The Anticipation and the Wait

The Arctic has always been a place of mystery and allure for me, a former Arctic researcher turned travel writer. The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are one of nature’s most mesmerizing phenomena, and I had longed to witness them in their full glory. When I heard about the Northern Lights Adventure with Greenlander, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. However, the journey to secure a spot on this tour was not without its challenges.

I booked my place almost two months in advance, but my wife was placed on a waitlist. It was a tense period, filled with uncertainty, but Markus from Greenlander assured me he would do his best to accommodate us both. A week before our departure, I received an email confirming a spot for my wife. It was a relief, and our anticipation grew as the day of the tour approached.

The Chase Begins

The day of the tour arrived, and with it came the worst weather imaginable. Rain and strong winds battered Tromsø, casting doubt on our chances of seeing the Northern Lights. Our guide, JJ, met us with a reassuring smile and explained the strategy for the night. We would chase the gaps in the clouds, heading towards Finland if necessary.

As we left the city behind, the sky remained stubbornly overcast. JJ encouraged us to keep an eye out for stars, a sign of clearing skies. After an hour of driving, a small gap appeared, and we caught our first glimpse of the elusive lights. It was a fleeting moment, quickly swallowed by clouds, but it fueled our determination.

The journey continued, battling wild weather and near-zero visibility. JJ’s positivity was infectious, and despite my growing doubts, I held onto hope. After two and a half hours, we crossed into Finland, where the clouds began to part, revealing a sky alive with color.

A Night to Remember

We found a calm spot by a frozen lake, sheltered by trees and high roads. The aurora danced above us, a breathtaking display of greens and purples. JJ’s excitement was palpable as he captured the moment with his camera, ensuring we had memories to cherish.

As the night wore on, we gathered around a campfire, savoring homemade soup, hot drinks, and cookies. The warmth of the fire and the camaraderie of the group made the freezing cold bearable. JJ shared his extensive knowledge of the auroras, his passion evident in every word.

The experience was more than I had hoped for, a testament to the dedication and expertise of the Greenlander team. Their commitment to making dreams come true, even in the harshest conditions, is unparalleled. If you find yourself in Tromsø, I highly recommend embarking on this adventure. Just be sure to book well in advance, as spots fill up quickly.