Abisko: Guided Aurora Chase with Hotel Transfers

Introduction

Imagine wrapping up in warm clothes, hopping into a cozy vehicle, and heading into the pristine Arctic night in search of one of nature’s most mesmerizing phenomena—the Northern Lights. That’s exactly what you get with the Abisko Guided Aurora Chase with Hotel Transfers offered by Lights Over Lapland. This tour promises a mix of adventure, expert guidance, and comfort in one of Sweden’s most renowned spots for aurora viewing.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, the expert guides use local weather forecasts and their extensive knowledge to maximize your chances of seeing the lights. Second, the hotel pickup and drop-off make it convenient and hassle-free, especially after a long day of exploring. And third, the warm drinks and scenic stops add a cozy, memorable touch. A potential drawback? If weather conditions are cloudy or skies are overcast, the visibility of the auroras can be limited, but the guides do their best to find clear spots.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, comfortable, and informative Northern Lights experience without the need for strenuous activities like snowmobiling or hiking. It’s perfect for those seeking a stress-free way to chase the auroras in the captivating landscape of Abisko.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Expert Guides enhance your chances of seeing the Aurora with local weather and forecast insights.
• Comfort & Convenience include hotel pickup/drop-off and warm drinks.
• Flexible Locations and up to 100 km of travel help find clear skies for optimal viewing.
• Authentic Experience with storytelling about Abisko’s history and aurora science.
• Photo Opportunities with guides often skilled at capturing the Lights on camera.
• Cost-Effective with a price around $106 per person for a 3.5-hour tour.

What to Expect from the Aurora Chase

This 3.5-hour adventure is designed to maximize your chance of witnessing the Northern Lights while keeping it relaxed and engaging. You’ll be picked up from one of six convenient locations in Abisko, including the STF Abisko Turiststation, Abisko Guesthouse, or local lodges. The pickup time varies based on availability, so plan accordingly.

The journey begins with a scenic drive into the surrounding wilderness of Abisko National Park. Along the way, your guide will share insights about the history of the park, the science of auroras, and local stories that add depth to the experience. The actual drive is carefully managed—up to a maximum of 100 km round-trip—to reach the best viewing spots, often on lakes or rivers where the reflection of the auroras in the ice creates stunning mirror-like effects.

Scenic Stops and Photo Opportunities

Many reviewers highlight the appeal of visiting locations on lakes and rivers, which serve as natural mirrors for the auroras. One guest remarked, “Many of the locations are on lakes and rivers which allow you to see the auroras in the sky AND reflecting in the polished ice during the Winter.” These reflective surfaces make for spectacular photographs, and guides often lend a helping hand with camera settings—something highly appreciated by those eager to capture the moment.

Informative and Friendly Guides

According to guest reviews, guides like Joey and Dimitri stand out for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and genuine friendliness. One reviewer called Joey “the best,” praising her energy and her knack for taking great photos of guests with the aurora in the background. Another mentioned Dimitri’s patience and attentiveness, especially when helping a guest with camera setup or comforting someone hesitant about venturing onto a slippery slope.

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Warm Drinks and Cozy Fika

A charming highlight for many guests is the inclusion of hot drinks, often served around a small fire. One guest fondly recalls, “Joey lit a fire and we had marshmallows,” emphasizing how these touches turn a chilly viewing into a warm, social event. The availability of gingerbread cookies, hot lingonberry juice, or other local treats is a simple yet effective way to enhance the experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins with pickup from one of six locations, offering flexibility for travelers staying in Abisko. The first stop might be a brief sightseeing or photo stop, allowing guests to stretch their legs and enjoy the winter scenery. The drive then takes you into the wilderness, with the guide continuously assessing weather patterns and aurora forecasts to decide where to go.

Traveling up to 100 km overall, the journey isn’t too long or tiring—most reviews note that the trip is comfortably paced. You’ll likely visit at least one of several scenic locations, often on lakes or rivers, to catch the best view of the auroras and their reflections. The guides’ local knowledge and access to exclusive spots mean you’re not just sticking to the usual touristy points; instead, they seek out locations with high aurora activity and clear skies.

The Aurora Search

The success of this tour largely hinges on the sky conditions. Since aurora sightings are a natural phenomenon, weather plays a pivotal role—cloudy skies or snowstorms can obscure the view. However, reviews show guides are highly dedicated to finding clear patches, with one guest noting, “they searched several spots and finally we were able to observe the super bright northern lights.”

Post-Viewing Experience

Once the lights appear, the guides often give tips for photography and encourage guests to soak in the moment. Many reviews mention the guides’ talent for capturing professional-looking photos, which they then share—adding a memorable keepsake to your experience. When the auroras fade or the weather turns, the guides often wrap up with warm drinks and friendly chatter.

Transportation & Logistics

The hotel pickup and drop-off streamline the process, especially after a full day of exploring. The tour covers a specific route, but guides are flexible and use real-time weather data to optimize the experience. Duration is about 3.5 hours, making it a manageable evening activity rather than an all-night trek. The small group size, typically just enough to keep the experience intimate, adds to the relaxed ambiance.

Cost and Value

At around $106 per person, this tour offers a well-balanced price point considering the included transportation, guide expertise, and warm refreshments. When compared to other aurora chasing options, the affordability combined with high-quality guidance and scenic stops makes it a compelling choice. Many guests expressed satisfaction with the value, especially given the skill of the guides and the effort to find clear skies.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Guests consistently praise the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides, especially Joey, who appears to be a standout with her energetic approach and photography skills. One guest said, “Joey was a very cool guide and our driver Dimitri was nice and funny, unluckily we didn’t see many lights but they did their best to find the lights and kept our spirits up.” This highlights the dedication of the team, even when Mother Nature isn’t cooperating.

Several reviews note the small, intimate feel of the tour—making it more personal and less commercialized. The effort to find the best spots and the use of local weather forecasts genuinely seems to pay off, often resulting in spectacular views or at least memorable moments even when the auroras are faint or elusive.

The Sum Up

This Aurora Chase in Abisko is a fantastic option for travelers seeking a comfortable, guided experience that balances expert knowledge with scenic beauty. The inclusion of hotel transfers, warm drinks, and the chance to learn about the auroras and local environment makes it more than just a run-of-the-mill tour—it’s an experience designed to deepen your appreciation of the natural wonder in a relaxed setting.

While weather conditions can impact visibility, the guides’ dedication and local expertise mean you’re in good hands. This tour is especially suitable for those who want a stress-free, well-organized adventure with plenty of opportunities for photos and storytelling.

If you’re after a cost-effective yet immersive Northern Lights experience that combines nature, comfort, and expert guidance, this tour won’t disappoint.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a guide, transportation (pickup and drop-off), and a warm drink to keep you cozy during your night out.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3.5 hours, making it a comfortable evening activity.

Where do the pickups happen?
Pickups are available from six locations in Abisko, including the STF Abisko Turiststation, Abisko Guesthouse, among others.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It is not recommended for children under 5 years old, likely due to the cold and outdoor conditions.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing is essential. Since camera equipment isn’t included, bring your own if you want to capture the lights.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if the weather is cloudy?
Cloud cover can obscure the auroras, but guides do their best to find clear spots, and many guests still appreciated the scenic drive and companionship.

Is this experience suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group setting fosters a friendly atmosphere, and guides are attentive to individual needs.

Will I get good photos of the lights?
Guides like Joey are skilled at taking photos, and many guests received professional-quality images as keepsakes.

This guided Aurora chase in Abisko stands out for its combination of expert guidance, scenic stops, and cozy touches—all at an accessible price point. Perfect for those looking to see the Northern Lights without the fuss, it offers a genuine chance to witness one of nature’s most magical displays in comfort and style.

You can check if your dates are available here: