Abisko: Great Outback Snowmobile Tour with Lake Abiskojaure

If you’re considering a snowmobile adventure in Sweden’s stunning Arctic scenery, the Abisko Great Outback Snowmobile Tour is worth a look. This guided excursion takes you through the expansive, snow-blanketed landscapes of Abisko National Park, offering a mix of adventure, awe-inspiring views, and a taste of Swedish hospitality. It’s a solid option for those who want to combine adrenaline with natural beauty, especially if you’re someone who appreciates a well-organized, small-group experience.

What we love about this tour is how accessible it makes the Arctic wilderness — even if you’re not a snowmobile pro, the guides give helpful instructions, and the scenery does most of the talking. Plus, the little touches like a traditional fika break with hot drinks and cakes really enhance the trip, making it feel both exciting and cozy. The only thing to keep in mind is that it’s not suitable for children under 7 or anyone with back problems, so it’s best suited for adults or older teens looking for an active outdoor experience.

A potential consideration is the logistics — the tour includes pickup but not transportation to the starting point, which might require some planning on your part. Also, the 4.5-hour duration, including pickup, is fairly compact, so if you’re looking for a full day of exploration, you might want to consider other options. Though, this experience really hits the sweet spot for those seeking a memorable Arctic adventure with manageable logistics.

This tour appeals most to adventurous travelers who want a quick but immersive taste of the Arctic outdoors, especially if they’re comfortable on snowmobiles and eager to see wildlife and pristine scenery.

Key Points

• Scenic adventure: Snowmobiling through the snow-covered wilderness of Abisko National Park.
• Unique route: Cross Lake Abiskojaure and follow the upper river Gámaeatnu, with chances to spot local wildlife.
• Comfort & safety: Includes warm clothes, helmet, and a safety briefing to ensure a smooth experience.
• Small group setting: Limited to 8 participants for personalized attention.
• Cultural touch: Enjoy a traditional Swedish fika with hot drinks and cakes during the trip.
• Flexible booking: Reserve with the option to pay later and cancel free up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour in Detail

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

The tour starts with a convenient pickup from six different locations in Abisko and Björkliden, including spots like the STF Abisko Turiststation and the Abisko Mountain Lodge. This makes the experience accessible no matter where you’re staying locally. The driver then takes you to the starting point, which takes about 15 minutes, so you’re not sitting in a van for long before the adventure begins.

Once you meet your guide and get dressed in warm gear — everything from boots to a balaclava — the real fun starts. The guide will give you a safety briefing and instructions, which are especially helpful if you’re new to snowmobiles. They’re shared (two per snowmobile), so you’ll either be riding solo or sharing with someone, with the chance to switch drivers if you share.

The highlight is the 4-hour snowmobile ride. You’ll follow the famous Kungsleden (King’s Trail) up to Lake Abiskojaure, an iconic spot in Swedish Lapland. The scenery is what makes this tour special: snow-covered forests, vast open spaces, and the chance to see wildlife. Moving across the lake and along the upper part of the river Gámaeatnu, you’ll get a real sense of the Arctic’s quiet majesty.

The Scenic Drive: What You’ll See

The views on this tour are what travelers rave about. As you drive, the landscape stretches in every direction — endless white plains, frosted trees, and distant mountain peaks. The route on the Kungsleden adds an extra layer of wilderness authenticity, as it’s one of Sweden’s most famous hiking trails, now transformed into an exhilarating snowmobile corridor.

Crossing Lake Abiskojaure is a quiet thrill. The frozen lake feels vast beneath you, and the reflections of snow on ice create perfect photo ops. The guide will encourage you to stop along the way for photos, and if you’re lucky, you might see some of the park’s wildlife — animals like reindeer or even a fox, depending on the season and luck.

Fika Break: A Cozy Swedish Tradition

Midway through the ride, you’ll pause for a traditional Swedish fika — a local custom of enjoying coffee or hot chocolate along with sweet cakes. This break isn’t just about refueling physically but also about soaking in the peaceful surroundings and connecting with the local culture. The hot drink and snacks are included, making this a warm, comforting pause against the cold.

