Kiruna: Northern Light Photo Tour with Equipment

If you’re dreaming of catching the aurora borealis, a Northern Light Photo Tour in Kiruna offers a balanced mix of expert guidance, local knowledge, and practical gear. This tour is perfect for photography enthusiasts and curious travelers alike who want to maximize their chances of photographing this elusive natural wonder while learning about Arctic nature. We love that this experience provides professional equipment and instruction, making it accessible even for those who don’t own a camera suited for night shots. Plus, the local Sami guides add an authentic touch, sharing their intimate knowledge of the area.

One potential consideration is the weather unpredictability — every night is different, and seeing the lights isn’t guaranteed. Still, the tour’s flexibility in choosing the best locations based on weather conditions means you’re giving yourself a fair shot. This tour suits those who enjoy a small-group setting, desire a practical learning experience, and appreciate the beauty of the Arctic at night. If you’re a first-timer or a seasoned photographer, this tour offers a thoughtful way to experience the Northern Lights with expert support.

Key Points

• Expert local guides with Sami background, enhancing authenticity and insight
• Camera and tripod rentals included, ideal for beginners and pros alike
• Flexible locations, chosen nightly based on weather for the best chances of seeing the aurora
• Small group size (limited to 8), ensuring personalized attention
• Warm clothing and gear provided, so you stay comfortable in the Arctic cold
• Even in bad weather, there are spots with better skies, increasing your chances to see the lights

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

This 4-hour experience comfortably balances instruction, exploration, and anticipation. You’ll meet your guide in the evening, typically with pickup from Camp Ripan or the nearby Tourist Center, and then head out into the Arctic wilderness in a small group. The tour’s emphasis on flexibility means that every night’s itinerary adjusts based on the weather forecast — a smart move because the Northern Lights depend heavily on clear skies.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of guided expertise and practical equipment. Borrowing a camera with a wide-angle lens and a tripod means you don’t need to worry about bulky gear or making a costly investment beforehand. The guides, born and raised locally, know the area intimately and will take you to the best spots for aurora viewing — which can be a game-changer, especially if weather conditions are less than ideal.

What to Expect During the Tour

Expect a nighttime adventure that combines education with awe. Once you join your guide, they will help you understand the basics of night photography, including how to handle your camera settings to capture the aurora’s fleeting movements and colors. The warm clothing and headlamp provided mean you won’t freeze while waiting for the lights to appear or during quick photo sessions.

You’ll visit multiple locations during the night, each chosen for its potential clear skies and scenic backdrop. The guides are experienced in Arctic photography, and many reviews mention how helpful they are in helping even novice photographers get stunning shots. One traveler noted, “The guide is experienced and helped us well-equipped… We saw aurora!” This highlights how the guides’ local knowledge directly benefits your chances of a successful photo session.

Why the Equipment Matters

Having camera gear provided takes away the hassle of lugging around your own equipment or trying to adapt your phone for low-light conditions. The included wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing expansive northern sky scenes, while the tripod stabilizes your shot in the darkness. Ask any seasoned photographer, and they’ll tell you that a good tripod and appropriate lens are essential for night shots — this tour makes that accessible.

The Experience of Seeing the Aurora

Many reviewers express satisfaction with their chances of seeing the lights, even under less-than-ideal weather. One reviewer shared, “Even in bad weather, there are many spots with better weather if you know where to go,” which underscores the value of local guidance. While the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed, the flexible approach of this tour improves your odds significantly.

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Price and Value

At $207 per person, this tour offers solid value considering includes the camera equipment, expert guidance, transportation, and warm gear. For serious photographers or those keen to get quality shots without investing in their own gear, this is an especially worthwhile option. The small group size also means more personalized attention, which is a bonus for learning or capturing the perfect shot.

What’s Not Included

Meals, drinks, and personal expenses are on you, but that’s typical for a short evening excursion. A SD memory card can be purchased if you want to ensure ample storage for all your photos, which is a smart investment given the likelihood of capturing many stunning shots.

The Itinerary in Detail

Your evening begins with pickup around 7:15-7:30 pm, allowing you to settle in and prepare for the night ahead. The departure time is flexible, but most tours start in the early evening — ideal for catching the night sky at its brightest.

Once out in the Arctic, your guides select spots based on the latest weather data. This adaptive approach is key because the Northern Lights are notoriously fickle — cloud cover, snow, and even moonlight can hinder visibility. The guides’ local experience allows them to find the best vantage points, whether that’s a frozen lake, a hillside, or a forest clearing.

During the tour, you’ll learn how to handle your camera settings — aperture, ISO, shutter speed — and how to compose your shots for maximum impact. Many reviews praise the guides’ helpfulness and patience, making the experience suitable whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned photographer.

After dark, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to snap away, assisted by your guide’s tips. The warm clothing and headlamp ensure you stay comfortable, even in sub-zero temperatures. The tour typically ends around 11 pm, giving you a satisfying mix of adventure and relaxation.

Authentic Local Input

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is the local Sami guides’ background. Their connection to the land, combined with their knowledge of Arctic flora and fauna, adds layers of insight that make the experience richer. You’re not just chasing lights — you’re getting a taste of genuine Arctic life.

Final Thoughts

This Northern Light Photo Tour in Kiruna is a well-rounded experience that balances practicality, authenticity, and adventure. The inclusion of camera and tripod rental removes barriers for many, and the local guides’ expertise improves your chances of capturing a memorable image. It’s a great choice if you’re seeking a personalized and educational Arctic night outing.

While weather conditions can never be guaranteed, the flexibility and local knowledge built into this tour make it one of the more reliable options available. If you’re eager to learn about Arctic photography or simply want to enjoy the beauty of the Northern Lights in a supportive environment, this experience hits the right notes.

Perfect for: photographers, nature lovers, and curious travelers who want a small-group, authentic Arctic adventure with expert guidance and gear included. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a flexible schedule and are prepared to brave the cold.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll get professional Sami guides, camera equipment with a wide-angle lens, a tripod for your camera or mobile phone, transportation to the best spots, warm cover clothes, and a headlamp.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation to the best viewing spots is included, making it easy to focus on enjoying the experience without worrying about driving.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly — layers, thermal clothes, hats, gloves, and sturdy boots are recommended. The tour provides warm clothing, but layering is key for Arctic cold.

Can I bring my own camera?
While the tour provides equipment for rental, you are welcome to bring your own camera if preferred. The rental gear is good for those who want to avoid lugging their own or need specific gear.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 4 hours, with starting times varying depending on availability and weather conditions.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 10 years old, likely due to cold exposure and the nature of the nighttime activity.

What happens if there are clouds or bad weather?
The guides will select locations based on weather forecasts, and there are always spots with better weather if you know where to go. However, viewing the aurora can never be guaranteed.

What is the group size?
Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a small, intimate experience with plenty of guidance.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Is this experience good for beginners?
Absolutely. The guides are experienced and help with camera handling, so even novices can leave with great photos and a memorable Arctic adventure.

In essence, this Kiruna Northern Light Photo Tour offers a smart combination of local expertise, practical gear, and flexible planning — all geared toward giving you the best shot at capturing the Northern Lights while soaking in the Arctic landscape. Whether you’re a photography buff or just eager for an authentic winter adventure, it’s a tour worth considering for your Arctic itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: