From Narvik: The Northern Lights Arctic Train Guided Tour is a captivating way to chase the Aurora Borealis in the far north of Norway. For about $142 per person, you’ll spend roughly three hours traveling aboard Norway’s northernmost railway, exploring remote Arctic stations, and enjoying the chance to see one of nature’s most stunning light shows. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour combines scenic train rides, cultural stops, and cozy moments around a campfire, making it a well-rounded Arctic adventure.
What we love most about this experience is how it balances the thrill of Aurora hunting with authentic local sights and a relaxed atmosphere. The stops at Bjørnfjell and Katterat give travelers a glimpse of the Arctic landscape away from light pollution, while the campfire gathering offers a warm respite in the chilly evening. Plus, the tour’s inclusion of snacks, beverages, and photo tips makes it both practical and memorable.
However, one thing to keep in mind is that Northern Lights sightings are never guaranteed. The tour relies on clear skies and the right solar activity, so patience and flexibility are key. Also, the tour is best suited for those comfortable with cold weather and moderate walking, especially at remote stations.
This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate scenic train journeys, enjoy cultural stops, and want an authentic Arctic experience that offers both adventure and comfort. If you’re eager to combine a bit of Norway’s historic railway with the magic of the Northern Lights, this is a solid choice.
Key Points
- Scenic journey along Norway’s northernmost railway with minimal light pollution for optimal Aurora viewing.
- Includes visits to remote Arctic stations and a warm campfire with snacks, making the experience both scenic and cozy.
- Guided by knowledgeable hosts who provide photography tips and insightful commentary.
- Tour duration of about 3 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.
- Not suitable for children under 3 or wheelchair users, due to the remote stops and winter conditions.
- Price point of $142 offers a balanced mix of transportation, cultural experiences, and Aurora chances.
A Complete Look at the Northern Lights Arctic Train Experience
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The Journey Begins at Narvik Station
The adventure kicks off at Narvik station, a historic gateway into the Arctic. From the start, the experience feels both practical and immersive—you’re boarding Norway’s northernmost railway, the Ofoten line, famous for its rugged landscape and historical significance. The train itself is decorated tastefully, with subtle lighting that doesn’t interfere with the views outside but creates a cozy atmosphere inside.
Scenic Train Ride to Bjørnfjell
The first leg of the journey lasts around an hour, taking you through snow-blanketed forests and mountains. The train’s interior offers comfortable seating and large windows, perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the scenery. As you glide away from the city lights of Narvik, the surroundings grow darker, increasing your chances of catching the Northern Lights if they decide to appear.
Reviewers love the train’s ambiance, with one mentioning, “the subtle lighting allowed for good views from the train,” enhancing the overall experience. The quiet comfort of the train makes it easy to relax and gaze at the landscape or keep an eye on the sky for those elusive Aurora displays.
Bjørnfjell: A Photo Stop and a Taste of the Arctic
Bjørnfjell, a small border town in Sweden, provides your first opportunity to step outside and take photos. This stop lasts around 15 minutes, giving just enough time for a quick walk and some picturesque shots of the snow-covered surroundings. The reviews praise the guide’s insights here, emphasizing the importance of camera tips and how the scenery can be breathtaking under the right conditions.
More Great Tours NearbyContinuing to Katterat: Remote and Elevated
Next, you’ll board the train for a brief 10-minute ride to Katterat station, situated at 373 meters above sea level. This stop is the highlight for many—it’s where the real magic begins. You’ll get off the train into the Arctic night, with the chance to see the Northern Lights dance overhead. Here, the tour takes a more relaxed tone, as everyone gathers around the bonfire.
The guide’s stories and the warm drinks and fresh pastries make this a cozy and social experience. As one traveler put it, “We toasted marshmallows around the fire, waiting for the Aurora, and the guide was very interesting and helpful.” The combination of the fire’s warmth and the starry sky creates a memorable contrast to the chilly Arctic air.
The Guided Tour and Cultural Insights
While waiting for the lights, your guide will share insights about the local area, its history, and the science behind the Aurora Borealis. The tour also includes a visit to an old mountain village and a small museum at Katterat, enriching your understanding of the region’s rugged life.
The Return Trip
After some time at Katterat, you’ll hop back onto the train for a 45-minute ride back to Narvik. The return journey offers a different perspective as the landscape transitions from snow-covered wilderness to the illuminated lights of the town. Many reviews highlight how much they appreciated the dark, starry sky and the chance to see the Aurora, although some mention that weather conditions can affect visibility.
Authenticity and Value
The tour’s value lies in the combination of scenic travel, cultural stops, and the cozy campfire. It’s not just about spotting the Northern Lights but also about experiencing the Arctic environment, learning local stories, and enjoying some well-earned warmth in an otherwise cold evening.
What’s Included and What to Bring
The price covers the roundtrip train tickets, snacks and beverages, guide, and photo tips. You’ll want to bring warm clothing, thermal layers, a camera, tripod, hat, scarf, and socks. The tour doesn’t include thermal suits, so dressing in layers is essential. Also, be prepared for the possibility that the Northern Lights might not appear on every night, which is the nature of Aurora chasing.
Accessibility and Practical Considerations
Note that the tour is not suitable for children under 3 years or wheelchair users due to the remote stops and outdoor conditions. The entire experience revolves around outdoor stops in cold weather, so good winter gear is a must. You might find the timing flexible, but check availability beforehand, as departure times vary.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?
This Arctic train experience suits travelers who enjoy scenic journeys, cultural stops, and the thrill of potentially witnessing the Northern Lights in a relaxed setting. It’s great for those comfortable with cold weather and who appreciate guided insights and a cozy atmosphere. If your goal is to see the Aurora with a touch of local flavor and historical charm, this tour offers good value.
However, if you’re a solo traveler or someone on a strict schedule, keep in mind the weather-dependent nature of Aurora viewing and the limited duration of the stops. It’s an adventure best suited to those who don’t mind waiting patiently under the Arctic sky.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Northern Lights guaranteed on this tour?
No, Northern Lights sightings depend on weather and solar activity. Clear skies and patience increase your chances, but sighting is never guaranteed.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately three hours, with a flexible starting time depending on the day.
What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the roundtrip train journey, snacks, beverages, a guide, and some cultural visits and photo tips.
What should I bring?
Warm winter clothing, thermal layers, a camera, tripod, hat, scarf, and socks are recommended. The tour does not include thermal suits.
Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 3 or wheelchair users because of outdoor stops and cold conditions.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if weather conditions aren’t favorable.
What kind of train is used?
The journey is on the historic Ofoten railway, decorated for scenic viewing, with comfortable seating and good lighting for photography.
What are the stops like?
Bjørnfjell is a quick photo stop, while Katterat offers the chance to step outside and gather around a campfire in a remote Arctic setting.
Is this tour educational?
Yes, guides provide interesting commentary and insights into local culture, history, and the science behind the Aurora Borealis.
In essence, this tour offers a well-rounded Arctic experience—combining scenic train travel, cultural insights, and the hope of seeing one of nature’s most spectacular displays. It’s a good pick for those who want a relaxed but authentic taste of Norway’s Arctic wilderness, especially if you’re keen on capturing memorable photos or enjoying cozy moments under the northern sky.
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