Kiruna offers more than just breathtaking northern lights and Arctic landscapes; it also boasts some truly memorable dining experiences that showcase local flavors and culture in unforgettable ways. One standout is the Snowmobile Aurora Expedition with dinner, which combines high-speed adventure with a warm, traditional meal under the stars. This tour is perfect if you love a bit of adrenaline and want to enjoy the Northern Lights in a cozy, authentic setting. We particularly appreciate how the experience includes all winter gear—snow suits and boots—making it accessible for everyone, even first-timers on snowmobiles.
While the aurora chase in Abisko is famous for its clear skies, the Kiruna Northern Lights Tour with Sami BBQ Dinner offers an authentic taste of Sami culture alongside a prime aurora viewing. For travelers looking for a mix of local tradition and scenic comfort, this tour balances delicious reindeer dishes with the chance to learn about the Sami people’s rich heritage. Finally, the Experience the majestic Auroras Kiruna-Abisko & lodge dinner blends scenic drives, a cozy meal, and the hope of catching the lights amid the stunning backdrop of Abisko National Park.
Below, we break down each of these memorable dining options, highlighting what makes each special and who they’re best suited for.
1. Snowmobile Aurora Expedition with dinner
At number 1 on our list, the Snowmobile Aurora Expedition with dinner offers a true mix of adventure and culture. This 5-hour tour takes you into the Arctic wilderness by snowmobile, with the option to drive solo or with a partner. The trip explores forest trails, frozen lakes, and along the Torne River—spotting the Northern Lights as you go. The highlight is the outdoor dinner served around an open fire, featuring a traditional Lappish meal and dessert, which creates a warm and authentic experience after a chilly adventure.
What makes this tour stand out is its comprehensive gear, ensuring you’re comfortable in the cold, and the guide’s knowledge of the best aurora viewing spots. The reviews reflect this, with many praising the friendly guides and the chance to see the Aurora early in the trip. The meal helps to balance out the physical activity, making it ideal if you enjoy active experiences combined with local cuisine. Although the price is listed as $0.00 (likely included in a package), the value lies in the unique combination of adventure, scenery, and cultural tasting.
Bottom line: If you crave a lively Arctic adventure with a cozy dinner, this tour offers fun, flexibility, and a good chance of seeing the lights in a lively setting.
2. Experience the majestic Auroras Kiruna-Abisko & lodge dinner
At number 2, the Experience the majestic Auroras Kiruna-Abisko & lodge dinner combines scenic driving, cultural insights, and a delicious two-course meal. Over approximately 5 hours, you’ll travel from Kiruna toward the stunning Abisko National Park, renowned for its clear skies and frequent aurora displays. Along the way, you’ll enjoy arctic clothing—down jackets, pants, and warm boots—so you’re prepared for the cold.
The highlight is the aurora chase itself, which takes place on scenic roads with stops at promising spots for viewing the lights. Afterward, you’ll sit down for a meal inspired by Lapland’s flavors in a cozy lodge setting. One guest noted that the food was delicious, and the guide’s assistance in capturing photos made the experience memorable. This tour is especially suitable for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic experience with a good chance of seeing the auroras without the physical exertion of snowmobiling.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a mix of scenic drive, cultural storytelling, and a warm meal with reliable aurora viewing.
3. Kiruna: Northern Lights Tour with Sami BBQ Dinner
Next on our list is the Kiruna: Northern Lights Tour with Sami BBQ Dinner. At just four hours, it offers a focused experience blending culture with aurora hunting. This tour features a traditional Sami dish called ‘souvas,’ reindeer meat cooked over an open fire—an authentic taste of local Lapland cuisine. The tour includes minibus rides to find the best aurora vantage points, with prompt stops once the lights appear, ensuring plenty of photo opportunities.
What makes this experience stand out is its emphasis on cultural stories about the Sami people, making it ideal for travelers interested in indigenous traditions. The reviews highlight the delicious reindeer dish and the warmth of the fire, making this a cozy, culturally rich experience. It’s well-suited for those who want to combine traditional food with a focused aurora hunt in a manageable timeframe.
Bottom line: A great pick for travelers eager for authentic Sami food and a culturally enriching way to see the northern lights.
4. Kiruna: Abisko Northern Lights Tour with Dinner
Finally, the Kiruna: Abisko Northern Lights Tour with Dinner is an easy way to combine nature, culture, and good food. This 5.5-hour trip takes you to Abisko, about 1.5 hours from Kiruna, known for its favorable aurora conditions. The tour includes dinner, insights into Sami culture, and the opportunity to photograph the dancing aurora borealis with your guide’s help. The option to chase the lights en route back adds an element of excitement.
This tour is especially suited for travelers who want an all-in-one experience with scenic and cultural highlights. One review noted that the guide Erika was knowledgeable and friendly, and the food in Abisko was “very good.” It’s a flexible option for those who prefer a planned trip that combines cultural stories, good meals, and the chance of seeing the auroras in a scenic setting.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who want a comprehensive, scenic, and culturally immersive tour with reliable aurora sightings.
How to Choose the Right Dining Experience in Kiruna
Choosing between these tours depends on your priorities. If you crave active adventure paired with a hearty meal, the Snowmobile Aurora Expedition is your best choice. For those who prefer scenic drives, good food, and a relaxed pace, the Auroras Kiruna-Abisko & lodge dinner offers a scenic, cultural experience. If indigenous culture interests you alongside your viewing, the Sami BBQ tour is ideal. Lastly, for a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and comfort, the Abisko Northern Lights Tour provides excellent value.
Consider your budget, physical activity level, and interest in local traditions when selecting. Booking early is recommended during peak winter season, as these tours fill quickly, especially the highly-rated options with limited availability.
To sum it up, Kiruna’s dining experiences reflect the region’s rugged beauty and cultural richness. Whether you want the thrill of snowmobiling, the serenity of scenic drives, or the warmth of Sami cuisine, there’s a perfect option waiting. For the best chance to enjoy the northern lights and local flavors, pick a tour that matches your style and book well in advance. These experiences promise not just a meal, but a genuine taste of Arctic life.