Enjoy the Aurora show on top of the mountain inc tipi dinner

Northern Lights Adventure on Top of Mt. Ednavaara with Tipi Dinner — A Review

If you’re dreaming of catching the elusive auroras in the Arctic, this tour in Kiruna, Sweden, might just be what you’re looking for. Priced at around $320.82 per person, it offers roughly five hours of snow, stars, and spectacular sky watching. Led by helpful guides, you’ll journey to the top of Mt. Ednavaara, where the chances of seeing the Northern Lights are higher thanks to its remote, light-pollution-free setting. The experience culminates in a cozy tipi dinner cooked over a crackling fire, adding a warm, authentic touch to your Arctic night.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines adventure with comfort. First, there’s the ease of round-trip transport from your hotel in Kiruna, making it hassle-free to enjoy the evening without worrying about logistics. Then, the opportunity to snowmobile across off-the-map trails on a simple, easy-to-ride machine provides a genuine feeling of exploration. Plus, the tipi dinner serves as a surprisingly atmospheric and delicious highlight, especially with the chance to photograph the Northern Lights from a dark sky setting—something that many travelers find unforgettable.

That said, a potential consideration is the weather dependency. As with all Northern Lights excursions, cloud cover or poor weather might prevent you from seeing the auroras. Several reviews mention that even if the sky remains overcast, the overall experience remains worthwhile thanks to the guides’ efforts and the unique Arctic atmosphere. So, if clear skies are a priority, it’s wise to keep an eye on the weather forecast before booking.

In terms of who this tour suits best: it’s perfect for adventure-loving travelers seeking a mix of activity and comfort. If you’re eager to experience the thrill of snowmobiling in the Arctic and enjoy a warm, rustic dinner under the stars, this is a wonderful choice. It’s also well-suited for those who value professional guides that make the night easier and more enjoyable, and for anyone who appreciates good photo opportunities in a pristine environment.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Combines snowmobiling, starry skies, and tipi dinner, offering a well-rounded taste of Lapland’s outdoors.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable hosts like Adrian and others help create a friendly, informative atmosphere.
• Prime Aurora Viewing: Located at Mt. Ednavaara, away from light pollution, increasing your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights.
• Comfort and Convenience: Includes Arctic-appropriate clothing, round-trip transport, and equipment like cameras and tripods.
• Weather-Dependent: Aurora sightings depend on clear skies; the tour offers options for rescheduling or refunds if canceled due to poor weather.
• Authentic Dining: Dinner cooked over a fire in a tipi provides a cozy, memorable Arctic meal.

In-Depth Review of the Tour: What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Transportation

Your evening begins in Kiruna, where you’ll be picked up around 5:30 pm. The round-trip transfer is included, removing the stress of navigating snowy roads or public transport. This convenience is a major plus, especially after a day of sightseeing or travel. The journey to Mt. Ednavaara takes you through stunning Arctic landscapes, with the anticipation building as you move away from light pollution and into the quiet wilderness.

Snowmobiling Through Lapland’s Wilderness

Once at the meeting point, you’ll gear up in Arctic-appropriate clothing—a thoughtful touch, since staying warm is vital when you’re outdoors in sub-zero temperatures. The snowmobiles are described as easy to maneuver, making this accessible even for beginners. Your guide, possibly someone like Adrian, will lead the group along “off-the-map trails” that weave through snowy forests and across open vistas, offering a true sense of adventure.

Several reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness and helpfulness. Aileen mentions their guide’s efforts to help everyone take photos, which is a big plus if you’re hoping to capture the Northern Lights or the stunning scenery. The snowmobile ride lasts roughly 45 minutes to an hour, giving plenty of time to enjoy the Arctic silence and the thrill of gliding over fresh snow.

Reaching the Summit: Top of Mt. Ednavaara

Arriving at the mountain top is a highlight in itself. The elevated position increases the likelihood of clear skies, but it’s still weather-dependent. Once there, you’ll be surrounded by stars, snow, and the anticipation of the auroras. Here, the guide often sets up cameras and tripods, enabling guests to take their own photos or have professional shots taken—another feature appreciated by many travelers.

The Tipi Dinner and Aurora Watching

The evening culminates in a cozy tipi, just outside the Máttaráhkká Lodge, where a hot meal is served around a crackling fire. The setting is wonderfully atmospheric, especially if the auroras appear. Many reviews mention that even if the lights are elusive, the experience remains enjoyable thanks to the warmth of the fire, the delicious food, and the unique environment.

Dinner is typically served before or after the aurora viewing, depending on the night’s conditions, and provides a chance to relax and swap stories with fellow travelers. It’s a genuine taste of Lapland hospitality—simple, hearty, and memorable.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

While the tour’s primary draw is the chance to see the Northern Lights, it’s also about the overall Arctic adventure. Even in clouded conditions, many reviewers emphasize that the guides’ efforts, the atmosphere, and the unique setting make it a worthwhile outing. As Mandy_E notes, “we still had a great experience,” despite the weather not cooperating.

The price point reflects the value of combining transportation, gear, guided expertise, a memorable meal, and the chance to photograph a natural wonder. For travelers looking for a balanced mix of activity and comfort, this tour offers just that.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxed yet adventurous evening in the Arctic with a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights, this is a solid pick. It’s perfect if you want professional guides, a cozy tipi dinner, and easy access to prime Aurora viewing in a remote setting. It also suits travelers who enjoy snowmobiling and are eager to explore off-the-beaten-path trails in Lapland.

However, if your main priority is guaranteed Aurora sightings, keep in mind that weather plays a big role. This makes it more suitable for flexible travelers who don’t mind rescheduling or accepting the possibility of overcast skies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour has a minimum age of 18, so it’s geared toward adult travelers. The snowmobile ride and outdoor conditions aren’t suitable for younger kids.

What should I wear?
Arctic-appropriate clothing is provided, but it’s wise to dress warmly in layers, including thermal underwear, waterproof outerwear, and warm boots. The guides will ensure you’re comfortable during the outdoor activities.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
While the tour takes you to a prime viewing spot, Aurora sightings are weather-dependent. If conditions are cloudy or overcast, the tour offers rescheduling or full refunds.

How long is the snowmobiling portion?
The snowmobiling is described as easy and manageable, typically lasting around 45 minutes to an hour, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the ride and scenery.

Is dinner included?
Yes, a hot meal cooked over a fire is included in the tipi, which many reviewers found to be a highlight, especially after spending time in cold conditions.

How many people are on this tour?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience and better chances for photographs and personal attention from guides.

Can I bring my own camera?
Yes. The guides provide a camera and tripod, but you are welcome to bring your own to capture the night sky and auroras.

Final Words

This Northern Lights experience on Mt. Ednavaara strikes a balance between adventure, comfort, and authenticity. The snowmobiling, combined with the warmth of a tipi dinner under the stars, offers a genuine taste of Arctic life—one that stays with you long after the snow melts. While Aurora visibility depends on weather, the effort, scenery, and expert guidance make it a worthwhile outing for those eager to experience Lapland’s magic.

For travelers who enjoy a bit of activity, stunning natural vistas, and local flavor, this tour provides a memorable, well-rounded Arctic adventure. It’s especially suited for those who value professional guidance and atmospheric settings and are flexible about the unpredictability of Northern Lights sightings. A true Arctic night in Lapland, with the lights dancing above and a fire crackling below, makes for stories you’ll cherish for years.