Björkliden/Abisko: Night Sky Snowmobile Tour

If you’re dreaming of witnessing the Northern Lights while feeling the rush of snowmobiling through snowy landscapes, this tour from Abisko and Björkliden could be a highlight of your Arctic adventure. While we haven’t personally taken this ride, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest this experience combines striking natural beauty with the excitement of winter sports.

What really shines about this tour are the expert guides, who not only ensure safety but also enrich your experience with stories about the aurora. We also appreciate the thoughtful touches like hot drinks and snacks in a mountain setting, which make the cold part of the night more inviting. One potential downside? The tour duration and group size mean it’s a quick snapshot of the polar night rather than a long, leisurely adventure. This activity fits best for travelers eager for an authentic, active experience with a good dose of Northern Lights magic.

If you’re comfortable driving a snowmobile, want insider tips from knowledgeable guides, and are looking for a memorable Arctic night, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for those who value the thrill of riding, the chance to learn about the aurora, and the beauty of Sweden’s winter wilderness.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Snowmobiling in the Swedish mountains combined with aurora viewing.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable and provide valuable insights about the Northern Lights.
• Inclusive Gear: All necessary clothing and safety gear are provided.
• Hot Drinks and Snacks: Enjoy local treats around a fire during your mountain stop.
• Photo Opportunities: Plenty of chances to capture the Northern Lights and mountain scenery.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Snowmobile Night Tour

This tour offers a well-structured evening adventure that begins with a pickup from multiple locations in Abisko and Björkliden. From the start, you’ll notice the focus on safety and comfort—gear like helmets, gloves, and warm clothing are included, so you’re ready for the cold. With just about 2.5 hours on the clock, this isn’t a full night’s outing but enough to boost your chances of seeing the aurora and enjoy the Arctic landscape.

Driving a snowmobile is at the core of this experience, with two people sharing each machine. The route takes you up a mountain, where the conditions are ideal for viewing the polar night’s phenomena. The ride itself is described as fun and exciting, with many reviewers praising the guides for their friendly demeanor and wealth of local knowledge.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Pickup and Transport: The tour starts with a pickup from six different locations—hotels, guesthouses, and the tourist station—making it easy to join from accommodations in the area. The drive to Björkliden or Abisko takes about 15 minutes, giving you a brief warm-up before the adventure begins.

Snowmobile Ride: Once on the snowmobiles, you’ll follow your guide on a two-hour ride through the snowy mountain terrain. This part is where the thrill kicks in. Reviewers like Sören noted that the mountains offer a “nice and dark area with great aurora displays,” highlighting the importance of the remote location for aurora visibility.

Rest and Refreshments: Midway through, the group stops at a sheltered spot, where you get to park the snowmobiles to stay protected from the wind. Here, you’ll enjoy hot drinks and cookies, and a chance to marvel at the night sky. One reviewer called this break “magical,” emphasizing how memorable the moment is.

Aurora Watching Tips: Your guide will share insights about the Northern Lights, helping you understand what causes the aurora and when the best viewing times are. After the ride, if the sky is clear, you’re encouraged to continue aurora hunting on your own, armed with tips from your guide.

The Mountain Stop and Night Sky

The mountain setting is a key part of this tour. Parked snowmobiles in a sheltered spot serve as the perfect vantage point for watching the sky. The guides’ stories about the aurora add a layer of understanding and appreciation. Several reviews mention how the “great guide” makes a difference, providing not only safety instructions but also intriguing tales about the Northern Lights.

Photographers will love the opportunity to capture the vivid display of the aurora with mountain silhouettes in the background. Remember, the best viewing depends heavily on weather and solar activity, so patience and flexibility are part of the experience.

Pricing, Value, and Additional Costs

At $198 per person, this tour is a solid value considering the included gear, guide expertise, transportation, and the experience itself. When you factor in the cost of gear rentals elsewhere or the expense of a private tour upgrade (which is available on-site for a fee), this package remains quite competitive.

The inclusion of warm clothes, boots, gloves, balaclava, and helmets means you won’t have to pack bulky winter gear—everything is ready for you. Plus, a hot drink and snacks around a fire make the chilly night more welcoming.

For those who want a more private experience, upgrading to a private snowmobile is possible, though that adds to the cost. Still, the shared snowmobile arrangement keeps the tour more affordable while maintaining a cozy group atmosphere.

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The Review Highlights

Many travelers appreciate the well-organized nature and the friendly, knowledgeable guides. Ayan, for instance, praised the gear provided, noting that the “hand warmers built into the snowmobiles” and the “midway break with lingonberry juice and cookies” were memorable highlights.

Sören called it “one of my favorite activities”, emphasizing how the dark mountain environment provided excellent chances to see the Aurora. On the other hand, one traveler, Irene, expressed frustration over a missed opportunity due to a delayed flight, which highlights the importance of timing and travel logistics.

Why This Tour Works Well

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking an active, immersive Arctic adventure. The combination of snowmobiling and aurora viewing offers a unique way to connect with the landscape. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of adrenaline, appreciate the beauty of winter night skies, and want insights from guides who know the region well.

However, it’s not suitable for young children under five, pregnant women, or people with heart problems due to the physical and safety requirements of driving a snowmobile. The 2.5-hour duration is quick but sufficient for a memorable Arctic night.

Final Thoughts

This snowmobile tour from Abisko and Björkliden provides a well-rounded Arctic experience: thrill-seeking on snowmobiles, expert guidance, and the chance to see the Northern Lights in an unspoiled mountain setting. Its focus on safety, comfort, and authentic storytelling makes it a strong choice for travelers eager to explore the polar night actively.

The inclusion of warm gear and snacks adds to the value, while the small group size ensures a personal touch. If you’re craving an adventure that combines scenery, culture, and the magic of the aurora, this tour deserves consideration. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want a quick, efficient way to experience the Arctic’s most breathtaking natural display.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a certified guide, shared snowmobile for two people, pickup and drop-off, warm clothes, boots, gloves, balaclava, helmet, and snacks.

Can I upgrade to a private snowmobile?
Yes, you can usually upgrade on-site for an additional fee. This allows for a more private experience if preferred.

What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license, warm clothing, and water. All other gear is provided.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children aged 5-15 can participate but only one child per adult. It’s not suitable for children under 5.

Is the tour active or relaxing?
It’s active, involving snowmobile driving, but also includes relaxing moments around a fire with hot drinks.

When does the tour run?
Departures are from December to March; check the availability calendar for specific dates and times.

What if my flight is delayed?
Delays may affect your ability to join the tour. It’s best to coordinate your travel plans carefully to avoid missing out.

Are there any physical requirements?
Driving a snowmobile requires a valid driver’s license. The activity is not recommended for pregnant women or those with heart problems.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including transportation, riding, and breaks.

In the end, whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a curious traveler eager to see the Northern Lights in a dynamic setting, this snowmobile tour offers a memorable slice of Arctic life. Expect stunning mountain vistas, expert guidance, and the chance to witness one of nature’s most incredible displays.

You can check availability for your dates here: