People travel from all over the world for the chance at seeing a glimpse of the Northern Lights. The natural phenomenon is so mindblowing, that it plays a huge role in Inuit legends and is major source of inspiration for the native inhabitants.

While there are certainly tourist traps everywhere in the world, this is one that stands the test of time. Even with all the technology we have today, nothing can replicate this natural beauty – when you see the bright colors painted against the darkness, you’re sure to be in awe, too.

Let’s get on with the top Northern Lights tours from Fairbanks Alaska, so you can experience them for yourself!

Best Northern Lights Tours In Fairbanks

	Northern Lights and Chena Hot Springs Tour from Fairbanks	Arctic Circle and Northern Lights Tour from Fairbanks	Aurora Lodge Northern Lights Viewing
	Best Combination Tour	Best Small-Group Tour	Best Budget Tour
Departure:	Pickup from select hotels	Pickup from select hotels	Pickup from select hotels
Start:	4:00 pm	2:00 pm	10:00 pm
Duration:	10 hours	12 to 14 hours	5 hours
Includes:	Local guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, access to Chena Hot Springs Resort's hot springs, hot tubs and swimming area	Local guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, within city limits of Fairbanks, snacks and water, sandwiches, free unlimited hot drinks, personalized Arctic Circle certificate	Local guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, transport by climate controlled van, all taxes, fees and handling charges
	Tour Information & Booking	Tour Information & Booking	Tour Information & Booking

Quick Answer: The 5 Best Northern Lights Tours From Fairbanks For 2024

1. Northern Lights and Chena Hot Springs Tour from Fairbanks
2. Arctic Circle and Northern Lights Tour from Fairbanks
3. Aurora Lodge Northern Lights Viewing
4. Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis Viewing) Chasing with Photography in Fairbanks
5. Northern Lights and Arctic Circle Trip from Fairbanks

Fairbanks Northern Lights Tour Reviews

1. Northern Lights and Chena Hot Springs Tour from Fairbanks

If there was any doubt that Alaska was one of the most beautiful places on the planet, this tour sure eliminates it. As if seeing the gorgeous Aurora Borealis painted high in the sky wasn’t impressive enough, you’ll also get to soak in some pampering and ice sculptures.

If that sounds like a fun time to you, sign yourself up for the Northern Lights and Chena Hot Springs Tour from Fairbanks!

Make sure you fuel up in the morning, because your 10-hour tour kicks off at 4pm! We highly recommend wearing layers and some warm, comfortable boots or waterproof shoes.

You’ll be picked up right from your hotel or other accommodations and head off on a scenic drive where it’s not uncommon to spot some critters along the way!

First, stop at the Aurora Ice Museum, where you’ll witness countless massive sculptures carved by famous Steve and Heather Brice, made of – you guessed it: ice. If you’d like, you can also cruise on over to the museum’s bar for a tasty cocktail.

I mean, their martini glasses aren’t just chilled – they’re made of ice – that alone warrants a sip. Alternatively, you can go put on your swim suit and take a dip in the resort’s wonderful hot springs, heated pool, or outdoor hot tub to loosen up those muscles!

Then, get those warm layers back on and head out to one of the best Northern Lights viewing locations around. As you gaze at the celestial masterpiece, sip on a warm beverage and take it all in!

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience

Other Experiences You May Enjoy:

2. Arctic Circle and Northern Lights Tour from Fairbanks

Sometimes with so many screens at every turn, it’s easy to forget what it’s like to be one with Mother Nature. If you’re looking to get away from the hustle-and-bustle of the city and really breathe that fresh air, look no further than the Arctic Circle and Northern Lights Tour from Fairbanks.

With a small-group size limited to a maximum of 8 people, you get a personalized experience not often seen with these kinds of group tours.

Commence your tour by being picked up at 2:00 pm at your hotel lobby. Make sure you’re dressed appropriately, with comfortable, durable walking shoes that will keep your feet dry and warm.

Make the journey on your comfortable van from Fairbanks to the Arctic Circle as your guide tells you all about notable areas you’ll pass by – particularly, Alaska Route 11 featured on the legendary Ice Road Truckers series (keep an eye out for moose, foxes, and other furry guys).

As you drive along, you’ll be offered plenty of free snacks and drinks in your climate-controlled vehicle. It’s certainly beautiful out there, but make a stop at the Hilltop Restaurant & Marketplace to stretch your legs, take a break, and order extra food and beverages if you’d like.

Take breaks for photos at various spots like the Tolovana River, Wickersham Dome, Dalton Highway Sign, and more. Then, enter Yukon River Camp where you’ll see the impressive Trans-Alaskan Pipeline System and Finger Mountain, which is absolutely stunning.

You’ll get plenty of Alaskan wilderness to see in the Arctic Circle, as your professional tour guide offers exciting commentary throughout the entire time. It’s an adventure you’re not soon to forget.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience

3. Aurora Lodge Northern Lights Viewing

Okay, we know not everyone wants to go on an all-day or overnight tour – that’s totally fine! You don’t have to miss out on the incredible Alaskan outback because of a time restriction. The Aurora Lodge Viewing may be more brief, but it certainly isn’t lacking in convenience or beauty!

Just like the others, you don’t have to deal with booking separate transport – just make sure you’re in your hotel lobby at 10:00 pm to be picked up! You have a climate-controlled van to relax in and simply enjoy the nature views from outside the large windows.

