Chasing the Sky: A Night with the Northern Lights from Kiruna
A guided night chase from Kiruna to Abisko—photographers on hand, campfire warmth, and a flexible drive to clear skies.
The bus smells of warm wool and reheated coffee as it pulls away from Kiruna’s small, iron-streaked streets. Headlights cut through a sky the color of spent charcoal; above, stars prickle the black like stitches. The guide checks the weather models one more time and, with a grin that feels like permission, says we’re going to Abisko—or if the clouds beat us there, farther still. The plan for the evening is simple and impatient: drive where the sky is clear, build a fire, and wait until the aurora decides to dance.
Trail Wisdom
Dress in layers
Temperatures can plunge fast—base layers, insulating mid-layer, and a windproof shell help you stay comfortable through long waits.
Bring a tripod and spare batteries
Cold drains camera batteries quickly; a sturdy tripod lets you shoot long exposures without blur.
Keep feet warm and dry
Insulated, waterproof boots and wool socks reduce the risk of hypothermia and let you stay outside longer.
Listen to your guide
They read local weather patterns and pick spots based on microclimates and access—follow their directions for safety and better viewing.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Drive to Abisko national park viewpoints away from lights for clearer skies
- •Visit the Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi for daytime architecture and Sámi workshops
Wildlife
Reindeer (often near roads at dusk), Ptarmigan and other tundra birds
Conservation Note
Light pollution is low here; follow leave-no-trace practices, avoid disturbing reindeer herds, and support local guides who minimize environmental impact.
Kiruna grew around a major iron-ore mine; Sámi culture and nomadic reindeer herding have shaped the region for centuries, and guides often share both ancient stories and modern mining history.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Late-season aurora, Milder temperatures, Longer twilight for mixed light photos
Challenges: Unpredictable thaw, Variable road conditions
March–April can still produce strong aurora displays with slightly warmer nights, but weather becomes less stable as spring progresses.
summer
Best for: Midnight sun experience, Hiking and lakeside activities
Challenges: No aurora visibility due to continuous daylight, Mosquitoes in some years
June–August offers long daylight hours and no meaningful Northern Lights viewing—plan other activities instead.
fall
Best for: Early aurora season, Crisp nights, Fewer tourists
Challenges: Shorter days and unpredictable weather
September–October brings the start of dark nights and good aurora potential, but clouds and rain can be frequent.
winter
Best for: Peak aurora season, Snow-based activities, Strong night contrasts
Challenges: Extreme cold and shorter windows for clear roads
November–March offers the best odds for vivid auroras and the classic Arctic experience, though you must be prepared for frigid conditions.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Insulated down parkaEssential
Core warmth is essential for long exposures in sub-zero temperatures.
TripodEssential
A sturdy tripod stabilizes long-exposure aurora shots and prevents motion blur.
Wide-angle fast lens (e.g., 14–24mm f/2.8)Essential
A wide, bright lens captures sweeping aurora arcs and foreground context.
Warm boots and wool socksEssential
Insulated, waterproof footwear keeps you standing comfortably through long cold nights.
Common Questions
What is the best time of year to see the Northern Lights near Kiruna?
The dark months from late September through early April offer the best chance, with peak visibility typically between November and March.
Do I need photography experience to join this tour?
No—guides will help set up cameras and take photos for you; basic familiarity helps but isn’t required.
How long is the tour and is hotel pickup included?
The tour runs approximately 4–6 hours and includes pickup from hotels in Kiruna.
What happens to the photos taken by the guide?
Photographers on the tour will take images and send digital copies to guests within about three days of the tour.
Can children join this tour?
Yes, but prepare for long cold waits—ensure children have appropriate cold-weather clothing and consider their tolerance for late-night outings.
Is there a guarantee I’ll see the aurora?
No operator can guarantee sightings, but this tour’s strategy of driving to clear skies significantly improves the odds compared with staying in one spot.
What to Pack
Down parka, tripod, spare camera batteries, insulated waterproof boots—warmth and stable camera setup matter most.
Did You Know
Kiruna is being relocated because of ground subsidence from the town’s iron ore mine, a rare modern instance of moving an entire community.
Quick Travel Tips
Fly into Kiruna Airport (KRN); book multiple nights to increase aurora odds; keep phone battery warm; carry cash for small remote purchases.
Local Flavor
After the tour, warm up with reindeer stew or fried char at a local tavern in Kiruna, or take a short drive to Jukkasjärvi for the Icehotel and Sámi cultural experiences; local breweries and cafés in Kiruna offer hearty fare and a chance to swap night-sky stories with other travelers.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Kiruna Airport (KRN). Typical drive to Abisko: ~90 km / 1–1.5 hours. Pickup: hotel pickup in Kiruna included. Cell service: generally good near towns, intermittent in remote viewing spots. Permits: none required for guided tours.
Sustainability Note
This region is sensitive—stay on established roads, pack out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife and reindeer herds, and choose guides who practice low-impact operations.