Experience the majestic Auroras Kiruna-Abisko & lodge dinner

If you’re dreaming of witnessing the magical dance of the northern lights in Sweden, this tour promises a cozy yet adventurous evening that combines Lapland flavors with stellar sky-watching. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it seems like a well-rounded experience that balances comfort, local culture, and nature’s spectacle.

What really appeals to us are two things: First, the chance to enjoy a Lapland-inspired two-course dinner in a warm lodge setting that’s perfect for relaxing after sunset. Second, the aurora chase itself—driving along scenic roads between Kiruna and Abisko, one of the top places on earth to see the northern lights. That said, it’s worth noting that if weather conditions are poor, the lights can be elusive, so it’s not a guaranteed show. This experience looks ideal for travelers wanting a mix of good food, expert guidance, and a genuine chance to see the aurora in a comfortable setting without sacrificing the adventure.

This tour probably isn’t the best fit for those on a tight schedule or families with very young children, as it’s geared towards adults and older kids over 12. But if you’re after a thoughtful, well-organized Arctic outing that combines culinary delight with a celestial spectacle, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Comfortable and scenic transportation between Kiruna and Abisko for optimal aurora viewing.
• Two-course dinner inspired by Lapland, served in a cozy lodge setting.
• Expert guides choose the best spots for aurora sightings based on weather conditions.
• Photographs provided of your evening, helping you capture memories.
• Clothing included—down jacket, pants, and winter boots—so you’re prepared for the cold.
• Non-refundable but flexible booking—reserve now, pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off with hotel pickups in Kiruna around 17:45, with precise times depending on your location. You’ll be transported in a heated minivan, which makes a significant difference in keeping warm as you travel along the scenic roads. The journey itself is a highlight; the route between Kiruna and Abisko offers breathtaking views of snowy landscapes and mountain silhouettes, which set a perfect Arctic mood even before you step outside.

Guides are experienced and knowledgeable, guiding you to the best viewing spots based on real-time weather and sky conditions. This flexibility is crucial, as northern lights visibility can vary wildly depending on cloud cover, temperature, and solar activity. The guides’ expertise is often praised in reviews—they truly know how to find good spots and make the most of the night.

The Lodge and Dinner Experience

Once you arrive at the Máttaráhkká Northern Lights Lodge, you’ll find a welcoming, cozy atmosphere that’s built for relaxation. The lodge’s large open views toward the mountains create an ideal backdrop for aurora viewing from the doorstep itself, if luck is on your side. The two-course dinner is inspired by the flavors of Lapland—simple, hearty, and designed to warm you after a cold day.

Guests rave about the food, describing it as delicious and plentiful. One reviewer mentioned, “The food in the tipi was delicious,” which suggests a rustic yet tasty meal. Since it’s served in a tipi-style setting, expect a traditional vibe that enhances the Lapland experience, though it might also mean some smoke from grilling, as noted by one guest.

Aurora Chase and Sky-Watching

After dinner, the real highlight begins—the aurora chase. Traveling by heated minivan, guides take you to the prime spots for Northern Lights viewing, always adjusting to the weather. Some lucky travelers have seen “very strong aurora,” and even caught shooting stars, as shared by guests. The tours are designed to maximize your chances, but naturally, the aurora is a natural phenomenon, so sightings aren’t guaranteed every night.

What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to actively hunt for the lights, rather than just watching from a fixed spot. The group size is small enough to keep the experience intimate but large enough to share the excitement.

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Photos and Memories

A thoughtful touch is the photos taken during the evening. Guides or organizers will provide pictures, so you’ll have visual keepsakes of your Arctic adventure. Many reviews highlight how much they appreciated these photos—sometimes better than their own camera shots, as guides are skilled at capturing the lights and happy moments.

Practical Details and Extras

• Clothing is included, which is a big plus. Down jackets, pants, and winter boots mean you won’t need to pack bulky winter gear.
• The experience lasts around 5 hours—a good length for a full evening without feeling rushed.
• The tour is non-refundable, so it’s important to be sure of your plans.
• It’s suitable for travelers over 12 years old, making it more of an adult or older teen outing.

What Reviewers Say

Multiple guests have given this experience a perfect 5-star rating. They highlight guides like Rachel, who “prepared a wonderful evening,” and mention the delicious food and the exciting snowmobile excursions that sometimes replace the aurora hunt when weather isn’t cooperative. One reviewer noted, “We traveled in total two stops on the tour,” which means the guides aim to optimize your chances for sightings across different locations.

Another shared that their guides “made good photos” and were friendly and knowledgeable, adding a warm personal touch to the trip. The overall consensus is that the tour offers a comfortable, authentic, and memorable way to experience the northern lights, combined with a taste of Lapland’s flavors and hospitality.

The Practical Verdict

This experience offers a well-rounded package for those looking to combine delicious local food, scenic drives, and the chance to see the aurora borealis—all with trained guides and warm clothing provided. It’s a good value considering the included transportation, dinner, photographs, and expert guidance.

While it depends on weather conditions, the flexibility and expertise of the guides significantly boost your chances of a successful sighting. It’s also less about being in a fixed location and more about actively hunting the lights, adding a sense of adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a comfortable, guided Arctic evening with the potential for stunning northern lights, this tour suits travelers who appreciate good food, expert advice, and scenic travel. It’s ideal for those who don’t want to brave the cold alone, or for anyone who values local flavors and the chance to take memorable photos. Keep in mind it’s not suited for very young children or those looking for a purely outdoor, independent experience.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for travelers over 12 years old, mainly because of the late hours and cold conditions. Very young children might find it less comfortable.

What should I wear?
Clothing is provided—down jacket, pants, and winter boots—so you just need to dress warmly underneath, especially for outdoor aurora viewing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
The tour is non-refundable, so be sure about your schedule before booking. However, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if I don’t see the northern lights?
While guides do their best to find clear skies and the best spots, seeing the aurora depends on weather and solar activity. It’s always a possibility, but not guaranteed.

How long does the tour last?
Expect around 5 hours, including pickup, dinner, travel, and aurora hunting.

Are photos included?
Yes, professional photographs of the evening and your experience are provided, giving you lasting memories without extra cost.

This tour truly combines the best of what Arctic Lapland has to offer: warm hospitality, stunning natural displays, and a taste of local culture. If you’re looking for a thoughtfully curated, adventure-rich evening that balances comfort with the thrill of chasing the northern lights, it’s definitely worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: