Hunt for the Northern lights in Kiruna – Abisko

Introduction: A Night Under the Arctic Sky

If you’re dreaming of witnessing the Aurora Borealis, a tour like this one in Kiruna offers a genuine chance to catch nature’s most mesmerizing light show. Offered by Cityphototour, the “Hunt for the Northern Lights in Kiruna – Abisko” is a carefully curated experience that promises not just the possibility of seeing the aurora but also enjoying the quiet beauty of Swedish Lapland.

What I particularly like about this experience is its emphasis on small-group intimacy—restricted to just seven travelers, it ensures you won’t be lost in the crowd while hunting the lights. Plus, the inclusion of professional guides who use weather and light forecasts adds a layer of intelligence behind each stop, increasing your chances of a sighting. The added bonus of a free photography guide is perfect for those eager to capture the moment, especially since the guides suggest bringing your own tripod.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon—their appearance isn’t guaranteed. The tour does its best to maximize your chances, but patience and luck still play their part. Also, while the tour includes warm clothing if you meet at the starting point, bringing your own camera gear like a tripod will be vital if you want those stunning photos.

Key points / takeaways from this experience:

• Small-group format for a more personal, relaxed experience
• Expert guides leverage weather forecasts to pick the best viewing spots
• Abisko National Park and Tornetrask as prime locations for aurora viewing
• Tour duration is about 4 hours, making it manageable even if you’re not a night owl
• Transport is included, easing logistics in cold Arctic conditions
• Photography tips help you make the most of capturing the lights

Why This Northern Lights Tour Is Worth Considering

In a place like Kiruna, where the skies are dark and the wilderness vast, a guided tour can significantly improve your chances of seeing the aurora. This experience is designed for those who don’t want to leave their success to chance, combining local expertise with strategic stops in ideal spots. I love the way the guides use both weather and light forecasts—this isn’t just wandering outside hoping for a miracle; it’s a calculated, thoughtful approach.

The tour’s intimate group size makes it feel more like a shared adventure with friends rather than a crowded tourist trap. Plus, the stops at Abisko National Park and Tornetrask aren’t just random; these locations are well-known for their clear skies and minimal light pollution, which are key for Aurora viewing.

Another top feature is the guidance on photography. As Brian from one review states, “We booked this tour mainly to see the Northern Lights and learn about Lapland’s culture. The guide, Erik, made it a lot easier to understand how to capture the moment,” which shows how valuable expert tips can be. If you’ve got a decent camera and a tripod, you’ll be set to get some memorable shots.

A word of caution: The cost is about $251 per person, which might seem steep, but when you consider the included transportation, expert guidance, and prime locations, it offers a solid value—especially for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Still, you should be prepared for the possibility of no lights on some nights, as this natural phenomenon is unpredictable.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The tour kicks off at 8:00 pm sharp, meeting at Torggatan 4 in Kiruna. From there, your adventure begins with a brief introduction before the guided hunt begins for the Northern Lights. This isn’t just a casual walk; it’s a carefully planned excursion that maximizes your chances of viewing.

The first stop is Abisko National Park, a location renowned for its clear skies and minimal clouds. Here, you’ll spend about 20 minutes soaking in the Arctic wilderness. The park is free to access, but it’s the environment that makes it special—wide-open views, crisp air, and the chance to stand beneath the shimmering sky.

Next, the tour moves on to Tornetrask, a 30-minute stop in a landscape famous for its natural beauty and dark skies. The tour’s flexible approach means your guides will constantly monitor weather and aurora forecasts, so these stops are subject to change based on conditions. The goal is always to find the best spot for a potential display of green, purple, or even red lights dancing overhead.

The transportation across these locations is included, which means you don’t need to worry about driving in the cold or navigating remote roads. The vehicle is warm, and the guides will handle logistics, allowing you to focus on the experience.

Throughout the tour, expect to be provided with warm clothing—shoes, gloves, hats, and overalls—if you meet at the starting point, ensuring comfort despite the cold. The guides are attentive, prioritizing your safety and making the experience enjoyable even in chilly conditions.

The Experience of Spotting the Lights: Authentic and Memorable

While the Northern Lights are fickle, many travelers report high satisfaction thanks to the skill of the guides. As one reviewer praised, “Erik was amazing—knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive to everyone’s needs.” This personal touch can make a huge difference, especially if the lights put on a show.

The photography guidance is practical, explaining how to adjust your camera settings to capture the best images. If you bring your own tripod, you’ll thank yourself later. The guides even hand out a free guide on how to shoot the lights, which is a helpful bonus.

Most importantly, the tour fosters a sense of shared adventure. Even if the lights don’t appear in full force, the experience of being in the Arctic darkness, with the possibility hovering overhead, is memorable in itself. The location and timing are carefully planned to optimize your chances, but part of the magic is also accepting that nature is unpredictable.

Who Should Book This Experience?

This tour is ideal for travelers who:

• Want a small, intimate group experience rather than a large, crowded bus
• Appreciate expert guidance that uses weather forecasts to maximize viewing potential
• Are interested in photography tips and capturing the aurora
• Don’t mind waiting outside in cold weather for the chance to see a natural phenomenon
• Seek a well-organized, reliable tour with transportation included
• Are visiting Kiruna or Abisko for a short time but want to make their night sky experience count

If you’re someone who values comfort (warm clothing is included) and expert tips, this tour offers a thoughtful, well-structured way to chase the Northern Lights.

The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

In terms of value, paying around $250 for a 4-hour guided adventure in prime Northern Lights territory seems reasonable. The small-group size makes it feel personal, and the strategic stops increase your chances of witnessing this fleeting spectacle. Guides like Erik and others bring knowledge and enthusiasm, making the experience both educational and fun.

However, remember that nature’s show isn’t guaranteed. If seeing the aurora is your top priority, this tour offers a solid chance, but patience and a bit of luck are still needed. It’s best suited for travelers who want the safety net of expert guidance and are okay with some uncertainty.

Overall, if your goal is to turn a winter trip into a memorable Arctic adventure with the best shot at seeing the Northern Lights, this tour is a dependable choice.

FAQ About the Northern Lights Tour in Kiruna

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed for small groups. If you’re comfortable standing outside in cold weather, you’ll enjoy the experience.

What should I bring with me?
While warm clothing is provided if you meet at the starting point, bringing your own camera and tripod is recommended for capturing the lights. A tripod helps steady your camera for those long exposures.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, starting at 8:00 pm and ending back at the meeting point. It’s a manageable evening activity, especially if you’re not a night owl.

What locations are visited during the tour?
Stops include Abisko National Park and Tornetrask. Both locations are chosen for their excellent viewing conditions—wide-open skies and minimal light pollution.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transport across the different sites is part of the package, making logistics simple and comfortable in the Arctic cold.

Can I cancel if the weather isn’t good?
This experience is non-refundable. The guides use forecasts to plan the best spots, but the appearance of the Northern Lights depends on weather and solar activity.

**What happens if I don’t see the lights?****
While the guides do everything they can to maximize your chances, catching the aurora isn’t guaranteed. Many travelers find the experience worthwhile regardless, thanks to the scenery and expert guidance.

In essence, this tour offers a smart, well-organized way to increase your odds of witnessing the Northern Lights while enjoying the Arctic landscape and expert advice. It’s a good pick for those who prefer a small group, appreciate photography tips, and want a reliable, memorable Arctic night.