If you’re dreaming of witnessing the Aurora Borealis but prefer to do so without spending hours shivering in the cold, the Aurora Chasing + Aurora Lodge tour might just be your best bet. Based in Yellowknife—famous for its clear Arctic skies—this experience offers a blend of outdoor sky-gazing and warm, inviting comfort.
While it hits many high notes, including knowledgeable guides and excellent value, it’s worth noting that weather can still throw a wrench in the plans.
What we genuinely appreciate about this tour is its thoughtful combination of outdoor adventure and cozy shelter. You’ll spend part of your night at the luxurious Madeline Lake Lodge, with its impressive 180 square meters of viewing decks and in-floor heating, offering a chance to relax in comfort.
The second highlight: a professional photographer will be on hand to capture your magical night under the stars—no need to fuss with tricky settings or carry bulky gear if you aren’t a pro.
However, a word of caution: some travelers have experienced issues like a cold lodge or less-than-ideal interior conditions, especially during colder nights or if equipment fails. Still, most find the experience well worth the price, especially given the personalized guidance, access to multiple viewing locations, and included snacks and Wi-Fi.
This tour is perfect for those who want the thrill of spotting the Northern Lights but also value comfort and expert support.
Who will love this tour? If you’re a first-timer seeking a straightforward, well-organized Northern Lights outing or someone who appreciates a cozy retreat after outdoor viewing, this experience should suit you well. It’s also ideal for travelers who want reliable guidance, good photo opportunities, and a tastefully managed adventure.
This experience made our article of Yellowknife’s 15 Top Tours & Things To Do (With Prices).
Key Points
- Comfortable setting: The Aurora Lodge provides a warm refuge with large decks and access to Madeline Lake, making it ideal for relaxing while waiting for the lights.
- Expert guidance: Guides are knowledgeable and helpful, with a professional photographer on hand to ensure you leave with memorable photos.
- Flexible location options: If the weather clouds over at Madeline Lake, the group can shift to Prelude Lake or other territorial parks for better sky visibility.
- Good value for money: At around $101 per person, it includes snacks, hot beverages, and Wi-Fi—adding convenience and comfort without a hefty price tag.
- Group size: The tour is capped at 38 travelers, balancing intimacy and social atmosphere.
- Weather dependency: The tour operates only in good weather, with options for rescheduling or full refunds if conditions aren’t suitable.
👉 See our pick of the Yellowknife’s 15 Top Tours & Things To Do (With Prices)
A Closer Look at the Itinerary
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Yellowknife.
Madeline Lake Territorial Park
This is the main event. The Madeline Lake Lodge sits on 7,000 square meters of private land with direct lake access, making it an excellent vantage point for Northern Lights viewing. With in-floor heating and over 180 square meters of decks, the lodge prioritizes your comfort, enabling you to sit back and watch the sky in the warmth of a spacious, well-equipped lodge.
Guests will find plenty of entertainment options inside, from foosball to mahjong, which come in handy during long, cold nights. Many reviews highlight how the lodge’s cozy atmosphere and good amenities make the experience more enjoyable—one guest mentioned that the lodge’s fireplace was a “wonderful shelter.”
Transition to Prelude Lake or Other Parks
If the forecast predicts clouds or poor visibility at Madeline Lake, the guides aren’t just going to leave you stranded in the cold. Instead, you’ll board a comfortable, warm bus to other nearby parks like Prelude Lake, where conditions might be better. This flexibility reflects the tour’s commitment to giving you the best chance to see the Aurora, rather than just sticking stubbornly to one location.
The Aurora Chase
Your guides keep a close eye on the sky, often alerting you when the Aurora is likely to appear. The two-hour outdoor window allows guests to go out in small groups at a time, taking photos and soaking in the dazzling display. Many reviews praise guides like Mo and Peter for their expertise and friendliness, with one guest noting, “Mo made sure to take good pictures, even if you don’t have good equipment.”
Photography and Viewing Tips
Having a professional photographer on site is a standout feature. They help you capture the Aurora in all its glory—whether through your camera or phone—so you can leave with stunning images. Even travelers without high-end gear appreciate that they don’t have to worry about missing the moment, thanks to the guide’s expertise.
What Travelers Say
The majority of reviews are glowing, with a 4.6/5 rating from 66 travelers. Many praise the guides’ knowledge, “friendly, informative,” and “accommodating,” which makes all the difference during an unpredictable night in the Arctic.
One guest raved, “Our experience was amazing with the lodge and dock access. Highly recommend!” Others appreciated the cozy lodge environment, noting how it’s a “wonderful shelter” from the cold, with many commenting positively on the viewing decks and the ability to watch multiple Aurora displays without rushing back inside.
That said, some reviews mention logistical hiccups—such as a lodge that was colder than expected or a less-than-ideal interior environment. One guest noted, “The house was really cold,” attributing it to equipment failure, which the tour operator has acknowledged and is working to fix. Another mentioned the lodge being smaller and less spacious than anticipated, but still felt the overall experience was worth it.
The Value Proposition
At just over $100, this tour offers a lot: expert guides, multiple viewing options, warm shelter, snacks, Wi-Fi, and professional photos—all wrapped into about four hours. For many travelers, this combination of comfort and adventure translates to excellent value, especially compared to other Aurora tours that might be more basic or involve longer drives and less cozy facilities.
While some reviews mention inconveniences like a slightly smelly lodge or limited seating, these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule. The majority find the experience stylish, well-organized, and suited to their needs—even if the weather doesn’t cooperate all night.
Practical Details and Tips
- Transportation: Pickup is available, and the tour uses a comfortable bus to move between potential viewing sites.
- Duration: The 4-hour experience is a manageable window, balancing outdoor time with inside comfort.
- Group Size: Limited to 38 travelers, providing a good balance between social interaction and personal space.
- Weather: The tour is weather-dependent; poor conditions may lead to rescheduling or cancellations.
- Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers flexibility, especially in unpredictable winter weather.
- What to Bring: Dress warmly—layers, hats, gloves—and bring your camera or smartphone for photos.
Final Thoughts
This Aurora tour is an excellent pick for those who want to see the Northern Lights without sacrificing comfort. The combination of a cozy lodge setting, knowledgeable guides, and flexible viewing locations makes it stand out from more basic aurora chases. The included amenities, such as Wi-Fi and snacks, elevate the experience, making it feel more like a well-planned winter excursion rather than a rugged adventure.
While weather can be unpredictable, the tour’s adaptability and the helpful guidance of staff increase your chances of catching the Aurora in all its glory. The professional photography service is a major plus, especially for travelers eager to bring home high-quality photos.
This tour will best suit first-time visitors, families, or anyone looking for a stress-free, enjoyable way to witness one of nature’s most spectacular light shows in comfort.
Aurora Chasing + Aurora Lodge
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup is offered, and transportation is by a comfortable bus that moves you between viewing sites as needed.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 4 hours, including time at the lodge and outdoor viewing.
What’s included in the price?
Snacks, hot beverages, Wi-Fi, and a professional photographer’s services are included in the ticket price.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before your booking. If the weather forecast looks poor, you can reschedule or get a full refund.
What should I bring?
Dress warmly! Layers, hats, gloves, and sturdy shoes are recommended. Bring your camera or smartphone for photos.
What if the lodge is cold or uncomfortable?
Most guests find the lodge cozy and well-equipped, but some reviews have mentioned issues with temperature. The tour operator is aware and working on improvements.
In sum, the Aurora Chasing + Aurora Lodge tour offers a balanced mix of nature, comfort, and expert guidance. It’s a solid choice for anyone seeking a memorable Northern Lights experience without the discomfort of harsh cold or chaotic outdoor chasing—just a good chance to see the sky’s dazzling dance in a warm, welcoming setting.
