Kiruna: Northern Lights Minivan Chase with Warm Drink

Exploring the Kiruna Northern Lights Minivan Chase with Warm Drink

If you’re dreaming of witnessing the Northern Lights in Sweden, this Kiruna: Northern Lights Minivan Chase with Warm Drink tour offers an inviting way to do so. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a cozy, guided adventure designed to maximize your chances of catching the aurora borealis in its natural glory.

What we love about this experience is its combination of local expertise, comfort in the Arctic cold, and the chance to learn about the aurora from guides who know the area well. The inclusion of Lapland delicacies and hot drinks makes the wait more enjoyable, especially in the chilly Nordic night. The four-hour duration is manageable for most travelers, and the small-group setting ensures a more personal experience.

A potential consideration is that this isn’t a dedicated photography tour, so if snapping perfect aurora shots is your priority, you might find it less focused on photography tips. Still, the opportunity to enjoy this natural spectacle with knowledgeable guides and warm refreshments makes it an appealing choice for anyone keen on an authentic Arctic adventure. This tour suits those who prefer a relaxed, guided experience rather than a high-intensity chase, especially if comfort and local insights are top priorities.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Guided Minivan Chase: Led by experienced guides, increasing your odds of seeing the lights.
• Comfort & Warmth: Hot drinks and Lapland treats help you stay cozy while waiting.
• Educational Element: Guides share insights about the aurora, enriching the experience.
• Flexible & Practical: Four hours long with flexible starting times, perfect for most schedules.
• Limited Focus on Photography: Not a photography-specific tour, but you can take your own photos.
• Ideal for Relaxed Sightseers: Those who want a comfortable, informative, and intimate Northern Lights adventure.

Why the Northern Lights Minivan Chase Stands Out

The allure of this tour is the combination of comfort and expertise. Since the aurora borealis is a natural phenomenon, unpredictability is part of the game. The guides at Kiruna Guidetur AB, who lead this tour, are experienced in finding the best spots around Kiruna for viewing, thus boosting your chances of a sighting. The journey isn’t just about seeing lights — it’s about enjoying the Arctic environment with local guides who understand the best vantage points and the science behind the aurora.

While the tour lasts about four hours, it’s designed to be flexible. You’ll meet behind the Scandic Hotel in the center of Kiruna, making it easy to access without long transfers. From there, the guide takes the wheel to navigate away from city lights and toward the darker, clearer skies ideal for aurora viewing.

What to Expect on the Tour

Meeting Point & Duration

You’ll gather in central Kiruna, behind the Scandic Hotel, which is convenient if you’re staying in the city. The tour runs for approximately four hours, but actual start times depend on availability—so it’s worth checking in advance.

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The Drive & Viewing Spots

Once on board, you’ll venture out into the surrounding landscape, away from the city’s light pollution. The guides focus on locating the most promising areas based on weather conditions and aurora forecasts. The journey is comfortable, with minivan transportation suited for Arctic conditions, ensuring you stay warm and dry as you chase the lights.

Learning & Photography

Expect to listen as your guide shares insights about the aurora borealis—how it forms, its history, and local legends. While you’re encouraged to bring your own camera, keep in mind this isn’t a photography-focused trip. So, don’t expect detailed camera instructions, but you’ll have plenty of opportunity to snap some shots in the dark.

Warmth & Refreshments

A standout feature is the hot drink and Lapland delicacies offered while waiting. Reviewers mention the cozy atmosphere created by hot cocoa, coffee, or tea, complemented by local treats. This makes the experience far more comfortable than simply standing in the cold, waiting in vain.

The End of the Tour

The tour concludes back at the initial meeting point, giving you ample opportunity to continue exploring Kiruna or head back to your accommodations.

The Experience from the Guides’ Perspective

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who lead these Northern Lights chases. They are often described as friendly, patient, and eager to share their expertise. One reviewer specifically noted how their guide, “knew exactly where to go and explained everything about the aurora in a way that made it even more fascinating.” This personal touch adds a lot of value, especially for first-time aurora viewers.

Reviewers also appreciate the small group size, which creates a relaxed environment to ask questions and enjoy the night sky. The guides’ local insights help make the experience more meaningful, turning a simple light show into an educational and cultural experience.

The Value of the Tour

At $198 per person, this tour offers a good balance of comfort, expert guidance, and chance of seeing the Northern Lights. Considering the cost of other aurora excursions—some of which can be more expensive or less intimate—this tour provides a solid value, especially for travelers who prefer a relaxed, guided approach over a high-energy chase or a crowded bus.

The inclusion of local Lapland snacks and warm drinks adds a cozy element that many travelers find enhances the overall experience. Since it’s not a photography-focused tour, the emphasis remains on enjoying the natural display, making it less stressful for those who just want to marvel at the lights rather than capture them perfectly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-timers wanting a comfortable, guided Northern Lights experience without the hassle of organizing transportation or worrying about the weather. It’s perfect for those who appreciate local insights, relaxed pacing, and warm refreshments. Families with children over 6 will find it suitable, as the tour lasts four hours and involves driving through Arctic scenery.

If you’re seeking an adventure with expert guides and a cozy atmosphere, this tour ticks those boxes. However, if your main goal is to get professional photos, you might prefer a dedicated photography tour.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 6 years old are generally welcome, but it’s best to check specific age restrictions with the provider.

Do I need to bring my own warm clothing?
Yes, it’s recommended to dress warmly as you’ll be outside waiting in the cold for periods. The tour suggests bringing water too, to stay hydrated.

Will I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
While the guides do their best to find the optimal viewing spots, the aurora is a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed. The tour increases your chances with expert guidance.

Does the tour include hotel transfers?
No, transfers from hotels are not included. You meet at the designated point behind the Scandic Hotel in Kiruna.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately four hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, you can bring your own camera. However, since this isn’t a photography-specific tour, there’s no instruction on capturing images.

What should I bring?
Warm clothes, water, and your camera are recommended. Layers are key for Arctic conditions.

Are there any restrictions?
Smoking is not permitted in the vehicle, and the tour isn’t suitable for children under 6.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The guide speaks English, making it accessible for international travelers.

What happens if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

The Kiruna Northern Lights Minivan Chase offers an inviting way to experience the magic of the aurora borealis in a comfortable, well-guided setting. While it doesn’t promise a perfect sighting every night, the combination of expert guides, cozy amenities, and scenic drives makes it a practical choice for most travelers eager to see the lights without sacrificing comfort.

It’s especially suited for those who want an authentic Arctic experience with educational value and casual pacing. If your main goal is to enjoy the natural beauty of the Northern Lights in an intimate, relaxed environment, this tour could be just what you need.

For travelers seeking a straightforward, expertly guided, and cozy night under the Arctic sky, this tour provides a memorable way to chase the aurora and learn about the phenomena behind it.

You can check if your dates are available here: