Vitek took good care of your group and did their best to find a clear spot despite the unpredictable weather. While the conditions weren’t perfect, it’s great to know you were able to catch a brief glimpse of the northern lights in a secluded, dark area.
We’re happy that Henrik’s friendly and approachable nature, along with the express tour, made the experience enjoyable for you. We understand your hesitation about a longer tour, so it’s wonderful to hear the express option was the right choice.
We appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you back for another adventure in the future!
Kind regards,
Wandering Owl
Maria_E, Feb 2026
The attempt to see auroras was extraordinary but the photo we were taken was never sent to the email
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Response from Host, Feb 2026
Hello,
Thank you for sharing your experience. We’re really glad to hear that the effort to see the Northern Lights felt extraordinary and that you enjoyed the adventure.
We’re very sorry to hear that you did not receive your photo. Please know that you can always reach out to us via email or WhatsApp, and we will be more than happy to help resolve the issue, including resending the photos to the correct email address. We always do our best to make sure everyone receives their memories from the tour.
Thank you again, and we hope to assist you soon!
We hope to welcome you back in the future!
Carla_H, Dec 2025
Nice experience! The 4 hours of time is well spent finding the Northern Lights.
I would definitely recommend this to anyone.
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Response from Host, Dec 2025
Hello,
Thank you for your kind words!
We’re so glad you enjoyed your Northern Lights experience and found the time well spent.
Your recommendation means a lot and we hope to see you again soon!
Tiago_A, Mar 2025
A nossa guia era muito educada porém não demonstraram esforço em caçar a aurora em lugares mais distantes, pagamos quase 1000 reais por pessoa e ela não saiu de tromso mesmo vendo o céu encoberto, enfim acabamos não vendo nada de aurora nessa noite, no dia seguinte encontramos pessoas pelos passeios e TODOS haviam visto e com fotos maravilhosas , no segundo dia trocamos de empresa e vimos maravilhosamente , inclusive nos disseram que no dia anterior estava mais bela ainda a aurora…
Response from Host, Mar 2025
Hello Tiago,
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us.
We understand the goal is seeing the Northern Lights. However, we would like to clarify the guiding team did not travel to more distant locations because this was an Express Aurora Hunt. As stated in the tour description, this tour returns to the city center by midnight, so the guiding team must stay within a reasonable distance to ensure the scheduled return time. This tour is designed for those who want to join a shorter Aurora Hunt and be back in the city center by midnight.
On the same night, our groups on the regular Aurora Hunt tour, as you mention, did see the Northern Lights—but only after traveling all the way to Finland to find clear skies. Such a long journey is not possible on the Express tour due to time constraints.
Within the available time frame, our guiding team carefully selects a location where the chances of seeing the aurora are highest, using the latest weather forecasts and their experience to maximize the opportunity for sightings within approximately an hour's drive from the city center.
Thank you again for sharing your feedback with us and we wish you safe travels ahead!
Talhazeyr_B, Dec 2024
Es braucht schon Glück um die Polarlichter zu sehen. Wir hatten nur etwas Glück, aber dafür kann natürlich der Organisator nichts. Die 2 Sterne sind eher wegen einer kleinen Überraschung. Man hat schöne Fotos von uns geschossen. Diese hat man uns auch nach der Tour zugeschickt, allerdings mit Wasserzeichen. Pro Bild wurde ein Entgelt von fast 20€ verlangt. Ich meine 1-2 Bilder kann man bei dem Preis gratis geben oder? Selbst wenn man das nicht tut, dann wäre ich bereit maximal 5€ pro Bild zu bezahlen, aber so war das leider eine böse Überraschung.
Response from Host, Dec 2024
Hello there,
Thank you for taking the time to write us a review! As you rightly mentioned, we cannot control nature, but we’re glad our team managed to help you catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
Regarding the photos, we’d like to clarify that all details about what’s included in each of our tours are clearly outlined on our website. For the Express Aurora Hunt, complimentary photos are not included, but images are available for purchase after the tour. On the tour's information page, the pricing is also displayed. We will follow up with our team to see if there is anything else we can do to ensure greater clarity regarding the inclusions.
We’re glad to hear that our guide captured beautiful moments for you. If you feel it’s worthwhile, you have the option to purchase these photos to preserve those special memories.
We hope to welcome you on another adventure in the future!
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