Party trips
Themed Tours
northern lights group tour
Northern Lights Group Tour: Your Unforgettable Experience Under the Northern Sky!
Do you dream of seeing the dancing Northern Lights with your own eyes? A Northern Lights group tour offers you the unique opportunity to experience this natural spectacle in the best company and without the stress of organisation. Find out more about our bespoke offers and how we can make your trip unforgettable. Curious? Contact us for a personal consultation.
The topic, briefly and concisely
A northern lights group tour offers comfort, safety, and a unique community experience, allowing you to fully focus on the fascinating natural spectacles.
The optimal travel time to see the Northern Lights is between September and April. By choosing the right time period, you maximise your chances of spotting the Aurora Borealis.
GoTuro offers tailor-made Northern Lights group tours that combine adventure, education, and sustainability. By increasing customer satisfaction by 20% and customer retention by 10%, an unforgettable travel experience is created.
Experience the fascinating Northern Lights on a perfectly organised group tour. Find your dream trip now!
Introduction to Northern Lights Group Tours
What are Northern Lights and why are they so fascinating?
The Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) or Aurora Australis (Southern Lights), are a breathtaking natural phenomenon that lights up the night sky in vibrant colours. This fascinating spectacle is created by the interaction of solar winds, charged particles that are flung out from the sun into space, with the Earth's magnetosphere. When these particles collide with the Earth's atmosphere, they excite the gases there to emit light, resulting in the characteristic colours and shapes. The most common colours are green and pink, but red, violet, and white can also occur, depending on the type of gas and the altitude at which the reaction takes place. The shapes vary from gentle arches and veils to dynamic rays and curtains that constantly change and move.
Why choose a group tour for Northern Lights viewing?
A Northern Lights group tour offers significant advantages over individual trips. The organisation and logistics are completely handled by us, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey. We take care of travel arrangements, accommodations, transfers, and meals. Additionally, you benefit from the experienced tour guides, who not only show you the best places to observe the Northern Lights but also provide intriguing background information about the phenomenon and the region. Another plus point is the community experience. In a group, you can share your impressions and experiences with like-minded individuals and forge new friendships. At GoTuro, we place great importance on putting together harmonious groups where everyone feels comfortable. Our group tours are designed to be suitable for solo travellers as well as couples and friends.
Islands Northern Lights: Variety and Easy Access
Top Destinations for Northern Lights Group Tours
Iceland: Variety and Accessibility
Iceland is a particularly popular destination for Northern Lights group tours due to its wide range of landscapes and good infrastructure. The island is relatively easy to reach and offers numerous opportunities to observe the Northern Lights. Among the most popular locations are Reykjavik and its surrounding areas, where you might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights over the city. The south coast, with its stunning waterfalls and glacial lagoons, also provides spectacular settings for Northern Lights viewing. Another highlight is the Myvatn area in northern Iceland, known for its geothermal activities and untouched nature. Wolters Rundreisen, for example, offers an 8-day winter coach tour that includes a visit to the Myvatn Nature Baths and a brewery. Additionally, Islanderlebnis offers various guided group tours with different focuses.
Sample Offers from Wolters Rundreisen and Islanderlebnis
8-day winter coach tour with Myvatn Nature Bath and brewery visit (Wolters Rundreisen)
5-day winter coach tour to the south coast (Wolters Rundreisen)
Various guided group tours (6-11 days) with different focuses (Islanderlebnis)
The 8-day winter coach tour by Wolters Rundreisen includes not only Northern Lights viewing but also entry to the Myvatn Nature Bath and a visit to a microbrewery with a tasting session. Another option is the 5-day winter coach tour, which focuses on the south coast and visits the impressive waterfalls, the glacial lagoon Jökulsarlon, as well as the Skaftafell and Thingvellir National Parks. Islanderlebnis offers a wide range of guided group tours with different focuses, from hiking tours to coach tours, lasting between 6 and 11 days. The tours are divided into different difficulty levels, ensuring there is something for everyone.
Norway's Northern Lights Guarantee: Tromsø and Senja offer the best chances
Norway: Northern Lights Guarantee and Stunning Landscapes
Norway is another top destination for group tours to see the Northern Lights and often even offers a Northern Lights guarantee. The city of Tromsø is particularly popular, being considered a hotspot due to its northern location and excellent infrastructure. From here, the Northern Lights are often clearly visible, with numerous opportunities for activities such as dog sledding and snowshoeing. The Lofoten and Senja are also worthwhile places to observe the Northern Lights. On Senja, there are even hotels with so-called Aurora Rooms featuring glass fronts, allowing you to watch the Northern Lights comfortably from your bed. Hurtigruten offers a 12-day trip with a Northern Lights Promise, while Dertour has a combination of Tromsø and Senja with wildlife observation on offer.
Tromsø as a Hotspot
Tromsø is an ideal starting point for group tours to see the Northern Lights due to its geographical location and excellent accessibility. The city lies directly within the auroral oval, significantly increasing the chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis. Moreover, Tromsø provides good infrastructure with numerous hotels, restaurants, and shops. From here, you can join guided tours to observe the Northern Lights or explore the surroundings on your own. Popular activities include dog sledding, snowshoeing, and reindeer feeding.
Other Rewarding Destinations in Norway
Besides Tromsø, Norway has many other rewarding destinations for observing the Northern Lights. The Lofoten are renowned for their spectacular mountain landscapes and picturesque fishing villages, providing a beautiful backdrop for the Northern Lights. Senja, Norway's second-largest island, is an insider tip for nature lovers and also offers good chances of spotting the Aurora Borealis. The Lyngenfjord is another popular destination that entices with its untouched nature and secluded accommodations. Many hotels and lodges in these regions offer special Aurora Rooms with glass fronts or glass roofs, allowing you to observe the Northern Lights comfortably from your room.
Offers from Hurtigruten and Dertour
Hurtigruten offers a 12-day voyage along the Norwegian coast with a Northern Lights Promise. If you do not see the Northern Lights during the trip, you will receive a free 6- or 7-day trip. The journey includes a German-speaking guide, flights from Germany, and a wide range of shore excursions. Dertour offers a combination of Tromsø and Senja with wildlife observation. The trip includes transfers, ferry crossings, accommodations in mid-range hotels and suites with glass fronts on Senja, meals, English-speaking guide, and activities like a Northern Lights evening at the lighthouse and a wildlife safari by motorboat.
Experience the Winter Magic and Sami Culture of Finland and Sweden
Finland and Sweden: Winter Adventures and Sami Culture
Both Finland and Sweden are attractive destinations for Northern Lights group tours, which, besides aurora viewing, also offer winter adventures and the chance to learn about Sami culture. In particular, Lapland, which spans both countries, is an ideal destination. Here you will find vast, untouched nature and numerous opportunities for activities such as snowshoeing, dog sledding, and snowmobile tours. Andersweg Reisen offers various group tours to Sweden with activities, while Finland provides a greater variety for couples and families.
Lapland as an Ideal Destination
Lapland, the northernmost region of Finland and Sweden, is known for its pristine wilderness, deeply snow-covered forests, and clear, dark nights, offering ideal conditions for Northern Lights viewing. You can stay in traditional wooden cabins or modern glass igloos and watch the Northern Lights comfortably from your bed. In addition to Northern Lights viewing, there are numerous other activities in Lapland that make your winter holiday unforgettable. You can participate in a dog sledding tour, race through the snowy landscape on a snowmobile, visit a reindeer farm, or learn about Sami culture.
Sweden: Focus on Activity-Filled Group Tours
Andersweg Reisen offers various group tours to Sweden, often including flights and taking place in smaller groups (10-25 people). These tours typically include activities such as snowshoeing, dog sledding, and visiting a Sami family. The group tours are ideal for those who enjoy being active and experiencing the Swedish winter landscape in a unique way.
Finland: Variety for Couples and Families
In Finland, Andersweg Reisen also offers a wide range of travel options for couples and families. The accommodations range from simple hotels and log cabins to luxurious cottages and resorts. Activities vary from ice fishing and snowmobiling to spa experiences and gourmet dinners. A special highlight is a visit to an ice hotel, where you can stay in a room made of ice and snow.
Northern Lights travel period: September to April maximises your chances
Selection criteria for the perfect Northern Lights group tour
Travel period: When is the best time for Northern Lights?
The optimal travel period for Northern Lights group tours is typically between September and April. During these months, the nights are long and dark, significantly increasing the chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis. Particularly the shoulder months (September/October and March/April) are often recommended, as the temperatures are not as extreme as in mid-winter and the likelihood of clear nights is higher. Highlaender-Reisen also recommends this period for the best chances of sightings.
Duration of the trip: Short break or extended tour?
The duration of the trip depends on your budget and available holiday time. Short trips are ideal for getting a first impression of Northern Lights observation and are perfect for an extended weekend. Longer trips give you the opportunity to explore the region more thoroughly and engage in additional activities. Islanderlebnis offers group tours that last from 6 to 11 days.
Activities and difficulty level: What should the trip offer?
When choosing a Northern Lights group tour, you should also consider the activities offered and the difficulty level. There are both relaxed tours that focus on Northern Lights observation and demanding adventures with physical activities like snowshoeing and dog sledding. Highlaender-Reisen offers tours at various difficulty levels, so there is something for everyone. In addition to Northern Lights observation, you can participate in additional activities such as dog sledding, snowshoeing, reindeer feeding, or visiting ice hotels.
Budget: How much does a Northern Lights group tour cost?
The costs for a Northern Lights group tour vary depending on the destination, accommodation, and activities. Cheaper options are available from 850 EUR (Highlaender-Reisen), while more expensive package tours with flights and included services can cost significantly more. It’s worth comparing the various offers and looking out for special deals and early booking discounts. The choice of accommodation also plays a role. Basic cabins or hostels are usually cheaper than hotels or glass igloos.
Providers Compared: Find Your Perfect Northern Lights Group Tour
Providers of Northern Lights group tours compared
Highlaender-Reisen: Focus on personal advice and variety
Highlaender-Reisen places great emphasis on personal advice and offers a wide variety of destinations and types of trips. You can choose between package tours and individual trips and book tours of varying difficulty levels. The company offers trips to various destinations within and outside the Northern Lights oval and is happy to advise you on choosing the right trip.
Wolters Rundreisen: Iceland specialist with included attractions
Wolters Rundreisen is an Iceland specialist and offers specific tour packages with fixed dates. The trips often include visits to attractions such as the Myvatn Nature Bath, a brewery, or a geothermal greenhouse. The company focuses on good value for money and offers comfortable coach tours with experienced guides.
Islanderlebnis: Specialising in Iceland winter group tours
Islanderlebnis specialises in Iceland winter group tours and offers a wide range of guided tours with different travel themes and difficulty levels. The tours are ideal for those who want to experience Iceland in winter in a special way and value professional organisation and support.
Andersweg Reisen: Winter adventures in Scandinavia
Andersweg Reisen offers winter adventures in Scandinavia and focuses on Finland, Norway and Sweden. The company offers both group trips to Sweden with activities and individual trips to Norway for couples, as well as a wide variety of travel options in Finland for couples and families. Andersweg Reisen values personal advice and the creation of trips tailored to your personal needs and desires.
SKR Reisen: Small groups and authentic experiences in Norway
SKR Reisen offers small group tours to Norway with a maximum of 16 guests per group. The company focuses on authentic experiences, the quality of the tour guides, and sustainable travel. The tours often feature stays in smaller, locally characteristic hotels and accommodations.
Dertour: Combination of wildlife and Northern Lights in Norway
Dertour offers a combination of wildlife and Northern Lights in Norway. The trip is an individual journey with guided excursions, taking you to Tromsø and Senja, where you can stay in Aurora Rooms. The trip includes wildlife safaris and dog sledding.
Hurtigruten: Northern Lights promise and comprehensive care
Hurtigruten offers a 12-day trip with a Northern Lights guarantee along the Norwegian coast. The trip includes a German-speaking guide, included flights, and an extensive range of shore excursions. Hurtigruten values comprehensive care and offers a comfortable travel experience.
REWE Reisen: Variety for different budgets
REWE Reisen offers a variety of Northern Lights tours for different budgets. The offers include trips to Norway, Iceland, and Finland with various types of accommodation and meal options. REWE Reisen provides a wide selection of tours at attractive prices.
Perfect Northern Lights Observation: Optimising Clothing, Location and Equipment
Tips for the Perfect Northern Lights Observation on a Group Tour
The Right Clothing: Warm and Weatherproof
The right clothing is crucial for observing the Northern Lights. It is important to dress warmly and weatherproof as temperatures in polar regions can be very low. The layering principle has proven effective in ensuring optimal insulation. Wear several layers of clothing, including a warming base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and waterproof and windproof outerwear. Don’t forget a hat, scarf, gloves, and warm socks.
