Chasing the Northern Lights in the Arctic is not just about seeing them,  it’s about being in the right place, at the right time, surrounded by complete darkness and silence. This experience is designed to maximize exactly that.

After pickup directly from your accommodation in Longyearbyen, we leave the settlement behind and drive into the wilderness, heading into the dark valleys of Adventdalen and beyond. Passing landmarks such as the Svalbard Global Seed Vault and Mine 3, we move far away from any artificial light, into areas where the sky opens fully above the Arctic landscape.

This tour is conducted in a comfortable minivan or car, allowing us to quickly adapt and reposition throughout the evening. With a small group (maximum 6 guests), the experience remains flexible and personal, giving us the ability to respond in real time to changing weather, cloud coverage, and solar activity.

Each night in the Arctic is different. Some evenings are calm and crystal clear, filled with stars and visible planets, while others slowly build until the sky suddenly comes alive with movement and color. Your guide continuously monitors conditions and selects multiple viewing points, increasing the chances of witnessing the Aurora Borealis at its best.

We make several stops along the way, giving you time to step out into the darkness, let your eyes adjust, and fully experience the stillness of the Arctic night. Between stops, you’ll stay warm and comfortable inside the vehicle, making this experience accessible to everyone.

Your guide will share insights into the science and mythology of the Northern Lights, as well as stories about life in Svalbard and the surrounding Arctic environment, adding depth to the experience without taking away from the moment itself.

Warm drinks and snacks are included, allowing you to enjoy the wait comfortably while watching the sky.

Bring your own camera and tripod to capture the Aurora. If you don’t have one, your guide will take professional photos during the tour, available for purchase afterward in digital format.

This is not a static tour,  it’s a dynamic chase, shaped by real Arctic conditions, designed to give you the best possible chance to witness one of nature’s most extraordinary phenomena.

Itinerary

• Hotel pickup in central Longyearbyen.
• Drive out of town into Adventdalen, moving away from light pollution.
• Stop near the Svalbard Global Seed Vault for a short break, hot drink and a short explanation of its history and significance.
• Continue towards Mine 7 or other suitable dark spots along the way to view the Northern Lights.
• Break at 2–3 good spots under the sky, with hot drinks, cookies and storytelling.
• Return to Longyearbyen by late evening (approx. 3 hours total, including driving and stops).

What's included

• Professional Arctic guide with local knowledge.
• Hot drinks and cookies.
• Comfortable transportation by car or minivan with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Explanation of the Northern Lights and stories about the Northern Lights.
• Small-group atmosphere (limited number of guests per vehicle).
• Tips and tricks for the best photos!

Key Information

• Duration: Approximately 3 hours total.
• Departure: Evenings, starting around 7:00 PM
• Level: Easy – suitable for most ages and fitness levels.
• Age Limit: All ages welcome; children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
• Group Size: Small groups only, for a personalized experience.

Note: Northern Lights are natural phenomena and cannot be guaranteed; the tour focuses on giving you the best possible chance under the conditions.

What to bring

Warm winter clothing that is windproof and waterproof (jacket, pants, warm midlayer, thermos, warm hat and mittens), sturdy shoes or boots, camera/tripod if you want to take pictures, and extra batteries for your electronics. You will spend time outside at each stop, even in cold conditions, so layering is important.

Safety and Conditions

The route can be adjusted according to weather, ice, wind and visibility. Your guide monitors weather forecasts and selects the safest and darkest spots available. The tour is designed for the autumn and winter months when the nights are long and dark, usually from late September to early March. Travel insurance is recommended, and the main goal is always your safety and comfort while maximizing your chances of seeing the dancing Northern Lights.