Greenland Northern Lights Tours: Aurora Hunting Guide
Discover the magic of the Aurora Borealis on an adventure through Greenland's spectacular icy landscapes, guided by local experts.
Greenland, a land of ice, stark beauty, and unparalleled darkness, offers one of the world's most captivating stages for the Aurora Borealis. Far from light pollution, its vast, treeless expanses and dramatic fjords provide the perfect canvas for the celestial dance of the Northern Lights. Chasing the aurora here isn't just about witnessing a natural phenomenon; it's an immersive Arctic experience, often involving snowmobiles, dog sleds, or specialized vehicles that navigate the rugged terrain to find the clearest skies. These tours are designed to maximize your chances of seeing this breathtaking display, taking you deep into the wilderness where the lights are most vibrant. When the conditions are right – clear skies, strong solar activity, and the absence of moonlight – the aurora can paint the heavens in waves of green, pink, and purple. Tour operators in Greenland understand the nuances of aurora forecasting and the best locations, often venturing to remote areas near settlements like Ilulissat, Kangerlussuaq, or Nuuk. These expeditions are more than just sightseeing; they are journeys into the heart of the Arctic night, often accompanied by knowledgeable guides who share insights into local culture, folklore, and the science behind the lights. Expect an adventure that combines the thrill of exploration with the profound wonder of witnessing nature's most spectacular light show.
Featured Northern Lights Chasing Tours
Discover our top picks for northern lights chasing in Greenland
Welcome, Greenlander welcomes you on the most adventurous Northern Lights chase in the Northern Norway. You will be guided by a pro photographer (see proof from our Instagram or Facebook page,) who will safely take you around the perimeter on a 4x4 modified Mercedes Benz minivan. The tour consists central pickup, warm meal, hot drinks, tripods, thermal suit, boots, campfire(if conditions allow,) Aurora portraits and so much more. Greenlander has a reputation of not giving up and therefore having one of the highest success rates in the business, around 95%-98% chance of catching the elusive Northern Lights. Please consider, the weather can be harsh and sometimes we have to chase for hours, before we can even see first stars. This tour might not suit for elder, obese and unfit participants, as sometimes we hike in a snow and our minivan is rather compact compared to bigger buses used by bigger companies. For much more information: https://www.greenlander.no/tours/northern-lights/
Chase the dancing Northern Lights and explore every corner of Nuuk city on this 2-hour PRIVATE tour by car! You can join alone or come with a maximum of 4 people! We will drive you to the darkest places in the city for panoramic views of one of the highlights of the Arctic winter. During the tour, your local guide will tell you a little about Nuuk and the Northern Lights, and is always happy to answer your questions about Greenland. It is likely to be chilly. It is the Arctic winter after all! Our car is heated and you can always retreat inside if you get too cold, but make sure you bring heavy outer layers, a woolen hat, scarf, and gloves/mittens so you can stay outside as much as possible. We will also warm you up with a hot chocolate during the tour. Remember Northern lights are unpredictable and may not appear during the tour. If you are unlucky and don't get to see them on the tour, we will rebook you on another night for FREE!
Nuuk is a place where ancient history and contemporary culture live side by side. Our tour begins at the Katuaq Cultural Center, a striking, wave-shaped building inspired by the northern lights and we’ll finish our walk at Orsiiviup Nuunngua, a scenic spot where you can soak in sweeping views of the fjord and mountains. You'll hear legends, history and stories of the city, and see it's sites. Go at your own pace, anytime. Stop and go as you please. The tour is location aware, GPS, playing as you walk. Keep you phone in your pocket and your head up.
Private tour is a great way to explore the Northern Lights scenery, as that way we can really customise the tour to match your needs or wishes. Either it's the late arrival social distancing, family holiday, group of friends/colleagues, demanding photographers or adventurers who want us to take you to the hilltops to get THE Northern Lights photo. It's also a great way to get 100% of guide's attention, to learn more about local history and nature and also about your camera settings, if you are keen to learn about Aurora photography. In case we don't have availability on a given day you wish to join us, please send us an email and we see, what can we do about it. Please contact us, if you want to get the rate of the tour, if there are less than 8 of you.
Why Choose Northern Lights Chasing in Greenland?
Unrivaled Darkness
Greenland's minimal light pollution provides exceptionally dark skies, ideal for viewing the aurora in its full glory.
Stunning Arctic Scenery
Witness the Northern Lights against a backdrop of glaciers, icebergs, and vast Arctic wilderness for a truly dramatic experience.
Authentic Arctic Adventure
Combine aurora hunting with activities like dog sledding or snowmobiling for a complete Greenlandic adventure.
Expert Local Guides
Benefit from guides with deep knowledge of aurora forecasting, prime viewing spots, and local Arctic culture.
Photography Opportunities
Capture incredible photos of the aurora in a unique and remote setting, with guidance from experienced operators.
Remote Wilderness Access
Tours often venture to remote locations, far from any settlements, to ensure the best possible viewing conditions.
Types of Northern Lights Chasing in Greenland
Off-Road Vehicle Aurora Hunts
These tours utilize specially equipped 4x4 vehicles or vans to take you to elevated vantage points or remote areas with minimal light interference. They are a common and effective way to cover ground and find clear skies.
Dog Sledding Aurora Expeditions
For a truly iconic Greenlandic experience, embark on a dog sledding tour under the Northern Lights. Glide silently through the snow-covered landscape, pulled by a team of huskies, with the aurora overhead.
Snowmobile Aurora Safaris
Experience the thrill of snowmobiling across the Arctic terrain while searching for the aurora. This offers a faster pace and access to wider, more remote areas for optimal viewing.
Overnight Aurora Camps
Some operators offer extended trips that include camping in remote, purpose-built shelters or heated tents. This allows for prolonged aurora viewing and an immersive wilderness experience.
What to Expect on Northern Lights Chasing Tours
Duration
Most Northern Lights tours last between 3 to 5 hours, typically starting after sunset and continuing for several hours into the night, depending on aurora activity and conditions.
Weather
Greenlandic winter weather is extremely cold, with temperatures often dropping below -20°C (-4°F), sometimes reaching -30°C (-22°F) or lower. Clear skies are essential for aurora viewing, but these often come with frigid temperatures.
Group Size
Group sizes vary. Some tours are intimate, with only a few participants, while others may accommodate up to 10-20 people, especially those using larger vehicles.
What's Included
Typically includes transportation to viewing sites, a knowledgeable guide, and often warm beverages like hot chocolate or tea. Some tours may include basic photography tips or camera equipment rental. Always check specific tour details.
Meeting Point
Tours usually depart from a central meeting point in the town or settlement where the tour is based, such as a hotel lobby or a designated visitor center. Pickup from accommodations might be offered by some operators.
Costs
Prices can range from around $150 to $500 USD per person, depending on the duration, mode of transport (e.g., dog sledding or snowmobiling tours are generally more expensive), and inclusions.
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Dress in multiple, warm layers: Thermal base layers, fleece mid-layers, and a windproof, waterproof outer layer are crucial. Don't forget a warm hat, gloves, and insulated boots.
Bring extra batteries for your camera and phone: The cold drains batteries quickly.
Check the aurora forecast: Websites and apps like SpaceWeatherLive or the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute can help predict aurora activity.
Be patient: The Northern Lights are unpredictable. Sometimes you need to wait for them to appear, and they can be subtle at first.
Consider a tripod: Long exposure photography is key for capturing the aurora. A stable tripod will make a huge difference.
Understand that seeing the aurora is not guaranteed: While tours maximize your chances, weather conditions and solar activity play a major role.
Bring a headlamp with a red light option: This preserves your night vision while allowing you to see your gear.
Inform yourself about the local culture and etiquette: Greenlandic culture is rich and respectful engagement enhances the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Greenland?
A: The aurora season in Greenland generally runs from September to April. The darkest months, from November to February, offer the longest periods of darkness, but clear skies are more common in the shoulder months of September-October and March-April.
Q:What should I wear on a Northern Lights tour in Greenland?
A: Layering is essential! Think thermal base layers, insulating mid-layers (fleece or down), and a windproof, waterproof outer shell. Crucially, pack a warm hat that covers your ears, insulated waterproof gloves, and sturdy, insulated winter boots. Hand and foot warmers are also a great idea.
Q:Is seeing the Northern Lights guaranteed on a tour?
A: Unfortunately, no tour can guarantee a sighting. The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon dependent on solar activity and clear weather. Tour operators do their best to find the optimal conditions and locations, but a bit of luck is always involved.
Q:What if the weather is bad and the aurora isn't visible?
A: Many tour operators offer a 'second chance' or reschedule policy if you don't see the lights on your first attempt due to weather. Always check the specific terms of your booking, as policies vary between providers.
Q:Can I take photos of the Northern Lights?
A: Absolutely! Most tours encourage photography. Bringing a tripod is highly recommended for capturing good long-exposure shots. Some guides can offer basic photography tips, but it's best to familiarize yourself with your camera's manual settings beforehand.
Q:What are the best places in Greenland to see the Northern Lights?
A: Popular areas include Kangerlussuaq for its continental climate and open plains, Ilulissat for its dramatic ice fjord backdrop, and Nuuk, the capital, which offers access to darker skies just outside the city. The more remote you go, the darker the skies will be.
Q:How far do these tours typically travel from the main towns?
A: Tours often venture 20 to 50 kilometers (12 to 30 miles) away from settlements like Ilulissat or Kangerlussuaq to escape light pollution. Some more adventurous tours might go even further into the wilderness for dedicated aurora viewing.
Q:Are Northern Lights tours suitable for children?
A: Yes, many tours are suitable for families. However, due to the extreme cold and late hours, younger children might find it challenging. Always check the age recommendations for specific tours, especially those involving snowmobiles or dog sledding, as they can have age and weight restrictions.
Why Visit Greenland?
Witness the immense scale of Greenland's ice sheet, a breathtaking natural wonder.
Experience the serene beauty of Disko Bay's floating icebergs near Ilulissat.
Discover unique Inuit culture and traditions that have thrived for centuries.
Explore ancient Norse ruins and learn about Greenland's rich Viking history.
Embark on unforgettable kayaking adventures amidst stunning Arctic landscapes.
Embrace the raw, untamed Arctic wilderness and its profound silence.
Best Time to Visit
Weather
Greenland's climate is Arctic, characterized by long, cold winters and short, cool summers. Coastal areas are generally milder than the interior, influenced by the ocean currents. Temperatures can vary drastically, with the south experiencing slightly less harsh conditions than the far north.
Best Months
The best months to visit Greenland are typically June through August for summer activities like hiking and boat tours, and September through March for the chance to see the Northern Lights.
Peak Season
Peak season is during the summer months of July and August, offering the mildest weather, longest daylight hours, and full accessibility to most attractions and transport.
Off Season
The off-season, from October to April, sees fewer tourists, lower prices, and the possibility of experiencing the aurora borealis, though daylight is limited and some services may be reduced.
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Plan Your Greenland Trip
Transportation Tips
Getting around Greenland is an adventure in itself, primarily relying on flights between towns and settlements, as roads are scarce. For shorter distances, ferries and local boat services are essential for navigating the fjords and coastal areas. In larger towns like Nuuk, walking or local buses suffice. During winter, dog sledding and snowmobiles become vital for travel in certain regions. Planning your inter-city travel well in advance is crucial due to limited options and seasonal variations.
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Where to Stay
Find the perfect accommodation for your Greenland adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
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