Northern Lights Tours & Overnight Packages

Fairbanks is widely considered one of the best places to take a northern light tour in Alaska because of its accessibility, location under the auroral oval, and wide variety of northern lights tours and accommodations. Chena Hot Springs, about 60 miles from Fairbanks, is another popular option where visitors can soak in geothermal pools while watching the aurora borealis. Other top viewing destinations can be found in Alaska's Arctic (Coldfoot and Wiseman), Interior (Denali National Park), and Southcentral (Anchorage area and the Mat-Su Valley).

Plan to visit Alaska for at least three to five nights to give yourself the best chances of clear skies and aurora activity. If you stay in Fairbanks for a minimum of three nights during aurora season (August 21 through April 21) and are actively out viewing every night, you have a 90% chance of seeing the aurora. Check the statewide aurora forecast and Fairbanks aurora tracker to monitor conditions before and during your trip. 

Northern light tour costs vary, based on the type of excursion and duration. Single-night aurora viewing excursions start as low as around $100, while multi-day packages that bundle lodging, meals, and activities can cost up to several thousand dollars, depending on length and inclusions.

Most northern lights overnight packages include lodging, meals, and transportation to viewing sites with an experienced guide. Access to warming huts or cabins and hot beverages is often included to keep you comfortable during late-night viewing. Some packages offer optional activity add-ons like dog sledding, snowmachine tours, and flightseeing.