Kiruna: Abisko Northern Lights Tour with Dinner

Introduction: A Northern Lights Adventure in Abisko

Imagine an evening where you sit down to a delicious three-course dinner amid the icy splendor of Swedish Lapland, then step outside to marvel at the dancing Aurora Borealis. That’s exactly what the Kiruna: Abisko Northern Lights Tour with Dinner promises. While we haven’t personally braved the cold, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest this could be one of the most enchanting experiences you can have in Swedish Lapland during winter.

What we love about this tour is its perfect blend of comfort and authenticity. You get a cozy meal, insights into Sami culture, and a good shot at catching the Aurora — all in a small, intimate group. The opportunity to have your camera assisted by trained guides is a real bonus. However, it’s worth bringing a flexible attitude: Aurora sightings aren’t guaranteed, and weather can sometimes shift the plan. This tour suits travelers eager for a guided, cultural, and visual adventure in the Arctic, especially those who appreciate a touch of comfort with their Northern Lights chase.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic cultural experience with Sami guides and insights into local traditions
• Excellent value for the combination of dinner, expert guidance, and Aurora chasing
• Photographic support with tripods and professional advice to capture the moment
• Small group setting ensures personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere
• Flexible itinerary that adapts to weather conditions to maximize Aurora viewing chances
• Ideal for those who want a balanced mix of comfort, culture, and natural wonder

Exploring the Abisko Northern Lights Tour: A Deep Dive

The Journey to Abisko: A Scenic 1.5-Hour Drive

Starting from Kiruna, the tour begins with a comfortable bus ride to the famous Abisko National Park, about an hour and a half away. This area is renowned for its clear skies and minimal light pollution, making it one of the best spots in the world to see the Northern Lights. The scenery along the way is striking: snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and Nordic wilderness that look like scenes from a snow globe.

The Welcome and Cultural Insights

Once in Abisko, the guides—often Sami locals—offer a warm welcome and share stories about their culture and traditions. This part of the experience enriches the evening, turning what could be just a sightseeing trip into a meaningful cultural exchange. You might find that the guides’ knowledge of local history, Sami customs, and nature adds depth to the cold, awe-inspiring backdrop.

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Dinner in Abisko: Comfort Meets Scandinavian Flavor

One of the tour’s highlights is the three-course dinner served in a cozy setting. The reviews praise the quality and variety of the food, with options to choose from two menus, making it accessible for different tastes. This is a significant advantage because, in Arctic conditions, a hearty meal fuels your chances of staying warm and alert during the night. The dining experience isn’t just about sustenance but also about savoring local flavors, possibly including reindeer, Arctic fish, or hearty stews, though the exact menu details vary.

Aurora Watching in Abisko or on the Move

Depending on the weather, the guide will either take you to the best vantage points in Abisko National Park or chase the Aurora along the route back to Kiruna. This flexibility is key to maximizing your chances; passing through different weather zones means you’re less likely to miss the lights. Several reviews emphasize how passing through various zones increases the likelihood of Aurora sightings.

Photography Assistance: Capturing the Magic

For many travelers, taking good photos of the Northern Lights is a top priority. The guides provide tripods and offer tips on camera settings, whether you’re using a DSLR or just your smartphone. A reviewer noted, “Our guide was so knowledgeable about photography,” which can make a big difference in capturing those fleeting, colorful moments.

The Small Group Advantage

Limited to just 8 participants, this tour offers a more personal experience. The small size allows guides to pay more attention to individual needs—whether it’s answering questions, helping with camera settings, or adjusting the itinerary based on weather. This intimacy also reduces the noise and crowding often associated with larger tours.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Timing and Duration

The tour lasts around 5.5 hours, with pickup times starting at 4:45 pm from the Kiruna Swedish Lapland Tourist Office or 5:00 pm from Camp Ripan. Check availability for specific start times, as they may vary seasonally. The flexible schedule means you can fit it into your broader travel plans comfortably.

What to Bring

Wearing warm clothing is essential—think layered thermal wear, insulated boots, gloves, and hats. Bring a tripod if you have one, as it will greatly improve your night photography. The guides typically provide tripods, but bringing your own ensures you’re ready for quick shots.

Weather and Aurora Variability

Weather can influence the tour’s itinerary. Clear skies are a must for Aurora viewing, but clouds or snow can obscure the lights. The tour’s design to chase Aurora along the route helps mitigate this, but no one can guarantee sightings. Reviews mention encounters with dancing lights, but also acknowledge that sometimes the sky remains stubbornly cloudy.

Cost and Value

While the exact price isn’t specified here, consider that you’re paying for transportation, dinner, expert guidance, photography help, and a truly special location. Many travelers find the value high, especially since this experience combines cultural insights, comfort, and the thrill of potential Aurora sighting.

Family-Friendliness and Accessibility

The tour is suitable for most travelers over age 3, but the cold and evening timing could be challenging for some. Smaller children should be prepared for the winter chill and possibly longer periods outside in the dark.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Reviews

Two reviews highlight the strong points of this tour. Bo from Denmark called it “the best trip ever,” citing clear skies and dancing Aurora lights, along with praise for guide Erika’s knowledge and friendliness. The same traveler appreciated the good food in Abisko, which added to the overall satisfaction.

Another reviewer appreciated the excellent dinner, which included two menu options, and the ability to cross Abisko park while chasing the lights. Both reviews emphasize the personalized guidance that helped them see the Aurora and make the most of their night.

The Sum Up: Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of culture, culinary comfort, and natural spectacle. It’s perfect if you’re after a small, intimate group and appreciate expert guidance—especially if capturing photos of the Aurora is a priority. The flexible itinerary and expert guides increase your chances of seeing the lights, but it’s important to remember that Aurora sightings are never guaranteed.

If you’re traveling in winter, eager to enjoy traditional Sami stories, partake in hearty Scandinavian cuisine, and possibly witness one of nature’s most spectacular displays, this tour offers excellent value and authentic moments. It’s well-suited for those who prioritize comfort and cultural connection, and who don’t mind the unpredictability of Arctic weather.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from the meeting points in Kiruna is included, making it convenient to join without worrying about logistics.

What time does the tour start?
Check availability, but pickups begin at 4:45 pm from the Kiruna Tourist Office or 5:00 pm from Camp Ripan, with the tour lasting about 5.5 hours.

What should I wear?
Dress in warm, layered clothing suitable for Arctic temperatures. Insulated boots, gloves, hats, and thermal underwear are highly recommended.

Are there options for people with dietary restrictions?
While specific menu details aren’t provided, the tour offers two menus to choose from, which typically accommodate various preferences.

Can I participate if I don’t have a camera?
Absolutely. Guides will assist you with photography, but even without equipment, you can enjoy the experience and marvel at the lights.

Is this suitable for children?
Most likely yes, but it’s not recommended for children under 3 years due to the cold and late hours.

What happens if we don’t see the Northern Lights?
Aurora sightings can’t be guaranteed; weather and solar activity influence visibility. However, the flexible route increases your chances.

What language is the guide speaking?
Guides are available in Swedish and English, making it accessible for most travelers.

How long do we stay outside?
The outdoor portion depends on weather conditions but typically involves some time spent outside in the dark to maximize Aurora viewing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind should your plans shift.

This Kiruna: Abisko Northern Lights Tour with Dinner offers a sincere, well-rounded Arctic adventure. Combining delicious food, Sami culture, expert guidance, and a prime location for Aurora viewing, it’s a compelling choice for those seeking more than just a lights tour—it’s a culturally enriching experience with a touch of magic.

You can check availability for your dates here: