Imagine waking up amidst the vast Alaskan wilderness, surrounded by the ethereal glow of the northern lights. For a truly unforgettable experience, I highly recommend The Borealis Basecamp in Fairbanks. During my recent trip to this enchanting destination, I had the privilege of staying at this extraordinary hotel. Housed in cozy Aurora camping domes, the Basecamp offers an unparalleled opportunity to marvel at the night sky’s celestial display while basking in the serenity of the snow-covered landscape, far removed from the city’s bustling lights. This collaboration with Borealis Basecamp has been made possible through their support, and I extend my gratitude for your continued loyalty to the brands that enable me to share such experiences.
Getting to The Borealis Basecamp
Located about an hour’s drive from the Fairbanks International Airport, accessing the Borealis Basecamp is a breeze. One of the perks of staying at the camp is its included shuttle service, which picks up guests from major hotels in Fairbanks or directly from the airport. This convenient transportation option makes it easy to get settled without worrying about logistics.
For those who prefer to drive themselves, it’s essential to have a 4-wheel-drive vehicle equipped with snow tires to navigate the winter roads safely and avoid getting stranded.
The Borealis Basecamp Amenities
Surrounded by the vastness of nature, Borealis Basecamp is an exceptional destination for aurora enthusiasts. This remote haven boasts an astonishing 250 nights of mesmerizing green, red, and purple displays annually, courtesy of its minimal light pollution and sparse population. For those seeking an unparalleled celestial experience, this spot truly shines.Guests have the flexibility to choose between private igloos or cubes, each offering ample amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The igloos feature 16-foot windows that allow for breathtaking views of the night sky from the comfort of your own bed. Additional perks include cozy bedding, beverage bars, mini-fridges, Wi-Fi connectivity, and fully equipped bathrooms. Each dome accommodates up to three individuals.The cubes also boast floor-to-ceiling windows (minus the ceiling), plush beds, and modern bathrooms. This layout makes them an excellent choice for families, as each room features a ‘treehouse’ bed designed specifically for kids. A truly unique and unforgettable experience awaits at Borealis Basecamp.
The Borealis Basecamp Packages
Indulging in a luxurious stay at a premier northern lights hotel near Fairbanks, Alaska, is an unparalleled treat. The all-encompassing packages are meticulously crafted to provide a truly unforgettable experience. While each season holds its own allure, I found winter to be particularly enchanting – and it’s your best bet for witnessing the breathtaking spectacle of the aurora borealis.
Winter Packages
Winter packages are a popular attraction from November 15th through April 10th, with many options selling out quickly. These packages typically range from two to four nights and offer a diverse array of activities. Alongside comfortable accommodation and convenient shuttle services, winter packages also include exciting experiences such as dog sledding, snowmachine excursions, encounters with reindeer, and special photo opportunities.
Fall Packages
Experience the enchantment of Fairbanks’ autumn foliage with a magical stay at the Basecamp. The autumn packages run from August 21 to November 14, with peak fall colors typically occurring in early October. During this time, you can immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of the area by taking part in UTV rides, dog sledding excursions, and sunset tours that will leave you in awe. Choose from a range of packages that cater to your interests, offering stays ranging from 2 to 4 nights.
Summer Packages
For those seeking a break from winter’s chill, Borealis Basecamp offers an enticing summer getaway option. From June 7th to August 16th, visitors can immerse themselves in the camp’s unique atmosphere during the warmer months. The packages available range from one to three nights and include all the same experiences as their autumn counterparts, albeit with a significantly lower likelihood of witnessing the Northern Lights.
Meals at the Basecamp
Our culinary experiences took place in an on-site restaurant situated within a dome structure. Latitude 65 offers a daily menu featuring local and fresh ingredients, catering to our every need after engaging activities throughout the day. Each meal was thoroughly enjoyed, with particular highlights being the savory soups served at lunchtime and mouth-watering ribs savored during dinner hours. The dining yurt, open for 24 hours, provided a cozy retreat for guests to unwind, socialize, or simply relax while meal times were carefully scheduled and personalized recommendations could be made upon check-in.
When is the Best Time to See the Northern Lights
Fairbanks, Alaska boasts an unparalleled Northern Lights experience due to its lengthy viewing season and minimal light pollution. The auroral spectacle is visible from August 21st to April 21st, with a stunning frequency of approximately four sightings out of five days during this period. In fact, according to Explore Fairbanks, visitors who stay for three nights or more enjoy an impressive 90% chance of witnessing the breathtaking Aurora Borealis – an opportunity that’s hard to resist.
Tips for Finding and Photographing the Aurora Borealis
To maximize your chances of witnessing the breathtaking spectacle of the Northern Lights at this fantastic hotel in Fairbanks, it’s essential to understand that sightings are ultimately governed by Mother Nature. Despite this, there are several strategies you can employ to increase your odds and capture stunning photographs. Here are some valuable tips to help you spot and photograph the aurora:Consider visiting during the Aurora Season, which spans from August 21st to April 21st, as this period is considered optimal for viewing the Northern Lights.Take advantage of technology by using Soft Serve News to track the auroral activity and stay informed about any potential sightings.Stay up late and be prepared to shoot at a moment’s notice, as the best views often occur during peak hours.Invest in a good camera, such as a Sony A7riii like Joel’s, to ensure you capture high-quality images of this natural wonder.Most importantly, be patient and don’t get discouraged if your initial attempts are unsuccessful. The Northern Lights can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to be prepared for any eventuality.Additionally, take advantage of the hotel’s wake-up calls to ensure you don’t miss out on any opportunities. By combining these tips with a bit of luck and Mother Nature’s cooperation, you’ll be well on your way to experiencing the awe-inspiring phenomenon of the Northern Lights.
Other Things to Do near the Basecamp
While the Basecamp packages provide more than just accommodation, they also offer a range of exciting adventures beyond the mesmerizing Northern Lights displays. Included in your stay are certain activities that complement your visit perfectly. If you have extra time to spare, there are others that are highly recommended, allowing you to make the most of your experience.
Mushing
Our most thrilling excursion was a dog sled tour, which exceeded my expectations despite having mushed before. The expertise of our guide and the charm of his canine companions made this experience truly unforgettable. Although the tour lasted about an hour, it’s essential to dress warmly and wear a sturdy jacket, like the Parajumpers down I wore, to ensure you stay cozy throughout.
Snowmobiling
As I strapped myself onto the snowmobile for the first time, my anxiety was palpable. A rookie’s nerves got the better of me, and I worried about flipping, falling, or crashing – all fears that thankfully didn’t materialize despite my subpar riding skills. By the end of the ride, however, I’d grown to love the rush of speeding through the snow. Our guide, as always, was a consummate professional, offering expert guidance as we traversed some truly breathtaking trails. The duration of these tours varies depending on the package you select, ranging from 1 hour to 6 hours of pure adrenaline-fueled excitement.
Reindeer Meet and Greet
We thoroughly enjoyed this unique experience, which was thoughtfully included in our package. The highlight was having the opportunity to interact with the reindeer on-site, gaining valuable insights into their world by learning fascinating facts about Rudolph and his companions.
Day Trip to Chena Hot Springs
Consider making a day trip to Chena Hot Springs before or after your Borealis Basecamp stay. Despite not being included in your accommodation package, this scenic spot is only 1.5 hours away by car. You can purchase a day pass and enjoy the hot springs lake, hot tubs, and interior pool. As you soak up the tranquility, take in the breathtaking views of the Chena River and let go of any stress or fatigue. It’s an ideal way to unwind and recharge.
Explore Downtown Fairbanks, Alaska
While exploring Downtown Fairbanks, Alaska, you can experience a delightful fusion of cultural attractions and outdoor pursuits. This charming area is an ideal pit stop before or after your main adventure. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Chena River, browse through the unique, locally owned shops and art galleries that showcase the region’s character, or indulge in fresh seafood at one of the many excellent local restaurants. For a deeper dive into Alaska’s rich cultural heritage, be sure to visit the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center, which offers an immersive experience into the traditions and history of the state’s indigenous cultures.
My Fairbanks, Alaska Trip Vlog
For a deeper dive into the enchantment of this adventure, be sure to check out my Alaska travel vlog on YouTube. The stunning display of the Northern Lights is just one highlight that will leave you mesmerized.
Is a Stay at Borealis Basecamp Worth It?!
As we settled into our winter stay at Borealis Basecamp, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of enchantment wash over me. The interior of the dome was like stepping into a cozy little haven, and the thoughtfully curated daytime itineraries ensured that we stayed engaged and entertained during the day, with the promise of front-row seats for an unforgettable night-time spectacle – the northern lights. And what a treat it was to have clear skies, allowing us to bask in the breathtaking beauty of Mother Nature’s display without needing to book a separate tour! The experience was truly once-in-a-lifetime, and I’m still pinching myself over the splendor we witnessed. If you’re looking for a bucket-list-worthy adventure, add Northern Lights Hotel Fairbanks to your must-see list – it’s an out-of-this-world experience that will leave you starry-eyed and grateful.