Kiruna: Northern Lights Tour with Stejk Street Food Dinner

Experience the Northern Lights in Kiruna with a Local Twist

If you’re dreaming of catching the Aurora Borealis in a setting that combines authentic local flavors with expert-guided viewing, the Kiruna: Northern Lights Tour with Stejk Street Food Dinner is worth considering. For just over 150 dollars per person, you get about five hours of adventure — starting with a warm, hearty street food dinner in a traditional tepee in Kiruna’s old town, followed by a drive through the Lapland wilderness to find the best spot for a glimpse of the dancing lights.

What we love most about this experience is the combination of delicious, locally inspired food and personalized guidance. The dinner, featuring reindeer and moose steak, is served in a cozy, authentic setting that immediately makes you feel part of the Arctic landscape. Also, the knowledgeable local guides make all the difference, using detailed weather and Aurora forecasts to maximize your chances of witnessing the natural spectacle.

A potential consideration is that this tour isn’t designed as a photography workshop, so if capturing perfect images is your goal, you’ll need to bring your own gear and set your expectations accordingly. The tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of good food, local culture, and natural beauty — especially travelers who want a well-rounded experience rather than just a quick Aurora sighting.

If you love a small-group, relaxed atmosphere combined with expert tips and authentic regional flavors, this tour should be on your list. It’s especially appealing for those looking for a balance of adventure, comfort, and cultural insight.

Key Points

• Authentic local dinner in a cozy tepee in Kiruna’s old town sets the tone for a memorable Arctic evening.
• Expert guidance enhances your chances of seeing the Aurora, with real-time weather and Aurora forecasts.
• Flexible locations allow the guide to chase clear skies and avoid cloudy nights, increasing your viewing odds.
• Warm drinks and snacks, including lingonberry juice and gingerbread, keep you comfortable during the wait.
• Group size tends to be small, fostering a personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• Not a photography-focused tour, so bring your own camera if capturing images is important to you.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Northern Lights Tour Experience

Starting Point: Kiruna’s Old Town and Stejk Street Food

Arriving at Stejk Street Foods, you immediately sense a warm, informal vibe. This iconic food truck and tepee in the heart of Kiruna’s historic district promises a taste of Lapland’s hearty cuisine. The reindeer and moose steak sandwiches serve as a comforting, filling first act to your Arctic adventure. Reviews rave about the food: one traveler called Emilie’s special 50:50 reindeer and moose panini “FIRE,” a bold claim that many agree with after their first bite.

The tepee setting adds a layer of authenticity; it’s cozy, with a welcoming atmosphere that makes everyone feel part of something genuine. It’s perfect for warming up after a day in the snow—think hot lingonberry juice and gingerbread cookies—which are included in the tour. This meal prepares you not just physically but also mentally for the long night of Aurora hunting ahead.

The Guide: Knowledge, Enthusiasm, and Local Expertise

Once you’ve enjoyed your dinner, your guide—often a local with extensive experience—takes charge. These guides are praised for their friendly attitude, deep knowledge, and practical tips. We loved how one reviewer described their guide as “thoughtful throughout the entire tour,” making sure everyone was comfortable, warm, and ready for the night ahead.

The guide’s role is crucial here: they monitor the weather forecast and Aurora predictions to pick the best spots. The goal is to find clear skies away from light pollution, increasing your chances to see the Aurora in all its glory. The flexibility of moving from place to place is a major advantage, especially given the unpredictable Arctic weather. Several reviews mention the guides’ quick thinking, such as driving to different locations or waiting patiently for the lights to dance across the sky.

Transportation and Viewing Spots: Chasing the Aurora

After dinner, you hop into a vehicle—typically a small van or car—and head out into the Lapland wilderness. This part of the tour is about hunting for clear skies, which can mean multiple stops. Some guides take you to scenic lakeshores or open fields, where the unobstructed sky provides the best view of the dancing lights.

One traveler described a “scenic lake shore outside Kiruna” where they were lucky enough to witness multiple Aurora displays. Others mention waiting by a campfire, with marshmallows roasting and the sky shifting through vibrant colors. The guides actively stay alert for aurora activity, so even if the lights are elusive at first, they’ll keep trying in different spots. This flexibility is highly valued—as one reviewer notes, “Pad was very patient and very accommodating,” ensuring everyone had the best chance to see the spectacular phenomenon.

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Food, Warmth, and Comforts in the Arctic Night

The tour’s inclusion of warm lingonberry juice and snacks adds comfort, making the experience more about enjoyment than just waiting in the cold. Several reviews highlight how guides go the extra mile: providing reindeer hides or warm gloves, setting small fires, and cracking jokes to keep spirits high. The warmth and camaraderie become part of the magic, transforming what could be a cold, dark night into a memorable adventure.

Timing and Duration: How Long Do You Wait?

The five-hour tour allows enough time to both enjoy the dinner and venture out into the Arctic night. Starting times vary, so checking the schedule is essential. The flexible nature of the tour means your guide might wait longer at a location if the Aurora appears, or move quickly if the sky clears after a brief show. This adaptability directly impacts the quality of your experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy authentic regional food, small-group intimacy, and local guides who are passionate about their landscape. It’s suitable for those who want a relaxed yet adventurous evening with a good chance of seeing the Aurora, especially since the guides are committed to maximizing viewing opportunities. But it’s not suited for photography enthusiasts or children under 12, as it’s not a focused photo tour nor designed for very young kids.

What We Find Valuable About This Tour

This tour offers distinctly local flavor — from the reindeer steaks to the cozy tepee setting. The personalized guidance and flexible approach to Aurora hunting stand out, giving us confidence that your chances of witnessing the lights are higher than with more rigid tours. The inclusion of warm drinks and snacks ensures you stay comfortable despite the cold, and the small group size fosters an intimate, friendly atmosphere.

Most reviewers praise the guides’ knowledge, friendliness, and patience. Many mention how they appreciated the attention to detail—making sure they’re dressed warmly, offering snacks, or waiting patiently for the Aurora to appear. The fact that you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance adds a layer of flexibility, which is crucial given the unpredictable Arctic weather.

Price and Value

At $151 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option available, but it offers a well-rounded experience. You’re paying for not just the Aurora chase but also the authentic dinner, expert guidance, and local insights. These added touches, along with the chance to experience the Arctic night in a genuine setting, make it a strong value proposition.

The Sum Up: Who Should Book?

If you’re after a cozy, authentic Lapland experience that combines local food with expert guidance, this Northern Lights tour hits the mark. It’s best suited for adventurous food lovers, small groups, and those willing to don warm clothing for a night under the stars. Expect friendly guides, flexible locations, and the chance of a spectacular Aurora, all wrapped in a warm, welcoming setting.

However, if your priority is perfect photography or traveling with very young children, you might want to explore more specialized options. This tour is a solid choice for anyone who appreciates cultural authenticity, expert knowledge, and the thrill of chasing the Aurora in a genuine Arctic setting.

FAQ

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change or if the weather forecast looks uncertain.

Is this a photography-focused tour?
No, the tour isn’t centered on Aurora photography. You’re welcome to bring your own camera, but the focus is on enjoying the experience rather than capturing perfect images.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing is essential. While some guides rent shell jackets and winter boots for 100 SEK, it’s a good idea to bring your own layered winter gear for comfort.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included at specific hotel locations within Kiruna city. Outside these locations, ask for transfer options—additional arrangements might be necessary.

Is it suitable for children?
Children under 12 are not allowed, likely due to the cold and the nature of the activity. It’s best suited for older kids, teenagers, and adults.

What are the main highlights of this experience?
Expect an authentic local dinner in a tepee, expert guidance based on real-time weather forecasts, flexible Aurora hunting, and a warm, friendly atmosphere—perfect for creating lasting memories under the Arctic sky.

You can check availability for your dates here: