Practical Info • Aurora Borealis Observatory

Everything You Need to Know Before You Arrive

Travel, transfers, check-in, family equipment and the most important practical details for your stay on Senja.

This page brings together the essential information guests ask about most often before arrival. Whether you are planning your route to Senja, arranging transfer from Bardufoss or Tromsø, traveling with children, or simply want to know how check-in works, this is the best place to start.

Surprisingly easy to reach Despite its remote Arctic setting, Aurora Borealis Observatory is one of the easiest places to reach on Senja, with access via both Bardufoss and Tromsø, plus smooth onward connections by bus, express boat and Arctic Route. For direct bookings made through our website, pickup and dropoff in Finnsnes are also available within our service hours.

How to get here Travel options via Oslo, Bardufoss and Tromsø, including the easiest routes to Senja.

Pickup & dropoff Important details about Finnsnes pickup, included services and transfer timing.

Check-in information Simple arrival routines, self check-in and what to expect when you arrive.

Guest essentials Reception, family equipment, practical services and useful information during your stay.

Travel Information • Senja Island

How to Reach Us on Senja, Norway

Far north of the Arctic Circle lies Senja, one of Norway’s most dramatic island destinations.

Most guests fly via Oslo, then continue north to Bardufoss (BDU) or Tromsø (TOS). From there, the journey continues by shuttle bus, express boat or private transfer depending on the route you choose.

Map showing Oslo, Tromsø, Bardufoss and Senja Island

Fastest route Bardufoss is usually the most direct and practical airport option for getting to us.

Most flexible route Tromsø offers more flight choices and can easily be combined with express boat or bus to Finnsnes.

Final arrival point For many guests, Finnsnes becomes the key transfer point before the last part of the journey to the observatory.

✈️

Flights to Northern Norway

Fly via Oslo and continue north to Bardufoss (BDU) or Tromsø (TOS), depending on the route that suits you best.

Best for: fastest access via Bardufoss
Recommended: Norwegian Airlines and other domestic carriers

Typical domestic flight time from Oslo: approx. 1h 45 min

View Flight Options

🚌

Bardufoss Airport Transfer

A shuttle bus connects Bardufoss Airport with Finnsnes bus terminal, making this one of the easiest ways to reach us.

Pickup point: Finnsnes, included for direct bookings
Simple setup: one bus connection per arrival flow

Estimated transfer time: approx. 1h 15 min

Shuttle Bus Timetable

⛴️

Tromsø Airport Transfer

The express boat from Tromsø to Finnsnes is a scenic and flexible alternative, especially for travelers arriving via Tromsø.

Best for: flexible travel and a more scenic route
Pickup point: Finnsnes terminal

Estimated transfer time: approx. 1h 30 min

Express Boat Timetable

Transfers • Pickup • Private Transport

Transfers to Aurora Borealis Observatory

Whether you arrive via Tromsø, Bardufoss or Finnsnes, getting the final part of the journey right is often one of the most important practical details. Here you’ll find the most relevant transfer information gathered in one place.

Transfer via Arctic Route (Tromsø – Senja)

During the winter season, the Arctic Route makes it simple to travel between Tromsø and Senja. You travel directly from Tromsø Airport to Finnsnes, where we pick you up upon arrival.

This comfortable bus service operates daily and includes modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, toilet and onboard facilities.

Direct route • Easy transfer • Pickup in Finnsnes included A simple and scenic winter connection between Tromsø and Senja.

Private Transfers

Private transfers from Finnsnes, Bardufoss or Tromsø can be arranged through local providers. This is especially useful for families, groups, late arrivals or guests who prefer a more direct journey.

Trulssen Transport: +47 9119534 Private transport option

Finnsnes Taxi: +47 77842260 Taxi and local transfer service

Pickup / Dropoff

When arriving via Bardufoss, a shuttle bus is available for all flights and waits until passengers have collected their luggage. Simply tell the driver you are going to Finnsnes bus terminal — this is where we pick you up.

Included for direct bookings

Afternoon / evening pickup

15:00–22:00

Morning / daytime pickup

08:00–15:00

For arrivals outside these times, we recommend arranging alternative transportation in advance. Pickup is not included for bookings made via external booking platforms.

Arriving by Car

If you arrive with your own car, the resort is easy to reach via Google Maps and is located about 15 minutes from Finnsnes.

Aurora Borealis Observatory Torsmoveien 987, 9303 Silsand, Norway

🚗

Easy to find by car Open the route directly in Google Maps for turn-by-turn navigation to the observatory.

Open in Google Maps Get Directions

Guest Arrival

Reception, Check-In & Guest Service

Aurora Borealis Observatory does not operate like a traditional full-service hotel reception. Instead, we focus on a smoother and more personal arrival experience.

🕒

Check-in From 15:00, with self check-in available year-round.

⏳

Check-out Before 10:00, with the option to stay in the reception area afterwards.

📞

Phone availability Typically 08:00–21:00 during aurora season.

✉️

Arrival details Included in the confirmation for direct bookings. Guests booking through external channels normally receive arrival details through the booking platform.

Family Info

Family-Friendly Practical Information

We offer useful equipment for families traveling with small children to make your stay easier and more comfortable.

👶

For ages 0–5 Prams, cots, high chairs and other essentials may be available.

🧳

Travel lighter Avoid bringing bulky equipment on flights and transfers.

✅

Please ask in advance Availability may vary, so we recommend confirming before arrival.

🏡

Comfort during your stay Designed to make your stay calmer and easier.

Travel & Health Information For general travel updates, policies and any health-related information, please refer to our updated information page.

View Travel Info

More Important Information

Quick access to the most useful practical documents for your stay, including arrival details, safety information, medical guidance and housekeeping information.

Location Address details, maps and how to find the property by car. Fire Action Important fire and safety information for all guests staying on the property. Cleaning Practical housekeeping information and what to expect during your stay. Medical / ICE Useful contact information and emergency details if assistance is needed.