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The Experience of Guided Snowmobiling

One of the biggest benefits of joining this tour is the guidance. The guides are described as friendly and knowledgeable, able to give helpful instructions even if you’re new to snowmobiling. They also keep the group small — no more than 8 people — so the experience feels intimate and tailored.

From the reviews, travelers mention how the guides enhance the trip with insights about the landscape and local wildlife. “Philip our guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and lovely to chat with,” one reviewer shared, which tells you the guides are approachable and eager to make your experience memorable.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This experience is best suited for adventure lovers who are comfortable riding a snowmobile and enjoy outdoor exploration. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of the Arctic’s beauty without committing to a full-day expedition. Since it’s not suitable for kids under 7 or pregnant women, it’s geared more toward active adults or older teens.

If you’re someone who appreciates good value, you’ll find the price reasonable considering everything included — guide service, gear, a scenic route, and a fika break.

Logistics & Practicalities

Duration & Group Size

The tour lasts around 4.5 hours, which includes pickup, the snowmobile ride, and drop-off. The ride itself is about 4 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. Being in a small group of 8 means you get a more personalized experience and plenty of space for photos and questions.

What to Bring & Wear

You need to bring your driver’s license, as it’s required to operate the snowmobile. Dress warmly; the tour provides gear, but layering is always wise. A water bottle is recommended, especially if you plan to stay warm and dry during the ride.

Pricing and Value

At $239 per person, this tour offers good value for a half-day adventure that combines scenery, wildlife, and cultural touches. With included gear and a guide, you don’t have to worry about extra costs or logistics. Keep in mind that transportation to the starting point isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

Cancellation & Flexibility

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later. This flexibility is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.

What People Say: Authentic Traveler Feedback

Travelers consistently highlight the breathtaking views and friendly guides. Marna praised the “breathtaking landscape” and the fun of snowmobiling, noting the guide Philip was “friendly, knowledgeable, and lovely to chat with.” Amanda appreciated the helpful introduction to the snowmobiles and described the scenery as “so beautiful,” emphasizing how the guide made the experience insightful and worthwhile. Ionut’s review underlined the “amazing view” and wildlife sightings, along with praise for guide Arina’s entertaining manner.

These reviews reinforce that this tour excels in delivering a scenic, well-organized, and enjoyable Arctic experience, especially if you value good company and knowledgeable guides.

The Sum Up

If you’re after an adventure that combines the thrill of snowmobiling with the serenity of Arctic landscapes, this tour does a commendable job. It balances excitement with comfort, offering a safe, guided ride through one of Sweden’s most stunning national parks. The inclusion of a fika break adds a hearty, cultural touch that makes the journey feel warm and inviting.

This experience is especially well-suited for travelers who want a manageable, half-day escape into nature without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned snowmobiler, the small-group setting and scenic route make it a memorable highlight of any Arctic trip.

While it may not be the best choice for young children, pregnant women, or those with back issues, most active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures will find this tour rewarding. It’s a chance to see wildlife, snap incredible photos, and experience the vast silence of Swedish Lapland’s winter wilderness.

FAQs

Do I need a driving license to join this tour? Yes, a valid driver’s license is required because you’ll be operating a shared snowmobile.

Can I drive my own snowmobile? If you prefer to drive alone, you might be able to arrange this directly with the activity provider, but the standard tour involves sharing with another person.

What’s included in the price? The tour covers guide services, warm clothing, helmets, and gear, plus a hot drink and cakes during the fika break.

How long does the tour last? The overall experience lasts approximately 4.5 hours, including pickup, the ride, and drop-off.

Is the tour suitable for children? It’s suitable only for children aged 7 years and older. It’s not recommended for pregnant women or people with back problems.

What should I bring? Bring your driver’s license, warm clothing, and water. The tour provides the rest of the gear you’ll need.

How many people are in each group? Small groups are limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What is the best time to book? The tour operates daily from December to March, so it’s best to reserve in advance during peak winter months.

In the end, this snowmobile tour offers a well-rounded taste of Arctic adventure, with stunning scenery, friendly guides, and the chance to experience the pure wilderness of Abisko. Perfect for those looking to add a bit of adrenaline and beauty to their Swedish Lapland trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: