Kiruna: Private Northern Lights Chase

If you’re dreaming of catching the Northern Lights in all their shimmering glory, a private chase like this one from Kiruna might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally done this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it offers a focused, intimate experience designed to maximize your chances of witnessing this spectacular phenomenon.

What really stands out to us is how flexible and personalized the experience appears — your guide will tailor the chase based on the weather conditions, aiming to find the clearest skies. Plus, having a private guide means you get tailored attention and insights into the Arctic landscape and the local area, which adds depth to the overall experience.

One thing to consider is the unpredictability of nature. Even with a flexible itinerary, sightings depend heavily on weather conditions, which can sometimes be cloudy or snowy. That said, if you’re after a dedicated, customized Northern Lights experience, this tour seems well-suited, especially if you’re traveling in a small group or even solo and want a more personalized touch.

This tour appears ideal for travelers who value exclusivity, expert guidance, and a chance to explore the Arctic landscape at their own pace while hunting for the aurora. If you’re looking for a quiet, tailored adventure with the potential for stunning photos, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience tailored to weather conditions and sky clarity
• Expert guides who know the best vantage points and share insights about Kiruna and the Northern Lights
• Flexible itinerary increases your chances of seeing the aurora borealis in the best possible conditions
• Ideal duration of 3.5 hours allows for a thorough yet manageable evening outing
• Great for photography enthusiasts with tips and the right gear like a tripod
• Weather-dependent sightings mean patience is key, but the experience itself is immersive and scenic

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Northern Lights Chase

When you sign up for the private Northern Lights chase from Kiruna, you’re in for an experience that focuses on quality, comfort, and maximum opportunity. Unlike large group tours that follow a set route, this private option allows your guide to adjust the plan based on real-time weather forecasts, which is crucial in the Arctic where skies can be unpredictable.

Pickup and Initial Briefing

Your journey begins with a pickup at your hotel lobby, a nice touch that saves you the hassle of navigating on your own. The guide, speaking English or Swedish, will greet you warmly and give a quick overview of what to expect, sharing some fascinating facts about Kiruna’s ongoing transformation and the science behind the Northern Lights.

The Drive Through Arctic Landscapes

Expect to be driven through vast, snow-covered Arctic scenery. The landscape around Kiruna is striking—endless whiteness punctuated with dark spruce forests and distant mountains. The silence of the snow-covered wilderness is almost meditative, and this peaceful backdrop makes waiting for the aurora all the more special.

Stopping at Prime Vantage Points

The guide will carefully select stops at the best vantage points, aiming to find the clearest, least-clouded skies. These spots are often away from artificial lights, giving you an unobstructed view of the night sky. During the wait, your guide may share stories about the Northern Lights, local Sami culture, or provide tips on capturing photos.

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The Aurora Viewing Experience

When the Northern Lights appear, the effect can be mesmerizing—waves of green, purple, or even faint reds dancing overhead. One reviewer, Babet from the Netherlands, mentioned that even with some cloud cover, they managed to capture “beautiful photos of sprankjes noorderlicht” (sparkles of the Northern Lights). This highlights how, even with imperfect conditions, the experience can be magical and photograph-worthy.

Photography Tips and Equipment

Bringing a camera, tripod, and weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. The guides understand how to help you get the best shots and will advise on camera settings if needed. Since the tour is private, there’s ample time to experiment with your shots without feeling rushed.

The Value of a Private, Flexible Experience

Compared to group tours, a private chase like this offers increased focus and adaptability. You won’t be confined to a strict schedule, and your guide can shift plans to optimize your chances of seeing the lights. Plus, the personal attention means your questions about the Arctic environment or the Northern Lights get more thorough answers.

Duration and Timing

At 3.5 hours, this tour strikes a good balance—long enough to get a genuine Arctic adventure, but not so lengthy that it becomes tiring, especially in the cold. Starting times vary depending on the season and forecast, so you can usually choose a slot that works best for your plans.

Inclusivity and Comfort

The pickup from your hotel ensures a hassle-free start, and the tour’s private nature means you can ask questions or request specific stops. The guides’ local knowledge helps you understand the region’s transition, adding an educational layer to the experience.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the experience seems thoughtfully designed, there’s an inherent element of luck involved in Aurora hunting. Cloud cover or storms can obscure the sky, and sightings are never guaranteed. As Babet’s review notes, the weather was not perfect, but they still managed to enjoy beautiful moments and photographs.

The price can seem high compared to larger group tours, but you’re paying for exclusivity, expert guidance, and a tailored experience—worth it if you value those aspects. If you’re on a very tight budget, you might want to compare this with other options, but remember that the quality of your chances and the comfort level are different.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private chase will appeal most to travelers who:

• Want a personalized experience with an expert guide
• Are looking for flexibility in timing and itinerary
• Want to maximize their chances of seeing the aurora, especially in unpredictable weather
• Are interested in photography and want tips for capturing the Northern Lights
• Prefer a more intimate, quiet Arctic adventure away from large crowds

It’s less suited for those on very tight schedules or those who are okay with larger groups and a more structured plan. Also, if your main priority is guaranteed sightings regardless of weather, keep in mind that nature’s unpredictability always plays a role.

FAQs

Do I need to bring special clothing?
Yes, it’s recommended to bring weather-appropriate, warm clothing and layers, especially since you might be waiting outside in cold temperatures. A hat, gloves, and insulated boots are advisable.

What should I bring for photos?
A camera and a tripod are highly recommended to capture the Northern Lights effectively. The guide can offer tips on camera settings, but having your own equipment helps.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is private and designed for small groups, which can be comfortable for families traveling together. Children should be prepared for cold weather and outdoor waiting, but the experience itself is suitable for all ages.

Can I cancel or reschedule if the weather looks bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The flexible planning also means the guide will do their best to reschedule or adapt the itinerary based on weather conditions.

How long does the Northern Lights typically stay visible?
The visibility depends heavily on the weather, but the tour is designed to increase your chances. Sometimes the lights appear early, sometimes late in the evening, so patience and luck are part of the game.

Is the tour language available in English and Swedish?
Yes, guides are fluent in both languages, ensuring clear communication and insights during your chase.

Final Thoughts

If you’re heading to Kiruna and want a tailored, private way to see the Northern Lights, this tour offers a compelling mix of expert guidance, flexible planning, and stunning Arctic scenery. The personalized approach means you’re not just another face in a crowd — instead, you’ll have a seasoned guide focusing solely on your experience and chances of a sighting.

While the weather can be unpredictable, the effort and flexibility built into this tour make it worth considering if you’re after a genuine, intimate Arctic adventure. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate detailed attention, want to learn about the local environment, and are ready to embrace the unpredictable beauty of the Northern Lights.

Ultimately, this experience seems to promise not just a glimpse of the aurora but a memorable Arctic night under the stars — with some luck, and a good guide, you might find yourself witness to one of nature’s most breathtaking shows.

You can check availability for your dates here: