If you’ve ever dreamed about witnessing the northern lights dancing across a winter sky, this guided Aurora chase in Abisko might just be your best shot. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it offers an authentic, comfortable, and memorable experience. The combination of expert guides, strategic locations, and cozy touches aims to make your Aurora hunt both successful and enjoyable.
What we love about this tour is the personalized approach guided by local weather and Aurora forecasts, the small-group intimacy for a more engaging experience, and the spectacular scenery—including lakes and rivers that reflect the lights. An additional bonus is the warm drinks and fire pits, adding a lovely touch of comfort on cold winter nights.
One thing to consider is that weather conditions can vary, and sometimes the sky may remain cloudy despite the best efforts of guides, which could limit Aurora visibility. Still, the tour’s flexibility and expert decision-making seem designed to maximize your chances whenever possible.
This experience suits adventurous travelers, Aurora enthusiasts, or anyone interested in a guided, worry-free chase for the northern lights. If you’re looking for a combination of education, comfort, and adventure in a stunning natural setting, this tour is worth considering.
Key Points
- Expert guidance ensures you visit the best locations based on real-time weather and aurora activity.
- Cozy amenities like warm drinks, fire pits, and marshmallows keep you comfortable during cold nights.
- Flexible round-trip distances up to 100 km allow for strategic location stops.
- Small groups and personalized attention enhance the experience.
- Spectacular scenery with lakes and rivers reflecting the Aurora make for stunning photos.
- Affordable price point at $107 per person offers good value considering transport, guides, and amenities.
What’s Included and What’s Not
This tour covers the essentials for a successful Aurora hunt. Your guide, transportation, pickup and drop-off, and hot drinks are included. It’s a straightforward package designed to keep things simple and stress-free.
However, you’ll need to bring warm clothing yourself — essential for braving the cold winter night. Cameras and photography gear aren’t included, so if capturing the lights is your priority, pack your tripod and camera settings in advance.
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The Itinerary: What to Expect
Once you’re picked up from your hotel in Abisko, the adventure begins. The guide will review current weather conditions, Aurora forecasts, and local insights to choose the best spot for viewing that night. This careful planning is what makes the tour stand out: instead of sticking to a fixed route, guides adapt based on real-time info, increasing your chance to see the lights.
The locations visited are often on lakes and rivers, which add a magical element — the Aurora reflected in the ice and water can create unforgettable photo opportunities. Several reviews mention these scenic spots, with guides like Joey and Sophia praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm. Joey’s photography skills are frequently highlighted; she’s known for capturing stunning images and giving tips on how to photograph the lights yourself.
The journey lasts around a few hours, typically covering up to 100 km round-trip, which strikes a good balance between exploration and not feeling too long or tiring. Be prepared for some waiting, as Aurora sightings depend heavily on natural conditions, but the guides do their best to keep spirits high with stories, hot drinks, and sometimes marshmallows over a fire.
The Guides and Experience Quality
Reviewers consistently praise the guides, especially mentioning Joey and Sophia, for their enthusiasm, patience, and expertise. Many travelers noted how guides went above and beyond—helping with camera settings, lighting fires, and even sharing stories from their backgrounds.
One reviewer described Joey as an “amazing photographer” who knows exactly where to find the best views, making the night both educational and enjoyable. Even when the Aurora was faint or clouds obscured the sky, guides kept the mood positive, showing flexibility and professionalism.
A recurring theme is the personalized care and effort from guides and drivers, with some traveling to different locations or even outside Abisko to escape clouds. This level of service significantly enhances the overall experience, turning what could be a simple hunt into a memorable adventure.
The Experience on the Night
Expect to start with pickup from your hotel, followed by a brief briefing before heading out. The guides will share facts about the Aurora, local folklore, and the history of Abisko National Park. The stops are carefully chosen, often on frozen lakes or along rivers, where the reflection of the lights can make for spectacular photos.
Throughout the evening, you’ll likely enjoy warm lingonberry juice, gingerbread cookies, and marshmallows, which make waiting more pleasant. Some reviews mention guides lighting fires to keep everyone warm and comfortable, adding a cozy touch to the chilly night.
The actual Aurora activity varies — some nights deliver a vibrant green show, while others see faint or partial displays. As one reviewer said, “no one can control Mother Nature,” but the guides’ efforts are evident in their dedication to finding clear skies and high Aurora activity.
More Great Tours NearbyTransportation and Group Size
The tour provides hotel transfers, removing the hassle of figuring out logistics in a cold, unfamiliar area. The transportation seems reliable, with reviews praising the driver’s friendly attitude and skillful navigation to find the best spots.
Group sizes tend to be small, making it easier to chat with your guide and get personalized tips or photos. The maximum travel distance of 100 km allows for strategic stops, but it also means you’re not stuck in one place the entire night — a good balance for those who want a bit of variety.
Price and Value
At $107 per person, this Aurora chase offers a reasonable price considering the inclusions—transport, guiding, and warm drinks—and the expertise involved. Many reviews mention that guides like Joey and Sophia are genuinely dedicated, often going out of their way to ensure guests see the Aurora, even traveling to different locations or staying longer if needed.
Given the natural unpredictability of the lights, paying for a guided tour with experienced staff maximizes your odds of success. Plus, the added comfort of hotel transfers and the ability to relax in cozy surroundings make this a hassle-free option that balances cost and quality well.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Book?
This tour is perfect for those who value expert guidance and local knowledge to improve their chances of witnessing the Aurora. It also suits travelers who appreciate comfort, with hotel pickup and return, and enjoy a warm drink and a fire during their night out.
If you’re an adventurer at heart but prefer a organized, reliable experience, this tour offers a solid option. It’s particularly good for photographers, given the guide’s experience and willingness to help with camera settings.
However, if you’re traveling with very young children or are very sensitive to cold, be sure to bring appropriate gear, as the tour requires warm clothing and isn’t suitable for children under 5.
For those seeking a relaxed, flexible, and well-guided Aurora adventure in one of Europe’s top Northern Lights locations, this tour hits the mark. It combines the natural wonder of the lights with professional expertise and cozy comforts, making it an experience to remember.
FAQs
How long does the Aurora chase last?
Typically a few hours, covering a maximum of 100 km round-trip, allowing ample time to find good viewing spots and enjoy the scenery.
Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are provided, making it convenient and stress-free.
What should I bring?
Warm clothing is essential to stay comfortable in the cold winter night.
Can I see the Aurora from the same spot all night?
No, guides will adapt and visit different locations based on weather and Aurora forecasts to maximize your chances.
Are hot drinks served during the tour?
Yes, hot drinks like lingonberry juice and gingerbread cookies are included, along with marshmallows near the fire.
What happens if the weather is cloudy?
Guides will do their best to find clear skies or travel outside Abisko to locations with better visibility, but Aurora sightings can’t be guaranteed.
Is camera equipment included?
No, but guides are happy to assist with camera settings and photography tips.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 5 years old; check local restrictions and suitability based on your child’s cold tolerance.
What language is spoken?
The tour is conducted in English.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
To sum it up, the Abisko Guided Aurora Chase offers a practical, well-organized, and memorable way to seek out the northern lights in Sweden. With knowledgeable guides, cozy amenities, and flexible locations, this experience balances adventure with comfort — ideal for travelers eager for a high-quality Aurora hunt without the hassle. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate expert insight, stunning scenery, and the chance to capture incredible photos of one of nature’s most breathtaking displays.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in Abisko
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