NORWAY
NORTHERN LIGHTS, ARCTIC LIFE & LANDSCAPES
Featuring Tromsø & the Lofoten Islands
March 9-18, 2027
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An unforgettable journey through Northern Norway’s Arctic landscapes and night skies.
Journey above the Arctic Circle on a photography-focused expedition through Northern Norway, guided by Open Sky Expeditions alongside Unique Photo’s Michael Downey and Fort Worth Camera’s Holly Stricklin. Combining the strategic aurora-viewing region of Tromsø with the dramatic beauty of the Lofoten Islands, this carefully crafted itinerary blends striking landscapes, Arctic culture, and exceptional opportunities to photograph the northern lights.
Along the way, you’ll explore colorful fishing villages, cruise through spectacular northern fjords aboard Hurtigruten, photograph towering peaks rising from icy coastlines, and venture out on dedicated aurora hunts with expert local guides prepared to chase open sky deep into the Arctic wilderness. With thoughtfully paced days, flexible photography-focused scheduling, and time to both explore and unwind, this journey offers a rare opportunity to experience Northern Norway in depth.
Tromsø 4 nights • Northern Fjords Cruise 1 night • Svolvær 1 night • Reine 3 nights • plus optional post-trip extension in Oslo
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
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Opportunities across multiple nights to photograph the northern lights from two of the most spectacular and strategically located regions in Arctic Norway.
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Dedicated aurora hunts with expert local guides prepared to travel deep into the Arctic landscape, including toward inland Finland when conditions call for it.
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Several days exploring the breathtaking Lofoten Islands, known for dramatic peaks, colorful fishing villages, rugged coastlines, and incredible photographic scenery.
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A thoughtfully paced itinerary combining Arctic landscapes, coastal culture, and time to slow down and fully experience the rhythm of Northern Norway.
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A relaxing overnight voyage aboard Hurtigruten through Norway’s northern fjords, timed perfectly between the Tromsø and Lofoten portions of the journey.
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Comfortable stays at carefully selected accommodations, including historic waterfront fishermen’s cabins in the beautiful village of Reine.
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Photography instruction and support throughout the trip from Fort Worth Camera’s Holly Stricklin and Unique Photo’s Michael Downey, alongside Open Sky Expeditions’ Patrick Campbell.
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Flexible scheduling designed around weather, light conditions, and aurora activity to maximize opportunities for photography and exploration.
TRIP LEADERS
MICHAEL DOWNEY, PHOTO PRO - Michael Downey is a photography instructor based in the New York City area and Head Instructor at Unique Photo. With years of experience teaching photography and leading photo excursions throughout the Northeast U.S. and abroad, he brings a patient, enthusiastic, and highly encouraging style to every group. Michael has traveled with Open Sky Expeditions in Norway on multiple occasions, and is known for helping photographers build confidence while developing a stronger personal connection to the images they create.
HOLLY STRICKLIN, PHOTO PRO - Holly Stricklin is a professional photographer and educator with over 12 years of teaching experience and more than eight years working with Fort Worth Camera. She brings a warm, encouraging approach to instruction, helping photographers of all skill levels build both technical confidence and creative vision. With a background in biology and a passion for visual storytelling, Holly especially enjoys wildlife photography and excels at guiding travelers toward more intentional, expressive images.
PATRICK CAMPBELL - TRIP LEADER - Patrick Campbell has been part of the Open Sky Expeditions team since 2023, contributing across trip design, operations, and leadership of photography-focused journeys around the world. Based in Austin, Texas, he has experience working across remote destinations throughout Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas, bringing a calm and adaptable presence to complex travel environments. With a background in geography and sustainability, Patrick is passionate about creating meaningful travel experiences rooted in landscape, culture, and a strong sense of place.
PHOTO GALLERY
WORDS FROM OUR TRAVELERS
“This trip was an absolutely phenomenal experience in every way. Exceeded our expectations.” – Jerry Z.
“I found the photo workshop absolutely outstanding. From the moment I registered, everything was handled with care and professionalism.” – Gail H.
“Your tour leader was great. He kept everybody well informed and made the trip run super smooth. His attention to detail and commitment to the participants on the trip was very much appreciated.” – Frank R.
“The trip was excellent. The wide variety of different places and settings were all amazing.” – Aaron S.
“An incredible experience.” – Jessica G.
TO BOOK THIS TRIP
Secure your spot by completing the registration form below and paying a $900 deposit per person to confirm your participation.
ONCE YOU BOOK
Discover why our pre-trip prep is so highly regarded by travelers: with private trip portals, live briefings, a flights concierge, insurance partners, and more.
TRIP REQUIREMENTS
To participate on this trip, you will need to:
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Passport: Carry a passport valid for at least 6 months after the trip ends
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Travel Insurance: Have travel insurance that at least covers emergency medical evacuation. This can be obtained after booking the trip. CLICK HERE to view details on the options offered via our partners Travel Insured International and Wanderwell.
HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?
We're happy to assist! Please contact us at info@openskyexpeditions.com, or call us at 1.844.OPENSKY or +1.212.441.0024.