Björkliden/Abisko: Night Sky Snowmobile Tour

Imagine zooming across snowy landscapes beneath a canopy of stars, heading towards a prime vantage point in the Swedish Arctic to catch the elusive Northern Lights. That’s exactly what this Night Sky Snowmobile Tour offers—an exhilarating adventure paired with expert guidance and the chance to witness nature’s most spectacular light show. Operated by Outback Abisko AB, the tour is designed to blend adrenaline with awe, providing a memorable experience in one of the world’s best locations for aurora viewing.

What we love most about this tour is the opportunity to drive your own snowmobile through pristine, snow-covered scenery while being guided by a knowledgeable local. The stop at a mountain viewpoint, where conditions are perfect for aurora displays, is a highlight. However, it’s worth noting that the experience requires a valid driver’s license and is best suited for those comfortable with outdoor winter activities. Perfect for adventure-seekers and nature lovers alike, this tour delivers a balance of fun and discovery.

One potential consideration is the weather-dependent nature of aurora viewing; despite the expertly chosen location, seeing the Northern Lights isn’t guaranteed every night. Still, the tour’s combination of driving, storytelling, and hot drinks creates an authentic Arctic experience that’s well worth the price of $198 per person. If you’re in the Abisko or Björkliden area and want a memorable Arctic adventure—this snowmobile tour might just be your best bet.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic experience with snowmobiling through snowy landscapes
• Expert guides who share insight and aurora viewing tips
• Includes gear and warm clothing, making winter comfort easier to manage
• Flexible options including pickup and drop-off from key locations
• Great for adventure lovers who want a mix of thrill and cultural storytelling
• Weather-dependent so Aurora sightings aren’t guaranteed but the experience remains special

You can check availability for your dates here:

What this Tour Offers

This 2.5-hour evening adventure combines the excitement of snowmobiling with the magic of potential Aurora Borealis sightings. Starting with a safety briefing and instructions, you’ll pair up with a friend or partner to drive a shared snowmobile—two riders per machine—across snowy terrains under the guidance of a certified guide. The focus isn’t just on speed but on the experience of navigating the winter wilderness with expert support.

The tour is particularly about setting the scene for a Northern Lights display. You’ll ascend to a mountain vantage point where the clear, dark skies provide the best conditions for Aurora viewing. Once parked, you’ll relax by a crackling fire with hot drinks and sweet bread, patiently waiting for the skies to dance with green, purple, and sometimes red lights. The guide, often knowledgeable and engaging, shares stories about the Aurora’s science and folklore, enriching the experience beyond just the visual.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with pickups from six convenient locations, such as Abisko Fjällturer AB, Hotell Fjället, or STF Abisko Turiststation. The drive to Björkliden or Abisko itself takes around 15 minutes, setting the tone for a comfortable Arctic journey. After a brief introduction and safety instructions, you’ll be fitted with warm gear—helmets, gloves, balaclava—and don’t worry, all provided. Having your own driver’s license is required, but if you prefer not to drive, you could ask about private snowmobiles, available as an upgrade.

Once on the snowmobile trail, the ride itself is an incredible way to experience the Arctic landscape. Ravenous snow-covered forests, silent mountain slopes, and the crisp, cold air make it a sensory delight. Reviewer Ayan was particularly appreciative of the “hand warmers built into the snowmobiles,” which made the cold much more manageable.

The highlight of the tour is reaching the mountain viewing point, where the conditions are optimal for Aurora viewing. Here, you’ll stop to take pictures of the vast starry sky, enjoy hot drinks like lingonberry juice, and snack on cookies. The setting is cozy, with a fire crackling nearby, creating a true Arctic lodge feel—a perfect contrast to the icy outdoors.

Authentic Guidance and Local Knowledge

A standout aspect, according to reviews, is the expert guidance. Guides like Sören have been praised for their friendly, knowledgeable approach, sharing stories of the Aurora’s myths and helping visitors understand the science behind the breathtaking displays. Their tips on aurora prediction and best viewing spots are genuinely helpful, especially if you plan to continue your Northern Lights hunt after the tour.

Price and Value

The $198 per person cost covers a lot: shared snowmobile, all necessary gear, pickup and drop-off, and snacks. With small group sizes (limited to 8 participants), this tour offers a personal, intimate experience. For those who love adventure and are seeking something beyond typical sightseeing, the value is excellent—especially considering the included safety gear and guidance.

However, upgrades to private snowmobiles are available if you want more control or a quieter ride. Keep in mind that the tour is only available from December to March, coinciding with peak aurora season. The tour might not guarantee sighting of the Northern Lights, as they depend on weather and solar activity, but the experience itself is rewarding regardless.

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The Experience in Detail

Transport and Group Size

Your day begins with a pickup from your accommodation or designated meeting point. The van ride to Björkliden or Abisko is short but scenic, setting the mood for Arctic adventure. The group size is capped at 8, ensuring everyone gets attention from the guide and a more personal experience.

Snowmobile Ride

Once all gear is fitted, you’ll start the ride through snow-blanketed forests and across open mountain slopes. The snowmobiles, equipped with hand warmers, make the cold manageable even for those less accustomed to winter conditions. Reviews highlight that the gear provided is high quality—some guests even preferred the provided boots over their own.

Mountain Stop and Aurora Watching

At the mountain vantage point, you’ll park the snowmobiles and settle by the fire. The guide, often a local with a passion for aurora lore, shares stories and tips about maximizing your chances of seeing the Aurora. You’ll learn about the best ways to photograph the lights and interpret their dancing patterns, making this part both educational and awe-inspiring.

Post-Tour Tips

Once back in Abisko or Björkliden, your guide is usually happy to offer suggestions for further aurora viewing or other Arctic activities. The tour’s flexibility allows you to continue your hunt for the Northern Lights independently, which many reviewers find to be a great bonus.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Ayan’s experience emphasizes how gear makes a difference, noting that the provided gear, especially gloves with hand warmers, was better than what she brought herself. She also loved the mid-tour break—”drinking lingonberry juice and eating cookies”—which gave a cozy, homey feel to the cold night.

Sören mentions the “dark, quiet mountain area” where the auroras displayed vividly, calling it “one of his favorite activities.” Conversely, Irene’s review reminds us that delays or weather issues can impact the experience—highlighting the importance of planning with flexibility if you have tight travel schedules.

Final Thoughts

This snowmobile tour from Abisko and Björkliden offers a perfect blend of adventure, education, and cultural storytelling. It’s ideal for travelers who crave a bit of adrenaline, want to learn about the Aurora from local guides, and are prepared for cold outdoor conditions. The small group size and inclusion of gear, snacks, and transportation mean you can focus on enjoying the Arctic night rather than worrying about logistics.

While there’s no guarantee of seeing the Northern Lights (which is true for any aurora tour), the scenic ride, expert guidance, and authentic Arctic setting make this experience worth considering. It’s a great way to create lasting memories and gain a deeper appreciation for this extraordinary part of the world.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This tour is a fantastic option if you’re seeking an active, fun-filled Arctic adventure that combines the thrill of snowmobiling with the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights. It’s perfect for adventure lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those interested in learning about local folklore. Keep in mind that a valid driver’s license is required, and it’s not suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, or anyone with heart problems. If you’re comfortable with cold weather and outdoor activities, this experience can be an unforgettable highlight of your trip to northern Sweden.

FAQ

Do I need a driver’s license to join this tour?
Yes, a valid driver’s license is required since you’ll be driving your own snowmobile. If you prefer not to drive, you can inquire about private snowmobiles as an upgrade.

What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license, warm clothing, and water. All necessary gear like helmets, gloves, and a balaclava are provided, making it easier to stay warm and safe.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5 years old. Only one child aged 5-15 can accompany an adult, and they typically can’t drive the snowmobile.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
While the tour is set at a prime viewing location during peak aurora season, sightings depend on weather and solar activity. The guide offers tips to improve your chances, but a sighting isn’t guaranteed.

What if I don’t want to drive?
You can ask about the possibility of a private snowmobile, which may be available as an upgrade. Alternatively, some guides may allow passengers if they’re not driving.

What are the cancellation policies?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

This Björkliden/Abisko Night Sky Snowmobile Tour offers a compelling mix of adventure, scenery, and culture. Whether you’re looking to tick off a bucket list activity or simply want a memorable Arctic experience, it’s an excursion that’s well worth considering for your time in northern Sweden.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby