Kiruna Northern Lights Tour with Photographer

Our review of the Kiruna Northern Lights Tour with Photographer offers a glimpse into an experience that’s often described as unforgettable. Priced at around $203 per person, this tour is operated by Lights of Vikings and typically booked about 40 days in advance. It lasts roughly 4 to 6 hours and includes hotel pickup, making it a convenient way to chase the Aurora Borealis amid Sweden’s Arctic wilderness. What makes this tour stand out is its focus on high success rates for clear skies—a crucial factor in Northern Lights viewing—and the opportunity to get professional-quality photos of this natural wonder.

What I love about this experience is the expertise of their guides, like Robin and Dimitri, who are praised for their knowledge and dedication—some reviews even call Dimitri a “rock star.” Their ability to find optimal viewing spots, often driving long distances if needed, ensures you get the best chance to see the Lights dance. Plus, the personalized photo service is a real bonus—after the tour, you receive high-quality pictures within three days, helping you preserve the memory. The cozy campfire and hot drinks, sometimes lingonberry tea or chocolates, really enhance the comfort factor, especially on that chilly Arctic night.

One potential consideration is the weather dependency of this tour. The Aurora is notoriously elusive if the skies are cloudy or if weather conditions are uncooperative. While the guides do their best with their local knowledge, there’s an element of luck involved in catching these spectacular displays. Also, if you’re traveling with kids younger than 15, this might not be the best fit, given the physical requirements and late-night timing. Still, for those who love the adventure of a proper outdoor chase, this tour promises a memorable night under the Arctic sky.

Key Points

• Expert guides maximize your chances of Aurora sightings thanks to their deep local knowledge and willingness to drive long distances.
• High success rate for clear skies makes this tour particularly trustworthy compared to many others, essential for viewing the Lights.
• Professional photography included gives travelers a hassle-free way to get stunning images without lugging your own equipment.
• Comfortable experience with warm jumpsuits, campfires, and hot drinks turns a cold night into an enjoyable outdoor adventure.
• Small group sizes (max 7 travelers) ensure a more intimate and personalized experience.
• Weather-dependent activity, so flexibility with scheduled nights helps optimize your chances.

In-Depth Look: What to Expect from the Kiruna Northern Lights Tour

Starting in Kiruna – Your Gateway to the Arctic Night

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel, usually around 7:00 pm. This convenience means you won’t have to fuss with logistics—just be ready at your hotel lobby. Once onboard, the adventure truly starts. The guides, like Robin, are well-versed in local lore and scientific explanations about the Aurora, which adds a layer of understanding to this celestial spectacle. From the outset, their enthusiasm and professionalism shine through, creating an environment of anticipation and comfort.

The Driving Distance and Targeted Locations

The key to this tour’s success is driving to the best vantage points, which could be Abisko, Kiruna’s boreal forests, or other hidden spots. The guides are willing to go long distances if needed, driven by their confidence in finding clear skies—a rare commodity in Arctic winter. This isn’t a cookie-cutter experience; it’s a tailored pursuit based on real-time weather assessments. As one reviewer put it, “Robin, our tour guide, was very kind, caring and helpful. He described everything about the Aurora and made a warm cabin ready close to our spot.”

The Northern Lights Show

Once a good spot is identified, the thrill begins. If the sky clears, you’ll witness the Aurora Borealis—sometimes just delicate green ribbons, other times vibrant reds and purples. The Guides will help you set up your camera or smartphone, aiming to get those Instagram-worthy shots. Many reviewers rave about the professional photography service, which provides high-quality images sent within three days. This feature alone elevates the experience, especially for those who want to capture the moment without fussing with settings.

Cozy Comforts and Cultural Insights

During the wait under the starry sky, you’ll be served hot drinks, often lingonberry tea or chocolates, and a campfire will keep the chill at bay. The atmosphere—warm clothes, crackling fire, shared stories—creates a convivial Arctic mood. Guides also share tales of the Sami people and the science behind the Lights, adding a cultural and educational layer to the adventure. As one guest said, “We got a warm suit, they did a campfire and we got tea and chocolates. The Northern lights that night were awesome!”

End of the Night and Return

After the spectacle, the guides will drive you back to Kiruna, typically around midnight or later, depending on the aurora activity. The small group size ensures everyone gets personal attention, and if the sky doesn’t cooperate one night, the company often reschedules, reflecting their commitment to a quality experience.

The Value of this Tour

At around $202.75, this tour offers a high-value experience, especially considering the included professional photo package, transportation, warm gear, and personalized guiding. Compared to other Aurora excursions that might leave you with only fleeting memories or poorly lit phone pictures, this one ensures you’ll have professional-quality photographs and a comfortable, memorable night.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager for a genuine Arctic adventure. The guides’ dedication and the small group size mean you’ll feel well cared for, and the effort to find clear skies increases your odds of witnessing the Lights. However, if your travel dates are inflexible or weather conditions turn against you, the experience might not meet your expectations. Still, most reviews highlight the guides’ persistence and genuine enthusiasm.

FAQs

How early should I book this tour?
It’s recommended to book about 40 days in advance since the tour is popular and fills up quickly, especially in peak Aurora season.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers transportation (pickup and drop-off), snacks, coffee or tea, warm jumpsuits, campfire setup, and professional photography. Dinner isn’t included, so plan to eat beforehand.

How long does the tour last?
The experience generally lasts 4 to 6 hours, starting around 7:00 pm. It includes travel to optimal viewing locations and time spent waiting for the Lights to appear.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for guests younger than 15, mainly due to the late hours and physical demands of staying out in cold weather.

What if the weather isn’t clear?
The guides are skilled at assessing weather conditions and will choose the best night for viewing. If conditions aren’t suitable, you’re often offered a different date or a full refund.

How good are the photos?
Very good—guides help with camera settings, and the professional images sent afterward are a big hit with most travelers. Many reviewed their photos as “beautiful” and “unforgettable.”

To sum it up, the Kiruna Northern Lights Tour with Photographer balances expert guidance, authentic Arctic adventure, and excellent photo options. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value a small-group, personalized experience with a high chance of seeing the Aurora. The effort guides put into finding clear skies and creating a warm, friendly atmosphere makes it stand out among Northern Lights tours. While weather remains the wild card in this kind of adventure, the professionalism and passion of the Lights of Vikings team make this tour one of the most rewarding ways to chase the Lights in Sweden’s far north.