Norway Northern Lights: Dancing Auroras and Ancient Culture

WHY GO? What better way to experience the Aurora Borealis aka Northern lights than in the city of northern lights, Alta. In Norwegian, Eventyr means both 'adventure' and 'fairy tale.' This is the perfect word to describe Alta, as it is a perfect place for active adventures in the mountains, forests and fjords that are reminiscent of fairy tale landscapes. The cold and long winters provide excellent conditions for dog sledding, skiing, snowmobiling, and other adventure activities. A modern city in Northern Norway surrounded by the arctic tundra and mountains, Alta is the ideal combination of natural and urban elements. The celestial dance of lights, known as Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, is a phenomenon as old as Earth’s atmosphere. The first record of Aurora Borealis is believed to be in a 30,000-year-old cave painting in France. Since then, cultures around the world have marveled at its magic, giving rise to many fascinating legends and folklore. In Norway alone, symbols linked to the northern lights are found on the Sámi shamanistic drum. They call it “Guovssahas,” i.e. “the light that can be heard.” During the Viking Age, the northern lights were said to be the armor of the Valkyrie warrior virgins that shed a strange flickering light. Today, locals respectfully refer to the lights as “the green lady.” WHAT ARE SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS? Northern Lights Safari: 3 nights of hunting for the Northern lights with a local guide who would take us to the best places to experience the northern lights dancing in the sky, based on the weather forecast and their specific knowledge about the topography surrounding Alta. The local guide will also explain the history and science behind the Northern Lights and will give some camera support (if required). Road trip to Northcape (Nordkapp): A journey to the Northernmost point of Europe will let you discover unique landscapes. On our way, you may encounter Reindeers, explore the colourful fishing villages including Skarsvåg the world’s northernmost fishing village. On this trip, you enjoy breathtaking scenery and take a picture or a selfie at the cliffs and the iconic globe sculpture rising on top. Once you've experienced the North Cape, you will know why it is one of the absolute highlights on a trip to Norway. Northcape Visitor Centre and Museum: Learn more about the early expeditions to North Cape and watch a panoramic film that takes you through four seasons. The visitor centre at the top level offers amazing views of the mountain plateau and endless blue Barents Sea. Discovering Alta: Renowned for its rich history and culture. Alta has been a meeting place for multiple indigenous communities since the Stone Age. The town is the biggest in the northern region and features the Northern Lights Cathedral, the city's architectural landmark. Alta houses a famous Museum that contains Northern Europe's largest and richest rock carving site, inscribed on the UNESCO's World Heritage List. The 2000 to 6200 years old rock carvings show the life of hunters and fishermen. Snowshoeing adventure (Optional): Experience the Arctic nature on foot. You are provided with a pair of snowshoes and then guided by a Professional around the forest that is close to Alta to experience Snowshoeing. On this trip, you are served coffee/tea, hot soup and biscuits. The total duration is 2.5 - 3 hours. Dog Sledding with a Professional guide (optional): Visit a husky farm and get to know the wonderful and friendly huskies. When you are ready, they set up the sledge and team. Your guide drives the sledge and you sit and enjoy the beautiful northern winter landscape. It is possible for you to drive the team under the eye of the guide. When the dogsled trip is over, and you are back at the kennel, you can enjoy the company of the huskies around a fire, where you are served warm drinks and tasty local snacks. Includes: Instructions on how to handle the dogs and sledge, coffee/tea and stories, warm thermal suits. The total duration is 3 - 5 hours. Snowmobile Adventure (Optional): No previous knowledge is required to drive a snowmobile. All you need is a regular driver's license, and it's as simple as it is fun. A thorough safety introduction and driving instruction will be given before the trip starts. Experience the charm of the Arctic wilderness and create memories that last forever. You drive into the Finnmarksvidda, one of Europe's last wilderness areas and drive up to the highest point of the plains with the nature on the plateau being magnificent and impressive. Hot drinks and a snack/cake give a cozy touch to the outdoor experience. Experience The World's Northernmost Igloo Hotel (optional): Feel the magic. Witness the detailed works of art. And enter a frozen world of possibilities. The Igloo Hotel is built and crafted by a crew of local artists who design it with a unique and original theme every year. What is Included? - TripLeader and Local guide for the entire duration - 3 x nights shared accommodation in Alta in a 2 bedroom apartment, with twin share room. Note: Additional accommodation upgrade options are available. - 3 x nights Northern lights safari with local guide (weather permitting) - Transportation for the entire trip, from the meeting to the finishing location. - Entry to Alta museum. - Entry to Northcape museum (weather permitting). - Road trip to Northcape - Northernmost point of Europe (weather permitting). - A guided walking tour of Alta (weather permitting).