Kiruna: Northern Lights Tour with Photos

Traveling to the Arctic in search of the Northern Lights is often a bucket-list experience, but booking the right tour makes all the difference. This Northern Lights Tour with Photos in Kiruna, operated by Lights of Vikings, offers a balanced mix of expert guidance, authentic moments, and memorable photography, all wrapped into a 5-hour adventure.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you’ll love the personalized attention with small-group sizes limited to eight travelers. Second, the professional photographer guide ensures you get stunning photos of yourself and the auroras—something you’ll treasure long after the trip. Third, the cozy campfire with hot drinks offers comfort and a genuine Arctic experience.

A potential consideration is that, like most aurora tours, there’s no 100% guarantee you’ll see the Northern Lights, especially if weather conditions aren’t favorable. However, the guides’ dedication to chasing clear skies and their flexibility in moving around makes this a compelling choice for those eager to maximize their chances.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want more than just a scenic view—they want expert insights, beautiful photos, and a warm, intimate atmosphere. It’s especially suited for those comfortable with small groups, chilly weather, and an authentic outdoor experience.

Good To Know

• Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants for personalized attention.
• Expert Photography: Professional guide takes high-quality photos and videos.
• Flexible Chasing: Guides actively seek clear skies, even if it means moving several times.
• Comfort & Warmth: Cozy campfire, hot drinks, and provided snowsuits keep you warm.
• Authentic Arctic Vibe: Campfire, starry sky, and genuine outdoor adventure.
• Price & Value: At $209 per person, it offers great value with photos, guidance, and local insights.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary — What to Expect from This Northern Lights Adventure

When you sign up for this tour, the first step is being picked up from your accommodation in Kiruna. The tour begins with a friendly meet-and-greet with your guide, who will be your companion for the evening. From there, the adventure is about chasing the best possible viewing spot for the Northern Lights, and trust us, this isn’t a static experience.

Transportation & Flexibility: The guides utilize their expertise to find locations with the clearest skies, which means some hopping around. According to reviewers, guides like Robin and Dimitri are proactive and dedicated, often driving multiple times—up to 8 or 10 times—just to find that perfect glimpse of green dancing overhead. This active pursuit is especially appreciated on cloudy nights, as many guests noted guides’ persistence and adaptability.

Small, Intimate Groups: The tour’s small-group size (up to 8 people) means you won’t be shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers, and your guide can give more personalized attention. This setup is highly valued, as guests like Goh Kang Wee mention how comfortable and entertained they felt thanks to friendly guides Robin and his team who kept the atmosphere lively with jokes and stories.

The Scenic Stops: Once at the chosen location, you’ll settle into a cozy scene: a crackling campfire, hot drinks, and snacks like cookies or warm juice. Many reviews highlight the thoughtfulness of these touches—keeping guests warm and comfortable while waiting for the aurora to appear. Guests have shared how the warmth of the fire and the hot drinks make hours outside in cold temperatures surprisingly enjoyable.

Photography & Memories: One of the tour’s main highlights is the professional photography service. Guides like Iris and Cristina not only look for the best spot but also take photos and videos of you against the mesmerizing lights. Several reviewers mentioned how the photos turned out stunning, with guides often going out of their way to ensure everyone’s camera settings were right and that they captured the moment beautifully. This focus on high-quality images makes the experience even more memorable.

Aurora Viewing & Atmosphere: When the lights finally appear—sometimes after hours of patience—you’ll get to see the luminous green dance across the night sky. Many guests describe it as “magical,” “breathtaking,” and “unforgettable,” with some even witnessing multiple displays. The guides’ explanations about the science behind the auroras add an educational aspect, making the experience both beautiful and enlightening.

Return & Reflection: After several hours outside and lots of photo opportunities, the guides will bring you back to Kiruna, often taking care to ensure everyone is satisfied with their experience. Many reviews express how grateful guests felt after witnessing such natural beauty, despite the unpredictability of the weather.

Transportation & Group Size — Why It Matters

The pickup and drop-off service included in the price adds a lot of convenience, especially in the Arctic cold. The tour recommends waiting outside your hotel at the designated time—guides like Robin and Dimitri emphasize punctuality for smooth pickups. Notably, pick-up is unavailable at certain locations such as Airbnb or some lodges, so plan accordingly.

Small group size (limited to 8 people) means you get more tailored guidance and a more social experience. Guests often mention how this fosters a friendly atmosphere, and guides like Dimitri and Marta are praised for their warmth and professionalism. Smaller groups also mean less noise and a more intimate setting, which can make the aurora viewing feel even more special.

What’s Included & What’s Not

For $209, you get a lot of value: hotel pickup and drop-off, hot drinks and snacks, snowsuits, and most importantly, the photos and videos taken by the guide. Guests consistently mention the quality and effort put into capturing those once-in-a-lifetime shots.

Extra food and drinks are not included, so it’s wise to bring your own snacks if you want something specific. That said, the hot drinks provided are often enough to keep you warm and satisfied during the wait.

The Cost & Value — Is It Worth It?

At $209 per person, this tour offers excellent value when you consider the included photos, expert guidance, hot drinks, and the memorable experience of hunting the Northern Lights. Many guests have noted that guides like Onur, Cristina, and Robin go above and beyond, actively seeking clear skies and making sure everyone sees the aurora, even on challenging weather nights.

Guests have expressed that the photos alone are worth the price—many have left with professional-quality images of themselves under the shimmering auroras. Plus, the small-group setup enhances the experience, making it more personal and enjoyable.

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Authentic Moments & Special Tips

Several reviews emphasize the genuine effort guides put into making the night special. For instance, on a foggy night, Robin kept driving to find a clearing, which ultimately paid off, giving guests their best aurora experience despite less-than-ideal conditions. Others appreciate the detailed explanations about how the auroras work, adding an educational layer to the adventure.

Guests also loved the little touches—warm cookies, cozy fire, and the camaraderie among small groups. For those worried about comfort, the provided snowsuits and the campfire help make the outdoor chill tolerable for hours.

The Sum Up — Is This Tour Right for You?

This Northern Lights Tour in Kiruna is a fantastic choice for travelers who want more than just to see the aurora—they want to photograph it, learn about it, and enjoy a warm, authentic Arctic experience. The guides’ dedication to finding clear skies and capturing great photos makes it stand out, especially considering the unpredictable nature of northern weather.

It’s best suited for those who appreciate small groups, are comfortable spending hours outdoors in winter conditions, and value professional photography that results in lasting memories. If you’re hoping to maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora and love the idea of having stunning pictures to take home, this tour offers impressive value for the price.

While there’s no absolute guarantee of seeing the Northern Lights, the guides’ perseverance and local knowledge give you a solid shot—and many guests leave with unforgettable stories and images in hand.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own warm clothing?
The tour provides snowsuits, but wearing layered, warm clothes, including hiking shoes, is recommended to stay comfortable during the outdoor hours.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 5 hours, with starting times varying based on availability.

Is there a minimum age for this tour?
Yes, it’s not suitable for children under 10 years or pregnant women.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
While guides do their best to find clear skies, seeing the aurora isn’t guaranteed due to weather. However, they actively chase the best conditions possible.

Are photos included?
Yes, professional photos and videos taken by the guide are included, giving you high-quality memories of your night.

What is the group size?
Limited to 8 participants for a more personal experience.

Is pickup available at my accommodation?
Pickup and drop-off are included but are not available at some locations such as Airbnb, certain lodges, or camps. Make sure you’re outside your hotel at the designated time.

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

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and your camera. The provided snowsuits are usually enough for outerwear.

Is this tour guided in English?
Yes, the tour is led by an English-speaking guide who provides explanations and assistance throughout.

In summary, this tour offers a well-rounded, heartfelt Arctic adventure that combines chasing the elusive Northern Lights with expert guidance and memorable photography. Perfect for adventurers seeking a genuine, small-group experience, and those who want to return home with incredible images and stories of their time in Sweden’s Arctic skies.

You can check if your dates are available here: