Hunt for the Northern lights in Kiruna – Abisko

Searching for the Northern Lights in Kiruna—Abisko feels like chasing magic in the sky. For around $251 per person, this 4-hour tour offers a rare chance to see the Aurora Borealis in a small, intimate setting. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit Abisko National Park and Tornetrask, two of the best spots for viewing the lights, depending on weather conditions. With a maximum group size of seven travelers, this experience is designed for those craving a more personal, less commercialized adventure.

What we love about this tour: first, the small group size ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere—no crowds to fight. Second, the expert guide’s use of weather and light forecasts means your chances of seeing the Aurora are maximized, not left to luck alone. On the downside, you might find weather variability still a factor, since the Northern Lights are nature’s unpredictable show. This tour suits travelers who want authentic, guided access to top Northern Lights viewing spots while enjoying the comfort of provided warm clothing and professional insights.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Limited to 7 people, ensuring personalized attention.
• Expert Guidance: Guides use weather forecasts to optimize your chances of seeing the Aurora.
• Comfort Matters: Warm clothing is provided if meeting at the starting point.
• Flexible Locations: Multiple stops at prime Northern Lights spots depending on conditions.
• Photography Tips: A free guide helps you capture the lights—bring your tripod!
• Clear Timing & Logistics: Starts at 8:00 pm from Kiruna, with transportation included.

Exploring the Northern Lights Tour in Kiruna: An In-Depth Look

The Basics and What’s Included

This tour, priced at $251.19 per person, lasts approximately 4 hours and is perfect for those with a limited schedule but a big desire to witness the Aurora Borealis. It’s offered by Cityphototour, with a booking window that typically opens about 30 days in advance, indicating a popular choice among travelers planning ahead.

You’ll meet your guide at Torggatan 4, Kiruna, at 8:00 pm, and the tour concludes back at the same point. The experience includes transportation across potential prime viewing areas, a professional guide, and warm clothing if you meet at the starting point, ensuring comfort in the Arctic evening. While the tour does not include pickup and drop-off—an additional cost—you will benefit from being driven to various scenic spots with spectacular views and minimal effort.

A notable perk is the free photography guide, which explains how to shoot the lights and why they appear, plus tips on using your camera. Travelers are advised to bring their own camera and tripod for optimal photos, as these are not supplied. This is especially valuable for those eager to capture the magic for memories or social media.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The tour kicks off with an introduction to the group and your guide, who will explain what to look for and share insights about the Aurora Borealis. Then, the adventure begins—traveling to Abisko National Park, one of the most renowned spots for Northern Lights viewing, especially because of its clear skies and minimal light pollution.

Depending on weather and forecast conditions, your guide might also take you to Tornetrask, a vast, scenic area offering a different perspective and potentially more dramatic views of the sky. Both stops are usually brief—about 20 to 30 minutes each—so you get a taste of the landscape and maximize your chances of catching the Aurora.

Why These Locations Matter

Abisko National Park is famed among Northern Lights enthusiasts because of its favorable microclimate—it often experiences clear skies even when surrounding areas are cloudy. The park offers unobstructed views, making it one of the best places in Sweden to glimpse the lights. The Tornetrask area, with its expansive vistas and proximity to the lake, provides additional scenic opportunities, especially if the weather is less cooperative at Abisko.

The Experience: Authentic and Personal

While nature’s unpredictable, guides use weather and light forecasts to increase the likelihood of Aurora sightings. As one reviewer, Brian, noted, “We travelled to Kiruna for a very short time with the goal of seeing the Northern Lights and learning more about Lapland.” He highlighted the importance of a knowledgeable guide, which this tour provides abundantly.

Traveling in a small group means fewer distractions and more tailored attention. The guide’s expertise and local knowledge seem to be highly appreciated, with reviews praising guides like Erik for their professionalism and friendliness. Such personalized service can make all the difference when waiting in chilly conditions for that elusive glow.

Comfort and Practicalities

The tour emphasizes warm clothing, which is essential in the Arctic winter, and includes shoes, gloves, hats, and an overall outfit if you meet at the designated starting point. Since a tripod and camera are not provided, bringing your own is strongly recommended—especially if photography is your goal.

Timing-wise, starting at 8 pm aligns well with the prime hours for Aurora viewing, generally between 9 pm and 2 am. However, the experience is flexible, and your guide will adapt based on current conditions. Keep in mind, the tour is non-refundable—so if the weather doesn’t cooperate, your chances of seeing the lights are naturally reduced.

The Cost and the Value

At just over $250, this tour offers a personalized, guided experience in some of the best Northern Lights locations in Sweden. Considering transportation, expert guidance, and warm clothing are included, it provides a good value for those wanting a stress-free, educational, and scenic Arctic night out. Compared to larger, less personalized tours, the intimacy and focus on quality over quantity make it a worthwhile investment.

Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

Travelers like Brian appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the chance to learn about the culture and environment of Lapland. The tour’s focus on authentic experiences—rather than just chasing lights blindly—means you’re engaging with the landscape and local expertise. If your main goal is to experience the Northern Lights with a knowledgeable guide who cares about your chances, this tour fits the bill.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re a traveler who values small-group intimacy, expert local guides, and scenic, prime viewing locations, you’ll find this tour a good fit. It’s especially suited for those who want a balanced mix of adventure and comfort, with some photography tips thrown in. While weather can always be unpredictable, the guides’ use of forecasts helps maximize your chances, making it a solid choice for Aurora chasers.

This tour is also ideal for first-timers or those short on time but eager to experience the Arctic night sky. It’s not geared toward those seeking a full-blown overnight expedition but rather a focused, well-organized evening that balances practicality with the magic of the Northern Lights.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Transport is included across the various potential viewing spots, making it easier to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving in winter conditions.

Can I book this tour without a pickup?
Yes, but note that pickup and drop-off are an extra cost, so most travelers opt for the meeting point at Torggatan 4 in Kiruna.

What should I bring?
You should bring your own camera and tripod to capture the lights effectively, as these are not provided. Warm clothing is supplied only if you meet at the starting point, but bringing additional layers is wise.

How long do stops last?
Each stop lasts about 20-30 minutes, enough to stretch your legs, take photos, and soak in the landscape.

What if the weather doesn’t cooperate?
Since the tour relies on weather forecasts, guides will choose the best available spots. However, if conditions aren’t suitable, your chances of seeing the Aurora diminish, and the tour might be less successful.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group size makes solo travelers feel comfortable and part of a personalized experience.

What is the ideal time of year for this tour?
While not specified, the reviews suggest January is a popular time. The Aurora is visible from late autumn through early spring, with winter months offering the longest nights.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about a month ahead, indicating strong interest and limited spots.

What is the cancellation policy?
The tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed, so you should plan accordingly and check the weather forecast before booking.

In essence, this Northern Lights tour in Kiruna offers a thoughtfully organized, small-group experience, guided by locals who know how to optimize your chances of witnessing this natural wonder. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking genuine Arctic encounters with a touch of comfort and expert insight—an adventure well worth planning ahead for.