If you’re dreaming of catching the northern lights in Sweden’s Arctic north, the Auroras Kiruna-Abisko & lodge dinner tour offers a well-rounded way to do just that. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a pretty tempting picture of a memorable night under the stars.
What immediately catches the eye about this experience? First, it’s a blend of delicious local flavors and stunning natural beauty. Second, it includes a guided aurora chase that adapts to weather conditions, maximizing your chances of seeing the lights. Third, the warm, Arctic clothing provided means you can focus on the views without worrying about winter layers. The only potential downside? The tour’s non-refundable policy might be a concern if your plans change unexpectedly.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of good food, expert guidance, and Arctic adventure. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy cozy atmospheres, scenic drives, and capturing photos of the Northern Lights. If you’re after a relaxed, well-organized experience that doesn’t skimp on the authentic Arctic charm, this one’s worth considering.
Good To Know
- Comfort and convenience are prioritized with hotel pickup, drop-off, and Arctic clothing loans.
- The two-course dinner offers a taste of Lapland’s flavors in a warm, inviting setting.
- The aurora chase is flexible and guided by experts, improving your chances of witnessing the lights.
- You’ll receive personal photos from the evening — a lovely souvenir.
- The entire experience lasts about five hours, making it an evening highlight without overstaying.
- This tour is not suitable for children under 12, so plan accordingly.
A Closer Look at the Experience
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Starting with Warmth and Flavors: The Lodge Dinner
The adventure begins at the Máttaráhkká Northern Lights Lodge, which is described as cozy and stunning, with open views towards the mountains. Here, you’ll settle in for a Lapland-inspired two-course dinner. It’s a perfect way to settle into the Arctic evening, combining local ingredients and flavors that are both hearty and comforting.
The reviews highlight that the dinner is plentiful and cooked with care. Robin Burton mentioned the meal was “very good and very plentiful,” which is reassuring for those worried about getting enough sustenance in the cold. The atmosphere in the lodge is described as warm and welcoming, offering a relaxing contrast to the cold outdoor adventure ahead.
The Aurora Chase: A Night of Sky-High Promise
After dinner, the real excitement begins. The group boards a heated minivan for the aurora hunt. The guides use real-time weather updates to select the best spots — a smart move, given how unpredictable the Northern Lights can be.
Traveling along scenic roads between Kiruna and Abisko National Park, the guides will take you to prime viewing locations. Reviewers like Britta praised the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, and how they went beyond just driving and looking — offering to take photos of the aurora and the group, which many travelers cherish.
Authentic Aurora Viewing and Photos
Seeing the Aurora Borealis is never guaranteed, but this tour maximizes your odds. The guides are experienced in finding the clearest skies, and the setting itself — the open landscapes of Abisko — is considered a top spot globally for aurora sightings.
One reviewer, Sha, shared how they were lucky enough to see a strong aurora along with a few shooting stars. The guides also take care to offer professional-quality photos, capturing your memories under the shimmering sky.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyArctic Gear for Comfort
The tour provides down jackets, pants, and winter boots, making sure you’re warm and dry. This is especially valuable because Arctic temperatures in winter can be biting, and lugging your own gear can be a hassle. Reviewers appreciated that they could simply enjoy the experience without freezing, and the gear was described as comfortable and effective.
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Practical Details and Timing
The tour lasts about five hours, starting around 5:30 PM with hotel pickup in Kiruna. The pickup times are punctual, which means you’ll need to be ready on time to avoid missing out. The transfer from the Icehotel is at 5:30 PM, with other pickups between 5:45 and 6:00 PM.
The tour is priced at $255 per person, which includes everything: dinner, transport, gear, and photos. Considering the value of a memorable Arctic night, the guided chase, and the included photos, many would find this a worthwhile investment.
Why This Tour Stands Out
- Expert-guided aurora chase tailored by real-time weather conditions increases the likelihood of seeing the northern lights.
- The combination of cozy dining and outdoor adventure offers a well-rounded Arctic experience.
- The photos provided are a thoughtful touch, helping you keep the memories alive.
- The Arctic clothing loan ensures comfort, making the cold much more manageable.
- The small group atmosphere usually creates a more personal, relaxed experience.
- The flexible cancellation policy (up to 24 hours in advance) adds peace of mind.
Who Should Book This Experience?
This tour suits travelers who want more than just a fleeting glimpse of the auroras. It’s ideal for those seeking comfort and guidance, especially if visiting during cold months. It’s great for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who appreciate a mix of good food, picturesque scenery, and expert-led sky watching.
However, families with children under 12 should note the age restriction, and those who prefer a more free-form, self-guided aurora hunt might find the organized chase less appealing.
Final Thoughts
This tour offers a thoughtfully curated Arctic night with a cozy dinner, expert guidance, and a good chance of catching the northern lights. The included photos and warm gear make it accessible and memorable, especially for first-timers or those short on time yet wanting a meaningful experience.
For travelers craving a comfortable, guided, and culturally rich evening in Swedish Lapland, this experience delivers on all fronts. It balances local flavor, scenic drives, and natural wonder—a true highlight for winter travelers in Kiruna.
If you’re after a well-organized, authentic, and visually stunning Arctic adventure, this tour is a solid choice. Just remember, the auroras are a natural phenomenon, so while the guides do everything possible to find clear skies, patience and a little bit of luck are also part of the package.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from your hotel in Kiruna is included, starting from 5:30 PM at the Icehotel, with other pickups from 5:45 to 6:00 PM.
What should I wear?
While Arctic clothing (down jacket, pants, and winter boots) is provided, it’s recommended to dress warmly underneath. Layers are always a good idea.
Can I see the Northern Lights from the lodge?
Yes, there is a possibility to see the aurora directly from the lodge itself, thanks to its open views toward the mountains.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately five hours, from pickup to drop-off.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 12 years old, so consider this when planning if traveling with young kids.
What if I don’t see the aurora?
The tour is guided by experienced professionals who choose the best locations for viewing, but since the aurora is natural, sighting cannot be guaranteed. However, many guests have been lucky, and the journey itself is memorable.
To sum it up, this experience combines the magic of Lapland’s flavors, the thrill of chasing the northern lights, and the comfort of warm gear and guided expertise. It’s a fantastic way to make your Arctic trip unforgettable, especially if you appreciate good food, scenic drives, and the chance to see one of nature’s most spectacular displays.
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