Hunt for the Northern lights in Kiruna – Abisko

Experiencing the Northern Lights in Sweden is high on many travelers’ wish lists, and this Hunt for the Northern Lights in Kiruna – Abisko tour offers a compelling way to chase the Aurora borealis in one of the best locations possible. While we haven’t personally been on this exact adventure, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a clear picture of a memorable Arctic experience.

What we love about this tour? First, the small-group setting of just seven people enhances intimacy and allows guides to give personalized attention. Second, the expert guidance and forecast-based stops increase your chances of witnessing the Aurora in all its glory. Finally, the combination of stunning scenery and practical photography advice makes this tour perfect for those eager to capture the moment.

That said, one consideration is the limited duration—about four hours—meaning some might prefer a longer or multi-night escape for more chances at the lights. This tour is ideal for those who want a focused, high-quality Northern Lights experience without the fuss of overnight accommodations. It suits travelers who appreciate expert guides, scenic national parks, and the thrill of chasing one of nature’s greatest spectacles.

Good To Know

• Small Groups: Limited to seven explorers, ensuring a personalized and relaxed experience.
• Expert Guides: Guides use weather and light forecasts to select the best viewing locations.
• Ideal Locations: Stops include Abisko National Park and Tornetrask, renowned for Aurora sightings.
• Photography Tips: Free guide included, with advice on capturing the lights—a boon for keen photographers.
• Weather Considerations: Warm clothing is provided if meeting at the start; weather conditions highly influence Aurora visibility.
• Transport Included: Comfortable transportation across scenic spots enhances convenience and safety.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour begins at Torggatan 4 in Kiruna at 8:00 pm, where you’ll meet your guide and receive a brief introduction. The 4-hour adventure is designed to maximize your chances of catching the Northern Lights, with the itinerary flexible based on weather and Aurora forecasts.

Stop 1: Abisko National Park

Your first destination is Abisko National Park, acclaimed for its clear skies and minimal light pollution—making it one of the best spots in the world to see the Aurora. You’ll spend about 20 minutes here, taking in the vast, snow-covered landscapes that provide a perfect backdrop for Aurora sightings. The park’s natural beauty is captivating, with wide-open spaces and pristine wilderness. This stop is free of admission charges, making it cost-effective while offering a spectacular setting.

Stop 2: Tornetrask

Next, the tour heads to Tornetrask, a massive lake surrounded by mountains and forests. This area offers stunning reflections of the night sky over frozen waters, which, according to the forecast, increases lighting conditions for the Aurora. You’ll spend approximately 30 minutes here—enough time to enjoy the scenery and, with a bit of luck, spot the Northern Lights dancing above. Again, no extra admission fee applies.

What’s Included for Your Value

The tour provides several essentials that make the experience comfortable and memorable. Transport is included, taking you smoothly between scenic spots. Guides are seasoned professionals, offering safety, local insights, and Aurora forecasting expertise. For those worried about the cold, warm clothing—such as shoes, overalls, gloves, and hats—is available if meeting at the start point, ensuring you stay cozy during your time outdoors.

A standout feature is the free photography guide. Given the importance of capturing the Lights, especially in such a photogenic landscape, this guide offers valuable tips on how to shoot the Aurora and understand why it appears. It’s a nice addition for those eager to click the perfect shot or learn more about astrophotography.

What’s Not Included

Travelers should note that pickup and drop-off are optional extras, meaning you may need to arrange your transportation if staying outside the designated meeting point. Also, cameras and tripods are not included, so if you’re serious about photography, bringing your own equipment is advisable.

The Group Size and Timing

With a maximum of seven travelers, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere. This size fosters personalized attention and allows guides to tailor the experience based on conditions. The tour departs at 8:00 pm, aligning with optimal Aurora viewing times, and concludes back at the meeting point, making it convenient for those staying locally in Kiruna.

The Experience from Past Travelers

Based on reviews, the guides are highly praised—notably for their knowledge and friendly approach. One reviewer mentioned traveling in January 2024, expressing that despite the forecast not guaranteeing a sighting, the guide’s expert predictions helped maximize their chances. Another reviewer highlighted the stunning views and appreciated the personalized experience that made the trip special.

A traveler named Brian S also emphasized the professionalism of the company and their guide Erik, saying, “I would highly recommend the tour, company and Erik,” underlining the overall satisfaction. The small group dynamic and the guide’s expertise seem to be the biggest pluses, especially for those new to Aurora chasing or photography.

The Cost and Its Value

At $251.19 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded package—transport, guidance, warm clothing, and photography advice—making it quite competitive considering the location and focus on quality. For travelers who value expert insights, prime viewing locations, and a small-group setting, the value is clear. The price might seem steep for a short 4-hour window, but for many, it’s a worthwhile investment in a potential once-in-a-lifetime sighting.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurers seeking a guided, intimate Northern Lights hunt with an emphasis on comfort and photography. It suits those who don’t want to navigate the Arctic alone and prefer expert guidance in a scenic setting. It’s also a good pick for travelers who have limited time but still want a high chance of seeing the Aurora thanks to weather forecasting and strategic stops.

The Sum Up

In summary, the Hunt for the Northern Lights in Kiruna – Abisko tour offers a compact, well-organized way to chase Aurora Borealis in one of the most scenic parts of Sweden. Small group sizes, expert guidance, and carefully chosen locations make it a strong contender for those eager to maximize their chances of witnessing this celestial display. While the short duration might not satisfy those wanting a multi-night Aurora adventure, it’s an excellent option for travelers who prefer a focused, guided experience with local insight.

This tour stands out for its quality of guides, stunning natural settings, and practical approach—making it suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small groups. If you’re after a genuine chance to see the Northern Lights with knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour price? No, pickup and drop-off are available as additional options, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation if you’re not meeting at the designated start point.

What should I bring? The tour provides warm clothing if you meet at the start, but it’s wise to dress in layers, bring your camera, and definitely pack a tripod if you want to capture the lights.

How many people are in the group? The maximum group size is seven, which helps keep the experience intimate and allows guides to give personalized attention.

When does the tour start? It begins at 8:00 pm, aligning with optimal Aurora viewing times.

Where does the tour take place? It starts at Torggatan 4 in Kiruna and includes stops at Abisko National Park and Tornetrask, both known for their Aurora potential.

How long does the tour last? Approximately four hours, from start to finish.

What is included? Transport, professional guide, warm clothing (if meeting at the start), and a free photography guide.

Can I participate if I’m a beginner? Absolutely, the guides are experienced and will provide tips on how to photograph the Aurora, making it accessible for all levels.

What if the weather isn’t clear? The tour relies heavily on weather conditions; guides use forecasts to select the best locations. If Aurora visibility is poor, the experience still offers stunning scenery and expert insights.

Is this suitable for children? Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable being outdoors in cold weather for a few hours.

Chasing the Northern Lights in Sweden can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and this tour offers a practical, well-guided route to increase your chances. With intimate group sizes, strategic locations, and expert guides, it’s a solid choice for those eager to see the Aurora in a scenic Arctic setting.