Abisko: Private Northern Lights Tour with Photos

If you’re dreaming of chasing the elusive Northern Lights in Sweden, this private tour in Abisko might catch your eye. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on the detailed info and reviews, it seems like a well-rounded experience for those who want a personalized, flexible approach to witnessing one of nature’s most spectacular shows.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the private setup, which means less waiting and more tailored attention from your guide—ideal if you’re a bit particular about how you want to experience the lights. Plus, they offer tips on how to photograph the aurora, which can be a game-changer for capturing memories. On the flip side, some may find the 3.5-hour duration a bit short if their schedule allows for longer adventures, but for many, it seems to hit the sweet spot of manageable timing.

This tour seems best suited for those who value comfort and flexibility—it adapts based on weather and aurora activity forecasts, so you’re not just stuck in one spot waiting in vain. It’s also a good option for travelers who want a more intimate, private experience rather than a big group chase.

Key Points

• Private experience: Personal guide, tailored to your preferences.
• Flexible itinerary: Adjusts based on weather and aurora predictions.
• Multiple search methods: On foot, in a 4×4 van, or on a snowmobile-powered sleigh.
• Photography tips and gear: DSLR camera, tripod, and guidance included.
• Ideal for comfort: Pick-up and drop-off from select hotels in Abisko or Björkliden.
• Short but sweet: 3.5 hours of dedicated aurora hunting, perfect for a quick but immersive experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour starts with a personal pickup from your hotel—either in Abisko or Björkliden—and a warm welcome from your guide. You’ll be provided with all the essentials: a DSLR camera, overalls, a headlamp, and plenty of info to get you ready for the night ahead. We like that they equip you with gear, especially if you’re not into lugging your own equipment into freezing conditions.

After a quick briefing, your guide will check the latest weather and aurora forecasts to decide how to proceed. This flexibility is key because chasing the Northern Lights is all about maximizing your chances, and rigid plans often mean missed opportunities.

You’ll then choose between three different ways to hunt for the aurora: on foot at a nearby teepee, in a modern 4×4 van for quick access to dark spots, or on a cozy snowmobile sleigh pulled behind a snowmobile, heading toward wilderness camps. Each method offers a different experience—on foot gives you a more immersive nature vibe, the van allows for easier movement, and the sleigh adds a fun, adventurous twist.

One of the biggest draws is accessing some of Abisko’s darkest areas, where light pollution is minimal. This means you’ll have an excellent chance to spot and photograph not just the aurora but also stars, galaxies, and the Milky Way. The guide’s experience in locating the lights is a real plus, potentially turning a cloudy night into a successful one.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup Locations:
The tour offers eight convenient options, including hotels like Hotell Fjället, STF Abisko Turiststation, and Gammelgården Ski Lodge. This variety makes it easy for travelers staying in different accommodations to join without extra fuss.

Activities during the 3.5 hours:
Once picked up, the journey includes a scenic drive into the wilderness, with options like walking or snowmobiling at the chosen spot. The guide provides a safety briefing—important for those unfamiliar with winter conditions—and takes you to scenic viewpoints for optimal aurora viewing.

Tour features:
– Sightseeing and walking in the snow-covered landscape
– Snowmobile rides for a more dynamic adventure
– Visits to wilderness camps where the atmosphere is quiet, dark, and perfect for star and aurora viewing

The tour ends with a drop-off at your original pickup point, making for a smooth, hassle-free experience.

How the Experience Is Valued

While the cost isn’t explicitly stated, considering the private nature, gear provided, and flexibility, it seems to offer good value for travelers wanting a personalized chase rather than a group tour. Reviews indicate that the guide’s extensive experience is a big asset, as it can truly make or break your chances of witnessing the aurora. The inclusion of photography tips and gear rental is especially helpful if you’re keen on capturing the Lights.

Many travelers appreciated the adaptive approach, noting that their guide was transparent about the weather conditions and was willing to change plans to maximize their chances. The fact that you’re in a private group means fewer distractions and a more intimate experience—perfect if you prefer a tailored adventure.

What’s Noteworthy

• The tour is 100% private, which is increasingly rare and valuable for those wanting undivided attention.
• The flexible itinerary means you’re not stuck in one place, reducing frustration if the aurora is shy.
• The gear and photography tips are a bonus for those serious about capturing the Lights.
• The scenic drives and options like snowmobiling add a touch of adventure—and fun—without making the experience feel forced.
• The short duration may be perfect for many, but if you’re looking for a longer, more immersive experience, you might find this limiting.

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Who Would Love This?

This tour is a solid choice for adventurers who want a flexible, private experience and are eager to get the best possible chance to see and photograph the Northern Lights. It’s suitable for those who appreciate comfort and personalized attention, and who don’t mind a relatively short, focused outing.

If you’re a beginner or someone who likes to have a guide’s expertise to help spot the Lights, this tour could be a real winner. However, if you’re planning to spend several nights chasing the aurora, this might be just one part of a bigger experience.

Final Thoughts

In the end, this private Northern Lights tour in Abisko offers a thoughtful blend of flexibility, comfort, and expert guidance. The multiple ways to search for the aurora—on foot, by vehicle, or with a snowmobile—offer variety and adventure, while the focus on photography tips helps you come away with more than just memories.

It’s especially suited for travelers who value privacy and tailored experiences and are willing to pay a bit more for the personalized touch. The short duration makes it a practical option for those with tight schedules or looking for a quick but memorable outing.

If your goal is to maximize your chances with a knowledgeable guide, enjoy the wilderness, and come home with stunning photos, this tour may well be worth considering.

FAQs

Is this tour private?
Yes, it is 100% private, meaning you’ll have your own guide and group.

What if the weather isn’t clear?
The tour’s flexible itinerary allows your guide to adapt based on weather forecasts, increasing the chance of seeing the aurora when conditions are right.

What gear do I get?
You’re provided with a DSLR camera, overalls, a headlamp, and guidance on capturing the lights.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 3.5 hours, including pickup, the adventure, and drop-off.

Can I choose how we search for the lights?
The guide discusses options based on current conditions and your preferences, including on foot, in a van, or on a sleigh.

Are there multiple pickup and drop-off locations?
Yes, there are eight pickup and eight drop-off options, making it easy to fit into your accommodation plans.

Is this suitable for children or families?
The data doesn’t specify, but the emphasis on private, flexible, and scenic nature suggests it could accommodate older children who enjoy winter adventures.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the guide picks you up and drops you off in a modern vehicle, usually a Lights Over Lapland minibus.

What’s the main advantage of this tour?
The personal guidance combined with the flexible approach and photography support helps maximize your chances of witnessing and capturing the Aurora Borealis in a comfortable setting.

This tour stands out as a personalized, adaptable way to chase the Northern Lights in Abisko, perfect for those who seek a more intimate, tailored experience in the winter wilderness.

You can check availability for your dates here: