🚌💰 Tours, transfers and budget: how not to overpay for the Northern Lights in Norway
The awe-inspiring Northern Lights in Norway are one of the most sought-after experiences on the planet! Tourists are willing to fly thousands of kilometres to catch a glimpse of this natural wonder. The trip you've always dreamed of could be within your reach! All you need to do is consider all the nuances of organising tours and transfers, and you'll be on your way to a unforgettable adventure at a price you'll love! In this article, we'll share some awesome tips on how to choose the perfect tour, save on transfers, understand "no-show aurora" insurance, and what to do if your tour is cancelled due to weather conditions.
🚌 Group tour vs individual trip: which is more profitable?
🔹 Group tours (price: from 900 to 1500 NOK per person):
Pros:
● Organised transfer, guide, hot drinks and snacks.
● The guide knows the best locations and keeps an eye on the weather forecast.
● Suitable for beginners and solo travellers.
Cons:
● Many other tourists (10 to 50 people).
● Strict schedule, no flexibility.
● High price for the whole family.
🔸 Individual tour (from 3500 NOK per car with a guide):
Pros
● Complete flexibility: the guide focuses only on your wishes and the weather.
● Better chances of seeing the Northern Lights: you can choose remote locations.
● Privacy and comfort.
Cons
● High price per trip.
● Advance booking required.
📌 What to choose
A private tour is the perfect choice for couples or families! It's more affordable and comfortable, so you can enjoy your trip without any hassle. Group tours are the perfect choice for solo travellers.
🏨 Igloo hotels and glass domes: is it worth the extra cost?
Glass igloos and dome hotels have become a trend in recent years:
● 📍 Tromsø Ice Domes (from 2500 NOK/night): popular but far from the city.
● 📍 Lyngen North (from 3,500 NOK/night): stunning views, but expensive.
● 📍 Hammerfest Aurora Glamping (from 2,000 NOK): a more affordable option.
📌 Is it worth it?
It's an expensive experience, but it's unique and unforgettable. And the icing on the cake? You can see the awe-inspiring aurora from your room! Just remember that if the weather is cloudy, you might not get your money's worth.
🚢 Northern lights from a cruise ship: convenient or risky?
Hurtigruten cruises offer routes along the Norwegian coast with the opportunity to see the aurora.
● 👍 Pros:
○ Comfort: restaurant, rooms, panoramic decks.
○ Safety and warmth.
● 👎 Cons
○ Less mobility: if there are clouds, the ship cannot avoid them.
○ Relatively expensive (from 7,000 NOK for a short 2–3-day tour).
📌 Tip
If you're after extra comfort, then cruises are the way to go! But if your main goal is to see the awe-inspiring aurora, then combine your cruise with regular tours and you'll be in for a treat!
💸 How to save on transfers and meals?
Transfers to viewing points can really hit your budget.
● 📍 If you know how to drive, rent a car (600–900 NOK/day).
● 📍 Prepare snacks and bring thermoses: food on organised tours is usually simple and expensive.
● 📍 If you don't have a car, book accommodation as close as possible to the viewing spots.
❌ What to do if the tour is cancelled due to weather (blizzard, storm)?
This is a common situation in Norway in winter. Here is a step-by-step guide to refunds and compensation:
- Contact the tour operator:
Check whether the tour will be rescheduled for another day or cancelled altogether. - If the tour is cancelled:
According to most companies' rules, you should receive a full refund. - "No-show aurora" insurance:
Some tour operators (e.g. Tromsø Safari, Arctic Explorers) offer insurance in case the aurora is not visible. In this case, you may be offered an additional free tour on another day.
📌 Tip:
Make sure you check out the amazing refund policy and super-convenient availability of "no-show aurora" insurance before you go! This will save you so much stress and money!
⚖️ What guarantees do tour operators offer? ("No-show aurora" insurance)
The great thing about no-show aurora insurance is that if the aurora doesn't appear, the company will still offer a second tour completely free of charge or at a heavily discounted price! Here are the conditions you can expect:
● The tour is considered successful if the guide or other tourists notice even a faint aurora.
● If no one sees the aurora, a repeat tour is provided within 1–3 days.
📌 Tip:
This insurance is beneficial if you are staying in the city for at least 3–5 days.
🔥 Warming spots and cafes at night in Tromsø
Get ready for the most incredible adventure as you set out on your own unique aurora hunt! Make sure you know the amazing cafes and heating points in Tromsø that are open late at night:
● Kaffebønna (Storgata, until 11 p.m.)
● Burger King (central square, until 1:00 a.m.)
● Circle K (gas stations, open 24 hours)
🐋 Combining the Northern Lights with a whale safari: is it possible?
Winter whale and killer whale safaris from Andenes or Tromsø are a popular activity:
● Cost: NOK 1,200–1,800 per tour.
● Compatibility: morning departures, northern lights at night. Perfect for a busy day.
📌 Tip:
Take a combo tour (whales + aurora) with a small discount to save money and get the most out of your trip.
📌 Common mistakes tourists make (how to avoid them):
● Booking a tour without checking the weather forecast.
● Lack of knowledge about insurance and refunds.
● Underestimating transfer and meal costs.
It's so important to check all the terms and conditions before booking, and to keep an eye on the weather forecast on Yr.no and Norway Lights!
🎯 Summary and key tips on budget and tours:
● A private tour is better for couples and families.
● Glass domes are expensive but unique.
● Cruises are convenient but risky due to the weather.
● Take out "no-show aurora" insurance.
● Rent a car and bring your own food to save money.
💬 Share your experience!
I can't wait to hear about the type of tour you chose! Did you manage to save some money, or did you end up paying more and regretting it? We can't wait to read your stories and tips in the comments!
We can't wait to share the best of them with you in our next articles! 🚗🌌
