Abisko has a reputation among aurora hunters that no other place in Swedish Lapland matches. The village sits beside the large lake Torneträsk, with mountains to the north and west, and the shape of the land creates a patch of unusually clear sky that locals call the blue hole. On many nights, cloud over the surrounding region breaks up here, which is why Abisko is a favourite for people who want the best odds of seeing the lights. This tour takes you there from Kiruna, roughly a ninety minute drive each way, and builds in a dinner so that the long evening is relaxed rather than rushed. After a meal, the group heads outside, or up to a viewing point if the plan includes one, to watch the sky. Because the trip goes beyond the local area, it works best for people who accept that the evening will be long, and who prefer the extra chance of clear sky to a shorter outing close to town. In the quiet of the national park, away from any light, the aurora can seem to fill the entire horizon.
How it works
The tour leaves Kiruna in the afternoon or early evening, travels west through the mountain landscape, and reaches Abisko in time for dinner. After the meal the group looks for the aurora, using the national park area or a nearby viewpoint, and then returns to Kiruna late at night. The guide keeps an eye on cloud and activity, and decides the best moment to step outside.
What to know
This is a long day, so expect to get home close to or after midnight. The road passes through remote country, and winter driving conditions can slow the return. Dress warmly, since the temperature in the mountains can be lower than in town, and bring a thermos or snacks for the ride. Children with a strong interest in the sky may enjoy it, but check the age limits and the length before you book.
The setting
Abisko National Park is one of Sweden's best-known protected areas, with a dry climate and a distinct landscape of birch forest, lakes and mountain slopes. The village has a railway station on the Ore Line between Kiruna and Narvik, and a mountain station for hikers and skiers. In daylight, the area is a hiking and ski destination, while at night it becomes a place to watch the sky.
Pairing
This tour pairs well with a day of rest, because the late return and long drive can leave you tired. If you want more time in the area, consider an Abisko day trip or an overnight stay at one of the hotels in the village.
Planning tips
The combination of a long drive and a late night makes this a trip to plan around. Eat a light snack before pickup, wear loose, warm layers for the vehicle, and use the journey west to rest. If you are prone to motion sickness on winding roads, sit near the front and bring a remedy. The dinner stop is also a chance to warm up and charge your phone, so take a power bank anyway.
For many visitors this evening is the one that justifies the whole trip, so build a spare night into your schedule in case the sky is cloudy in the mountains too. The extra distance is the price of Abisko's reputation, and on a good night it is easily repaid.
What to expect
The experience
A guided evening trip from Kiruna to Abisko with dinner and a search for the aurora under the clear sky of the national park area.
Best time
Dark, clear nights from late August to early April.
How long
Seven to nine hours including the drive.
Tips
Eat well, dress for deep cold and plan a slow morning afterwards.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Aurora hunters who want one of the clearest skies in Sweden.
- Families
- Best for older children and teens because the day is long.
- Couples
- A dinner, a mountain setting and a sky full of light make a strong evening.
- Pair with
- A rest day or a relaxed city tour in Kiruna.
- Time needed
- A full evening, returning around midnight or later.
Good questions
Why is Abisko good for the aurora?+
The mountains and the large lake create a patch of often clear sky that locals call the blue hole, so cloud is less likely than in many nearby places.
How far is Abisko from Kiruna?+
About 100 kilometres west, roughly a ninety minute drive under normal conditions.
Is dinner included?+
Yes, the tour is built around a dinner, but check the menu and dietary options when you book.
Will we definitely see the lights?+
No. The aurora depends on solar activity and clear sky, and neither can be guaranteed.
Can I stay overnight in Abisko instead?+
Yes. Staying in the village avoids the long drive back, and there are several places to stay in and near Abisko.