Experience the Magic of the Northern Lights with a Guided Aurora Chase in Abisko
Imagine stepping into the cool Swedish evening, bundled up warmly, searching the dark skies above Abisko National Park for the elusive northern lights. For about 3.5 hours, you’ll be led by knowledgeable guides on a comfortable bus or van, traveling up to 90 km to find the best spots where the auroras might dance overhead. This tour, offered by Lights Over Lapland, costs around a reasonable rate considering all the included comforts — hotel pickup and drop-off, a hot drink, and personalized guidance.
What makes this tour stand out are two things we really appreciate: First, the expert how-to and local knowledge of your guides — they’re good at reading the weather and aurora forecasts to increase your chances of a sighting. Second, the variety of beautiful locations you could visit, from lakeshores to mountain viewpoints, each promising a scenic backdrop for the lights.
One potential drawback is that, like all aurora chases, it’s a bit of a gamble. The lights are famously unpredictable—so even with expert guides, there’s no 100% guarantee of seeing the auroras. Still, if you’re after a well-organized, comfortable experience with a high success rate, this tour is worth considering. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine local insights and scenic drives with the hope of witnessing one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena.
This tour suits those who are interested in learning about the auroras and Abisko’s environment, enjoy small-group adventures, and value ease and comfort over rugged expedition. It’s especially good for travelers who want a stress-free experience with hotel transfers included.
Key Points
- Expert-guided experience boosts your chances of aurora sightings.
- Comfortable transportation and hotel pickup simplify logistics.
- Multiple scenic locations increase the likelihood of seeing the lights.
- The tour includes a warm drink and cozy atmosphere.
- Weather and aurora forecast-based decisions maximize visibility.
- Suitable for travelers wanting a balanced, well-organized adventure.
A Closer Look at the Guided Aurora Chase Experience in Abisko
When considering a northern lights tour in Abisko, the combination of location, guides, and logistics can make or break your experience. This particular chase, lasting about 3.5 hours, is designed to give you the best possible chance to see the aurora borealis, without the hassle of self-driving or navigating in the cold.
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Starting Point and Convenience
The tour begins with hotel pickup from six convenient locations, including the Abisko Guesthouse, STF Abisko Turiststation, and several lodges. This means you don’t need to worry about transportation or missing the start—just wait in your hotel lobby, and your guide will come to collect you. The round-trip transportation uses a bus or van, depending on group size and availability, and is included in the price.
Traveling in a small group (up to 30 people during peak season) keeps things intimate and allows guides to give more personalized attention. As the vehicle moves through the dark landscape, your guide shares insights about Abisko’s environment, the science of auroras, and local history—making the journey both educational and enjoyable.
The Scenic Stops and Locations
Once at the chosen location, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas—think open lakeshores like Lake Torneträsk, mountain outlooks near Björkliden, or a peaceful bay with reflections on the water. One of the major draws is the chance to see the auroras reflect beautifully on lakes or rivers, adding an extra layer of magic.
Your guide will select the best spot based on weather conditions, cloud cover, and forecast data. This practice of “chasing” the best conditions is what we love about this tour. Multiple reviews praise guides like Sarah and Michelle for their dedication and local expertise, often going to several locations to maximize their guests’ chances.
The Experience at the Location
Arriving at your spot, you’ll be greeted with a hot drink—most likely lingonberry juice or similar—adding warmth and comfort against the cold night. If the weather allows, you may see the auroras dancing over lakes or mountains, with reflections on open water, creating truly picture-perfect moments.
Some travelers have noted that cloud cover can spoil the show, but guides are skilled at moving to clear areas. Even when the sky stays overcast, reviews highlight the friendly atmosphere, good company, and engaging explanations about the science behind the northern lights.
More Great Tours NearbyAuthentic Local Experience
Beyond just chasing the lights, this tour offers a glimpse into local Swedish Lapland life. Visiting remote villages or quiet lakeshores, you get a sense of the peaceful wilderness that makes Abisko special. The opportunity to learn about the park’s history and environment from passionate guides enriches the experience beyond just a spectacle in the sky.
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The Value of the Tour
At a typical price point, this tour offers excellent value considering all logistics are covered, including hotel transfers and a hot drink. The personal touch from guides who are eager to share their knowledge makes the experience feel tailored and engaging. While you might consider renting warm overalls or Arctic boots—which are available for an extra fee—most guests find that dressing in warm layers is sufficient.
What to Expect in Terms of Duration and Group Size
The 3.5-hour window is long enough to give you a real shot at seeing the auroras without feeling rushed. The group size during peak season can be up to 30, which strikes a balance between intimate and social. The tour runs with live guides speaking English, ensuring clear explanations and lots of opportunities to ask questions.
Real Experiences from Travelers
Reviewers consistently praise their guides for friendliness, knowledge, and patience. One wrote, “The guides Sarah and Michelle were fab. It was an extremely windy night, and they had a shelter for us in a scenic location. The lights came out, and they made sure we got plenty of great pics.” Another noted, “Even when the weather was bad, the staff stayed kind and engaging, making the experience enjoyable regardless of the sky’s mood.”
Several travelers appreciated that guides helped with camera settings or pointed out the best spots for pictures, adding the chance to capture memorable moments even if the lights don’t appear immediately.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This aurora chase is ideal for ** travelers seeking a hassle-free, well-organized experience**. It’s perfect if you enjoy comfort, scenic drives, and expert local knowledge. Families with older children (over 5) will find it approachable, and those who want to avoid the cold discomfort of wandering unguided will appreciate the included hot drinks and cozy stops.
If you’re someone who values educational insights and flexible, weather-adaptive plans, this tour offers a good mix of adventure and comfort. However, if your main goal is guaranteed viewing, remember that auroras are natural phenomena—so patience and a bit of luck are still key.
The Sum Up
In all, the Guided Autumn Aurora Chase in Abisko delivers a well-rounded experience. You’ll benefit from expert guides, carefully selected locations, and the comfort of hotel transfers—all within a reasonable price. The scenic stops and friendly atmosphere make it a memorable way to experience the northern lights, especially if you’re new to the phenomenon or prefer an organized adventure.
While the success of spotting the auroras depends on the weather, the high praise from previous travelers suggests this tour offers a good chance of witnessing a majestic display. The combination of natural beauty, local insights, and stress-free logistics makes it a strong choice for anyone eager to see the aurora borealis in a comfortable, scenic setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is included in the tour?
Hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by bus or van, a knowledgeable guide, and a hot drink are all included. - How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 3.5 hours, with specific start times based on availability. - Are warm clothing and boots provided?
Warm overalls and Arctic boots are available to rent at an extra charge. It’s recommended to wear warm layers and insulated boots. - Where do the pickups occur?
You can choose from six pickup locations, including Abisko Guesthouse, STF Abisko Turiststation, and several lodges. - What locations might we visit?
Popular spots include lakeshores like Lake Torneträsk, mountain viewpoints near Björkliden, and remote fishing villages—each offering scenic backdrops for the auroras. - Is the tour suitable for children?
Children over 5 years old are generally suitable, but exact age restrictions depend on individual comfort with cold and outdoor conditions. - What if we don’t see the northern lights?
While guides do their best to find clear skies and optimal spots, aurora viewing depends on natural conditions. Many reviews mention guides’ efforts to maximize chances, with some guests still enjoying the experience even without a sighting. - Can I take photos during the tour?
While the guides have basic knowledge of aurora photography, they can offer some tips. You might want to bring your camera with manual settings for the best shots. - How does the weather impact the tour?
Cloud cover or bad weather can limit visibility. Guides will adapt and move to better locations if possible, but the experience is weather-dependent. - Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if weather conditions look unfavorable or plans change.
In the end, this tour combines scenic beauty, local expertise, and comfort, making it one of the better options for those wanting to chase the northern lights without sacrificing convenience. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, it offers a good shot at witnessing one of nature’s most awe-inspiring displays—possibly with some cozy moments and new friends along the way.
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