Travelers chasing the aurora borealis will find this tour offers a well-rounded mix of expert guidance, comfort, and authentic Arctic adventure. Led by a seasoned photographer with features in National Geographic, BBC, and even the European Space Agency, this experience promises much more than just a chance to view the northern lights — it’s about capturing them in stunning images while enjoying local culture.
What makes this tour stand out? We love the personalized guidance from a true professional, the chance to venture far from light pollution in a cozy 4×4, and the thoughtful inclusion of dinner and photo delivery. One thing to consider, however, is that the overall experience hinges on good weather; a cloudy night might mean facing disappointment or rescheduling. Still, if you’re a photography enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone eager to see the northern lights in comfort and style, this tour is likely to hit the mark.
Good To Know
- Expert photography guidance from a professional featured in top publications
- Remote locations up to 300 km from Abisko, away from light pollution
- Dinner included, offering a taste of local Swedish cuisine
- Photos of the experience sent afterward, perfect for memories or sharing
- Small group sizes (max 8 travelers) ensure personalized attention
- Weather-dependent – clear skies are essential for the best viewing
An In-Depth Look at the Northern Lights Photo Expedition
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The Itinerary: From Dinner to Sky-High Photography
The journey begins at Abisko Mountain Lodge at 7:00 pm, where you’ll meet your guide and board a comfortable 4×4 van for the night. The tour’s carefully curated route takes you up to 300 km away from urban light pollution, to the best-known spots for catching the auroras. Traveling by vehicle across icy landscapes adds a layer of adventure, with a chance to see the stark beauty of the Swedish Arctic under starlit skies.
The included dinner marks a thoughtful touch, giving you a chance to enjoy a two-course meal at a local restaurant before heading out into the cold. This pause not only warms you up but also offers a taste of regional cuisine, setting the tone for a night of awe.
Once on the move, your guide — a seasoned photographer with a background in prestigious publications — will share valuable tips for capturing the Northern Lights, from camera settings to composition. This expert guidance is especially beneficial for those new to astrophotography, but even seasoned shutterbugs will appreciate his insights.
The Scenery and Location Choices
The remote spots selected by the guide are known only to locals, ensuring you get privileged access to unspoiled landscapes perfect for aurora viewing. Expect to see a vast, silent Arctic wilderness, with snow-dusted trees and icy lakes reflecting the night sky. As the guide explains meteorology and astronomy basics, you’ll learn to interpret the sky and improve your chances of capturing the dancing lights.
The Aurora Experience: What You Can Expect
While the aurora borealis is a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed, the tour’s focus on locations with high visibility potential greatly increases your odds. When the lights do appear, you’ll have the opportunity to photograph them under the guidance of a professional, ensuring you return home with stunning images.
Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guidance and stunning views as key highlights. One reviewer, Noemi_C, described the experience as “super,” noting that the location was perfect for photographing the aurora and appreciated the cozy Sami-style tent and fire for a warming tea break.
Photo Delivery and Memories
After the tour, your guide will send you all the photos he took that night, so you can relive your Arctic adventure and share the experience with friends and family. This added touch takes away the pressure of trying to photograph the auroras yourself and guarantees you’ll have professional-quality images to treasure.
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Small Group Dynamics and Customer Service
With a maximum of 8 travelers, the tour offers a personalized experience, avoiding the chaos of larger groups. This intimacy allows for better interaction with your guide and more tailored advice. The tour also includes pickup from Abisko Mountain Lodge, making it convenient and hassle-free.
Pricing and Value
At $112, this experience strikes a good balance considering all that’s included: transportation, dinner, expert guidance, and photos. You’re paying for more than just the chance to see the northern lights; you’re also investing in professional instruction and memorable keepsakes. For photography enthusiasts or those eager to learn how to better capture the night sky, this is a particularly good value.
Weather and Cancellation
The tour is weather-dependent, and poor conditions mean the experience may be canceled or rescheduled. The provider offers full refunds if canceled within 24 hours due to bad weather, providing peace of mind. Since the night sky’s clarity is crucial for aurora viewing, travelers should keep this in mind, especially during overcast or stormy periods.
Who Will Appreciate This Tour?
This expedition is ideal for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone interested in witnessing the northern lights in a comfortable setting. The inclusion of a local guide with a scientific background adds an educational element, making it suitable for curious travelers of all ages. If you dislike large groups or prefer a more intimate, guided experience, you’ll find this tour well-suited to your tastes.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?
For those eager to capture the northern lights with professional guidance, this tour offers excellent value. The combination of expert advice, remote locations, and a cozy dinner makes it feel like a well-rounded Arctic adventure. The small group size means you’ll receive personalized attention, which can be a game-changer when trying to photograph or just enjoy this natural marvel.
If your goal is to see the aurora in a relaxed, informative environment, and to leave with high-quality photos, this tour ticks all the boxes. The focus on authentic experiences, combined with the scenic beauty of Swedish Lapland, makes it a memorable choice.
However, keep in mind that the northern lights are a natural spectacle, so patience and luck are part of the game. Clear skies are key, and the tour’s flexibility in rescheduling or refund adds confidence to your booking.
Who Should Book This Experience?
Travelers looking for a guided, small-group adventure with a focus on photography will find this experience particularly appealing. It’s excellent for those who want more than just a quick glimpse — you’ll walk away with images, knowledge, and memories to cherish. If you appreciate local culture, comfort, and expert guidance, this tour offers a compelling way to experience the Arctic night.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a two-course dinner at a local restaurant, transportation in a 4×4 vehicle to remote viewing spots, expert guide and photographer, and all photos taken during the night.
What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:00 pm, with pickup arranged from Abisko Mountain Lodge.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, depending on aurora activity and weather conditions.
Can I cancel if the weather isn’t good?
Yes, cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance. Bad weather may result in rescheduling or a full refund.
Is this tour suitable for non-photographers?
Absolutely. While photography guidance is a feature, you can simply enjoy the scenery and the show in the company of knowledgeable guides.
What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, as temperatures are cold at night in Arctic Sweden, especially when waiting outside for the lights.
Is the group size small?
Yes, with a maximum of 8 travelers, you’ll get personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
This Northern Lights Photo Expedition from Abisko offers a thoughtfully curated experience combining scenic Arctic landscapes, expert guidance, and authentic local hospitality. It’s ideal for travelers who want to learn how to photograph the aurora, enjoy local Swedish cuisine, and explore remote northern spots in a comfortable, small-group setting.
Perfect for photography buffs, nature lovers, or anyone eager to witness the northern lights with the help of a seasoned guide, this tour balances adventure, education, and comfort. The inclusion of professional photos means you’ll return home with high-quality images that truly capture the magic of your night under the Arctic sky.
If you’re prepared for the possibility of weather variability and appreciate a more personalized, in-depth experience, this tour could very well be the highlight of your Swedish Lapland trip.
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