A short, guided walk from Tromsø’s center to the low-light shores of Prestvannet gives you one of the city’s best, most accessible chances to see the Northern Lights. This three-hour small-group tour pairs local sky-knowledge with hot drinks and practical photography tips.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Stepping out from the cathedral square, the city’s sodium lights fall away behind you and the Arctic night opens like a live map above Tromsø. The guide leads a short, purposeful walk across frozen streets toward Prestvannet, where the lake’s black surface reflects sky-band ribbons that seem to dare you to look up. Wind brushes the coat; breath fogs and the aurora begins to move.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves 2–3 km of level walking over snow or packed earth and brief standing periods.
Wildlife
History
Tromsø grew as a 19th-century hub for Arctic hunting, fishing and later polar science; its urban position made it a natural staging point for expeditions and research.
Conservation
Prestvannet is a protected bird and nature reserve—stick to marked paths, avoid disturbing roosting birds, and minimize light pollution by using red-filtered lights.
Reserve your spot on the Northern Lights Walking Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in insulated layers
Temperatures can drop rapidly; a warm mid-layer, insulated jacket and gloves make standing and photographing comfortable.
Bring a sturdy tripod
Long exposures are the best way to capture the aurora—phone tripods help, but a solid tripod improves results.
Check cloud cover and aurora forecasts
Use the Norwegian Meteorological Institute (yr.no) and Kp-index apps the afternoon of your tour to set expectations; guides reposition based on real-time conditions.
Wear traction on boots
Paths near Prestvannet can be icy—microspikes or crampon-compatible boots reduce slip risk on short walks.
Insulated, waterproof jacket
Keeps you warm during long exposure periods and while standing still in Arctic air.
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Waterproof winter boots with traction
Protects feet from cold and provides grip on icy paths near the lake.
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Tripod for camera or phone
Necessary for stable long-exposure photography of the aurora.
Headlamp with red-light mode
Hands-free light for walking and adjusting camera settings without ruining night vision.
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