Kiruna: Northern Lights Tour with Photos

Introduction: A Northern Lights Experience with a Personal Touch

If you’re dreaming of catching the elusive Northern Lights, this Kiruna tour promises a blend of adventure, comfort, and expert photography. Priced at $209 per person for about five hours, the experience is designed to maximize your chances of witnessing the auroras while offering memorable photos captured by a professional photographer—something that sets this tour apart from more generic options.

Two things I really like about this experience are the dedicated guides—notably Onur, Marta, and Robin—who go out of their way to chase clear skies and make sure everyone gets that perfect shot. Plus, the small group size of up to 8 people means you’ll avoid the chaos and have a more personalized, relaxed outing.

One potential consideration is weather variability. As one reviewer pointed out, clouds can cloud your view, but the guides’ relentless efforts to find clear skies often pay off. Still, it’s good to keep expectations flexible—seeing the Northern Lights is never guaranteed, even with the best guides. This tour offers a well-balanced mix of professionalism and genuine warmth, making it a top pick for Aurora hunters.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about both the Aurora and photography.
• Photos and Videos: You’ll receive high-quality images taken by a professional photographer, creating lasting memories.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a cozy, less crowded experience.
• Chasing the Clear Skies: Guides actively drive around to find the best viewing spots, even navigating challenging weather.
• Warmth and Comfort: Snowsuits, hot drinks, snacks, and a campfire keep you cozy despite the cold.
• Flexible Cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—great if your plans are uncertain.

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Kiruna, which is smoothly arranged, though it’s important to wait outside in the designated area rather than inside the reception. Once you’re with your guide, expect a friendly introduction and a quick briefing about what the night will hold. The guides are well-aware that conditions can be unpredictable, so they keep a flexible approach—driving to different locations if clouds obscure your view.

The journey typically lasts around five hours, during which your guide will seek out spots with the clearest skies. Thanks to reviews, I know guides like Onur, Marta, and Robin are especially praised for their persistence and dedication. Robin, for instance, is appreciated for actively chasing clear skies and hopping in and out of the minibus multiple times—sometimes as many as ten—to increase the odds of a sighting.

Throughout the night, you’ll stop at a cozy camp where a campfire crackles, providing warmth and ambiance. Hot drinks and snacks are served, adding to the comfort. This is one of the highlights, as it blends the magic of the Aurora with a relaxed, social atmosphere.

The guide also takes the time to explain the science behind the lights, making the experience both beautiful and educational. Meanwhile, the photographer captures you against the dazzling sky, ensuring you’ll leave with stunning images that truly reflect the moment.

If luck is on your side, you’ll see bright green auroras dancing above, sometimes even multiple times during the evening. But don’t be disappointed if the sky stays cloudy—that’s part of the adventure. As one reviewer noted, the guides are so committed that they won’t stop trying, hopping from location to location until they find a break in the clouds.

Finally, after hours of watching, photographing, and warming by the fire, you’ll be dropped back at your hotel. Many reviews describe this as a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience—made even better by the professionalism and friendliness of the guides.

The Value of This Northern Lights Tour

At $209, this tour strikes a good balance between cost and experience. What you’re paying for is not just the chance to see the Northern Lights, but also for expert guidance, professional photos, and the cozy atmosphere. The inclusion of snowsuits and hot drinks adds value, especially considering how cold the nights can get—sometimes well below freezing.

Compared to larger, less personal tours, the small-group setting means more attention from guides and fewer crowds. This intimacy often results in better chances to get those perfect photos and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed or crowded.

Most reviews highlight the guides’ enthusiasm and efforts—some go as far as to say guides like Onur and Iris make the experience unforgettable. The dedicated effort to chase clear skies, even when the weather looks tricky, demonstrates the tour’s commitment to helping you see the auroras.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who value professional photography, a personalized experience, and the comfort of knowing guides will do their best to find the lights. It’s not aimed at children under 10 or pregnant women, but for anyone eager to witness this natural wonder with a good chance of great photos, it’s a solid choice.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a well-organized, small-group adventure with knowledgeable guides, this tour will likely meet your expectations. It’s ideal for folks who don’t mind the cold, appreciate a warm campfire, and want beautiful images to take home. The focus on photography makes it perfect for those wanting professional-quality photos without hiring a separate photographer.

Travelers who enjoy a mix of science and storytelling will appreciate guides like Onur explaining how the auroras form. If your main goal is to “see the lights” with minimal fuss and maximum support, this experience ticks those boxes.

However, if your priority is guaranteed sightings regardless of weather or you prefer a more budget-friendly, self-guided approach, you might want to consider other options.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation: The pickup service is included, but it’s essential to wait outside the designated area at your hotel—inside reception isn’t suitable. The vans are comfortable, with plenty of space for gear and warmth.

Duration and Timing: The tour lasts about 5 hours; check availability for the start times that suit your schedule. Nighttime is, of course, best for Aurora viewing, so plan accordingly.

Weather and Clothing: Bring warm clothing, hiking shoes, and comfortable layers. The tour provides snowsuits, but reviewers note that footwear like boots is recommended to stay warm and dry.

Photography Tips: Guides are known to help with camera settings and taking photos, so don’t shy away from asking questions or requesting specific shots.

Cost and Value: At $209, you’re paying for a combination of expert guidance, photos, and warmth—making it a good value considering the effort guides put into hunting for the lights and the quality of the experience.

The Final Word: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Kiruna Northern Lights tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and professional photography. It’s best suited for travelers who want a more intimate, well-guided experience with knowledgeable guides who chase the best viewing spots and photograph the moment. The small group and dedicated effort mean you’re more likely to get a personalized experience and memorable images.

If you’re willing to tolerate some weather unpredictability and appreciate guides’ persistence in chasing clear skies, this tour is a great choice. Plus, the warm campfire, hot drinks, and cozy snowsuits make the cold nights more enjoyable.

For those looking for a hassle-free, high-quality Aurora experience with lasting photos and a friendly, professional team, this tour hits the right notes. Just remember, patience is key—sometimes the Aurora shows up late, or the sky stays clouded. But with guides like Onur, you’ll definitely feel like your chances are maximized.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own warm clothing? You should wear warm layers, hiking shoes, and comfortable clothes. The tour provides snowsuits, but good footwear and thermal layers are recommended.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights? While guides do everything they can to find clear skies, there’s no guarantee. Weather plays a big role, but guides will keep trying and may take you to different locations.

How long is the tour? Expect about 5 hours from pick-up to drop-off, with the time split between traveling, waiting, and enjoying the lights.

Is the tour suitable for children? It’s not recommended for children under 10 or pregnant women, mainly due to the cold and late hours.

Are photos included? Yes, you will receive photos and videos taken by a professional photographer, so you’ll have tangible memories of this special night.

What is the group size? Small groups are limited to 8 people, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your schedule shifts.

This Kiruna Northern Lights tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience rooted in professionalism, warmth, and genuine enthusiasm for one of nature’s most incredible displays. It’s perfect for travelers eager for memorable photos, expert guidance, and the chance to witness the Aurora in a cozy, intimate setting.