Abisko: Fjord Sightseeing and Photography Tour

If you’re looking for a way to experience the breathtaking landscapes of northern Sweden and Norway without the hassle of planning, the Abisko Fjord Sightseeing and Photography Tour might just be your ticket. This 5-hour journey offers a chance to see majestic fjords, towering mountains, and possibly even some wildlife, all with expert guidance and ample photo opportunities. It’s an adventure that balances scenic beauty with the practicalities of a well-organized trip, making it ideal for travelers eager to capture the area’s stunning vistas without exhausting themselves.

What we love about this tour is how it combines spectacular landscapes, small-group intimacy, and insightful commentary from knowledgeable guides. The chance to see Norway’s fjords from the Swedish side, along with the ease of transportation, is definitely a highlight. Plus, the opportunity to stop at interesting spots like Narvik or Bjerkvik for lunch adds convenience and local flavor. However, keep in mind that weather conditions can influence the route, and the tour runs only in good weather or when roads are open—so flexible plans are key.

This experience suits anyone with a curiosity for nature, landscape photography, or just a desire to see Scandinavia’s famous fjords without the complexity of independent travel. It’s especially recommended for those who appreciate guided insights and want a comfortable, small-group setting to maximize scenery and photo moments.

Good To Know

• Spectacular Scenery: Expect mountain vistas, fjords, lakes, and possibly wildlife sightings.
• Flexible Route: The specific fjords visited depend on weather and group interests.
• Expert Guidance: Guides share interesting facts and photography tips, enhancing the experience.
• Convenient Stops: Includes a lunch break in Narvik or Bjerkvik, with options to buy or bring your own.
• Photo Opportunities: You can rent a camera or bring your own gear for capturing the landscapes.
• Weather Considerations: Icy windows and cold days are normal; the tour proceeds rain or shine unless roads are closed.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at the Abisko Guesthouse reception, with pick-up options at STF and Riksgränsen. You’ll travel in a comfortable minivan that seats up to eight people, which makes for a cozy and intimate environment—perfect for chatting with like-minded travelers or simply soaking in the scenery. The small group size means less crowding and more personalized attention, which many reviews highlight as a major plus.

The Route and Scenic Stops

The journey begins as the minibuses head west from Abisko, skimming along the shores of Lake Torenträsk. This initial stretch is a gentle warm-up with scenic views and opportunities to spot local wildlife. As you cross into Norway at Riksgränsen, the landscape begins to shift dramatically—mountains grow sharper, and fjords start to unfold in front of you.

The tour’s itinerary includes stops at beautiful and historically significant sites, with the guide sharing stories about the area’s past. The route is flexible, based on weather and group interests. This means that if conditions favor, you might explore lesser-known fjords or scenic viewpoints that aren’t on a fixed map, adding to the sense of discovery.

The Fjord and Mountain Views

Once in Norway, you’ll experience the spectacular fjords that make this region famous. Expect towering cliffs, deep inlets, and waters that remain unfrozen even in winter. The scenery is truly awe-inspiring—think of jagged peaks rising sharply from the sea and expansive lakes reflecting the sky.

Many travelers have noted that the views become even more captivating the further into the fjords you go. One reviewer specifically mentioned that “the further we got into the fjords, the better the vistas.” Guides are adept at pointing out interesting formations and sharing tidbits about the landscape—adding depth to the visual feast.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Wildlife and Photography

While sightings like eagles, orcas, or porpoises are not guaranteed, the chance is there, especially if you’re lucky. The guides are helpful in making the most of photo opportunities, whether you’re using your smartphone or renting one of their eight available cameras. Tips on framing and capturing the landscape are part of the experience, and if you need assistance with your camera gear or phone, the guides are there to help.

Many reviews highlight how engaging the guides are, with one describing Alex as friendly, funny, and knowledgeable. The guides’ enthusiasm and expertise turn what could be just a scenic drive into a more educational and memorable experience.

Lunch Break and Additional Stops

The tour typically includes a stop in either Narvik or Bjerkvik, where you can purchase lunch or bring your own. The stops are well-timed, giving travelers a chance to stretch, grab a meal, and take more photos. Some reviews suggest that this break is also a good opportunity to buy a warm snowsuit if your gear isn’t up to the cold, which is a thoughtful touch considering the temperatures.

Practicalities and Comfort

The duration of 5 hours strikes a good balance—long enough to see a variety of landscapes but not so long as to become tiring. The pick-up and drop-off arrangements are straightforward, with options at key points around Abisko. It’s worth noting that icy windows are a normal part of winter travel here, so dressing warmly and preparing for cold conditions are essential.

You might also want to bring your own camera or phone to capture the scenery, or rent a camera on-site if you don’t have one. SD cards can be purchased at the guesthouse if needed. The guides are pretty helpful with photography tips, making sure you don’t miss those perfect shots.

Weather and Cancellation Considerations

Weather plays a significant role in this tour. Since roads can close due to snow or ice, the tour can be canceled at short notice. However, the providers are flexible, offering rescheduling, alternative activities, or a full refund if that happens. For travelers worried about the cold, remember that the tour proceeds in winter conditions, so winter clothing (which can also be rented) is highly recommended.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

This excursion is ideal for anyone who loves stunning scenery, photography, and small-group adventures. It’s perfect if you want an accessible way to see Norway’s fjords without the hassle of independent travel or multiple day trips. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly approach make it a relaxing yet enriching experience.

It also offers a good value at $162 per person, considering the transport, guided commentary, and photo assistance included. If you’re a photography enthusiast or a nature lover eager to capture scenes of mountains and fjords, you’ll find this tour particularly rewarding.

Who Will Love It?

• Travelers seeking easy access to scenic fjord landscapes from Sweden
• Photography buffs eager to capture Norway’s iconic vistas
• Small groups looking for a personalized experience
• Those interested in learning about the area from friendly, knowledgeable guides
• Visitors who don’t mind cold weather and icy conditions
• Anyone wanting a flexible, scenic day without extensive planning

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? The tour is generally suitable for older children but not recommended for babies under 1 year old. The cold weather and vehicle conditions may not be ideal for very young children.

What should I bring? You’ll need passport or ID, weather-appropriate clothing, and your own camera or smartphone. Winter clothing can be rented at the guesthouse if you don’t have your own.

Can I rent a camera for the tour? Yes, there are 8 cameras available for rent, but you’ll need an SD or Micro SD card with an adapter, which can be purchased at the guesthouse.

What is included in the price? The tour price covers the guide, minivan transportation, and assistance with cameras and photography. Lunch, additional clothing, and personal items are not included.

What happens if the weather is bad? The tour can be canceled if roads are closed or weather conditions are severe. In such cases, you can reschedule, choose an alternative activity, or get a full refund.

How long is the tour? The experience lasts about 5 hours, including stops, driving, and sightseeing.

Are there pickup options? Yes, pickups are available at Abisko Guesthouse, STF, Björkliden, and Riksgränsen. Be sure to inform the guide if you need a pickup.

Final Thoughts

The Abisko Fjord Sightseeing and Photography Tour offers a fantastic way to explore Norway’s stunning fjords from a convenient Swedish base. With expert guides, flexible routes, and ample photo opportunities, it caters well to travelers who want a scenic, comfortable, and informative day out. The small-group setting means you’ll get personalized insights and a chance to truly soak in the views.

While weather can impact the route, the tour’s flexibility and the guides’ local knowledge help maximize your chances of experiencing some spectacular sights. The price reflects the quality of the guided experience and the memorable landscapes, making it a worthwhile investment for landscape lovers and photography fans alike.

If you’re seeking a manageable, scenic adventure that blends natural beauty with practical comfort, this tour is a strong contender. It’s especially perfect for those who value expert guidance and want to take home stunning photos of Scandinavia’s iconic fjords and mountains.

In essence, this tour is a well-rounded choice for anyone eager to see Norway’s fjords without the fuss, armed with helpful guides and plenty of picture-worthy moments.

You can check if your dates are available here: