Northern Lights Explorer

After making your way to Tromso, enjoy a seamless transfer to the included group hotel, coordinated by an Aurora Expeditions representative. Upon arrival, step up to the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk to pick up your luggage cabin tags. The ground operations team is stationed there to share any necessary pre-embarkation details and offer excellent suggestions for local dining, ATMs, and nearby supermarkets or pharmacies.

The rest of the day is yours to spend entirely at leisure, with today's meals remaining at your own expense.

Start your morning by ensuring all cabin luggage features tags are clearly labeled with your name and cabin number. Have peace of mind knowing bags transfer seamlessly from the hotel to the port for clearance, arriving in your cabin before you do. Remember to keep any valuables or personal items on hand throughout the day. Following a leisurely morning, check out and step into the past on a historical walking tour of Tromsø, the famed gateway to the Arctic. Trace the footsteps of legendary explorer Roald Amundsen and discover the rich polar history of a city that has launched numerous historic expeditions. Head to the pier in the late afternoon for embarkation, enjoying plenty of time to settle into your cabin before the mandatory safety briefings. Relish the excitement of departure as the vessel 'throws the lines' and begins the voyage. Cap off the day by mingling with fellow expeditioners, the dedicated expedition team, and the crew at a festive Welcome Dinner, celebrating the dawn of an incredible adventure.

Over the next few days, explore parts of Norway’s remarkable 1,000-kilometer (600-mile) coastline. Starting in Torsken, in the very north of the country, you make your way south, stopping in the Lofoten Islands. The spectacular northern lights are a natural phenomenon that is most commonly seen in the sky above the Arctic Circle, between autumn and early spring. As you are near Ånderdalen National Park in northern Norway, keep a close watch in hope of witnessing this dazzling spectacle in the night sky.  

Embark on a leisurely amble through the quaint village of Torsken, where breathtaking natural beauty provides a captivating backdrop. As you meander along Torsken’s narrow lanes, immerse yourself in the village’s fascinating history, a rich tapestry woven from centuries of fishing traditions and the enduring spirit of its community. Admire the scenic splendor that surrounds you, with the majestic Senja mountains creating a stunning panorama and the tranquil streets lined with colorful houses, each possessing its own unique character. En route, you can have the opportunity to visit Torsken Church, a cherished local landmark dating back to the 18th century. Before your exploration concludes, indulge your palate with a selection of local delicacies, not only distinctive to this region but also emblematic of Norwegian culinary heritage. 

Personalize your expedition with the included 'Your Choice' experiences that suit your interests and fitness level.

Option 1: Norwegian Scenic Route
Duration: 3 hours  
Level of difficulty: Leisurely
Terrain: Uneven surfaces, some steps, some slight accents and descents in places.

Embark on a scenic drive through Norway’s second-largest island, Senja, and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of untouched nature. As you wind your way along the ridge above the charming village of Bergsbotn, you can reach a 44-meter-long platform offering a breathtaking panorama of the Bergsfjord and its surrounding peaks. Continuing your journey, you arrive at Tungenes, a dramatic headland nestled between Steinfjord and Ersfjord. Take a leisurely stroll along the wooden walkway that extends over the rocks, where you can admire the vast expanse of the North Sea to the west and the imposing Okshornan mountains to the north. Your adventure concludes at Ersfjord Beach, a pristine stretch of white sand framed by the island’s iconic jagged peaks. 

Option 2: Trek to Ravnfloy 
Duration: 3 hours  
Level of difficulty: Comprehensive 
Terrain: It is recommended to dress in layered clothing and wear proper hiking boots. This hike is 4 km return, with an elevation gain of 548 meters, on a gravel and loose rock path with boulders, some steep and consistent inclines, and a short passage with some exposed areas. Participants should be in good physical condition. 

Set off on an exhilarating hike to the dramatic summit of Ravnfløy, where the stunning beauty of Senja and Ånderdalen National Park unfolds before your eyes. This adventurous trek across rugged terrain promises breathtaking rewards. As you ascend higher, be captivated by the panoramic vistas of Senja’s rugged coastline, majestic mountains, and pristine fjords. Halfway through your journey, pause to rejuvenate around a cosy fire pit, savoring local delicacies while taking in the spectacular scenery. Reaching the summit is a triumphant moment, as you stand atop the world and capture unforgettable memories and stunning photographs. 
 
Option 3: Hike to Midtertinden 
Duration: 4.5 hours  
Level of difficulty: Active 
Terrain: It is recommended to dress in layered clothing and wear proper hiking boots. This hike covers approximately 4.4 km return, with an elevation gain of 623 meters, on a gravel and loose rock path with boulders, some steep and consistent inclines, and a short passage with some exposed areas. Participants should be in excellent physical condition. 

Challenge yourself on a strenuous yet immensely rewarding hike through the heart of Ånderdalen National Park. Immerse yourself in the untamed wilderness surrounding Senja as you conquer the ascent to Midtertinden, where breathtaking views of the surrounding community, mountains, and fjords await. Your adventure begins in the charming village of Torsken, nestled amidst dramatic fjords and pristine landscapes. As you climb towards the summit of Midtertinden, the trail unfolds to reveal panoramic vistas of the Norwegian Sea, its crystal-clear waters dotted with enchanting islets. Reaching the mountaintop at 623 meters is a triumphant achievement, rewarded with a spectacular 360-degree panorama of Senja's rugged coastline, majestic mountains, and the vast Arctic expanse.  

You go to the stunning Lofoten – meaning puma’s foot – Islands. This is a land scoured by ice and legend, the towering crags with their sharp edges standing in silent protection of the villages below.
 
Personalize your expedition with the included ‘Your Choice’ experiences that suit your interests and fitness level.

Option 1: Guided hike towards Tjeldbergtind
Duration: 3 hours  
Level of difficulty: Active
Terrain: It is recommended to dress in layered clothing and wear proper hiking boots. This hike is approximately 5 km (3.1 mi) on uneven terrain with loose gravel and some steep and consistent inclines. The highest point is 367 meters (1,204 feet). Visibility of sights may be affected by adverse weather conditions. Participants should be in good physical condition. 

Experience the pristine landscape of Lofoten on this adventurous hike to a mountain top overlooking the beautiful peaks of the archipelago. After a steep ascent your reward awaits you with a 360 panoramic view of Lofoten’s iconic jagged mountains, picturesque lakes, and peaceful surroundings. You can also have a spectacular view of Svolvær, Kabelvåg, Vågan and on a clear day you can see the mainland. 

Option 2: Taste of Lofoten (Limited seats available) 
Duration: 2 hours, including snacks 
Level of difficulty: Leisurely (limited seats available)  
Note: The tour includes tastings of eight delicacies and should not be considered as a full meal. Drinks are not included, and a selection of beverages is available for purchase. 

Lofoten lies in the middle of what is often called ”the world’s largest dinner plate”, and the unique commodities the inhabitants of Lofoten have fed on and lived from for centuries, are in large scale. Experience real flavors and an authentic gastronomic experience. 

On the way to the tasting venue, you make stops to see the fish racks and the first taste of Lofoten is served. Arriving at the tasting venue the stories and delicacies from the north continue. Enjoy dried arctic cod, salmon, Lofoten lamb, tasty cloudberries and locally produced yoghurt made from local milk grazing right by the arctic coast. You can also get a taste of roe/caviar from arctic cod. 

Option 3: Lofoten Fishing Village 
Duration: 2 hours 
Level of difficulty: Moderately paced  
Terrain: This walk covers approximately 5 km / 3.1 miles return on level terrain. 

Combine history and culture in the urban fishing village of Svolvær. Join this cultural walk featuring the history of the fisheries, the historical land-owning fish buyers and the present-day sights in the center of Svolvær. During this cultural walk you make several stops of interest, and your local guide welcomes all questions and comments to ensure the best possible experience. You visit the most important current and historical sites and includes a tasting of Stockfish. 

As you traverse the scenic vistas of Lofoten, marvel at majestic mountain peaks and expansive fertile lands that once set the stage for Viking sagas. Your expedition begins in Haukland Beach, a paradisiacal haven with its pearly white sands and sapphire waters, embraced by lush greenery and towering peaks, evoking the essence of an Arctic paradise. You have ample time to hike from Uttakleiv, to Haukland Beach—a gentle stretch over hills and along the coastal path to the pristine white sand beach.   

Upon reaching the Viking Museum in Borg, enjoy an exhibition showcasing archaeological discoveries and meticulous recreations of Viking dwellings, gaining a vivid understanding of the daily lives of these seafaring people a millennium ago. The museum endeavors to authentically recreate the Viking village atmosphere, complete with handicrafts, traditional buildings, and era-specific cuisine. As part of this immersive experience, be treated to a soup crafted from an ancient North Norwegian recipe, prepared over an open fire—a culinary journey back in time amid the fascinating history of the Vikings.  

Drive through the scenic landscapes of Lofoten to Norway's renowned Sund where you can visit a Black smith at the Fishery Museum, famous for his beautiful cormorants made of steel. The decorative wrought iron cormorants are famous all over the world, and can be found in the Pentagon, the Kremlin and in the King of Norway's palace.  

Continue to the village of Reine where your ship will be waiting for you. This fishing village is one of the most beautiful in Norway, and you are sure that when you see it you can understand why!  

Enjoy the crossing to Jan Mayen, accompanied by seabirds as you search for whales. Enjoy informative talks from team of experts, get to know your fellow expeditioners or stay active in the gym. Remember to look to the skies at night and hope for sightings of the northern lights. 

The approach to Jan Mayen is spectacular. The huge 2,277-meter (7,470 foot) Beerenberg volcano is the northernmost active volcano in the world, and it last erupted in 1985. The northern part of the island is a great place to look for whales and dolphins and contains impressive glaciers, some of which reach the sea. If the weather is favorable, you try to land at Kvalrossbukta, a relatively sheltered bay on the island’s west coast. This is one of the landings used to supply the weather station Olonkinbyen, situated on the eastern side of the island.  

In the coming days, a host of choices are available to us, and depending on ice and weather conditions, the east coast of Greenland is yours to explore. The members of experienced Expedition Team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to tailor your voyage to suit the day-to-day conditions. This allows you to make best use of the prevailing weather, ice conditions and any opportunities for wildlife encounters. You generally attempt up to two landings or Zodiac excursions per day, including cruising along spectacular ice cliffs, following whales feeding near the surface. 

Be prepared to experience ice – and lots of it! East Greenland contains some of the Arctic’s most impressive scenery. Deep fjords and narrow channels, flanked by sharp ice-clad peaks soaring up to 2,000 meters (6,562 feet), and glaciers birthing gigantic icebergs that drift throughout the fjord system, combine to create breathtaking scenes. 

The tundra landscape is home to musk oxen, arctic hares and reindeer. Throughout the area there are ancient Thule archaeological sites, historical trappers’ huts, and the cabins of present-day Inuit hunters. A highlight is a visit to the Inuit village of Ittoqqortoormiit, the most isolated and northernmost permanent settlement in the region, with approximately 450 inhabitants. The community has an excellent museum, gift shop, an abundance of Greenlandic sled dogs and provides the opportunity to meet the friendly locals. 

Explore Scoresbysund, the world’s largest fjord system and a favorite hunting ground of the local Inuit. Massive glaciers flow into this fjord, the birthplace of hundreds of majestic Greenland icebergs. It is a spectacular place that simply needs to be seen to be believed. North of Scoresbysund lie Kong Oskar and Kaiser Franz Josef fjords, two of the most significant fjord systems in Greenland, each one encompassing several smaller fjords and sounds. Thanks to the fertile volcanic soil and the surrounding mountains offering protection from strong winds, the area is rich in wildlife. You may spot everything from musk oxen and arctic foxes to mountain hares, and even reindeer, near the fjord. Look skyward and you could catch a glimpse of birds, including the glaucous gull, black-legged kittiwake, northern fulmar, common raven and common eider. 

You attempt to enter Kaiser Franz Josef Fjord, a remote and rarely visited fjord system with countless opportunities for exploration, located within the Northeast Greenland National Park. Cruising through Kong Oskar Fjord, you marvel at the geological beauty of the mountains. You then head south along the coast of Liverpool Land, with your passage dependent on ice conditions. 

Stretch your legs on hikes across tundra in search of ancient graveyards and summer villages occupied 3,000 years ago by Inuit. You may see musk oxen, arctic hares and reindeer grazing. The maze of calm, interconnecting waterways in this area provides excellent opportunities for sea kayaking. You see ring seals, perhaps catch a glimpse of the elusive narwhal, and maybe even a polar bear hunting on pack ice. 

Over the coming days, explore the Westfjords region, which features outstanding landscapes with jaw-dropping views of dramatic fjords carved by ancient glaciers, sheer, table-top mountains that plunge into the sea, and pristine north Atlantic vegetation. The region features attractive towns such as Isafjordur, surrounded by sheer mountains and steeped in history, evident in its preserved wooden architecture. Delight in its lively cultural scene and abundant outdoor activities. 

On Vigur Island, birdwatchers can try and tick a few species on their list, while others can enjoy walks of varying levels of difficulty, soaking in the stunning surrounds. The island's unique ecosystem is a haven for birdlife, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Stroll along the coastline, keeping an eye out for puffins and other seabirds, or venture deeper into the island to discover hidden gems. With its rolling hills, picturesque landscapes, and fresh sea air, Vigur offers an unforgettable experience. 

Thingeyri, a quaint village nestled on a slender strip of land, graces the shores of one of Iceland's most picturesque fjords, Dýrafjörður. Much like many other coastal settlements in Iceland, the village's culture and industry have been intricately woven with the influence of the sea over centuries. The surrounding landscape is adorned with towering mountains, lending a distinctive charm to the scenic expanse that envelops Thingeyri. This idyllic region is often hailed as the "Alps of the Westfjords," especially the highland area nestled between the majestic fjords of Dyrafjordur and Arnarfjordur. The beauty of Thingeyri lies not only in its coastal simplicity but also in the dramatic backdrop of high mountains that paints a captivating portrait of this Icelandic village. 

Access Thingeyri by Zodiac, with a short cruise before dry landing. 

Personalize your expedition with your included 'Your Choice' experiences that suit your interests and fitness level.

Option 1 - That Viking Thing Experience  
Duration: 2 hours + free time 
Level of difficulty: Leisurely

Step back in time and learn about the Viking ways and how the hardy Norse people lived off the land. Walk through a recreated Viking area, learning about what is fact and what is fiction in the many stories you've heard about the famous Vikings. A short hike brings you to the old ruins of the Viking meeting place called a Thing - the closest translation in English is 'parliament.' Step inside the interactive Viking Museum for a chance to dress up in authentic hand-sewn Viking clothing, take photographs, drink Icelandic Viking beer, bake your own Viking bread, and explore the museum - all part of learning more about Viking ways. 

Option 2 - Sandafell Mountain Hike  
Duration: 3 hours 
Level of difficulty: Active. 5.1km / 3.2 miles. Tech difficulty: Moderate, approx. 2-3hr. Constant elevation gain of approximately 170 meters /558 feet, with the mountain itself reaching 367 meters (1,204 feet).
Terrain: Gravel trail may be slippery in spots with loose rocks or wet grass. Some scrambling and steep sections. At the summit, you’re rewarded with a truly breathtaking panorama. 

For avid explorers, Iceland is littered with hidden gems, and possibly the best-kept secret of all is the Westfjords. Lying in the most north-westerly area of the island, this sprawling area of natural beauty is truly a hiker’s paradise. Rocky peaks, deep crevices, and charming Icelandic towns all add to the appeal of the Westfjords, not to mention the various hiking trails snaking across the unusual countryside. Today, hike Sandafell, offering gorgeous views over the town, surrounding mountains and the water below. 

Return to the ship via Zodiac after your shore excursion. 

Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the afternoon as you cruise south, taking in breathtaking landscapes and keeping a watchful eye for whales. Later, get to test out your muck boots and embark on a Zodiac wet landing to witness the awe-inspiring power of Dynjandi waterfall. Return to the ship via Zodiac after your shore excursion. 

Grundafjordur is the starting point of your adventures on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, the gateway to Snaefellsjokull National Park. Snaefellsnes Peninsula is an area of diverse landscapes characterized by lava fields and glistening fjords and is home to a vast array of birdlife. The area is crowned by the magnificent, ice-capped Snaefellsjokull volcano, a 700,000-year-old dormant subglacial volcano, visible from Reykjavik on a clear day and immortalized in Jules Verne's Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Personalize your expedition with the included 'Your Choice' experiences that suit your interests and fitness level.

Option 1 - Highlights of Snaefellsness
Duration: 8 hours, including lunch 
Level of difficulty: Moderately paced 
Terrain: Uneven surfaces, walking across sand and through lava fields, some steps, some moderate accents and descents in places. 

Your first stop will be the iconic Mount Kirkjufell, a favorite among photographers and known to many as a filming location for the TV show "Game of Thrones”. Not far from this majestic mountain is a waterfall that completes the picturesque scene. Next, visit Snæfellsjökull National Park, encompassing a large area of Snæfellsnes Peninsula's western tip. For the more active, explore some incredible hiking trails, or simply enjoy your drive through the park and take in the beauty that surrounds you. Continue to the dramatic black pebble beach of Djúpalónssandur, where you can marvel at the black sands and colossal rock formations, volcanic landscapes, and remains of a 1948 shipwreck. Following lunch, re-join the coach to travel to Búðir, a picturesque hamlet surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Stop to admire Búðakirkja, the 19th-century church and explore the area before embarking the ship in Arnarstapi. 

Option 2 - Coastal Trails & Lava Caves 
Duration: 7 hours including lunch 
Level of difficulty: Comprehensive. Hike – 3.40km/2.1 miles one way. Tech difficulty: easy, approx. 1-2hr.  
Terrain: Hiking over lava fields, rocky terrain, slippery when wet. Elevation 52 meters / 173 feet. Good mobility is required. Vatnshellir Cave involves walking unsupported on uneven surfaces in limited lighting and navigating two 30 meter spiral staircases in both directions. It is strongly recommend that you wear comfortable and sturdy footwear, as the volcanic rock can be quite difficult to traverse. It does get cold in the cave, so do remember to bring a jacket.

Upon disembarkation, stop the iconic Mount Kirkjufell, a favorite among photographers and known to many as a filming location for the TV show "Game of Thrones”. Not far from this majestic mountain is a waterfall that completes the picturesque scene. Next, step into the 8,000-year-old Vatnshellir Cave, replete with stunning geology, fascinating rock formations, and colorful volcanic rock. Meet at your base near the cave, where your friendly guide will provide you with all the equipment that you need, including a helmet and headlamp (it is strongly recommend that you wear comfortable and sturdy footwear, as the volcanic rock can be quite difficult to traverse). Then your friendly guide will give you a brief safety talk before you descend the spiral staircase into this subterranean wonderland. The tour meanders through the path of the lava flow around 200 meters into a large cave that lies around 35 meters beneath the surface of the earth, where you are greeted by some rainbow-colored volcanic rocks and incredible petrified lava formations. The cave is a fairly easy walk, although it will involve a degree of climbing. Following lunch, re-join the coach and travel to Arnarstapi and hike the coastal trail that connects the two villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar. Now a National Reserve, this easy level hike encompasses geology, wildlife, amazing photo opportunities, folklore and most of all adventure. This old trail takes you along the wild shoreline with a view of the ocean and extraordinary columnar basalt and lava cliff formations on one side and stunning mountains and Snæfellsjökull Glacier on the other. The cliffs are alive with a wide range of bird species such as the Arctic Tern, the kittiwakes, gulls and fulmars. 

Option 3 - Land of Fire Hiking 
Duration: 7 hours including lunch 
Level of difficulty: Active. Hike 1 – 5.6km/3.5 miles. Tech difficulty: easy, approx. 2hr 30min. Eldborg - Length: 6.64km / 4.12 miles. Tech difficulty: moderate, approx. 1hr 30min. Elevation: 50-100 meters / 164-328 ft. 
Terrain: Hiking over lava fields, rocky terrain, slippery when wet. Good fitness and mobility are required. It is strongly recommend that you wear comfortable and sturdy footwear, as the volcanic rock can be quite difficult to traverse. Many steps, some steep accents and descents in places.

The Land of Fire and Ice is well-known for its incredible landscapes and contrasting terrains that include several natural and geological wonders rarely found anywhere else on Earth. The unique geological history of Snæfellsnes will draw you in where you can explore sites revealing Iceland's unique geological history up close. Your first stop is at Eldborg crater, located on a short volcanic rift, just 200 meters in diameter, and 50 meters deep. It is the largest crater on this rift and was created in an eruption which occurred somewhere between 5000 and 6000 years ago. Unlike many of Iceland’s volcanoes, it has a very classic shape, with smooth sloping sides and a very definite crater. A marked hiking path leads through a shrub-covered lava field to the top of the crater offering incredible views of Snaefellsnes National Park. Continue to the symmetrical, hexagonal-shaped basalt columns at Gerðuberg Cliffs. Stand in awe at these impressive cliffs, a natural marvel that spans 500 meters. To enjoy the best view, take a walk by the structures. Climbing up the cliff is possible but to really soak in the views of this geological structure, it's best to enjoy a walk alongside the cliffs. Following an early lunch, re-join the coach and head for the Pufubjarg bird cliff, home of nesting puffins and fulmars. From here, hike along the rugged coastline to witness the exceptionally beautiful Londrangar basalt cliffs, a geologic wonder that looks like a huge rock castle. There are many local birds here, and they are a noisy bunch. Puffins, but especially fulmars, nest in the many cavities in the two pillars. From here you hike across a pretty lava field covered in moss to Malarrif, where you can see the lighthouse and explore the beach. 

During the early morning, cruise into Reykjavik and disembark at approximately 8.00 am. Farewell your expedition team and fellow passengers as you continue your onward journey. Transfer options are as follows: 

1. Direct to Keflavik Airport. 
2. Direct to The Grand Reykjavik (this option is only available if your hotel was booked by Aurora Expeditions). 
3. Bus Stop #1 – Ráðhús – City Hall where you can make your own way to city hotels. 
4. For late afternoon and evening airport departures, Bus Stop #1 – Ráðhús – City Hall where the team will hold your luggage on the coach until your departure to the airport at 1pm. Enjoy free time in the city until your departure. 

Note: Do not book flights departing prior to 12.00 pm on the day of disembarkation, as you may experience delays at the conclusion of the voyage.