Your local guide is an expert on the area, and will share exciting and informative stories as you pass by notable spots. This tour offers undoubtedly the most comfy accommodations for viewing the Northern Lights.

Sure, you could watch them outside but as you can probably imagine, the cold can be pretty intrusive if you aren’t properly prepared!

Instead, see the aurora from the relaxing lodge complete with friendly hosts, refreshments, fire pits, games/cards, clean bathrooms, and even an aurora tracker that shows when the aurora is out on display!

This tour combines the majesty of the Northern Lights, with the local hospitality and sweetness of everyone involved. It’s like going to a dear family member’s cabin and being welcomed with coffee, hot chocolate, and cookies.

Everyone loves chatting and just enjoying each other’s company while playing games when the Aurora Borealis is in hiding – oh, and they’re always willing to take great photos!

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience

4. Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis Viewing) Chasing w/ Photography in Fairbanks

Next up, we have the shortest tour on our entire guide, which is perfect if you want to bring the whole family along! If you have a packed schedule, this one is super easy to fit in, and trust us – you don’t want to miss it!

If that sounds like fun to you, don’t wait to sign up for the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis Viewing) Chasing with Photography in Fairbanks tour! Clocking in at 3 hours long, this tour cuts to the chase without cutting down on quality.

You’ll be picked up at your hotel at 10:30 PM by your climate-controlled van, which is spacious enough to fit everyone comfortably.

The drive is super relaxing, as you watch out the windows while listening to your expert guide talk about the Aurora Borealis and the Alaskan wilderness, in general. By the time you arrive, you’re sure to be an expert, too!

The staff is super friendly and accommodating – you can choose to hang out inside the warm van and chat until the lights come out in the sky! Then you can come out for completely unobstructed views as you watch the greens, yellows, and purples expand across the sky.

Of course, the lights change from day-to-day, moment-to-moment, so they can be somewhat hard to predict.

The staff is also wonderful in that they’re always willing to take photos of you with the Northern Lights. Not just any photos either – they manage the lights and shadows expertly so your pictures come out perfectly for sharing with family and friends.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience

5. Northern Lights and Arctic Circle Trip from Fairbanks

If you want a deep dive into all things Alaska, then have we a tour for you! The Northern Lights and Arctic Circle Trip from Fairbanks tour is a full-day adventure where you’ll get to see many highlights of this beautiful state.

From the Yukon River to sky-high views from Finger Mountain, you’ll literally travel high and low while learning about its history and geology from an expert guide.

At 1:00 pm, your guide will be at your hotel waiting to pick you up so you can board the climate-controlled van and set off! We really appreciated the padded, spacious seats, large windows, as well as the sweets and sandwiches included.

Oh, and you can’t forget the live commentary on-board that will teach you all about the area! Your first stop will be the Alyeska Pipeline viewing point where you’ll see the infamous pipeline up close and learn about the engineering and logistics of the important structure.

Venture through the rugged Alaska wilderness, where you’ll get to take a relaxing stroll along the Yukon River, then head up to Finger Mountain. Keep your eyes peeled, as it’s not uncommon to spot foxes, moose, and even bears!

Then, head back into the warmth of the van and make your way to one of the best spots for viewing the Aurora Borealis. Here, the skies are typically nice and clear – every star in the sky is out on display, and the lights are sure to make their dramatic entrance, too!

Take photos, videos, and be sure to take a moment without the screens to record this beauty in your mind.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience

Northern Lights Tour Guide

Northern Lights Viewing Tips

1. The Northern Lights are Unpredictable – In order to see the Northern Lights, the sky needs to be dark and clear. Not only that, but there must be solar flares on the sun or solar wind. Try out the Aurora Forecast app for iPhone if you have one!
2. It’s not always cold – It all depends on the night and the season, but coldness doesn’t play a huge factor in the appearance of the lights. It just has to be dark!
3. Weather Changes Quickly – However, that doesn’t mean that because it’s warm when you start out, it will stay that way all night. The Arctic’s weather can change fast, and it’s not unheard of to have sun and warmth during the day and snow and high winds a few hours later.
4. Expect a Color Spectrum – Every time the Northern Lights make an appearance, they look different than the night before. Green is the most commonly-seen color, but you can also see white-gray or purple.
5. Trust Your Guides – Your guides know best when it comes to spotting the Northern Lights! These guys and ladies have been doing this for a while and most are locals who have first-hand experience in chasing them.

Best Times of Year

From late August to mid-April, you’ll have the best of luck finding clear, dark skies. While it’s possible to see them any time of year, sightings are just much more likely during these months.

Spring and autumn generally have more reliable, predictable weather conditions and milder temperatures. November through February has the darkest skies, which is ideal. The most intense lights are around 9 pm to 2 am.

Northern Lights Photo Tips

1. First off, we highly recommend you bring a tripod or someone with a steady hand. However, if you’re looking for group or couple photos, a tripod is just so much easier and super stable.
2. Use a fast lens, as they can best photograph the ambient light of the Aurora Borealis thanks to the faster shutter speeds. It’s also great for taking photos in low lighting.
3. Set your lens to infinity focus and snap away.
4. If you have a wide-angle lens option, definitely try using it to take in all the expansiveness of the lights.
5. If lights are moving really quickly, switch to a shorter shutter speed.