The Right Location: Darkness and Clear View
For observing the Northern Lights, it is essential to choose a location with darkness and a clear view. Avoid cities and other places with light pollution, as artificial light can impair the view of the northern lights. Use information from the tour guide to find the best observation spots. Often, special Northern Lights tours are offered that take you to remote locations where the view is particularly good.
The Right Equipment: Camera and Tripod
If you want to photograph the Northern Lights, you need the right equipment. A camera with manual settings is recommended, as this allows you to adjust the exposure time, aperture, and ISO value yourself. A tripod is essential for taking shake-free photos with long exposure times. Don’t forget to bring a spare battery, as the cold can shorten battery life.
Patience and Perseverance: Northern Lights are Unpredictable
Patience and perseverance are required for observing the Northern Lights. The Northern Lights are unpredictable and can suddenly appear or disappear. Be flexible and prepared to wait outdoors for longer periods. Pay attention to the information from the tour guide and don’t be discouraged if the Northern Lights are not immediately visible.
Sustainable Northern Lights Tours: Respecting Environment and Culture
Sustainability and responsible travel with Northern Lights group tours
Environmentally friendly travel and transport
When planning your Northern Lights group tour, focus on environmentally friendly travel and transport. Train journeys are a good alternative to flying, helping to reduce CO2 emissions. At your destination, you can use public transport or rent bicycles to protect the environment.
Environmentally certified accommodations
Choose accommodations with environmental certification to support sustainable hotels and lodges. Look for eco-labels such as the Blue Angel or the EU Ecolabel. These establishments are committed to environmental conservation and reducing their ecological footprint.
Respectful interaction with nature and culture
Demonstrate respectful interaction with nature and culture. Avoid littering and disturbances, and adhere to the rules of national parks and nature reserves. Follow the advice of your tour guides and respect local traditions and customs.
Supporting local communities
Support local communities by purchasing regional products and services. Visit local markets and buy souvenirs from local artisans. Use offers from local tour operators and guides to experience the region in an authentic way.
Unforgettable Northern Lights Group Tour: Organisation, Safety and Community
More useful links
Hurtigruten offers 12-day voyages along the Norwegian coast with a Northern Lights promise, including a German-speaking tour guide and shore excursions.
Dertour combines wildlife observation with Northern Lights in Norway, including overnight stays in Aurora Rooms on Senja.
FAQ
What makes a Northern Lights group tour with GoTuro special?
GoTuro offers carefully curated travel experiences that combine adventure, education, and relaxation. We emphasize customization and sustainability to deliver an unforgettable experience.
Which target audiences do you address with your Northern Lights group tours?
We cater to adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, young travelers, and niche markets looking for tailored experiences. Our tours are designed to appeal to various interests and budgets.
Which destinations are particularly recommended for Northern Lights group travel?
Iceland, Norway, Finland, and Sweden are especially popular destinations. Tromsø in Norway is considered a hotspot, while Laponia in Finland and Sweden offers winter adventures and Sami culture. Iceland impresses with its diversity and accessibility.
When is the best time for Northern Lights viewing?
The optimal travel period is generally between September and April. The shoulder months (September/October and March/April) are often recommended as the temperatures are not so extreme, and the chances for clear nights are higher.
What activities can I enjoy on a group trip besides Northern Lights watching?
Alongside Northern Lights viewing, you can participate in dog sledding, snowshoeing, reindeer feeding, wildlife safaris, or visit ice hotels. Many providers also offer cultural experiences such as visiting a Sami family.
What should I consider when choosing clothing for a Northern Lights group tour?
It's important to dress warm and weatherproof. The layering system has proven effective in ensuring optimal insulation. Don’t forget hats, scarves, gloves, and warm socks.
How sustainable are GoTuro's Northern Lights group tours?
GoTuro emphasizes sustainable travel and supports eco-friendly travel options and transport. We collaborate with accommodations with environmental certification and promote a respectful approach to nature and culture.
Does GoTuro offer a Northern Lights guarantee?
Some providers like Hurtigruten offer a Northern Lights guarantee. If you don’t see the Northern Lights during your trip, you receive a free journey. Check with GoTuro for current offers and conditions.
