Northern Lights Tour from Kiruna to Abisko with Dinner

My review of the Northern Lights Tour from Kiruna to Abisko with Dinner offers a clear picture of what this well-loved experience involves. Priced at about $278.79 per person, this tour is designed for those eager to chase the elusive Aurora Borealis in one of the planet’s top spots—Abisko National Park. Led by seasoned guides from Lights of Vikings, the tour combines comfort, local storytelling, and expert Aurora hunting in a small-group setting, typically booked about 45 days in advance.

What I particularly admire about this tour is the focus on personalized experience and expert guidance. With a maximum of 12 travelers, you’re not just another face in the crowd, but part of an intimate group where guides like Dimitri or Omor do everything to maximize your chances of seeing the lights. The inclusion of professional photography ensures that guests leave with high-quality images of their magical night. Plus, the cooked dinner at Abisko Mountain Lodge offers a taste of Swedish Lapland, adding a delightful cultural layer to the adventure.

One consideration worth noting is the unpredictable nature of the Northern Lights themselves. As one reviewer pointed out, the weather can be challenging—cloud cover or cold conditions might limit your options. The guides do their best, driving wherever they see fit to find clear skies or even crossing borders into Norway to improve the odds. Still, if you’re wondering why your night isn’t full of dancing auroras, remember that patience and good luck play big roles in Aurora chasing.

Key Points

• Expert Guides Make a Difference: Guides like Dimitri and Omor bring years of experience, ensuring you get the best chance to see the Northern Lights, even in tricky weather.
• Small-Group Benefits: With only 12 travelers, the tour is more personal, allowing the guides to tailor the experience and answer your questions.
• Comprehensive Comforts: Heated buses, cozy winter overalls, campfires, and warm drinks mean you’ll stay warm and comfortable during those long waiting periods.
• Cultural and Scientific Insights: Guides share stories about Lapland, the Sami people, and the science behind the Aurora, enriching your understanding of this natural phenomenon.
• Photographic Magic: A professional photographer with night-optimized equipment captures stunning images of you and the sky, which are included for free—a real bonus for memories.
• Flexible Location Chasing: Weather conditions dictate the drive, sometimes even crossing into Norway, to find clear skies, which enhances your chances of a good Aurora sighting.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Pickup: The tour begins at 5:00 PM in Kiruna. The pickup process is smooth and hassle-free, with most hotel pickups included. This is a huge advantage; no need to worry about arranging transport or navigating unfamiliar roads at night.

The Journey to Abisko: Once aboard a heated bus, the drive itself is quite comfortable. The scenery whips by—snowy forests, distant mountains—and sets the perfect mood for Aurora hunting. Reviews mention this drive as “magical,” and I agree—there’s something about the Arctic night landscape that amplifies the anticipation.

Dinner in Abisko: Upon arrival, guests enjoy a delicious dinner at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which many reviews praise. The meal features traditional Swedish Lapland delicacies, adding a tasty cultural dimension to your night. The atmosphere here is warm and welcoming, a good way to settle in before heading out into the cold again.

Sky Watching in Abisko National Park: The core of the tour occurs at night in the park. Guides like Omor or Dimitri continuously monitor the weather, making real-time decisions on where to go—sometimes driving several times to find the clearest sky. The ability to adapt is crucial because Aurora displays depend heavily on sky clarity. Some guests mention that guides work tirelessly, changing locations until the auroras show up, which they often do, thanks to their local knowledge.

The Viewing Experience: Once at the chosen spot, the guides build a campfire, offering warmth and comfort. Traditional Swedish cookies, chocolates, and hot drinks keep everyone cozy. The real highlight is waiting for those dancing lights. Several reviews note how the guides take photos with professional gear, capturing the vivid colors and movement of the Aurora—these photos are given to travelers afterward, allowing you to relive your night.

Atmosphere and Authenticity: Many travelers mention that the guides are enthusiastic, friendly, and knowledgeable. A standout quote was that the team “does everything to make this trip as smooth and comfortable as possible,” which I believe adds tremendous value. The combination of the campfire, local stories, and the awe-inspiring sky makes for a memorable night.

Weather and Challenges: As one reviewer said, the weather can be challenging—snow, clouds, and cold temperatures. The guide’s ability to navigate these hurdles is key. Despite this, many guests still manage to see spectacular Aurora displays, with some describing their experience as “breathtaking” or “dreamlike,” even if the lights were faint.

Photography and Memories: The professional camera work deserves special mention. For many, these high-resolution photos are worth the tour alone, particularly because Aurora photography can be tricky without proper equipment. Guides are eager to help guests get the best shots, which is a thoughtful touch.

Duration and Value: The tour lasts about 6 to 8 hours, balancing ample time for dinner, waiting, and chasing the lights. Considering the included dinner, hot drinks, professional photography, and chauffeur-driven transport, many reviewers feel it offers good value—especially for a bucket-list experience.

Who It’s Perfect For

This tour is ideal if you’re someone keen on seeing the Aurora with expert guidance and don’t want to leave it to chance. The small-group format suits travelers who appreciate intimacy, personalized attention, and insider knowledge. If you love local stories, cultural insights, and photographs of your trip, the included professional pictures are a cherry on top.

It also works well for those who value comfort in cold conditions. The heated bus, warm overalls, campfire, and hot drinks keep things manageable, even in sub-zero temperatures. However, keep in mind that this tour isn’t geared toward families with very young children or those with limited mobility, as it involves some patience outdoors and moderate physical activity.

Lastly, those who understand that chasing the Northern Lights is highly dependent on weather might find this experience more rewarding if they’re adaptable and optimistic. The guides do their best, but nature can be unpredictable.

Final Thoughts

The Northern Lights Tour from Kiruna to Abisko combines seasoned guides, cultural storytelling, cozy amenities, and expert Aurora chasing to create a memorable Arctic experience. You’ll love the chance to see some of the best natural light shows on earth, especially with the guidance of professionals who know how to read the sky and drive you to the best spots. The included dinner adds a local flavor, making the journey not just about the lights but about embracing the spirit of Lapland.

This experience capitalizes on the guides’ knowledge and flexibility to give you a fair shot at witnessing the auroras, which is what separates it from trying your luck on your own. The photography package really makes this trip stand out; you’ll come away with stunning images to remember your Arctic adventure.

While the weather can occasionally be a hurdle—clouds, snow, or simply a faint display—many guests report still having a fantastic time. The combination of scenic views, warm camaraderie, and expert guidance creates an experience worth every kronor, especially if the Aurora puts on a show.

If you’re seeking a well-organized, authentic, and comfortable way to chase the Northern Lights in Sweden, this tour is a solid choice. Perfect for travelers who value storytelling, local culture, and memorable photographs, it delivers on all fronts—barring the unpredictability of Mother Nature.

FAQ

Is pickup included?
Yes, most hotel pickups are included in the tour, making your evening hassle-free.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly and in layers. The tour provides winter overalls, but bringing extra thermal layers and warm boots is advisable for outdoor waiting.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 6 to 8 hours, covering dinner and several Aurora viewing stops.

Can I expect to see the Northern Lights?
While guides do everything possible to find clear skies, seeing the Aurora depends on weather conditions. Many guests have been very lucky, but it’s not guaranteed.

Are the photos included?
Yes. A professional photographer captures high-resolution images of you and the Aurora, which are provided for free after the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for travelers 15 years and older due to the outdoor nature and cold conditions.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 12 people, allowing for a more personal experience and attentive guiding.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour may be canceled and rescheduled or fully refunded if weather conditions are too unfavorable to see the Northern Lights.

Do guides tell stories or just focus on the lights?
Guides share stories about Lapland, the Sami people, and the science behind the Aurora, enriching the experience beyond just watching the sky.

The Northern Lights Tour from Kiruna to Abisko with Dinner offers a reliable, comfortable, and engaging way to experience one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena—especially if you’re after expert guidance and memorable photos.