Discovering the Northern Lights from Kiruna to Abisko: An Authentic Arctic Experience
Imagine leaving the cozy warmth of your hotel in Kiruna, heading into the Arctic night in search of one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena—the Aurora Borealis. For about $279 per person, this 6 to 8-hour small-group tour takes you to the famed Abisko National Park, widely regarded as one of the best places in the world to glimpse the Northern Lights. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll enjoy not just the visual spectacle but also a traditional Swedish dinner and expert photography assistance.
What we truly love about this experience is how well it balances comfort with adventure. The heated bus keeps you warm during the drive, and the campfire with hot drinks offers a cozy respite while waiting for the sky to dance. Plus, with a maximum of 12 participants, it ensures a personal touch that makes the whole evening more engaging.
One potential consideration is the weather—like all aurora outings, success depends heavily on clear skies. However, the guides’ flexibility in chasing clear patches across the region really boosts your chances. This tour is best suited for those who want a well-rounded, informative experience with some comfort, especially if you’re eager to learn about the science, Sami culture, and the stories behind the lights.
Key Points
- Expert guidance increases your chances of spotting the Aurora Borealis.
- Small group size ensures a more intimate, less rushed experience.
- Includes dinner in a mountain lodge with traditional Swedish cuisine.
- Guides are skilled in night photography, helping you capture memories.
- The tour adapts to weather conditions by chasing clear skies across regions.
- Hassle-free pickup and drop-off from most hotels in Kiruna.
Planning more time in Kiruna? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
An In-Depth Look at the Northern Lights Tour from Kiruna to Abisko
The Journey Begins: Convenience and Comfort
From the moment you book, you’ll appreciate the easy pickup service—most hotels in Kiruna are included, making the start of your evening hassle-free. The transportation is a heated bus, which is particularly valuable in the Arctic cold, keeping everyone warm during the drive. With the average booking window being around 45 days in advance, it’s clear many travelers see the value in securing a spot for this popular tour.
The small group size, limited to 12 people, offers a more personalized experience. You’re not part of a crowd but rather part of an intimate group that allows guide interaction and questions. This setup is especially helpful for learning about the Aurora, Lapland, and the Sami culture, as guides like Dimitri or Robin are happy to share their knowledge.
The First Stop: Kiruna to Abisko
Leaving Kiruna, you’ll cruise through snowy landscapes, a beautiful reminder of why travelers are drawn to this region. The journey itself is picturesque, and the guides often share insights about local life, the history of Kiruna, and the science behind Aurora displays.
Dinner in Abisko Mountain Lodge: A Taste of Lapland
The first real highlight upon arrival is dinner at Abisko Mountain Lodge. Here, expect traditional Swedish Lapland delicacies in a warm, inviting setting. Several reviews praise this meal—many call it “lovely,” “delicious,” and “remarkable.” It’s more than just fuel; it’s an opportunity to connect with local culture, learn about Sami traditions, and enjoy hearty comfort food after a day of travel.
While enjoying your meal, your guide will share stories about the region and explain the science of the Aurora. Guests often mention how knowledgeable and enthusiastic the guides are—one even described the guide as “super kind,” working hard to ensure everyone’s questions are answered.
Embarking into the Night: Chasing the Aurora
After dinner, the adventure truly begins. The guides spend the day monitoring weather forecasts and cloud cover, ready to drive to the best possible location for viewing. This dynamic approach is critical because the Northern Lights are notoriously unpredictable. The guides’ flexibility—driving across the region or even into Norway if needed—greatly enhances your odds.
When the group arrives at the designated viewing spot, the experience turns magical. A roaring campfire provides warmth and comfort, and traditional Swedish cookies and warm drinks add to the cozy atmosphere. As the sky darkens, the guides will help you adjust your camera settings to capture the lights, and they’re happy to take professional shots of you and the Aurora with high-end equipment.
What the Reviews Say
Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ expertise and dedication. Jimmy_C describes the team as “very experienced and knowledgeable,” making the tour “enjoyable and memorable.” Mona_H loved how Dimitri knew what he was doing, answering questions and taking stellar pictures. Even when the lights were faint or weather posed a challenge, guides like Dimitri and Robin worked tirelessly to ensure guests saw the Aurora—one review notes a “challenging day with snow and loads of cloud cover,” yet everyone still appreciated the effort and the brief glimpses of dancing lights.
Guests also value the professional photography, which is included. One reviewer said, “we now have rRead more” (meaning high-quality photos), a fantastic bonus for capturing memories of a once-in-a-lifetime night.
The Experience’s Value
For $278, this tour offers a balanced mix of guided expertise, cultural insights, and authentic Arctic ambiance. The dinner, transportation, and photography services all add up to a comprehensive experience that’s far more intimate and enriching than just chasing the lights alone. It’s especially valuable for those who appreciate learning about the local culture and science while enjoying modern comforts.
Considerations and Practical Tips
Remember, in the Arctic, the weather can be unpredictable. The guides’ flexibility to chase clear skies makes a big difference, but no tour can guarantee the Aurora’s appearance. Travelers should be prepared for cold nights, despite the provided winter overalls. The campfire is a helpful feature, but sometimes guests have wished for a fire or source of heat during waiting periods—an aspect that some reviews mention as a small drawback.
Also, this tour isn’t recommended for children under 15, mainly because of the cold and the length of the evening. If you’re after a more relaxed or family-friendly experience, this might not be the best fit.
Who Will Benefit Most?
This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a personal, guided experience in pursuit of the Northern Lights. It’s especially suited for those eager to learn about the science, local culture, and photography tips—many reviews mention how guides go the extra mile to make the experience educational and fun. If you value comfort and small-group intimacy, this tour ticks those boxes.
However, if your primary goal is just a quick snapshot or a very relaxed evening, consider your expectations—weather conditions crucially impact visibility, and the Arctic cold can be stiff even with overalls. Still, most guests leave feeling they’ve enjoyed a truly authentic Arctic adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes private transportation, winter overalls, dinner at Abisko Mountain Lodge, professional guide, campfire, and hot drinks. Professional photography is also part of the package, so you’ll get high-quality photos of the Aurora and yourself.
Is the pickup from my hotel in Kiruna included?
Yes, most hotels in Kiruna offer pickup service. However, the tour does not provide pick-up or drop-off from the Ice Hotel, Camp Alta, Kurravaara, Reindeer Lodge, or Poikkijärvi.
How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, starting around 5:00 pm. The actual time at the viewing site depends on weather conditions and the Aurora’s appearance.
What should I wear?
Warm clothing is essential. The tour provides winter overalls, but bring layered thermal clothing, waterproof boots, gloves, and a warm hat. The Arctic night can be very cold, especially if you’re outside waiting.
Can I see the Northern Lights every night?
Not guaranteed. Visibility depends on weather and solar activity. Guides monitor conditions and will drive to find clear skies, but nature isn’t always predictable.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for guests under 15 years old, mainly because of the cold and the length of the evening. It’s best suited for older children, teens, or adults.
What if the weather is bad?
If the weather conditions are unfavorable and the Aurora can’t be seen, the tour offers full refunds or rescheduling. The guides will do everything possible to maximize your chances, but weather is beyond control.
Do I need a good camera to capture the Aurora?
While a smartphone with night mode can produce decent photos, the guides will assist with professional camera shots. The included photos are high-resolution and serve as great souvenirs.
In The Sum Up
This Northern Lights tour from Kiruna to Abisko offers a well-rounded Arctic adventure, combining expert guidance, cultural storytelling, traditional cuisine, and the thrill of chasing the Aurora. Its small-group setting ensures a more personal experience, and the focus on photography means you’ll come away with beautiful keepsakes.
For travelers who appreciate authentic, immersive experiences with a good dose of comfort, this tour delivers. The guides’ dedication, the scenic drive, and the chance to learn about Sami culture and science make it more than just a lights hunt—it’s a well-crafted journey into the heart of Lapland.
While weather can be a wildcard, the guides’ flexibility and attention to detail significantly improve your odds. If you’re prepared for cold nights and eager to learn and photograph in a stunning natural setting, this tour is a fantastic choice.
This tour is ideal for those wanting a memorable, educational, and intimate Arctic adventure, especially if you value expert guides and authentic local experiences. Whether it’s your first time seeing the lights or you’re returning for another peek, the combination of comfort, expert knowledge, and stunning scenery makes it a worthwhile investment in your travel dreams.