Planning a trip to see the northern lights is a highlight for many travelers heading to Sweden’s Arctic region. This Abisko Northern Lights Photography Tour with Dinner promises an evening of not only chasing the auroras but also learning how to photograph them like a pro. We’ve gathered plenty of feedback and details to help you understand what makes this tour special — and if it’s right for you.
Our impression is that this experience combines the thrill of Aurora hunting with the comfort of a cozy dinner and expert guidance. Two things we especially appreciate are the local insider knowledge that guides bring and the professional photography tips. On the flip side, some travelers might find that the weather can be unpredictable, which affects the aurora sightings.
This tour is best suited for those who want a well-structured, inclusive experience—whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply eager to witness the northern lights with minimal fuss. If you’re seeking a small group adventure led by knowledgeable locals, this could be just what you’re looking for.
Key Points
- Expert-guided experience: Led by a professional photographer with featured work in major publications.
- All-included photos: You’ll get all the images taken during the tour, so no need to worry about capturing the perfect shot yourself.
- Flexible itinerary: The tour adjusts based on weather and aurora activity, maximizing your chances of seeing the lights.
- Local insider knowledge: Travel in a 4×4 van to remote spots away from light pollution, known only to locals.
- Delicious dinner: Start your evening with a hearty local meal, setting a cozy tone before heading into the Arctic night.
- Small group size: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
What to Expect from the Experience
This 5-hour tour begins in Abisko, where you’ll enjoy a warm, hearty dinner at a local restaurant. The meal isn’t just filler; it’s a chance to savor some regional flavors—many reviews mention reindeer meat and lingonberry drinks, which add a touch of local authenticity. After dinner, the real adventure starts.
Guided by a professional photographer, the journey takes you in a 4×4 van through icy landscapes, far from the artificial glow of towns and cities. Depending on the weather and aurora forecasts, the guides may take you up to 300 km away from Abisko itself, searching for clear skies and the best lights. This flexibility is crucial because the northern lights are notoriously unpredictable, but the guides’ local knowledge boosts your chances significantly.
While waiting for the auroras, guides often give an easy-to-understand astronomy lesson, helping you appreciate what’s happening overhead. Whether you’re a seasoned shutterbug or just out for the spectacle, the guide’s tips on camera settings and composition will be invaluable. If you’re not into photography, no worries—the guide will capture the lights and you on camera, then send you all the photos afterward. This is a huge bonus because it means you can just relax and enjoy the show.
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The Aurora Chase
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on photography. The guide, featured in National Geographic and other big outlets, knows exactly where to take you for the most dramatic views. Participants consistently praise the expert guidance—one reviewer mentioned how Jesus, the guide, is both knowledgeable and friendly, helping to optimize photo compositions and sharing insights about the science behind the lights.
Because the tour’s schedule is flexible, you might find yourself out for 4 to 6 hours, with the potential for multiple stops along the way. The effort to find clear skies and the best vantage points means your chances of witnessing the auroras are high, even in unpredictable weather.
The Experience for Travelers
Reviewers highlight how much they appreciated the warm hospitality and the local dinner. The experience isn’t just about the lights; it’s about the whole evening, with cozy moments around a table and the excitement of chasing the auroras across the Arctic wilderness.
Many describe the photos they received as stunning, capturing the vibrant colors and dynamic movement of the lights. One reviewer noted, “Jesus takes pictures of everyone with the northern lights during the night. We are sent the photos later via a download link. They are beautiful!”
Transportation & Group Size
Travel takes place in a small group (max 8 people), making it more personal and easier to move around. Pickup is included, and the tour is operated by Northern Wilds Expeditions, a reputable provider. The vehicle is a sturdy 4×4, perfect for icy conditions, and the small group size ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd—ideal for those who prefer a more intimate experience.
More Great Tours NearbyPrice and Value
While the price isn’t specified here, the value for money appears justified based on the reviews. With all photos included, dinner, expert guidance, and the experience of traveling to remote locations, many find this tour offers a lot for the cost. Not to mention the benefit of having professional-quality photos to keep as souvenirs.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for photography lovers, adventure seekers, or anyone eager to see the northern lights with the comfort of expert guidance. It’s an especially good option if you want to maximize your chances of a clear sighting, thanks to the flexible itinerary and local knowledge. If you’re traveling with someone who just wants to enjoy the spectacle without focusing on photography, they’ll still have a fantastic time soaking in the sky’s natural light show.
It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues since the tour involves traveling in icy, sometimes uneven outdoor environments. Also, since the weather can influence the experience heavily, some patience and flexibility are a good idea.
In The Sum Up
This Northern Lights Photography Tour with Dinner in Abisko offers a well-rounded Arctic experience. You get the thrill of chasing one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena, paired with the comfort of local cuisine and the expertise of a professional guide. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the included photos are a wonderful bonus—no more scrambling with your camera in the dark.
Travelers who want an authentic, guided experience with the best chance to see and photograph the northern lights will find this tour quite rewarding. It’s especially valuable for those who appreciate expert storytelling, local insights, and the convenience of having professional photos to remember the night.
If you’re after a reliable, well-organized adventure that combines scenery, science, and photography, this tour hits all the right notes. Just remember to dress warmly, bring your camera and tripod, and prepare for a night of unforgettable Arctic magic.
Abisko: Northern Lights Photography Tour with Dinner
FAQ
Do I need to bring my own camera?
Yes, it’s recommended to bring your own camera and tripod to capture the lights. The guide will offer tips on camera settings and composition to help you get great shots.
Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The guide provides basic astronomy lessons, and photography tips are tailored to all levels. You don’t need prior experience—just an interest in the experience itself.
What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, as temperatures can be very cold, especially during the night. The tour involves outdoor stops, so waterproof clothing, gloves, and hats are advisable.
How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about 4 to 6 hours depending on aurora activity and weather conditions, starting after dinner and extending into the night.
Can I reschedule if the weather isn’t clear?
The tour is flexible, and guides do their best to find the clearest skies. If the weather prevents sighting, you may be offered to join another tour, as some reviews mention.
Are dinner and photos included?
Yes, a local dinner is included at the start, and all photos taken during the tour are sent to you afterward.
Is this a family-friendly experience?
This tour is mainly recommended for adults or older teens comfortable in cold outdoor environments. It’s not designed for those with mobility issues or very young children.
How many people typically join the tour?
The group is limited to 8 participants, which keeps the experience intimate and personalized.
What if I don’t want to take photos?
No problem—just enjoy the aurora show! You’ll still receive the photos taken, but you can relax and focus on the natural beauty.
What makes this tour stand out from others?
The combination of expert guidance, remote locations known only to locals, and the professional photographer leading the tour makes this a highly recommended choice for those wanting quality and reliability in their aurora experience.
If seeing the northern lights in a small, guided adventure sounds appealing, this Abisko tour is a solid pick. Just make sure to come prepared for Arctic weather, and you might return home with some incredible photos—and memories—that last a lifetime.
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