Everything You Need to Know About Northern Lights Tours in Alaska: A Comprehensive Review

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are one of the most spectacular natural phenomena in the world. This stunning display of lights draws visitors from all over the globe to witness the dancing lights in the sky. And what better place to experience this natural wonder than in Alaska, one of the prime locations for viewing the Northern Lights? In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive review of the Northern Lights tours in Alaska to help you plan your dream trip.

What Are the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights are caused by collisions between electrically charged particles from the sun as they enter the earth’s atmosphere. These particles are attracted by the earth’s magnetic field, and as they collide with the gases in the atmosphere, they produce the colorful light display that we see in the sky.

Why Alaska Is the Best Place to See the Northern Lights?

Alaska is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights because of its location in the auroral oval, an area around the magnetic North Pole where the Northern Lights are most active. Apart from this, Alaska is blessed with dark skies and little light pollution, making it an ideal location for viewing the Northern Lights.

What to Expect from a Northern Lights Tour in Alaska?

Northern Lights tours in Alaska typically operate from late August to early April, which is the best time to see the Aurora Borealis. These tours usually involve staying in remote locations such as wilderness lodges or cabins to maximize the chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

During the tour, your guide will take you to prime viewing locations based on weather conditions and aurora activity levels. These locations are typically far away from any light pollution, ensuring uninterrupted views of the Northern Lights. Most tours also offer photography tips and equipment, making it easier for you to capture the perfect shot.

Top Northern Lights Tours in Alaska

There are numerous Northern Lights tours in Alaska, making it difficult to choose the best one. However, after thorough research and reading reviews, we have compiled a list of the top Northern Lights tours in Alaska.

1. Gondwana Ecotours

Gondwana Ecotours is a renowned eco-tourism company that offers Northern Lights tours in Alaska. Their all-inclusive tours typically run for five days and four nights and take guests to remote locations such as the Denali National Park for the best views of the Northern Lights.

Apart from Northern Lights viewing, Gondwana Ecotours offers a range of activities such as snowmobiling, dog sledding, and snowshoeing. This makes the tour exciting even during the daytime. The company has received numerous positive reviews from satisfied customers, praising their knowledgeable guides and exceptional customer service.

2. Northern Alaska Tour Company

The Northern Alaska Tour Company is a family-owned business that has been operating Northern Lights tours for over 30 years. This company offers a range of Northern Lights tours, including their popular Arctic Circle Aurora Drive Adventure, which takes guests on a scenic drive through the Dalton Highway to the Arctic Circle.

The Northern Alaska Tour Company also offers special photography tours for guests who want to learn how to capture the perfect Northern Lights shot. With a seasoned guide and customized tour options, customers rave about how the company surpassed their expectations.

3. Scenic Mountain Air

Scenic Mountain Air is a well-established aviation company that offers a unique Northern Lights tour experience. Instead of staying in remote locations, guests take to the skies in a small plane, providing a new perspective of the Aurora Borealis from above.

Their tours range from one to three hours, and their knowledgeable pilots offer informative narration during the flight. Scenic Mountain Air has received high praise for its scenic and peaceful flights, providing an unforgettable viewing experience.

Tips for Choosing the Best Northern Lights Tour in Alaska

When choosing a Northern Lights tour in Alaska, keep the following things in mind to ensure an unforgettable experience:

– Research the company and read reviews from previous customers to get an idea of the quality of their service.
– Check the duration and type of tour offered to ensure it aligns with your preferences.
– Look for tours that take you to remote locations with little to no light pollution for uninterrupted views of the Northern Lights.
– Opt for a tour that offers photography tips and equipment if capturing the perfect shot is important to you.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a Northern Lights tour in Alaska is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that shouldn’t be missed. With clear skies, outstanding views, and knowledgeable guides, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience. By considering the tips provided and choosing a reputable tour company, you can enjoy the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis in all its glory.