Kiruna: The Amazing Northern Lights – Hunt Tour

If you’re dreaming of chasing the elusive Aurora Borealis in Sweden’s Arctic north, the Kiruna: The Amazing Northern Lights – Hunt Tour offers an enticing way to do just that. While we haven’t personally braved the icy roads and starry skies, we’ve researched extensively and gathered insights that help paint a clear picture of what you can expect from this 5.5-hour adventure. From the comfort of a cozy minivan to the thrill of spotting shimmering lights, this tour combines scenic beauty with local knowledge and practical tips.

What we really appreciate about this experience are three things: first, the emphasis on local guides who bring storytelling and insider tips to the journey; second, the opportunity to explore several stunning spots in the countryside, increasing your chances of witnessing the Aurora; and third, the inclusion of photography tips, which can turn your fleeting lights into stunning memories. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that seeing the Northern Lights is never guaranteed—it’s a natural phenomenon, after all. Still, if you’re after an authentic, small-group experience with a knowledgeable guide, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is ideal for those who love a mix of adventure, cultural storytelling, and scenic landscapes. However, it’s not suitable for very young children under 12 or wheelchair users, and it’s best for travelers prepared for cold weather and dark skies. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to get out into the snowy wilderness and potentially catch the lights, this tour is a solid choice.

Good To Know

• Small group size ensures a more intimate and personalized experience.
• Expert local guides share stories, tips, and insights about the Aurora and the Arctic environment.
• Multiple scenic stops increase chances of viewing the Northern Lights.
• The tour includes warm drinks and snacks to keep you cozy.
• Photographers get useful tips for capturing the Aurora.
• Natural unpredictability means sightings are not guaranteed but the experience is thoroughly enjoyable.

The Kiruna Northern Lights Tour is designed to give travelers a balance of comfort, adventure, and education. It begins with a convenient pickup from your Kiruna accommodation, which is included if you’re staying in the Old or New City areas. The vehicle, a comfortable minivan, is well-suited for winter travel, offering warmth and space as you venture into the snowy landscapes.

Once on the road, your guide—who is a local with plenty of stories and Aurora knowledge—will drive you through the Arctic night. The guide’s role is more than just navigation; they’ll explain the science behind the lights, share local legends, and offer tips for photographing the phenomenon. As the sky darkens, you’ll stop at several carefully chosen vantage points. These spots are selected based on weather conditions and cloud cover, maximizing your chances of spotting the Aurora.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Scenic Drive and Stops

Expect a journey through snow-dusted forests, frozen lakes, and open plains—each offering a different backdrop for the lights. One of the most valued aspects of this tour is the opportunity to explore various beautiful areas while hunting down the Aurora. Travelers have noted that the guide’s local knowledge is invaluable, as they can interpret weather patterns and aurora activity to pick the best viewing spots.

According to reviews, “The guide was very knowledgeable and told us about local stories, which made the experience more memorable.” It’s also worth mentioning that the darker the sky, the better the chances of seeing the Aurora. The guide will advise on the best camera settings, although you’ll need your own device for photos. Many travelers have reported that the experience of waiting under the stars and watching for the lights is truly magical, even if the lights stay elusive.

Food, Warmth, and Comfort

Included in the tour are warm drinks and biscuits, which are perfect for warming up during the long winter night in the Arctic. This small touch adds a cozy, inviting element to the experience. Reviewers have appreciated the snacks and drinks, noting that it helps keep spirits high during the potentially chilly wait.

Pickup in Kiruna: The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or accommodation, making it seamless to start your Northern Lights adventure. The small group size (limited to 8 people) ensures personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.

Scenic drive and stops: Over 5.5 hours, your guide takes you through several hotspots, each offering a different perspective of the Arctic wilderness. The stops are carefully chosen based on weather conditions, which is crucial because cloud cover can be a dealbreaker when trying to see the Aurora. You’ll travel through true winter scenery, with snow-covered trees and frozen lakes, setting the perfect backdrop for the lights.

Storytelling and tips: Throughout the night, your guide shares local legends, scientific explanations, and photography tips. This educational aspect makes the experience richer, especially for photography enthusiasts eager to snap that perfect shot.

Return to Kiruna: After a night of Aurora hunting, you’ll be dropped back at your accommodation, hopefully with some stunning images and stories to tell.

While reviews highlight the unpredictability of seeing the Aurora, many appreciate the knowledgeable guides who go above and beyond. One reviewer mentioned, “The guide’s stories and tips made the night more enjoyable, even if the lights were shy.” Others have praised the hot drinks and snacks as a thoughtful touch, especially after waiting in the cold.

A common theme is the small-group setting, which allows for more interaction and flexibility. Travelers have noted that the guides are well-versed in Arctic conditions, making the journey both comfortable and informative.

At $106 per person, this tour offers a lot of value for those interested in a well-organized, small-group experience. The price covers transportation, a knowledgeable local guide, hot drinks, and photography tips—elements that significantly enhance the overall experience. While it’s an investment, it’s reasonable considering the hassle-free pickup, the chance to explore different areas, and the expert guidance.

Keep in mind, the tour doesn’t include personal photography equipment, so you’ll want to bring your own camera or mobile device. Also, since sightings depend on weather and aurora activity, there’s some inherent unpredictability—yet, many travelers say that even if the lights are shy, the experience of the Arctic night and the storytelling make it worthwhile.

This Aurora hunt suits travelers who want a comfortable, guided experience with local insights. It’s ideal if you’re after a small-group setting, personalized attention, and a chance to learn about the northern environment. It’s also great for those who enjoy scenic drives and storytelling, rather than just chasing lights at all costs.

However, if you have very young children, wheelchair needs, or are not comfortable in cold conditions, you might want to consider other options. Also, patience is key—seeing the Aurora is never guaranteed, but the journey itself is rewarding.

The Kiruna Northern Lights Hunt Tour offers a solid, authentic Arctic experience, blending scenic scenery, local tales, and practical tips into an evening of potential wonder. The small group and expert guides make it a more personal way to experience the Arctic, and the included warm beverages add a cozy touch.

This tour is especially suitable for those who appreciate a guided approach, want to explore different vantage points, and are prepared for winter conditions. While the lights are subject to nature’s whims, the overall journey—filled with Arctic landscapes and engaging storytelling—makes for a memorable adventure.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, affordable Northern Lights experience that maximizes your chances without sacrificing comfort or insight, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just remember, patience and a little luck are part of the package.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5.5 hours, including pickup, travel, and stops for viewing the Northern Lights.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your specific hotels in Kiruna Old and New City are included in the price.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing is essential, as you’ll be outside in cold Arctic conditions for extended periods.

Can I take photos of the Northern Lights?
You’ll receive tips from your guide for photographing the Aurora, but you’ll need to bring your own camera or mobile device.

Are meals included?
The tour provides warm drinks and biscuits, but no full meals.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
Since the Aurora is a natural phenomenon, sightings can’t be guaranteed. However, the guide’s local knowledge and multiple stops increase your chances.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 12 years old.

Are there any additional costs?
You should bring your own camera and possibly extra clothes if you wish to stay longer in cold conditions.

To sum it up, the Kiruna Northern Lights Hunt Tour offers a well-balanced, immersive Arctic experience that combines scenic beauty, storytelling, and expert guidance. Perfect for those who want more than just a fleeting glimpse of the Aurora, it’s a memorable way to embrace the magic of the northern skies—weather permitting, of course.

You can check if your dates are available here: