Kiruna: The Amazing Northern Lights – Hunt Tour

Kiruna: The Amazing Northern Lights – Hunt Tour Review

Imagine sitting in a comfortable minivan, winding through snowy landscapes under a pitch-dark sky, your eyes peeled for the swirling, shimmering curtains of the Aurora Borealis. That’s exactly what the Kiruna: The Amazing Northern Lights – Hunt Tour promises—and generally delivers. This 5.5-hour excursion offers a chance to chase one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena, led by a knowledgeable local guide who shares stories, tips, and secrets along the way.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the small group size—limited to just 8 people—which creates an intimate atmosphere perfect for photography, conversation, and catching the elusive lights. A standout feature is the guide’s effort to explore a variety of picturesque spots, increasing your chances of witnessing the Aurora, especially on clear, dark nights. Plus, the cozy touches like warm drinks and biscuits make the experience comfortable even in the cold.

However, a potential consideration is that sightings of the Northern Lights cannot be guaranteed—they depend heavily on weather and solar activity. Travelers should be prepared for some unpredictability, but that’s part of the adventure. This tour is best suited for those who aren’t just after a quick photo but want a genuine, educational, and immersive Arctic experience. If you’re patient, curious, and love the idea of hunting for one of nature’s most fleeting displays, this might be just the tour for you.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants, fostering a more personal and interactive outing.
• Local Expertise: Guides are locals who share stories and insights about the Northern Lights and life in Kiruna.
• Multiple Sightseeing Spots: The tour visits different dark, open areas for optimal Aurora viewing chances.
• Photograph Tips: Guides offer practical advice on capturing the lights, a plus for photography enthusiasts.
• Comfort & Warmth: Includes warm drinks and biscuits, making the cold evenings more pleasant.
• Unpredictable Nature: Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity, so flexibility and patience are key.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Pickup and Transportation

We love how the tour starts with convenient pickup from your Kiruna accommodation, whether you’re staying in the old town or the newer part of the city. The minivan is described as comfortable, which is a relief considering you’ll spend several hours on the road in potentially freezing conditions. This personalized transfer means you won’t have to worry about navigating or dealing with cold outdoor waits, especially after dark.

The Journey and Guides

The real highlight here is the local guide, who is not just a driver but also a storyteller. They share insights into the northern lights—the science behind them and local legends—making the experience more enriching than just a photo opportunity. One reviewer mentioned, “The guide was incredibly knowledgeable and shared local stories that made the trip special,” which adds a personal touch.

The Scenic Spots

The tour’s itinerary focuses on finding the darkest, clearest skies, which is crucial since the Aurora appears most vividly in dark, open areas away from city lights. The guide will select several spots, giving you the opportunity to see different perspectives and enjoy the snow-covered landscapes. This variety also helps in case the weather isn’t ideal in one location.

How to Maximize Your Chances

Your guide will tell you the best way to photograph the Aurora, which is particularly helpful given how tricky capturing the lights can be. They advise bringing your own camera or mobile—since photography isn’t included—and offer tips for settings and composition. Expect to hear practical advice like adjusting exposure times and keeping your camera steady.

Expect Warmth & Comfort

While the tour runs in the cold Arctic night, it’s well-facilitated with warm drinks and biscuits. Multiple reviews mention how these small touches help keep guests comfortable and enhance the cozy, communal atmosphere of the tour. Pack extra layers if you tend to get cold, but the provided refreshments are definitely appreciated.

The Unpredictability Factor

It’s important to remember: seeing the Northern Lights is never guaranteed. Reviewers note that weather conditions are crucial, and even on clear nights, solar activity must be high enough for visible displays. The good news is that guides do their best to find suitable viewing spots, but travelers should be prepared for a bit of patience and flexibility.

The Itinerary Breakdown

• Pickup at your hotel in Kiruna: This is a definite bonus for convenience, especially after a long travel day or if you prefer not to navigate yourself.
• Travel through the Arctic night: As you journey into the countryside, your guide will share stories about the Northern Lights and local life—adding depth to your experience.
• Multiple scenic stops: The guide aims to find the best dark skies, possibly taking you to several spots to maximize your chances.
• Photo tips & local insights: Guides will give you practical advice on capturing the Aurora, which is invaluable given how fleeting and unpredictable these lights are.
• Return to Kiruna: After several hours of chasing, you’ll head back with potential photos and memories.

Highlights of the Experience

• The small group setting means you get personal attention, and the guide can tailor tips for your photography skills.
• The local guide’s stories enrich the experience with cultural context, making the Aurora more meaningful.
• The countryside scenery offers the quintessential Arctic landscape—snowy fields, dark forests, and sometimes, curious wildlife.
• The warm drinks and biscuits are perfect for warming up after waiting outside in the cold.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and curious travelers eager to learn about the Northern Lights from local experts. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy small-group tours, appreciate storytelling, and don’t mind some waiting in the cold—because, let’s face it, patience is part of the Aurora hunt.

However, it’s not ideal for children under 12 or anyone with mobility issues, as the activity involves outdoor viewing in chilly conditions. Also, if you’re after guaranteed sightings or traveling with pets, this may not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

The Kiruna Northern Lights Hunt Tour offers a balanced mix of comfort, education, and adventure. While nature’s whims prevent a 100% guarantee of seeing the Aurora, the focus on multiple viewing spots, expert local guides, and practical tips make it a worthwhile experience for most travelers. The small group size and cozy touches like warm drinks create a welcoming atmosphere that feels more like a Northern Lights expedition with friends than a typical tour.

If you’re in Kiruna during winter and eager to chase the Aurora, this tour provides a solid, well-rounded chance to witness one of nature’s most breathtaking displays. It’s especially valuable for those who seek more than just a photo—they want stories, scenic views, and a genuine Arctic adventure.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
You’ll get a professional local guide, pickup and drop-off at your Kiruna accommodation, warm drinks, biscuits, and tips for photographing the Northern Lights.

Can I bring my own camera or mobile device?
Yes, you need to bring your own camera or mobile to take photos. The guide provides tips on how to capture the best images.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed to appear?
No, sightings depend on weather and solar activity. The tour maximizes your chances by visiting several dark spots, but no one can control the weather.

How long is the tour, and what is the group size?
The tour lasts approximately 5.5 hours, and groups are limited to 8 participants for a more personal experience.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers—think thermal underwear, insulated jackets, hats, gloves, and sturdy boots—to stay comfortable during outdoor waiting periods.

Can I book this tour outside Kiruna?
Pickup is included within Kiruna. For locations outside the city, contact the provider for a custom offer.

The Sum Up

The Kiruna: The Amazing Northern Lights – Hunt Tour is a compelling choice for anyone eager to pursue the Aurora Borealis in a comfortable, intimate setting. The combination of local expertise, scenic spots, and cozy extras make it an experience that balances adventure with practicality.

It’s best suited for travelers who are patient, curious about Arctic life, and eager to learn how to photograph the lights. While the unpredictable nature of the Aurora means a full guarantee can’t be promised, the thoughtful planning and small-group approach give you a genuine shot at witnessing this natural wonder. If you’re in Kiruna and want a meaningful, well-organized Northern Lights outing, this tour ticks many boxes.

Ready to chase the Northern Lights with a knowledgeable guide and a small group? This tour offers a genuine Arctic adventure for those who want to go beyond just a quick snapshot and truly experience the magic of the Arctic night.