Kiruna is a photographer’s paradise, especially if you’re eager to capture the Northern Lights or the rugged beauty of Arctic wildlife. The region’s clear, dark skies and untouched wilderness make for incredible photos, and in this list, we highlight the top seven experiences that will help you get the most out of your visit. We’re particularly fond of the Northern Lights Tours, especially the one that includes a professional photographer guiding your night sky shoot—nothing beats having an expert help you frame those elusive auroras. But whether you’re after stunning landscapes, wildlife, or learning photography techniques, these tours are designed to elevate your experience.
From chasing the aurora in remote locations like Abisko to capturing Arctic animals with local Sami guides, each tour offers a distinctive angle on Kiruna’s photogenic environment. For a rundown, check out our detailed reviews and practical insights. If you’re serious about getting fantastic shots, you’ll find a perfect fit among these options.
Brief overview of the top Kiruna photography tours
This list includes Northern Lights chasing with a professional photographer, guided Aurora photo tours with equipment for beginners and advanced shooters, wildlife and Arctic nature photography excursions, and small-group aurora wayfinding tours. Each experience offers something special—whether it’s the chance to learn how to photograph the aurora, borrow top-tier camera gear, or get face-to-face with moose and other Arctic animals.
Now, let’s explore each one in detail and see which fits your style best.
1. Kiruna Northern Lights Tour with Photographer
At number 1 on our list, the Kiruna Northern Lights Tour with Photographer is a standout experience with a 5.0-star rating based on 436 reviews. Priced at $202.75 per person, this tour lasts about 4 to 6 hours, and it’s ideal if you want a personalized, flexible approach to hunting the aurora. The tour starts with a hotel pickup and then drives to wherever the weather is best—often Abisko, Kiruna’s boreal forests, or other dark sky areas known for high success rates.
What makes this tour special is the tailored chase for clear skies, which is vital for viewing the Northern Lights. Your guide is experienced in reading weather patterns and will drive long distances if necessary, ensuring you have the best chance to witness the aurora. The guides are attentive, often setting up a warm cabin nearby and describing the science behind the lights, making it educational as well as visually stunning. Many reviews mention the warmth and hospitality, as well as the high likelihood of seeing the auroras, thanks to Lights of Vikings’ reputation.
Bottom line: If you want a flexible, high-success-rate Northern Lights experience with expert guidance, this tour offers both comfort and adventure—plus, the chance to learn all about the aurora from passionate guides.
2. Kiruna: Northern Lights Tour with Photos
Coming in at number 2, the Kiruna: Northern Lights Tour with Photos is priced at $209, lasts about 5 hours, and scores remarkably well with a 4.8-star rating. This tour is perfect if you want not only to see the aurora but also to walk away with professional-quality photos. The guide, Dmitry, and his team focus heavily on capturing your experience on camera, offering photo lessons and taking photos of you under the dancing lights.
Highlights include a cozy campfire with hot drinks, the opportunity to hear about the science of auroras, and the chance to get your own photos and videos—either for sharing or keeping as a special memory. Many reviews praise the guides for their dedication; one reviewer notes how the team made their wish come true with excellent pictures and warm hospitality. Even on less-than-perfect weather nights, the guides are flexible—moving to clear spots near Abisko to optimize your chances.
Bottom line: For travelers who want a combination of aurora viewing, comfort, and professional photography, this tour delivers a memorable night with personalized service.
3. Northern Light Photo tour
At number 3, the Northern Light Photo tour is slightly shorter at around 4 hours, with a 4.5-star rating from 15 reviews. For $211.79, this tour provides borrowing camera equipment and a local Sami guide who’s been exploring the Arctic since childhood. The focus here is on teaching photography techniques—from how to set your camera to best capture the aurora to finding the perfect spot based on local knowledge.
What stands out is the hands-on instruction combined with the chance to explore different locations, even if the weather isn’t perfect. The guide, Ilya, is praised for her friendliness and her ability to teach camera basics in a way that makes the experience accessible. You’ll have a chance to practice photographing the Northern Lights under expert supervision, helping you improve your skills for future trips.
Bottom line: If you’re eager to learn how to shoot the aurora and want a guided experience that’s educational as well as visually rewarding, this tour hits the right notes.
4. Kiruna: Northern Light Photo Tour with Equipment
Number 4 offers the Kiruna: Northern Light Photo Tour with Equipment, priced at $207 for around 4 hours. It’s a great choice if you want to borrow high-quality camera gear and tripod equipment. The focus here is on capturing the best possible photos with professional equipment, guided by local experts who know the best spots for photography.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of expert guidance and top-tier photo gear, which simplifies the process of getting stunning images. The tour is suitable for photographers of all levels — from beginners to advanced shutterbugs. They emphasize learning about handling Arctic conditions and managing your camera to get perfect shots.
Reviews are limited but highly positive, praising the tour for its professionalism and the quality of the equipment provided. If you’re serious about photography and want to maximize your chances of capturing the aurora with professional gear, this tour offers outstanding value.
Bottom line: For photographers wanting to borrow equipment and learn from local guides, this tour makes it easy to produce impressive images of the Northern Lights.
5. Half day Wildlife and Nature Photography
At number 5, the Half day Wildlife and Nature Photography is priced at $212.71 and rated 4.5 stars from 3 reviews. If capturing Arctic animals like moose is your goal, this 4-hour tour with a Sami guide is perfect. They’ll lend you a camera with a telephoto lens or you can use your own mobile or camera.
What sets this experience apart is the focus on Arctic wildlife, with chances to photograph animals in their natural habitat, often on frozen rivers or in the woods. The guides are knowledgeable about Sami culture and wildlife behavior, which helps in getting authentic shots. One reviewer loved the hike onto a frozen river and the chance to see moose, making this a memorable blend of culture, nature, and photography.
While not centered on auroras, this tour offers a different kind of Arctic photography—more about wildlife than skies—and is ideal for those who want to combine nature photography with cultural insight.
Bottom line: If your interest leans toward wildlife and Arctic landscapes, this guided photography adventure is a fantastic choice.
6. Kiruna: Small-Group Aurora Borealis Wayfinding with Photos
Number 6 is a small-group experience priced for a more intimate setting. The Kiruna: Small-Group Aurora Borealis Wayfinding with Photos emphasizes learning the science behind aurora forecasts, cloud movement, and solar activity. It includes warm drinks, snacks, and photo tips, making it suitable for travelers interested in both the technical side and photography.
The small group size means more personal guidance, and you’ll receive free photos of your experience. This tour is best if you want an educational approach combined with hands-on photography guidance in a cozy environment, with the chance to see the lights with expert help.
Bottom line: For those who want a personalized, scientifically informed aurora experience with photography assistance, this tour offers a well-rounded option.
7. Kiruna: Wildlife and Nature Photography
Finally, number 7 is a wildlife and nature photography experience with a Sami guide, priced for the 4-hour tour at a competitive rate. It’s similar to the earlier wildlife-focused tour but emphasizes more about the Sami culture and Arctic animals like moose. Borrowing a tele-lens or using your own gear, you’ll learn photography tips while capturing the unique landscape and fauna.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want to combine cultural learning with wildlife photography. Reviews highlight the full-day immersive experience, including building a fire and sampling local snacks, making it more than just a photo trip.
Bottom line: For nature and wildlife enthusiasts wanting a cultural angle, this guided tour delivers rich, authentic Arctic photography.
How to Choose Your Perfect Photography Experience in Kiruna
When selecting a tour, consider your photography skill level, interests, and budget. If you want expert guidance and the chance to learn camera techniques, options like the Northern Light Photo Tour or those with equipment loans are ideal. For wildlife lovers, tours focusing on Arctic animals or cultural insights provide a different flavor.
Budget-conscious travelers might lean toward shorter tours or those with included gear, while serious photographers may prefer tours offering professional equipment and in-depth instruction. Be mindful of seasonality—winter months offer the best aurora chances, but weather can be unpredictable, so flexible tours that move locations are a smart choice.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak aurora season (late September to March). Check availability and weather forecasts beforehand to maximize your chances of capturing stunning images.
Final thoughts
Kiruna offers a range of photography experiences that suit almost any interest—whether it’s chasing the Northern Lights, capturing Arctic wildlife, or honing your camera skills. The Northern Lights Tour with Photographer is a top pick for its success rate and personalized approach, while the photo-focused tours with equipment loans cater to those wanting professional results. Wildlife and cultural tours add depth and variety, ensuring you’ll come home with incredible images and stories.
No matter which tour you choose, remember that patience and clear skies are key. Book early, prepare your gear, and get ready to photograph one of the most spectacular natural shows on earth—Kiruna’s Aurora Borealis.