Discovering the Northern Lights Arctic Train Guided Tour from Narvik
If you’re dreaming of a winter adventure in Norway, this Northern Lights Arctic Train Guided Tour offers a uniquely cozy and scenic way to chase the aurora. Departing from Narvik, you’ll travel along the historic Ofoten railway, away from city lights, with chances to spot the shimmering northern lights. The tour also includes stops at remote mountain stations, a warm campfire, and some engaging local history — a well-rounded way to experience Norway’s Arctic magic.
What I love most about this experience is the way it combines scenic train travel with warm, social moments around a campfire. The guides seem genuinely passionate about the region and its natural beauty, which makes the journey informative and engaging. Plus, the chance to explore Bjørnfjell and Katterat — two old mountain stations — adds a sense of adventure and discovery that’s often missing from more scripted excursions.
That said, one thing to keep in mind is the weather dependency — cloudy skies can mean a less spectacular aurora display. And although the price at $142 per person covers a lot, there’s no inclusion of thermal suits, so you’ll want to come prepared with warm clothes. If you’re expecting a guaranteed sighting of the northern lights, this tour might leave you a bit hopeful rather than certain, but the overall experience still offers plenty of value.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Scenic rail journey along the historic Ofoten railway, away from light pollution, provides remarkable views of the Arctic landscape.
- Knowledgeable guides, like Anajolie, enhance the experience with engaging commentary and helpful photography tips.
- Remote stops at Bjørnfjell and Katterat offer authentic glimpses into mountain life and opportunities for stunning photos.
- The campfire experience with hot drinks and pastries creates a cozy, memorable atmosphere despite the cold.
- The tour includes museum visits and a documentary about the northern lights, enriching your understanding of the phenomena.
- Flexible booking options allow you to reserve now and pay later, helping you plan with peace of mind.
Loving the local insights? Here are more guided experiences we recommend in Narvik
Entering the Arctic Journey: What to Expect
This tour is designed for travelers eager to experience Norway’s natural beauty with a touch of local history and culture. Starting at Narvik station, the journey kicks off with a one-hour train ride along the historic Ofoten railway, famous for its engineering and scenic value. The route leads us through snow-dusted landscapes, with cozy interior lighting on the train that offers decent views while minimizing glare — a detail appreciated by those trying to capture the sights on camera.
The first notable stop is Bjørnfjell, a border town in Sweden, where you’ll get about 15 minutes for photos. Many reviews mention how some prefer to move seats to get better views — a good tip if you’re keen on spotting the northern lights early. The guide, often praised for enthusiasm and helpfulness, will point out the best sightlines and share insights into the region’s geology and history.
Next, the train continues to Katterat station, situated at 373 meters above sea level. Here, you’ll step off into the Arctic night, gathering around a bonfire with a pastry and warm drinks served by your guide. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed — perfect for unwinding after the train’s journey. If luck is on your side, you’ll witness the aurora dancing overhead, as one reviewer shared, “deep snow, twinkling stars, and dancing aurora.” Even when the lights don’t appear, the guides keep the mood lively with storytelling and photography tips.
Following this, a guided tour of the old mountain village and a visit to the local museum at Katterat deepen your appreciation for the area’s culture and history. The return trip offers 45 minutes of scenic train travel back to Narvik, completing a roughly three-hour excursion packed with sights, stories, and warm camaraderie.
The Highlights of the Rail and Aurora Chase
Traveling along the Ofoten railway is a highlight in itself. It’s Norway’s northernmost railway, carved through rugged terrain, with views of snow-covered mountains and icy fjords that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a winter postcard. The train’s subtle interior lighting enhances visibility for photography without disrupting the natural dark skies needed for aurora viewing.
The stops at Bjørnfjell and Katterat stand out as authentic mountain locations, giving you a break from the train and a chance to stretch, breathe in the crisp air, and wonder if tonight’s sky will deliver a show. Many reviewers emphasize the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides — especially Anajolie — who make the experience engaging and informative. They also provide photo tips, which are invaluable if you want to capture the elusive northern lights or starry skies.
The campfire and snacks add a warm social element. Toasting marshmallows or simply sitting around a fire under the vast Arctic sky creates a memorable contrast to the cold outside. The hot drinks and pastries are thoughtful touches and often praised for their quality, making the entire experience feel more intimate and less like a hurried tour.
Price, Value, and Practical Considerations
At $142 per person, this tour offers a solid value for a three-hour experience combining scenic travel, cultural insights, and aurora hunting. The inclusion of roundtrip tickets, snacks, beverages, a guide, and museum visits adds to the overall package, especially given the remote nature of the stops and the effort to make the experience cozy and educational.
However, the absence of thermal suits means you should come prepared with warm clothing, thermal layers, hats, scarves, socks, and possibly a tripod for your camera. Many reviews mention the importance of dressing warmly — the Arctic evening can be very cold, especially if the sky stays cloudy or the aurora remains elusive.
The tour’s flexible booking policy — cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund — makes it easier to plan, especially if weather forecasts suggest poor skies. Keep in mind, this experience is not suitable for children under 3 or wheelchair users, due to the outdoor stops and uneven terrain.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate scenic train rides and cultural storytelling, and who are okay with the unpredictability of weather-dependent northern lights. If you enjoy cozy outdoor gatherings and want an authentic Arctic experience rather than a high-tech show, you’ll find plenty of value here.
It’s particularly great for photographers eager to capture the lights against rugged landscapes, as guides offer photo tips. It also caters well to those interested in local history and remote mountain life, thanks to the museum visits and stops at mountain stations.
If you are traveling with young children or have mobility issues, this might not be the right fit due to the outdoor stops and walking involved. But for couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager for a taste of the Arctic night, this tour offers a charming blend of adventure and comfort.
The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?
This Northern Lights Arctic Train Guided Tour from Narvik stands out as a well-rounded Arctic experience. It combines scenic train travel along a historic route with authentic mountain stops, cozy campfire moments, and a good dose of local history. While there’s no guarantee you’ll see the aurora, the overall atmosphere, guided insights, and stunning landscapes make it a worthwhile outing for anyone eager to experience Norway’s winter wilderness.
For travelers who value authenticity over predictability, and want a comfortable, socially engaging way to chase the northern lights, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy learning about the region, taking photos, and sharing a warm drink under a starlit sky.
If you’re prepared with warm clothing and are flexible about the sky’s display, this adventure offers a memorable Arctic night that you won’t forget anytime soon.
FAQ: Common Questions About This Tour
Is there a specific time of year for this tour?
The tour is designed for winter evenings when the northern lights are most visible, typically from late autumn to early spring. Check availability to see the current schedule.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 3 hours, including train travel, stops, and the campfire experience.
What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers roundtrip train fare, snacks, hot drinks, the campfire setup, a guide, a documentary about the lights, and visits to museum and mountain village.
Are thermal suits provided?
No, thermal suits are not included. You should dress warmly in layers, with hats, scarves, socks, and weather-appropriate clothing.
Can I see the northern lights on this tour?
While the tour provides excellent chances due to its location and timing, sightings depend on weather and solar activity. The guides do their best to maximize the viewing opportunities.
Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for children under 3 or wheelchair users, because of outdoor stops and walking on uneven terrain.
What should I bring?
Bring a camera, tripod, warm clothes, hats, scarves, socks, and possibly extra batteries for your camera — cold weather drains batteries quickly.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if weather looks unfavorable.
How crowded is this tour?
It depends on the time of year and demand, but the small-group atmosphere generally allows for a more intimate experience.
Is there a best time to book?
Peak winter months offer the best chance of seeing the northern lights, so booking early during high season ensures you don’t miss out.
This journey along Norway’s Arctic rail line is a rewarding way to combine scenic beauty with cultural charm, making it a memorable part of any winter trip to Narvik.