Aurora Tour with Dinner in Abisko

Discover the Aurora Tour with Dinner in Abisko: An Authentic Arctic Experience

If you’re heading to Kiruna and hoping to catch a glimpse of the ethereal Northern Lights, this Aurora Tour with Dinner offers a well-rounded and authentic Arctic adventure. Priced at around $275.64 per person and lasting about five and a half hours, it’s an experience that combines spectacular scenery, cultural insights, and local cuisine. You’ll be accompanied by knowledgeable Sami guides and enjoy a meal in the scenic village of Abisko, famous for its prime Aurora viewing.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances education and entertainment—from learning about Sami traditions to getting practical tips on night photography. Plus, the fact that the guides will help you set up your camera with tripods makes this a standout for anyone wanting to capture the Northern Lights. The second highlight? The journey itself, which offers a chance to see different weather zones, increasing your chances of spotting the Aurora even if the sky isn’t perfectly clear.

A potential consideration is that aurora sightings are never guaranteed—weather and solar activity are unpredictable. Still, with the tour’s flexible plans and pursuit of clear skies, your chances are quite good. This experience suits travelers who appreciate a blend of cultural learning, scenic beauty, and good food, and who don’t mind a small group setting (up to eight people). Whether you’re a first-timer or returning to this Arctic wonderland, this tour provides a compelling way to experience Kiruna’s stunning night sky.

Key Points

Authentic cultural experience: Guides share insights about Sami culture, nature, and local history.
Optimal Aurora viewing: The route passes through multiple weather zones, increasing your chances to see the lights.
Inclusive features: Tripod, headlamp, and guided photography tips help you make the most of your photos.
Delicious dinner: A three-course meal in Abisko provides a cozy, warming break with local flavors.
Flexible plans: If weather doesn’t cooperate in Abisko, the guide may chase the lights on the way back.
Limited group size: Small groups (max eight) ensure a personalized and relaxed experience.

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An In-Depth Look at the Aurora Tour with Dinner in Abisko

The Journey Begins in Kiruna

Your adventure kicks off in Kiruna at Camp Ripan around 5:00 pm. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable vehicle with a small group, which keeps the experience intimate and allows for more personalized attention from your guides. The drive itself is part of the magic—passing through different weather zones that can influence Aurora visibility. As you leave the city lights behind, the sky darkens, and the vast Arctic landscape begins to unfold.

The Scenic Drive to Abisko

The approximately 90-minute drive takes you into the heart of Swedish Lapland. We loved how this part of the trip isn’t just about transportation; it’s a chance to soak in the stark beauty of the Arctic wilderness. The guides are knowledgeable and often share stories about local history, Sami traditions, and the science behind the Northern Lights.

Some reviews mention that seeing stars and even faint green auroras during the journey is common, which adds to the anticipation. The guides are also trained photo guides, ready to help you get your camera settings just right or set up tripods for mobile phones, which can make a big difference in capturing the moment.

Dinner in Abisko: A Mid-Trip Warm-Up

Arriving in the village of Abisko, the highlight is a three-course dinner inside a cozy setting. The meal isn’t just filling; it’s a chance to discuss the natural landscape, Sami culture, and local history with your guides and fellow travelers. Many reviews highlight how good the food is—an unexpected bonus considering the remote location.

During dinner, guides talk about the science of the Aurora, local folklore, and photography tips. This educational component helps you appreciate what you’re seeing and also prepares you to take better pictures. The guides are particularly helpful with photography, offering practical advice and equipment, which is appreciated by those trying to capture the elusive lights.

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Aurora Hunting (or Waiting)

Following dinner, the guides take you for a walk in the surrounding landscape if the weather permits. This is where the flexibility of the tour shines. If the skies are clear, you may stay in Abisko or walk nearby to find the best spot for viewing the Northern Lights. If the forecast is cloudy, the guides are prepared to drive back toward Kiruna or continue chasing the Aurora along the route.

Many travelers mention that the guides’ experience makes a difference—they are committed to doing their best to find clear patches and aurora activity. Some reviews note that, even if the Aurora doesn’t appear in Abisko, the guides are quick to adjust their plans, maximizing your chances of seeing the lights on the way back.

What to Expect in Terms of Sightings

While the tour cannot guarantee aurora sightings, the weather zone strategy and experienced guides significantly increase the likelihood. Travelers have reported seeing green, shimmering lights in the sky, and the guides’ expertise ensures you’re well-positioned for the best chance.

No matter the outcome, many mention that the overall experience—the dinner, the scenery, the stories, and the camaraderie—makes this tour worthwhile even if the Aurora stays hidden. One guest summed it up: “We tried for as long as we could, but there was no activity in Abisko or Kiruna,” yet still appreciated the “incredible experience start to finish.”

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Compared to other Arctic experiences, this tour combines cultural insights, scenic drives, delicious local food, and Aurora chasing all in one package. The small group size ensures personalized attention, particularly with the guides helping you capture photos or adjust clothing for the cold. The inclusion of warm cover clothes, headlamps, and tripods adds value, easing your preparation and enhancing the experience.

The price reflects the comprehensive nature—transport, dinner, guides, photography support, and the possibility of Aurora sightings. Many travelers consider it a worthwhile investment for the memories and knowledge gained, especially since it’s booked well in advance—around 54 days on average—indicating its popularity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-timers who want a well-rounded introduction to Arctic nature and culture. It suits photography enthusiasts eager to learn how to capture the Aurora and those who appreciate local stories and cuisine. If you’re traveling with a small group or as a couple, the intimate setting adds to the experience. It’s also great for adventurers willing to embrace the unpredictability of the Northern Lights—sometimes you see them, sometimes you don’t, but the journey is rewarding either way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a three-course dinner, warm clothing and shoes on request, a headlamp, a photo guide, and tripods for your camera or mobile phone. Beverages and personal camera equipment are not included.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes from pickup to return, starting at 5:00 pm.

Where does the tour meet?
The meeting point is Camp Ripan in Kiruna at Campingvägen 5, 981 35 Kiruna.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there is free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but since part of the experience involves walking outside in cold weather, it’s best suited for those comfortable with winter conditions.

What if the weather is cloudy?
The guides monitor weather zones during the drive and may continue chasing the Aurora back toward Kiruna if conditions aren’t ideal in Abisko.

Will I see the Northern Lights every time?
No, Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity. Many reviews note that while sightings aren’t guaranteed, the guides’ effort and the scenic journey make it worthwhile.

What should I wear?
Warm, layered clothing is recommended. The tour offers cover clothes and shoes upon request, but dressing warmly is key to comfort during the outdoor parts.

Can I bring my own camera?
Absolutely. Guides assist with camera settings and tripods, but bringing your own gear is encouraged if you want to capture the lights yourself.

Is there anything I should know about the guides?
They are experienced and trained in photography, Sami culture, and local history, providing a more enriching experience beyond just the Aurora viewing.

Final Thoughts

This Aurora Tour with Dinner in Abisko offers a balanced mix of cultural storytelling, scenic beauty, and Aurora chasing, making it a compelling choice for visitors to Kiruna. Its small-group approach, expert guides, and included photography support enhance the overall experience, providing both practical value and lasting memories.

While the Northern Lights are never a sure thing, the journey itself—through Arctic landscapes, Sami traditions, and a cozy dinner—is a reward that makes this tour well worth considering. For travelers craving an authentic Arctic experience that combines nature, culture, and good food, this tour hits the mark.

Whether you’re a photography buff, a curious traveler, or simply seeking a memorable night under the stars, this tour offers a chance to connect deeply with the beauty and stories of Swedish Lapland.