Head into the Northern Territories on a private, photographer-led hunt for the aurora. This 4–5 hour tour includes hotel pickup, hot drinks, and image files captured by your guide—ideal for first-timers and serious photographers alike.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The night opens above Yellowknife like a stage curtain lifting: the dark sky, a hard northern air, and the distant wash of town lights fading as a private vehicle carries your small group into territory where the aurora can perform.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–5 hours
Fitness Level
Comfortable standing for long periods in cold, able to walk short distances on uneven snow/ice
Wildlife
History
Yellowknife grew around Dene trade routes and gold mining; the town’s name comes from the copper knives used by Denesuline people and its position on Great Slave Lake shaped its development.
Conservation
Guides prioritize low-impact viewing—staying on established roads, carrying out waste, and minimizing light use to protect dark-sky quality and local wildlife.
Reserve your spot on the Yellowknife Private Northern Lights Tour with Transportation today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress for the cold
Wear insulated layers, thermal base layers, warm gloves, and a windproof outer shell—temperatures can plunge while you stand still watching the sky.
Bring a tripod and spare batteries
Cold drains batteries quickly; a sturdy tripod is necessary for long-exposure aurora shots and steady group photos.
Listen to your guide
Guides will move the vehicle to better clearings—be ready to relocate quickly to chase clearer skies and stronger displays.
Plan late-night timing
Aurora activity often peaks between 10pm and 2am; schedule sleep and transport accordingly if you have an early flight.
Insulated parka
Keeps core warm during long stationary periods under cold northern skies.
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Insulated, waterproof boots
Warm, grippy boots are essential for walking on snowy or icy surfaces at night.
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Camera tripod
Required for long-exposure aurora photography to avoid camera shake.
Extra camera batteries & memory cards
Cold reduces battery life; bring spares and ample storage for images.
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