Abisko: Aurora Chasing with Snowmobiles

Abisko: Aurora Chasing with Snowmobiles – A Complete Review

If you’re on the hunt for an unforgettable Arctic adventure, the Abisko Aurora Chasing with Snowmobiles tour makes for an exciting option. Priced at around $99 per person, this three-hour journey offers a mix of adrenaline, stunning scenery, and the chance to glimpse the Northern Lights in one of Sweden’s most famous natural spots. While it’s a popular choice among travelers, it’s important to understand what makes it special—and what to consider before booking.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the combination of adventure and nature. Snowmobiling not only offers a sense of freedom and thrill, but it puts you right into the heart of the winter wilderness. Plus, the opportunity to see the Aurora Borealis in a dark, outdoor setting, away from city lights, is hard to beat. However, since weather conditions heavily influence Aurora visibility, patience might be needed if the lights decide to stay elusive.

This tour is best suited for those who love outdoor activities, are comfortable in cold weather, and want a more active, hands-on experience rather than just viewing from a distance. It’s perfect for couples, groups of friends, or even solo travelers eager for an authentic Arctic adventure. Keep in mind, it requires a valid EU driver’s license to operate a snowmobile, so some prior driving experience is necessary.

Key Points

• Scenic and Authentic: Offers a genuine snowmobiling experience through stunning landscapes and national parks.
• Flexible Stops: Multiple opportunities to pause, photograph, and wait for the Aurora.
• Inclusive Gear: Warm clothing, helmets, and snacks make it comfortable despite the cold.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Amanda and Fabio are praised for their friendliness and expertise.
• Weather-Dependent: Aurora sightings depend on weather conditions; patience and flexibility are key.
• Age Restrictions: Drivers must be 18+ with a valid driver’s license; children can ride in sleds with adults.

What to Expect from the Snowmobile Aurora Chase

The tour begins with a meeting at one of two possible starting points, either at Kalle Jons väg 5 or a designated experience location in Abisko. Once gathered, you’ll receive a safety briefing and instructions on how to operate your snowmobile if you choose to drive. Guides like Amanda or Fabio lead the group, sharing interesting facts about the area, and making sure everyone feels comfortable.

The Ride Through the Abisko Valley and Beyond

Expect a journey along the Abisko valley, skirting the edge of the national park. The guides aim to take you away from the village’s light pollution, into more remote and scenic spots. Depending on conditions, the route might take you up the mountains, offering panoramic views and a better chance of escaping fog or clouds, or across Torne Träsk Lake, a vast frozen expanse that appears almost surreal under the Arctic sky.

From the reviews, we learn guides like Fabio are not just safety-conscious but also enthusiastic—sharing local insights and making everyone feel at ease. Martina, in her review, mentioned how her guide explained the operation of the snowmobile patiently and made sure she was comfortable before heading out. That kind of attentive guidance enhances the overall experience, especially for first-timers.

Multiple Stops for Aurora Viewing and Photos

The tour includes several pauses, where the guides may stop in front of particularly scenic vistas or promising Aurora viewing spots. These moments are ideal for taking pictures, soaking in the landscape, or just waiting quietly for the Northern Lights to appear. The guides’ local knowledge and experience in reading weather and Aurora forecasts can greatly improve your chances of catching the lights, even when conditions aren’t perfect.

Yuhsuan’s glowing comment — “chasing aurora with snowmobiles is super cool” — captures the thrill of the ride itself. The movement across sweeping landscapes, combined with the possibility of a celestial show, makes for a memorable mix of adrenaline and awe.

Snowmobiling Experience and Safety

Participants can choose to drive their own snowmobile, share with a friend, or take a ride in the sled behind the guide. The tour includes all necessary gear: snowsuits, boots, hats, helmets, and gloves, so packing extra warm clothing isn’t necessary. However, dressing warmly is a must, given the outdoor Arctic temperatures.

For drivers, a valid driver’s license from the EU is required, and they should arrive 30 minutes early to receive instructions. This ensures everyone is familiar with the snowmobile controls and safety procedures.

The Value of the Experience

At $99, the tour offers solid value for a 3-hour adventure filled with scenic driving, wildlife and landscape insights, and the chance to see the Aurora in a prime location. The inclusion of warm gear, snacks, and drinks adds to the convenience, making it accessible even for travelers who didn’t pack appropriately for cold weather.

While weather and Aurora activity can be unpredictable, the guides’ local knowledge helps maximize the chances of a sighting. The reviews reflect this, with many travelers praising the guides’ friendliness, helpfulness, and expertise. Simon called the conditions “perfect” for viewing the Aurora, which highlights how weather plays a vital role in the success of such tours.

Practical Details to Keep in Mind

• The tour duration is about 3 hours, but check the specific starting times available during booking.
• Group size likely varies but expect a small, intimate group led by a knowledgeable guide.
• The tour is suitable for those without mobility issues, but not for wheelchair users or unaccompanied minors.
• Cancelation is flexible, with a full refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This snowmobile Aurora chase is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to combine outdoor action with the magic of the Northern Lights. It’s perfect for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers who want to experience the Arctic in a fun and active way. If you prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding Aurora viewing experience, this might not be the best fit.

The tour also suits those who love scenic drives and winter landscapes, as well as anyone wanting to learn more about the area from guides like Amanda or Fabio, who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. Keep in mind that weather conditions can influence the success of Aurora sightings, so patience and a flexible mindset are essential.

Final Thoughts

The Abisko Aurora Chasing with Snowmobiles offers a unique blend of adventure, stunning scenery, and the potential for a breathtaking Aurora display. With attentive guides, inclusive gear, and multiple scenic stops, it provides a well-rounded Arctic experience. While the weather’s fickle nature means Aurora sightings aren’t guaranteed, the journey itself—the thrill of snowmobiling through pristine landscapes—is worth the price.

This experience is especially valuable for those who want a more active, authentic Arctic adventure. It’s a great way to see the natural beauty of Abisko, learn about the area from knowledgeable guides, and hopefully, witness one of nature’s most spectacular light shows.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a guide, snowmobile, warm drinks, a light snack, warm clothing (snowsuits, boots, hats, gloves), helmets, and driving instructions.

Can I drive the snowmobile?
Yes, if you are 18 or older and have a valid EU driver’s license, you can drive your own snowmobile. You will need to arrive 30 minutes early for instructions.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly with thermal clothing and socks. The tour provides snowsuits, but layering is advised for comfort in cold weather.

Are children allowed?
Children can ride in the sled behind the guide, but must be accompanied by at least one adult. Drivers must be 18+.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts approximately 3 hours, with the actual snowmobiling ride being around 2.5 hours, plus safety briefing and stops.

Where does the tour start and end?
Start points vary between Kalle Jons väg 5 and other experience locations in Abisko. It finishes back at the original meeting point.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, this activity is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What if the Northern Lights don’t appear?
While guides do their best to choose optimal spots, Aurora activity depends on weather and solar conditions. The experience itself—scenic snowmobiling and outdoor adventure—is still rewarding.

Final Words

If you’re craving a hands-on Arctic experience with the thrill of snowmobiling and the hope of catching the Northern Lights, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s well-suited for energetic travelers who value authentic outdoor fun and appreciate the expertise of guides who know the area well. Just pack your warmth, bring patience, and get ready for a memorable winter adventure in Sweden’s stunning north.