Northern Lights Photo Expedition Dinner Included from Abisko

Discover the Northern Lights Photo Expedition from Abisko

When contemplating how to see the northern lights, why not do it with a guide who’s been featured in National Geographic, BBC, and even the European Space Agency? For just about $112, this 6-hour tour in Abisko, Sweden, offers not only a chance to witness one of nature’s most mesmerizing displays but also to learn how to capture it in stunning photos. Led by a professional photographer, the tour combines adventure, science, and practical photography tips in a way that appeals to both amateurs and seasoned shutterbugs.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the dinner in a local restaurant included in the price—a real treat after a day of Arctic chill—and the small group size (maximum 8 travelers), which means plenty of personalized attention. We love how this tour takes you up to 300 km away from light pollution, increasing your chances of a spectacular aurora display. Plus, the included photos of your night out make it easy to relive the magic long after you’ve left Scandinavia.

One potential consideration is the weather dependency inherent to any northern lights tour. If clouds roll in or skies stay stubbornly overcast, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, so flexibility is important. Still, the tour’s full refund policy if canceled due to poor weather offers peace of mind.

This tour best suits adventurous travelers and photography enthusiasts eager to combine a natural spectacle with expert guidance, especially those who appreciate in-depth insights into both the science behind the auroras and how to photograph them effectively.

Key Points

• Expert Guide: Led by a professional photographer with credentials from top science and media outlets, ensuring expert insights.
• Stunning Locations: Up to 300 km away from light pollution, offering some of the best chances to see and shoot the auroras.
• Inclusive Experience: Dinner, photos, and a basic astronomy lesson included, offering value and a well-rounded experience.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 travelers, fostering a more intimate and personalized adventure.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund if weather causes cancellation.
• Ideal for: Photography lovers, nature explorers, and anyone seeking a memorable Arctic night under the northern lights.

A Deep Dive into the Northern Lights Photo Expedition

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Starting at 7:00 pm at Abisko Mountain Lodge, the tour kicks off with a delicious two-course dinner in a cozy local restaurant. This is a welcome chance to fuel up before heading into the cold Arctic night. The relaxed start, combined with good food, helps set the tone for the adventure ahead.

Once fueled, you’ll hop into a 4×4 van—a crucial detail, as this vehicle is equipped to handle icy roads and rugged terrain. The group is kept small, with a maximum of 8 people, making it easier for the guide to adapt to weather conditions and ensure everyone gets ample time at the best viewing spots.

Exploring Arctic Landscapes in Comfort and Style

The drive takes you up to 300 km away from city lights, venturing into areas known only to locals, which dramatically increases your chances of witnessing the auroras in their full glory. The landscapes you’ll pass through are stunning, with snow-covered trees, frozen lakes, and vast, silent skies overhead. The guide, who is also a seasoned photographer, shares insights into the meteorology and astronomical science behind the lights, enriching your understanding of what you’re seeing.

Photographing the Aurora: Tips, Tricks, and Scenery

For those interested in photography, this is a goldmine. The guide will offer valuable advice on camera settings, composition, and how to best capture the shifting lights. For beginners, this is a crash course in night photography—think long exposures and stable tripods—because capturing the auroras is as much about technique as luck.

Many reports highlight the guide’s deep knowledge, which doesn’t just cover photography but also the science of celestial phenomena. As one reviewer noted, “Esperienza super, hai tutto l’occorrente per scattare foto bellissime all’aurora in location perfette,” meaning you’ve got all you need to take beautiful pictures in perfect locations.

Waiting Out the Show: Astronomy and Warmth

While waiting for the auroras—sometimes a matter of hours—you’ll enjoy a basic astronomy lesson, adding an educational layer to the experience. You’ll also have the chance to relax in Sami-style tents, possibly with a hot drink by the fire, as mentioned in reviews, which adds a cozy touch to an otherwise cold night.

The Photos and Final Memories

After the tour, you’ll receive all the photos taken during the expedition, ensuring you leave with high-quality images of your Arctic adventure. This is a thoughtful touch, especially if you’re not into photography but want to remember the night vividly. One traveler even called it an “esperienza bellissima,” praising how everything was set up for perfect aurora photography and that the experience was delightful.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Unlike generic northern lights trips, this tour emphasizes personalized guidance and local expertise. The guide’s credentials and focus on scientific insights mean you’re not just chasing lights—you’re understanding them. Plus, the inclusion of dinner and professional photos adds significant value, transforming a fleeting natural phenomenon into lasting memories.

Transportation and Timing

The use of a 4×4 vehicle is practical, ensuring accessibility to remote locations, and the 6-hour duration allows ample time to find the best viewing spots, especially if aurora activity is moderate. The start time of 7:00 pm aligns well with the dark Arctic nights, maximizing your chances of seeing the lights while giving you time to enjoy dinner beforehand.

Group Size and Personal Attention

With only 8 travelers maximum, this experience offers a more intimate atmosphere. You’ll likely get more personalized advice from the guide, which is invaluable when trying to capture challenging night shots or simply trying to enjoy the natural wonder.

Is This Tour Worth It?

In terms of value, the cost of $112 is quite reasonable, considering everything included: dinner, expert guidance, transportation, and the digital photos. For travelers keen on photography, you gain a professional’s perspective, which can dramatically improve your images. For those primarily interested in witnessing the spectacle, the tour’s remote locations and small group size mean you’ll have a better shot at a memorable display.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

Since the auroras depend on clear skies, you might find your plans affected by weather. Fortunately, this tour offers full refunds if canceled due to poor weather—a reassuring policy for any Arctic adventure. Just keep in mind that most travelers participate happily, knowing the experience is as much about the journey and learning as it is about the lights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This expedition is ideal for photographers of all levels who want tips from a professional, as well as nature lovers eager to see the northern lights in a pristine setting. It suits those who value small group experiences and are comfortable with the possibility of weather-dependent cancellations. It’s also perfect for travelers looking for a combination of scenic beauty, scientific understanding, and culture—like warming up in Sami-style tents with hot drinks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation is provided in a 4×4 van, taking you far from light pollution into remote Arctic locations.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:00 pm, giving you plenty of dark sky for aurora viewing.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers a dinner in a local restaurant, professional guide, photos of the tour, and transportation.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance due to poor weather conditions.

Is this suitable for children or non-photographers?
Absolutely. If you prefer just to enjoy the show, the guide’s insights and the included photos mean you’ll take home great memories even if you’re not into photography.

How remote are the viewing spots?
The spots are up to 300 km away from light pollution, enabling clearer, more vibrant auroras.

Do I need special gear?
No, but bringing a camera with manual settings and a tripod will help if you wish to photograph the lights. The guide offers tips for camera settings.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, as Arctic nights can be very cold. The van provides some shelter, but you’ll want to be comfortable outdoors.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an authentic, well-organized northern lights experience with a focus on photography, science, and comfort, this tour ticks all the boxes. The expert guide, stellar locations, and inclusive photos make it a compelling choice for travelers who want more than just a fleeting glimpse. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the dinner and educational components add extra layers of enjoyment.

While weather remains a variable, the full refund policy ensures peace of mind. This tour is especially suitable for those eager to capture the lights in photographs or simply absorb the silent beauty of the Arctic night under expert guidance. Whether you’re a seasoned shutterbug or a curious traveler, this expedition promises a memorable Arctic adventure.

Plan ahead, dress warmly, and prepare to be wowed by one of nature’s most stunning displays. This is a guided tour that values both science and scenery, making it perfect for anyone seeking an authentic northern lights experience in Sweden.