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Northern Lights Tour Packages

Venture to the northern hemisphere to hunt for the aurora borealis and see this breathtaking natural phenomenon first hand. Your northern lights tour package with Nordic Visitor comes with accommodation, activities and transport included.

Witness the aurora borealis dancing above you and explore jaw-dropping landscapes in the Land of Fire and Ice.

Why choose northern lights tours in Iceland?

• Chase the lights on guided excursions from Reykjavík
• Stay at remote lodges with dark skies for aurora viewing
• Discover natural wonders like glaciers and ice caves
• Bathe in hot springs surrounded by wintry scenery

Golden Circle Classic - Winter

Golden circle, blue lagoon & northern lights, northern lights circle tour.

Winter Highlights & Northern Lights

Ice cave & glacier lagoon.

Hunt for the aurora borealis in Norway and admire the dramatic mountains, coastline and islands of the north.

Why go aurora-hunting in Norway?

• Marvel at the lights on an aurora coastal cruise
• Embark on a dog sledding northern lights safari
• Enjoy guided aurora excursions from Tromsø
• Stay at the extraordinary Kirkenes Snow Hotel

Northern Lights by Train and Cruise

Tromsø, flåm & the fjords, best of northern norway classic - 71° north cape, northern lights & cruise, northern lights norway classic.

Experience snowy scenery, Sami culture and winter activities in Finnish or Swedish Lapland on a northern lights adventure.

Why chase the northern lights in Lapland?

• Enjoy an enchanting aurora tour by snowmobile
• Gaze up at the northern lights from a cosy glass igloo
• Stay in a room made of ice at the legendary ICEHOTEL
• Witness the aurora dancing above Abisko National Park

Best of Lapland - Guaranteed Departure

December 18, 2024, best of rovaniemi - classic, santa claus village & dog sledding, lapland adventure - aurora sky station & icehotel.

Journey to a remote land and seek out the northern lights in Svalbard, an Arctic archipelago at the edge of the world.

Why look for the northern lights in Svalbard?

• Experience the mesmerising light of the polar night
• Visit the world’s northernmost town, Longyearbyen
• Go on thrilling dog sledding and snowmobiling tours
• See polar bears and seals in the wild

Best of Svalbard Winter - Express

Best of svalbard winter - classic, need any help so far get in touch with us.

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About Your Northern Lights Vacation

Discover the magic of the aurora borealis* on an unforgettable northern lights tour. Explore beautiful destinations in the Nordics on an itinerary that local travel experts have meticulously organised for you.

When you book a northern lights tour package with Nordic Visitor, you get:

• An authentic travel experience planned by an established and trusted agency • A dedicated travel consultant to organise your tour • All relevant bookings for your chosen package • A detailed online personal itinerary • Handpicked accommodation for a relaxing stay • 24/7 emergency phone support for peace of mind

Nordic Visitor has made it easy to start planning your winter tour. Simply follow these steps:

1. Pick your favourite Nordic Visitor tour 2. Confirm your package 3. Check your confirmation email 4. Book your flights 5. Get ready for your trip

*Please note, the northern lights are a natural occurrence and sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Why choose Nordic Visitor

Book With Confidence

Secure your trip your way with Nordic Visitor. Book a tour with as little as 10% deposit. With a 20% deposit or more, you will receive our Cancellation Protection free of charge. You can also pay the full price right away to guarantee today’s exchange rate. Terms & conditions apply.

Trusted local travel experts

Established in 2002, Nordic Visitor is a highly rated tour agency in Northern Europe. Our travel experts create authentic journeys filled with the best activities and destinations. They are locally based and add their in-depth knowledge to all northern lights itineraries.

Great reviews

Nordic Visitor is dedicated to the best service quality, and this is reflected year after year when Tripadvisor awards us with their Certificate of Excellence. We also take great pride in our customer feedback: 97% of our travellers say they would recommend us to friends and family.

Stress-free experience

Our travel consultants will plan and book your trip on your behalf. You’ll receive a personalised itinerary with your accommodation and activities all arranged for you. That way you can leave all the practicalities to someone else, while you relax and look forward to your northern lights adventure.

Flexible tour options

The Nordic Visitor travel team has designed our northern lights packages to include the very best routes and experiences. However, if you’d like to add extra nights, attractions or destinations, your personal travel consultant will happily tailor your northern lights package.

You are in good hands

Should you encounter any unexpected weather or events during your tour, don’t worry. Nordic Visitor will be there for you throughout your trip. We will take care of reworking your itinerary while keeping you safe and informed. You’ll also have access to our 24/7 emergency helpline for peace of mind.

Full financial protection

With Nordic Visitor, you have peace of mind knowing your tour arrangements with us are 100% financially protected. Your payments are safeguarded as we comply with European Union laws on Package Travel regulations. This guarantees you a refund in the unlikely event of insolvency.

NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR REVIEWS

Here’s what our wonderful customers liked about their northern lights experiences.

Larus made the whole experience of organising the holiday very enjoyable.  We are not seasoned travellers but... read more

Larus made the whole experience of organising the holiday very enjoyable.  We are not seasoned travellers but this experience has given me no doubt in using Nordic Visitor again to book a holiday in the future to another Nordic destination.

Kim Singapore

Overall an amazing experience, accommodation were excellent, transfers and check-in were smooth. Will certainly use... read more

Overall an amazing experience, accommodation were excellent, transfers and check-in were smooth. Will certainly use Nordic Visitor again for future vacations.

Northern Lights Vacation Highlights

Picture yourself in a stunning winter landscape in the northern hemisphere. You’re wrapped up warm and the world’s greatest light show is about to begin. Opt for a Nordic Visitor northern lights tour, and you could…

• Take a guided tour from Reykjavík to hunt for the northern lights in Iceland
• Explore ice caves on a guided glacier hike in Vatnajökull , home to Europe’s largest glacier
• Venture to the remote Westfjords to chase the aurora and try snowshoeing
• Go dog sledding and snowmobiling in Tromsø , Norway, or Longyearbyen , Svalbard
• Discover charming fishing villages, mountains and marine wildlife in the Lofoten Islands
• Sample Norwegian delicacies in Kirkenes , such as red king crab, Arctic char and cloudberries
• Join an unforgettable snowmobiling , dog sledding or snowshoeing aurora safari in Lapland
• Visit the Aurora Sky Station in Abisko National Park for dinner with a view of the northern lights
• Stay in an ice hotel or glass igloo, such as the ICEHOTEL , SnowCastle or SnowHotel

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT NORTHERN LIGHTS TOURS

For tips on viewing the northern lights, read on. We’ve answered the most commonly asked questions about Nordic aurora borealis tours here to help you make your dream trip a reality.

Alternatively, find out how to make a booking , have a look at our FAQs , or learn about our Book With Confidence travel plan.

1. ARE THE NORDICS SAFE TO TRAVEL TO?

Yes, the Nordics are widely regarded as safe for visitors. Actually, the Nordic nations – Iceland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland – continually rank among the top 10 safest places in the world . This is because they have low crime rates, good standards of healthcare, and excellent road safety.

2. WHAT ARE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are a natural phenomenon. You can see them illuminating the sky when charged particles from solar flares collide with atoms in the Earth’s atmosphere, near the North Pole. This collision creates varied shapes and colours that ripple, flash or glow in the sky.

3. WHAT MONTHS CAN YOU SEE THE AURORA BOREALIS?

You have the best chance of spotting the aurora borealis in the winter months – October to April. To make out the colours of the aurora, you need dark winter nights. In the summer, daylight hours are so long that you’ll find the sky is too bright to see the glowing lights.

As it is a natural occurrence, spotting the northern lights is not guaranteed. But you can increase your chances of witnessing them by visiting the Arctic Circle in winter.

4. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

As you need a dark sky to distinguish the aurora, the best time to see the northern lights is at night. The peak hours tend to be between 11 PM and 2 AM, which is why your guided tour will likely depart after 9 PM.

You could also stay at a hotel with an aurora wake-up service. The staff will let you know if the lights come out late in the night, so you don’t have to stay up waiting for them!

The best time of year to see the northern lights is winter, between October and April. This is when Nordic nights are the longest and darkest, which means you have higher chances of catching sight of the aurora.

Winter is a great time to visit the Nordics for other reasons too. Check out these guides to the top winter activities you can enjoy:

Things to do in Norway in winter

Things to do in Iceland in winter

Things to do in Lapland in winter

5. WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

You can see the aurora borealis at high northern latitudes, especially around the Arctic Circle, as this is where solar activity is strongest. That’s why the Nordic region is the best place to see the northern lights. Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Svalbard all lie within or near the Arctic Circle.

In fact, Iceland and the northern regions of Norway, Sweden and Finland are located within the “aurora zone”. Also known as the “northern lights belt”, this is a latitudinal band between 65-72°N where high auroral frequency and intensity occurs. Visit this zone for the best chance of seeing the aurora.

Learn more about where and when to see the northern lights with these expert guides:

Best times and places to see the northern lights in Europe

Best times and places to see the northern lights in Iceland

Best times and places to see the northern lights in Norway

6. WHERE CAN YOU SEE THE AURORA BOREALIS IN SCANDINAVIA?

Norway, Sweden and Denmark are the countries that make up Scandinavia. If you want to go to Scandinavia to hunt for the aurora borealis, your best bet is to visit the northern parts of this region – Swedish Lapland and Northern Norway. It is unlikely you’ll see the aurora in Denmark.

You can witness the northern lights in the neighbouring Nordic nations of Finland and Iceland too. Although these countries aren’t technically part of Scandinavia, they have many similarities and also happen to be great places to catch the aurora borealis!

Lapland – an area covering northern Sweden and Finland – is a fantastic destination for aurora chasing. You could head to Rovaniemi and Kemi in Finnish Lapland, or Abisko National Park near Kiruna in Swedish Lapland.

Or visit Northern Norway for your aurora borealis tour. Take your pick from Norwegian destinations such as Tromsø, Svalbard, Kirkenes, the Lofoten Islands and Nordkapp (North Cape).

Alternatively, go in search of the aurora borealis in Iceland. With its wide open skies and location near the Arctic Circle, you could see the lights from anywhere in the country. For your best chances though, head away from towns with street lights so you can spot the colours more easily.

In Scandinavia you could seek out the aurora borealis in the countryside or on the coast. Plus, not only can you enjoy northern lights tours, but also bucket list activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and staying in an ice hotel.

Discover more reasons to visit Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland on our ultimate Scandinavia guide .

7. HOW TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

To see the aurora borealis, you need to be in a northern country on a clear, dark night, away from artificial lights. Although the aurora don’t show up on demand, these top tips will give you the best chances of witnessing them.

Firstly, make sure you visit northern regions close to the Arctic Circle. Iceland, Northern Norway, Svalbard and Lapland are the best destinations to see the northern lights in Europe.

Secondly, time your aurora borealis tour for the European winter. The long, dark nights will help you spot the colours lighting up the sky.

Thirdly, avoid light pollution found in built-up areas. This means heading into the countryside where there is less artificial light compared to towns and cities. You could spend some days out in remote areas, or opt for guided evening tours from your city base instead.

Another thing you can do for northern light viewings is check the weather and aurora forecast . Although you can’t do this very far in advance, during your trip you’ll be able to find out if the evening will be clear of cloud or rain and if solar activity will be strong.

You’d also increase your chances of seeing the aurora borealis by taking a guided tour. A local expert would accompany you and take you to all the best spots, sharing their insider knowledge with you.

Read our article on how to see the northern lights for more viewing tips.

8. HOW LONG DO THE NORTHERN LIGHTS LAST?

When the aurora borealis are treating you to their glorious light show, you might find they glow for a few minutes. The lights can show up several times in one night, or last for a couple of hours in one go.

There is no rule as to how long the aurora borealis last, of course, as they are a natural occurrence. If you see them for yourself, no doubt you’ll cherish every second of their beautiful magic.

9. HOW DO YOU PHOTOGRAPH THE AURORA BOREALIS?

The northern lights can be tricky to capture on camera, but with some preparation and the right equipment you can do it. Here are some top tips for photographing the northern lights:

• Use an SLR camera with manual focus
• Bring a tripod as you’ll need to do a long exposure shot
• Get a remote shutter release so you don’t have to touch the camera at all
• Use a slow shutter speed of between 15 and 30 seconds

For more tips on photographing the aurora, see our northern lights travel guide .

10. WHAT SHOULD YOU WEAR TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

It can get rather cold in the Nordic winter, especially if there’s a cool wind. The last thing you want is to feel the chill while you hunt for the aurora borealis at night. That’s why it’s important you pack the right clothing before your trip.

Many northern lights tours will provide you with thermal suits to help you stay warm while you’re out chasing the aurora. It’s also recommended that you wear warm layers underneath.

Here is an essential packing list:

• Insulated jacket and trousers (windproof and waterproof)
• Thermal wool underlayers
• Warm hat, gloves and scarf
• Warm and sturdy boots

Get more packing advice by reading our experts’ tips and tricks on dressing for northern lights viewing .

11. CAN I CHOOSE THE ARRIVAL DATE?

Yes, you can select your chosen arrival date online when reserving your Nordic Visitor tour. For northern lights packages, the arrival dates are between October and April as this is the aurora viewing season.

12. CAN I EXTEND MY TOUR BY A DAY OR TWO?

Absolutely! If you’d like to spend more time in a particular destination, you can request this when booking your tour online. Your dedicated travel consultant will get in touch to confirm the extra days with you.

If you are taking a small group tour, you can add extra nights to the start or end of your trip. This is because the group tour itself is fixed as you will be exploring with fellow visitors on a fixed itinerary.

13. WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY FLIGHT TICKETS?

You should book your flights once your Nordic Visitor package is confirmed. We recommend you check flights beforehand to find appropriate dates and prices, but only purchase them after your travel consultant has secured your northern lights tour.

Your Nordic Visitor consultant will send you a confirmation email with all the details you need to buy suitable flights.

14. WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR MY TRIP?

The weather is somewhat unpredictable in the Nordics, no matter the time of year you visit. In winter you should always come prepared for cold temperatures, which means bringing warm clothing. Here are the essential items that we recommend you pack for your trip:

• Warm jumpers or fleeces
• Waterproof and thermal jackets
• Gloves, scarves and hats
• Insulated, waterproof boots
• Thermal underlayers
• Waterproof trousers

For more detailed information on what to pack for your Nordic tour, read our travel guides for Iceland , Norway and Lapland .

Get in touch with us to start planning your trip or for more advice on how to see the aurora borealis. Our travel experts will be delighted to arrange an unforgettable northern lights tour for you.

Our main phone number is +354 578 20 80

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Blog Articles

How to see the northern lights: viewing tips, best times & places to see the northern lights in europe, best times and places to see the northern lights in iceland, a little something about the northern lights.

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Top places to watch the Northern Lights in Russia

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Did you know that Russia is one of the eight countries in the world, where you can view the northern lights? If you have always dreamt of admiring this mesmerizing spectacle, here are the top 5 destinations in Russia to do this. A trip to Russia in winter is a challenging but unforgettable experience which will bring lots of insights into the local lifestyle and will allow seeing Russia from a different perspective.

01 Murmansk

The region of Murmansk on the Kola Peninsula is located in the far north-west of Russia, near Finland. With a population of 300,000, this is the world’s biggest city beyond the Arctic Circle, which makes it an outstanding location, where you can enjoy nature, yet have all the city amenities near you.

Although it is possible to see the Northern Lights from Murmansk, for better chances, you may consider a small village called Teriberka Just 120 kilometres away from the city. A conspicuous fact about winter in Murmansk is that it is mild, while the average temperature goes 10-15 Celsius below zero.

The Aurora show, however, is not only limited to the winter period, meaning you can plan your trip for mid-September to mid-April.

Since the Northern Lights is unlikely to be predicted, as it depends on the magnetic activity of the Sun, make sure to have enough time to try your luck and stay in the area for several days. While waiting for Aurora, you can experience other entertainment activities, such as skiing or dog sledging in the Murmansk area.

02 Arkhangelsk region

Arkhangelsk is another large city in the Arctic Circle. It is nowadays a modern city with an important historical centre and unique wooden architecture. The flight from Moscow to Arkhangelsk takes about two hours, a journey by train – about 22 hours, with an outstanding view on Russian winter.

When looking for the brighter sky, it is worth going further from the populated area, for example, consider Severodvinsk. The lights there differ by special green shade and flicker. The Aurora Borealis can last as short as 10 minutes or can go on for several days, there is no way of predicting its duration in advance.

While waiting for the sky to start the spectacle, you can visit the open-air museum of wooden architecture “Malye Korely”.

Kirovsk is located near the Khibiny Mountains on the Kola Peninsula, where many tourists go for a skiing trip. The recommended resorts to check out are Kukisvumchorr, Bolshoi Vudyavr and Kolasportland.

Beware that the climate there is more severe. The higher you go, however, the clearer and brighter the sky becomes, leaving you with more chances to see the Aurora. Your hike up will be rewarded with thousands of seemingly dancing lights in the sky.

04 Naryan-Mar

Another outstanding location for a great Aurora experience is the polar Naryan-Mar. It is the capital of the Nenets Autonomous District famous for reindeer farms, fishing and oil. While watching the Northern Lights there, one can immerse into local myths, legends, and indigenous lore, as well as experience a journey through Russia’s heartland.

The best period to observe the Lights is from November to March. The colours of the phenomena in this region are exceptional, and the flicker adds to the magic. The flight to Naryan-Mar from Moscow will take about three hours.

This destination is recommended only to the most persistent and experienced travellers, as the region is famous for the coldest weather in the world. Temperatures there can drop down to minus 60 degrees Celsius!

It is quite probable to see the Northern Lights near the regional capital — the city of Yakutsk. The sky here looks like a lavender-green star-encrusted veil. The flights from Moscow to Yakutsk take 6.5 hours.

General tips to prepare for a Northern Lights trip:

• Arrange a transport: If you want to go further from a city and see the Aurora from a local settlement, you will need to book a tour in advance to transport you into the wilder parts.
• Get ready to take pictures: If you aspire to capture this natural magic, you will need a tripod and a camera with manual mode settings. For better results, make sure you learn about ISO and shutter speed.
• Get Warm: The weather in winter in Russia corresponds to all the stereotypes, so once in the Arctic Circles you should prepare many layers of clothing. As hunting for northern lights takes some time, make sure you wear wool socks, gloves, scarf or even thermal clothing.

Best conditions: make sure to escape the city lights and look for dark skies. Before going on a hunt, check the weather forecast for a cloudless sky. Also check the information on the solar flares, as solar activity forecasts

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Organizing trips of a lifetime is what our team of experienced travel specialists do daily. They listen to your travel preferences and then put in hours of work to design the perfect itinerary. Your travel specialist finds the best accommodation, connections, and activities for you and makes sure everything runs like clockwork so that you can truly enjoy your time in Lapland. Are you ready for a winter experience of your dreams? Leave the tiring planning aspect to experts and get ready to dive headfirst into the winter wonderland in Northern Europe. Travel to see Northern Lights , stay in a snow hotel, sleigh with reindeers or try snowshoeing, experience meeting a Sami family , and make many more incredible memories on your vacation with Tours to Lapland.

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I want to thank you for assisting us with the perfect vacation!!! You made everything so easy and convenient for us. All the drivers were great and very friendly. Always on time and never an issue. Our tour guide Olof was excellent. The hotels chosen were great as well. Klaus K was in the best location and was very clean and nice. I will definitely recommend it to my friends and family. Thank you again for all of your help and expertise!

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We were very pleased with all the arrangements ( visa services, hotels, guides, drivers ). Impressed with extensive knowledge of guides over so many sites, including the city in general and the history of the country.

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This is the first time I have used a travel agency and was a little skeptical of how well it would go. Alexandria went over and beyond my expectations! Our Northern Lights trip to Sweden was fantastic. She scheduled private tours, transfers, train and plane tickets, and excursions. Nothing was missed and it was a fantastic trip that we will talk for years to come! Will use it again.

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The last guide in Moscow was excellent. The one I at Petersburg was also great Love the attentiveness and dedication of your drivers and staff.

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Itinerary very well planned and implemented, we enjoyed our trip thoroughly and our travel agent - eugene was exceptionally, the trip was great.

Overall the trip was great. The dog sledding on the last day was the best and I loved the igloos we stayed in. The food was great at the Klaus hotel. People were very friendly everywhere we went.

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Russia’s Best Locations for the Northern Lights

Home / Russia Travel Tips & Essential Advice / Russia’s Best Locations for the Northern Lights

Only eight countries reach north above the Arctic Circle, but without a doubt, Russia reigns supreme. While this means freezing winters with uninterrupted nights that linger for weeks, it’s also the setting for one of the planet’s most awe-inspiring spectacles – the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights.

Here are 6 of the top unique destinations to view the northern lights in Russia: View map

Table of Contents

1. Murmansk, Kola Peninsula

Murmansk , in the extreme north-west near Finland, enjoys over 40 days of uninterrupted night, making it one of the world’s premier destinations for the Aurora Borealis, and with over 300,000 residents you can enjoy all the cosmopolitan comforts of civilisation amidst the serenity of the Arctic.

You can get to Murmansk by train (30h) or flight (2h) from Moscow or St Petersburg, what makes this region is easiest to get in order to experience the Northern Lights from late August to May, with the condition that the night temperature is below -10 ° C, so plan your trip for mid-September to mid-April.

The Northern Lights is a poorly predicted phenomenon and depends on the magnetic activity of the Sun. In other words, you have to wait and literally “hunt” it, which means it’s worth a week or more to go. You can diversify your vacation in the Kola Peninsula by skiing in the Khibiny Mountains or dog sledding in Kirovsk.

Check out this snippet of what to see on a tour in Murmansk, hunting the northern lights:

2. Arkhangelsk

There is a general rule for observing the Northern Lights in Arkhangelsk region – the heart of Russian North – the further from the large populated areas, the brighter the “dance of the sky” is. Severodvinsk city is where you’d like to go for the Aurora Borealis hunting from mid-September to mid-April. The radiance of the lights here is distinguished by a green shade and specific flicker. Aurora borealis lasts here from 10 minutes to several days. Well, while waiting for the sky to blossom, you may visit the open-air museum of wooden architecture “Malye Korely”.

The flight from Moscow to Arkhangelsk will take two hours, a journey by train – about 22 h.

3. Naryan-Mar

This forgotten northern outpost lost prominence when easier routes across Siberia opened through the Ural mountains, leaving it a preserved vestige of Nenets culture . Enjoy learning myths, legends, and indigenous lore (like not whistling during the northern lights) in a truly unique journey through Russia’s heartland.

The Aurora Borealis in the polar Naryan-Mar is very beautiful, it consists of several colours and is accompanied by a flicker, that turns the night sky into a fairy tale. The best time for observation is the season from November to March. This natural phenomenon is observed usually with a sharp change of weather. The flight to Naryan-Mar from Moscow takes slightly less than three hours.

4. Novaya Zemlya

Only reachable by special permit, this northern archipelago is one of the most extreme locations to view the northern lights. Watch the glow of lights bathe herds of reindeer in subtle greens as they stroll on islands stranded in a frozen sea during the polar night. Truly a once in a lifetime experience.

5. Taimyr Peninsula

Taimyr is called “the edge of the cold”, because the duration of winter here is from 235 days in the south, up to 285 days in the north of the peninsula. The climate is extremely stiff: in winter it’s from -40 ° C and to -60 ° C. Taimyr is also known as the land of rare amazing northern lights.

You can get to the peninsula by plane from Moscow to Norilsk (4h), and then to Dixon, Igarka or Khatanga villages by car. These villages are actually renowned for its bright white light show seen only during summer. But don’t get too excited – the year-round high never gets above +5C (43 F), so don’t forget to pack your coat.

The only “city” in the world located north of Arctic Circle, Salekhard in Yamal region thrives on the northern lights. Known for a specific tint of green local Nenets people call “Nger Harp – the light of the dead,” Salekhard is a city with its own unique connection to the winter light show.   The Nenets are the native people of the Yamal , and one of the largest native communities in Russia also called ‘Samoyeds’ – a nomadic people who used to live by herding reindeer and are close to the Scandinavia’s Sami (or ‘Lapps’).

If you spend a week out in the tundra or taiga at a nomad camp of Nenets, then you are likely to see the Northern Lights. In general, they can be viewed from August until April, but are most common from November to March and best of all in January and February, when nights are long and dark and colder temperatures bring about multi-coloured Northern Lights, rather than the green ones that appear when it’s “warmer”. To get to Salekhard you can by train from Moscow (45h) or by direct flight (2h).

In Russia, the Northern Lights can be seen even in the more southern areas – in, for example, Karelia, Valdai, St Petersburg and Yekaterinburg.

Northern Lights in comfort

See the Northern Lights in Russia, on a luxury train. This compelling 10-day itinerary offers a unique contrast between two of Russia’s most majestic cities and the remote, yet charming communities deep within the Russian and Norwegian Arctic Circle. Commencing in St. Petersburg, we visit some of the city’s most prominent historical and cultural sites before embarking on this remarkable Arctic adventure.

Below are our small group and private tours in the region for hunting Northern Lights:

• Quest for Aurora Borealis (4-day tour)
• Northern Lights Discovery (7-day tour)
• Aurora Borealis: Arctic Winter Magic (12-day tour)

For more information about all our Northern Lights Hunting tours in Russia, contact us via:

EMAIL: [email protected] PHONE: +61 412 587 785

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Northern Lights Tours & Holidays

Unpredictable and awe-inspiringly beautiful, the Northern Lights are nature’s most dazzling display.

Our Northern Lights trips take you to some of the world’s best locations for witnessing this spectacular event. Whether it’s heading to Iceland’s remote Lake Myvatn, cruising among Greenland’s glaciers, watching the lights dance across the Canadian Rockies  or travelling by dogsled into Finland’s northern wilds, Northern Lights tours with Intrepid give you the best seats in the house for one of this galaxy’s most stunning natural performances.

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Why 2024 is the best year to see the northern lights

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Why the Canadian Rockies are the best place on earth to see the Northern Lights

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Where can you see the Northern Lights?

Northern lights travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights are at their peak from late September to late March.

Where can I see the Northern Lights?

The best places to see the Northern Lights are all located in the “Auroral zone” – an area that stretches around the Northern Hemisphere at a latitude of about 66 to 69 degrees north – including parts of:

What causes the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights are caused by electrically charged particles from the sun colliding with elements in our atmosphere (such as nitrogen and oxygen), creating brightly coloured dancing displays of light.

Am I guaranteed to see the Northern Lights?

While Northern Light displays can never be guaranteed, as they are a natural phenomenon, our local leaders do their best to ensure you get to see nature’s greatest spectacle.

Can the Northern Lights be predicted?

Yes, the Northern Lights can be predicted to some extent.

The activity level of the Northern Lights depends on many things (of which some are predictable and some are somewhat random), including sunspots, coronal holes, solar flares and geomagnetic activity.

If you’re not an astronomer, your best bet is to check the local Aurora forecast – a KP-index number of 3 or higher means you have a good chance of seeing the Lights.

Can I see the Northern Lights with the naked eye?

Yes, you can see the Northern Lights with the naked eye. Humans can most easily see the green and white of the lights at night. A camera, however, does not have the same limitations as the human eye, so the colours may appear brighter and more brilliant in photos.

Can I photograph the Northern Lights?

Of course! There is no magic recipe for capturing the Northern Lights. Still, you’ll want to set your camera on a tripod and ensure it has a manual mode functionality, so you can adjust the aperture and shutter speed to capture the spectacular display best.

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Deals of the Week   European Long Weekends   Up to 50% OFF

Northern Lights Tour Deals & Discounts 2024/2025

Up to 50% off Northern Lights trips. Have your choice of more than 29 adventures, many with impressive discounts that will save you up to €12,212.

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Magic of Finland & Arctic Adventure with Northern Lights & Glass Igloo

Best of Northern Norway Classic - 71° North Cape ( Private Tour)

Very exciting and perfectly organised Tour. Very friendly Team. We really recommend this tour!

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Arctic Sights and Northern Lights (11 Days)

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Northern Norway Explorer

I enjoyed the days in Norway. It is a fast paced itinerary but you never get bored at one place. Despite the pace I had quite some hours at each place where we stopped and hiked around. The trip definition matched my expectations. My travel fellows are quite diverse in terms of culture background and age. I think intrepid did a good job to make a satisfying tour for such a diverse group.

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Land of the Northern Lights - 5 days

It was a really amazing experience! We had Andy, who was so knowledgeable and enthusiastic about his job. Highly recommend this tour! We did see the Northern Lights two nights in a row. The company accommodated us and amended the tour due to the closure of the Blue lagoon. However it was a great amendment and we still experienced the best of Iceland! Thank you Andy!

Northern Lights Exploration - 8 days

Tour guide was awesome very knowlegable and worked very hard to help us enjoy the tour and photograph the aurorA

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Iceland's Magical Northern Lights (2024)

Top of Scandinavia with Arctic Circle

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Hei Norge: Oslo Adventure & Lofoten Road Trip

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Finland: Polar Lights in the Nature Igloo (5 destinations)

Iceland Luxury Adventure - *Winter Northern Light, Winter Wonders & Blue Lagoon Retreat*

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This was a bit challenging for me The guide Shane was wonderful

Our guide, Martina, was knowledgeable, enthusiastic, caring and totally involved in all activities making the tour a truly memorable experience.

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The Northern Lights are expected to be spectacular. Here's where to get a good view.

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2FOR1: 12 Day Classic Northern Lights Cruise

$ 5,599 for 2 people.

2FOR1 Classic Northern Lights cruise for 2024/2025 season. Book early and the second person travels free! Starting in Bergen and sailing past more than 100 fjords and 1,000 mountains to Kirkeness and back up the Norwegian coastline, you will cross the Arctic Circle and witness the phenomenon of the Northern Lights. Spend 12 day days immersed in stunning landscapes, searching for a once-in-a-lifetime sight you will never forget; Aurora Borealis.

2024/2025 will be a prime time to see the Northern Lights due to a Solar Maximum occurring in 2024. Throughout the cruise you will explore the heart of Coastal Norway. Enjoy countless breathtaking fjords, mountainous scenery to take your breath away, as well as witnessing quaint coastal communities and local Norwegian life. The cruise stops at many ports, giving you a real authentic immersion into the Norwegian way of life!

Package includes a 12 day / 11 night Hurtigruten Northern Lights Cruise – on this special 2FOR1 cruise deal the second person travels free.  Secure your Northern Lights cruise from a * 25% DEPOSIT and travel on selected dates until March 2025. Book online or Call us to find out more. Call us to find out more. See tabs below for a full list of inclusions.

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DAY 1: Arrive Bergen, Norway ~ Embark Cruise

MEALS: Dinner

OVERNIGHT: Norwegian Coastal Cruise Ship

DAY 2: Florø ~ Molde

Art Nouveau city – Ålesund is renowned for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture and famed Atlanterhavsparken aquarium. We recommend joining the Optional Tour to the aquarium to see resident penguins before visiting Mount Aksla for an amazing view.

TIME IN PORT

Florø: 02:45-03:00

Måløy: 05:15-05:30

Torvik: 08:20-08:30

Ålesund (01.11-31.05): 09:45-20:00

– Ålesund (01.06-31.10): 09:45-10:00

– Geiranger (01.06-31.08): 14:25-14:45

– Ålesund (01.06-31.08): 19:00-20:00

– Urke (01.09-31.10): 12:15-15:45

– Ålesund (01.09-31.10): 18:00-20:00

Molde: 22:35-23:05

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 3: Kristiansund ~ Rørvik

Magical, medieval and modern – Founded by Viking king Olav Tryggvason in 997, Trondheim today is a unique mix of the ancient and modern. Join our optional excursion to the soaring Nidaros Cathedral, Norway’s only gothic cathedral and the burial place of St. Olav (Haraldsson). Marvel at the cathedral’s exquisite works of art, architectural details and medieval statues.

In spring and summer, we continue to Ringve Museum of Musical History, where Norwegian music´s past is brought to life in a grand manor with a fantastic view.

Excursions for every taste – From September to May, experience Trondheim with a unique carriage tour on the world’s northernmost tram line. You can also join the Hurtigruten Guides for a hike to discover more of the area.

Back on board ~ In the afternoon, the ship sails northwest, passing the Kjeungskjær lighthouse, islets and rocky reefs. After that we head towards charming Rørvik.

Kristiansund: 02:45-03:00

Trondheim: 09:45-12:45

Rørvik: 21:40-22:00

DAY 4: Brønnøysund ~ Svolvær: Welcome to the Arctic!

Forces of nature – Ørnes is the site of Norway’s second-largest glacier, Svartisen.

We then sail along the beautiful coast of Helgeland to Bodø, where you can experience Saltstraumen, the world’s most powerful maelstrom, by small boat.

Majestic Lofoten – That afternoon, the 1,000 metre-high Lofoten Wall looms on the horizon, ushering us towards majestic granite cliffs and white sandy beaches.

Meet the Vikings – At Stamsund, visit the Lofotr Viking Museum, where you are welcomed into the chieftain’s house for a real Viking feast.

There are a number of optional activities available on this day including: Going organic – Between Stamsund and Svolvær, you can experience life on an organic herb and cheese farm, or visit the Lofoten’s only craft brewery, in Svolvær.

Hunting the Northern Lights – In winter, crossing the Arctic Circle means an intensified hunt for the Northern Lights, and we present a multimedia show, ‘The Magic Light, Aurora Borealis’.

As we sail through the narrow Raftsund, we stop at the entrance to Trollfjord, a dramatic natural wonder that should not be missed.

Brønnøysund: 01:35-01:45

Sandnessjøen: 04:35-04:50

Nesna: 06:00-06:10

Ørnes: 10:00-10:10

Bodø: 13:05-15:20

Stamsund: 19:15-19:40

Svolvær: 21:20-22:15

DAY 5: Stokmarknes ~ Skjervøy: In the Footsteps of Polar Heroes

Polar history and beer – We then sail to the Arctic exploration capital of Tromsø for a prolonged stay. Join our `Polar History Walk´ in winter to learn more about explorers and Arctic hunters, and taste beer from the world’s northernmost brewery.

Beyond your imagination – In winter and spring, you can complete your stay in Tromsø with a thrilling dog-sledge ride, as huskies pull you over the frozen landscape past stunning views of the snowy plateaus. The only light during the polar night comes from headlamps, the starry sky, and, if we’re lucky, the magical Northern Lights. Contact us to book this optional activity as it does sell out!

Why not have some winter fun by joining a cross-country skiing or snowshoeing adventure, or go deep-sea fishing on an Arctic fjord? All year, you can join the Hurtigruten Guides for hikes and discover more of the Tromsø area.

Get close to marine wildlife – Want to experience serenity on the sea? Join us for a kayaking excursion in summer along Tromsø’s coastline – a great way to get close to marine wildlife.

Sailing from Tromsø, we continue to search for the Northern Lights from September to March.

Stokmarknes: 01:30-01:40

Sortland: 02:55-03:10

Risøyhamn: 04:35-04:50

Harstad: 07:10-07:45

Finnsnes: 11:00-11:30

Tromsø: 14:15-18:15

Skjervøy: 22:10-22:25

DAY 6: Øksfjord ~ Berlevåg: Top of the World ~ North Cape

Experience the North Cape – After a brief stop in Hammerfest, we arrive in Havøysund. Join a small boat excursion here to see the North Cape from the sea, visit the world’s northernmost fishing village and ride by bus to North Cape plateau.

The ship continues to Honningsvåg, from where you can join a bird-watching excursion to Gjesværstappan, home to millions of birds during nesting season.

Sailing north – The ship continues north into the heartland of the Sámi people. Visit Kjøllefjord, where you can learn about the Sámi way of life and hear traditional joiking (song).

Adrenaline and Northern Lights – In winter, you can join an unforgettable snowmobile trip across snowy plains and perhaps spot the Northern Lights in the starry sky.

Sámi traditions – ‘Sámi Autumn’ is a fall excursion to learn about the Arctic natural ‘pantry and pharmacy’, sampling dried-reindeer meat, crowberry juice, herbal tea (nettle) and roseroot tincture. You may also feel the presence of the Sámi shaman, Noaidi.

TIME IN PORT:

Øksfjord: 01:50-02:00

Hammerfest: 05:05-05:45

Havøysund: 08:30-08:45

Honningsvåg: 10:55-14:30

Kjøllefjord: 16:40-17:00

Mehamn: 18:55-19:15

Berlevåg: 22:00-22:10

DAY 7: Båtsfjord ~ Berlevåg

Streets with Russian names – The Russian border is a just few kilometers from Kirkenes and you’ll notice local road signs in both Norwegian and Russian. There are many ways to visit the Russian frontier:

year-round bus tours

a riverboat safari

ATV/quad-bike trek in summer

You can also join an excursion to catch and eat giant king crab from the Barents Sea.

Winter wonder – Kirkenes offers a wide range of classic winter activities, like dog-sledging, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and visiting an Arctic Ice Dome.

Southbound and down – As the ship starts its voyage south, remember that you’ve seen only half of what Norway’s coastline offers. The ports we visited by night going north are now seen by day.

Ice dipping – Docking again at Vardø, we may invite you to swim in the icy Arctic Ocean in winter. We then cruise along Varanger peninsula to Båtsfjord and Berlevåg, home to a famous male choir of local fishermen.

Båtsfjord: 00:00-00:30

Vardø: 03:30-03:45

Vadsø: 06:55-07:10

Kirkenes: 09:00-12:30

Vardø: 16:05-17:00

Båtsfjord: 20:00-20:30

Berlevåg: 22:25-22:35

DAY 8: Mehamn ~ Tromsø: Unmatched Arctic Scenery

North Cape breakfast – We again dock at Honningsvåg, where you can join an excursion that includes eating breakfast at North Cape. The ship continues to Hammerfest, where you can see the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column. You can also join a mini-mountain expedition and learn about local polar hero Adolf Lindstrøm.

We continue south to Øksfjord with a brief stop at the old trading post of Skjervøy.

Midnight adventures – We then dock at Tromsø, just in time to enjoy a midnight concert at the Arctic Cathedral. You can also explore Tromsø under the Midnight Sun by boat in summer. You may want to drop by Ølhallen, a classic pub for a friendly beer.

Mehamn: 01:20-01:30

Kjøllefjord: 03:25-03:35

Honningsvåg: 05:45-06:00

Havøysund: 08:00-08:15

Hammerfest: 11:00-12:45

Øksfjord: 15:50-16:05

Skjervøy: 19:30-19:45

Tromsø: 23:45-01:30

DAY 9: Tromsø ~ Stamsund: Where Nature Amazes

Amazing scenery – The island groups of Lofoten and Vesterålen offer some of the most stunning natural scenery of the entire voyage. Lofoten is renowned for its steep mountains, sandy beaches, wild nature and picturesque fishing villages.

Hurtigruten’s birthplace – We make a short stop at Risøyhamn, population 200, to deliver passengers, groceries and mail, and then continue to Stokmarknes, where Hurtigruten was founded more than 125 years ago.

Go ashore and visit the Hurtigruten Museum. Continuing south, we slip through a passage into the narrow Raftsund, past peaks rising 1,000 metres from the sea.

Spectacular Trollfjord – We now reach spectacular Trollfjord, only 2 km long, 100 m wide and surrounded by majestic mountains. If possible, we sail inside, where the dramatic landscape inspires images of fairy tales and trolls. Just north, you can opt to see sea eagles up close by boat.

Heart of Lofoten – At Svolvær, you can select several excursion options, including a sunset horseback ride on a beach, fast boat ride or a guided fishing village walk. We then proceed to Stamsund along the massive Lofoten wall.

Finnsnes: 04:20-04:40

Harstad: 08:00-08:30

Risøyhamn: 10:45-11:00

Sortland: 12:30-13:00

Stokmarknes: 14:15-15:15

Svolvær: 18:30-20:30

Stamsund: 22:15-22:30

DAY 10: Bodø ~ Rørvik: Across The Arctic Circle

Mountain with a hole – As we sail along the Helgeland coast, you’ll see the strange mountain Torghatten, famous for its distinctive hole in the centre. The opening is 160 m long, 35 m high and 20 m wide, and was created during the ice age. If the weather allows, join a hike with your guides up the mountain.

Myths and legends – We also sail past the Seven Sisters mountain range – with peaks up to 1,100 m high. The story goes that seven beautiful troll sisters got caught out at sunrise and turned to stone, thus the seven beautiful peaks.

UNESCO heritage – We next make a short stop at Nesna, before moving on to Sandnessjøen. where you can join an optional excursion in summer to the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Vega Islands.

Charming coastal town – Brønnøysund is a pretty little town that offers a charming high street and marina. You can join an excursion to the Norwegian Aquaculture Centre for an interesting tour and taste of fresh salmon from April throughout October.

Bodø: 02:30-03:30

Ørnes: 06:25-06:35

Nesna: 10:25-10:35

Sandnessjøen: 11:45-12:15

Brønnøysund: 15:00-17:25

Rørvik: 21:00-21:30

DAY 11: Trondheim ~ Ålesund: Rich History and Living Culture

Fishing, scenery and excursions – Next is Kristiansund, a city spread across four islands with an excellent harbour that has been active since the Stone Age. Today, it is Norway’s ‘cured cod capital’ because of its centuries-old export of dried fish.

Join an optional excursion to the renowned Atlantic Road – one of the most scenic routes in the world. Another interesting excursion is to Bergtatt marble mine, which includes going inside a mountain and sailing across an illuminated subterranean lake, before enjoying a meal in the mine´s ‘Grand Hall’.

Norwegian Alps – Those choosing to stay on board at Kristiansund will cross the open sea to Molde, known as Norway´s ‘City of Roses’. Along the way, you will take in the steep peaks of the Romsdal Alps on the horizon.

Trondheim: 06:30-09:30

Kristiansund: 16:30-17:30

Molde: 21:15-21:45

DAY 12: Ålesund – Bergen: A Fjord Farewell ~ Disembark

Glaciers and lush farmland – We sail through picturesque Nordfjord beneath Jostedal Glacier. This rugged coastal region features farms with fruit orchards and glacial fingers that stretch towards glistening lakes. In the morning, we call at Florø.

Back to Bergen – We navigate the mouth of the mighty Sognefjord and enjoy superb views of the island-studded coastline before you disembark in Bergen.

We hope you will take home memories of stunning nature, wildlife and fascinating culture, and we hope to see you on board again in the near future!

Ålesund: 00:30-01:20

Torvik: 02:35-02:45

Måløy: 05:45-06:00

Florø: 08:15-08:30

Bergen: 14:45

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch

DEPARTURE DATES

• SHIP & CABIN INFORMATION
• UPGRADES & OPTIONS

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Description.

11 Night Northern Lights Cruise in Polar Inside Cabin

Full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner)

Witness the Northern Lights Phenomenon

Sail through over 100 Fjords and past 1000 mountains

Visit quaint UNESCO listed towns

Sail into the Arctic Circle

English-speaking Tour Leader on board

Onboard lectures and presentations on history, biology, geography, geology and culture that provide context to your voyage and help you understand the destinations you will experience

Introductory photo presentations, camera adjustment and tips & tricks, photo and film footage from the voyage

Opportunities to casually engage with the guides and other guests, including a welcome event, daily gatherings to recap the day and prepare for the day to come

Port presentations providing destination insight

Presentation of excursion programmes

Point of interest presentations out on deck

Loan of trekking poles, snow shoes, head lamps, ice-spikes needed for optional hikes depending on season and conditions

Captain’s dinner and a farewell event

**Norway in a Nutshell PRE or POST-Cruise Extension Available**

International Flights

Airport transfers

Travel insurance

Optional excursions

Alcoholic drinks

Personal Expenses

Luggage handling

Hikes with the Hurtigruten Guides

DEPARTURE DATES 2024:

2nd February: MS Kong Harald

3rd February: MS Vesteralen

5th February: MS Nordlys

14th February: MS Vesteralen

17th February: MS Nordkapp

21st February: MS Richard With

22nd February: MS Nordnorge

6th March: MS Kong Harald

12th March: MS Polarlys

21st March: MS Nordkapp

23rd October: MS Kong Harald

4th November: MS Vesteralen

12th November: MS Nordnorge

17th November: MS Trollfjord

DEPARTURE DATES 2025:

11th February: MS Vesteralen

5th March: MS Vesteralen

SHIP & CABIN INFORMATION

This package includes an unspecified Polar Inside cabin. Unspecified means you will not receive your cabin number until you embark the ship. If you would like a particular cabin / location of ship please contact us prior to purchase. Surcharges may apply.

Upgrades to Polar Outside Cabin or Arctic Superior available.

POLAR INSIDE CABIN 8-9 m2

These comfortable, standard inside cabins for up to two people on the lower deck have separate beds, one of which converts into a sofa. No Window. TV. Bathroom. Talk to us to find your preferred cabin.

POLAR OUTSIDE CABIN 8-11 m2

These comfortable, outside cabins for up to two people on the lower or middle deck have separate beds, one of which converts into a sofa. The cabins have portholes or windows, some with limited or no view. Some with TV. Bathroom. Talk to us to find your preferred cabin.

ARCTIC SUPERIOR CABIN 10-11 m2

These comfortable, outside cabins for up to two people on the upper deck have bathrooms with shower/WC, and separate beds. Windows. TV. Talk to us to find your preferred cabin.

NOTE: Polar Inside cabins are booked on an unspecified basis, meaning you will not find out your cabin number until you check in to the cruise. If you would like to choose a specific cabin and cabin number please contact our team and surcharges will apply. Polar Outside and Arctic Superior are selected at time of booking by MyHoliday2. If you require a specific cabin/cabin number please contact us and we will do out best to accommodate your request. Surcharges may apply for specific cabins.

UPGRADES & OPTIONS

UPGRADE YOUR CABIN:

Polar Outside Cabin – from $600 per person

Arctic Superior Cabin – from $1400 per person

Select cabin type from departure date drop down menu

Please note: Cabins are booked on an unspecified basis. This means you are not allocated a cabin until you board the ship. If you would like a particular cabin / location of ship please contact us prior to purchase. From $350 surcharge applies to select your cabin.

OPTIONAL TOURS:

“NORWAY IN A NUTSHELL” PRE or POST-CRUISE EXTENSION

– $1999 per person (based on twin share)

Extend your trip with our 5 Day / 4 Night Norway in a Nutshell. From an exhilarating ascent of the Flåm Valley to the cobbled streets of historic Bergen, this classic rail, bus and ferry journey offers unforgettable days of incredible scenery and charming towns. The Flam Railway is a spectacular train journey that offers a panoramic view of some of the wildest and most magnificent nature in the Norwegian fjord landscape. The 20 km-long train ride took 20 years and is one of the steepest standard gauge railway lines in the world. On the train ride that operates between Myrdal and Flåm, you can see rivers that cut through deep ravines, waterfalls cascading down the side of steep, snow-capped mountains, and mountain farms clinging dizzily to sheer slopes.

1 Night Bergen

1 Night Flam

1 Night Voss

1 Night Oslo (or in reverse for PRE-TOUR)

Transfers are not included with this package, however the cruise terminal is only 30 minutes from the airport and there is a shuttle service that departs hourly to the Hurtigruten cruise terminal, and back again. You can book this transfer on arrival or we can pre-book this service for you for $60 per person one-way.

( Add to cart at checkout)

Voucher valid on selected dates until 5th March 2025

Voucher valid for 2 people

Bookings must be made at least 90 days prior to travel

Bookings are subject to availability

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

Cabins are booked on an unspecified basis, meaning you will not be allocated a cabin until you embark the ship. Cabins can be chosen for a surcharge as determined by Hurtigruten

Some cabin types only have double beds. Surcharges may apply for a twin bed configuration

Your booking is not confirmed until you receive confirmation from MyHoliday2

If our advertised availability is not there after purchase, you will be required to choose another date

Pricing is dynamic and MyHoliday2 and Hurtigruten reserve the right to change pricing at any time throughout the sale of this package

Hurtigruten Expeditions reserve the right to remove availability at any time, which may affect your booking if it is not yet confirmed

Hurtigruten Expeditions reserve the right to increase the sale price at any time due to availability

Hurtigruten cancellation and refund policy applies for the cruise component of the package

All planned activities are subject to weather conditions

Excursions and activities are subject to change

Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements

No gratuities expected

7 Day Money Back Guarantee does not apply to this package

Name changes are permitted and will incur fees as stated by Hurtigruten and MyHoliday2

It is the customers responsibility to obtain the correct visa for their destination and cover all fees associated

It is the customers responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport for travel and must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the period of intended stay

MyHoliday2 pricing reflects current market rates, so package prices may fluctuate from day to day. This is the nature of the tourism industry, and MyHoliday2 is not obliged to refund you to match any subsequent price reductions after purchase

OTHER TOURS

All Inclusive 5 Star Furaveri Resort: 7 Nights

All Inclusive 5 Star Furaveri Resort: 5 Nights

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Travel to see the northern lights: Norway flights for under $400

In the winter, many people travel to warm places to escape the cold while others hop on a plane to hit the slopes of a new mountain on a ski trip . How about checking off a bucket list item like catching a glimpse of the northern lights? Winter is the perfect time for this adventure because the nights are longer and the skies are darker.

Norway is a great place to see the aurora borealis and there are currently some great deals to Oslo, which has seen some very low fares this past year, with cheap flights between the U.S. and Oslo available due to the entry of some low-cost carriers in the market.

Prices to Oslo are as low as $322 out of New York City aboard a low-cost carrier like Norse Atlantic , with a stop at London Gatwick Airport (LGW) en route. There are also options on a number of airlines like British Airways, KLM, Air France and TAP, among others.

Seeing the spectacular light show in the sky is just one reason to visit Norway, and it would take some extra planning to get there from Oslo, which is in the southern part of the country. If you're planning to venture north of the Arctic Circle, you'll need additional transportation.

In addition to rail options, your journey north could be as simple as an additional, short flight to a northern village like Tromso; we found flights aboard a low-cost carrier for as low as about $100 round trip in early 2023.

However, even if you're just looking for an excuse to see what Norway is like in the winter and plan to stay closer to Oslo, this deal between November and March is a great way to do it.

Deal Basics

Airlines: Air France, British Airways, Finnair, Icelandair, KLM, Norse, SAS, TAP.

Routes: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami New York and Washington, D.C., to Oslo.

Travel dates: November 2022 through March 2023

How to book: We suggest finding your itinerary on Google Flights, then booking directly through the airline.

Thanks to Scott's Cheap Flights for flagging the impressive deals to Oslo. The site offers a premium membership that flags economy deals for $49 annually, or $199 for alerts on deals in business class and premium economy.

Sample Flights

We found round-trip flights to Oslo from some Northeast cities ranging well under $400, with trips between $400 and $500 from the Southeast, Midwest and even West Coast.

You can certainly find a great base fare flying with a low-cost carrier, though it's always a good idea to check the fees before you fly. Also consider what elite status or credit card-related benefits you might enjoy flying with an airline that's a partner with your U.S. carrier of choice, which could reduce some of your ancillary costs of flying and perhaps allow you to retain a few travel perks during your trip.

Here are just a few of the routes and prices we found:

• New York to Oslo for $322 on Norse Atlantic.
• New York to Oslo for $394 on Delta, Air France and KLM.
• Boston to Oslo for $378 on TAP.
• Washington to Oslo for $370 on Icelandair.
• Chicago to Oslo for $450 on TAP.
• Los Angeles to Oslo for $433 on Finnair.

Let's start with an itinerary that New York flyers who travel with SkyTeam partners might want to consider. You can get a round trip right in the middle of winter aboard a combination of Air France, KLM and Delta for $394.

Departing from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in mid-January aboard an Air France Boeing 777, you'll arrive the next day in Paris and continue on to Oslo after a 90-minute stop. On the return trip, your first leg is aboard KLM, and you'll be headed back to New York aboard a Delta Airbus A330 after a 90-minute layover in Amsterdam.

Here's another cheap option departing from the East Coast: A round trip out of the Washington, D.C., area aboard Icelandair. Departing from Dulles International Airport (IAD) aboard a Boeing 737MAX, you'll make a brief, 75-minute stop at Keflavik International Airport (KEF) in Iceland, before continuing on to Oslo for the final 2-hour, 45-minute flight with a similar routing on the return trip.

You'll pay a bit more leaving from the West Coast, but not much more. We found itineraries for as low as $433 out of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) aboard Oneworld carrier Finnair. Departing around dinnertime from LAX, it's a 10.5-hour flight to Helsinki Airport (HEL) on an Airbus A350. After a really brief, 45-minute stop, you'll be on for the final short hop portion of the trip to Oslo. Your stop in Helsinki is a bit longer (4 hours and 50 minutes) on the return trip, though you may be able to find shorter layovers.

Maximize your purchase

Don't forget to use a card that earns bonus points on airfare purchases, such as The Platinum Card® from American Express , which earns 5 points per dollar on airfare booked directly with the airline or through American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year). The Citi Premier® Card (see rates and fees ) and Chase Sapphire Reserve earn 3 points per dollar on airfare, and the American Express® Gold Card also earns 3 points per dollar on airfare when booked directly with the airline or through Amex Travel. Meanwhile, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card earns 2 points per dollar on travel. Learn more here about maximizing your air travel purchases.

Bottom line

Whether you plan to spend most of your mid-winter getaway to Norway in Oslo or venture far beyond the city in search of the northern lights, here's your chance to experience the middle of winter in a beautiful country in Northern Europe.

• Norway's best experiences for the family trip of a lifetime
• Where to travel along Norway's coast
• How I booked a trip to see the northern lights with points and miles