From Narvik: The Northern Lights Arctic Train Guided Tour

Travelers dreaming of witnessing the Northern Lights often think of chasing them by car or boat, but Norway offers a uniquely charming way: hopping aboard the Northern Lights Arctic Train. This guided tour combines scenic rail travel, remote Arctic stops, and the chance to see the aurora borealis away from light pollution—all wrapped in a cozy, well-organized package. With a decent overall rating of 3.9 out of 5 from 58 reviews, this experience seems to strike a good balance of adventure, comfort, and authenticity.

What we love most about this tour is how it offers a chance to explore the Arctic landscape with expert guidance, alongside moments to relax by a campfire and soak up the atmosphere. The chance to visit historic stations like Bjørnfjell and Katterat adds cultural depth, not just a sightseeing rollercoaster. However, the experience’s reliance on weather and aurora activity means that there’s some element of luck involved—if the skies stay cloudy, the lights might stay hidden. Still, if you’re looking for a cozier, scenic, and well-guided Northern Lights outing from Narvik, this tour is designed to be accessible and enjoyable.

Ideal for those eager to combine a scenic train ride with the thrill of Aurora borealis hunting, this experience is best suited for travelers who don’t mind bundled-up evenings and small-group adventures. It’s also perfect if you’ve got a keen interest in Arctic scenery, history, and photography.

Key Points

• Scenic Route: Travel along Norway’s historic Ofoten railway, away from city lights, increasing your chances to see the Northern Lights.
• Authentic Stops: Visit remote stations like Bjørnfjell and Katterat, adding cultural and photographic value.
• Cozy Atmosphere: Enjoy warming snacks, drinks, and a campfire while waiting for the aurora to appear.
• Expert Guidance: Guides provide helpful tips and insightful commentary, making the experience informative and engaging.
• Flexibility & Comfort: Roundtrip transportation on a well-decorated train, with the option to stay warm and relaxed.
• Weather Dependence: The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon—cloud cover or poor aurora activity can affect visibility.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Booking and Pricing

At $142 per person, this tour packs a lot of value into a three-hour window. It includes roundtrip train tickets, snacks, hot beverages, a campfire experience, and guidance—factors that make it a solid choice for travelers wanting a hassle-free Arctic adventure. Keep in mind, thermal suits aren’t included, so bundling up in weather-appropriate gear is essential, especially since temperatures can drop significantly at night.

Booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, which adds a layer of peace of mind for spontaneous travelers or those with uncertain weather forecasts.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The journey begins at Narvik station, from where the train departs for approximately an hour. The train itself is described as beautifully decorated, with subtle lighting that enhances the scenery without overwhelming it. This thoughtful lighting helps maximize visibility from your seat, a detail appreciated by many reviewers.

The first stop is at Bjørnfjell, a border town in Sweden, where you’ll get a brief 15-minute photo opportunity. Here, travelers often comment on the stunning winter landscape, with some noting the deep snow and starry skies creating a magical backdrop—particularly when the aurora dances overhead.

Next, after a quick 10-minute train ride, the group arrives at Katterat station, situated 373 meters above sea level. This is the highlight stop, offering about an hour for exploration, photography, and a guided tour. Here, the experience shifts from train viewing to more of a cultural visit, including an exploration of the old mountain village and a museum at Katterat. Several reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge—Anajolie is frequently praised for her engaging presentation and helpfulness—adding both educational value and entertainment to the evening.

The Campfire & Aurora Watching

After the Katterat stop, it’s back on the train for a 45-minute ride back toward Narvik. The real highlight is what happens at Katterat station, where everyone disembarks into the Arctic night to gather around a campfire. Here, travelers are served pastries and warm drinks, creating a cozy, communal atmosphere. This part of the tour is praised for its warmth and friendliness, with many reviewers mentioning the expertise of guides who help with photography tips and share interesting facts about the Northern Lights.

Multiple descriptions mention the guides’ enthusiasm and helpfulness. One reviewer appreciated their assistance: “The guides were enthusiastic and helpful, giving interesting information, taking photos, and keeping good fires going as we toasted marshmallows.” This element makes the experience more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a shared Arctic adventure.

The Spectacle

While the Northern Lights can’t be guaranteed, the reviews reflect that the guides’ efforts—combined with the remote, dark Arctic location—offer a better-than-average chance to see the aurora. One traveler described their experience as “speechless,” having witnessed the dancing lights after nearly giving up on the forecast. Others, even without seeing the lights, enjoyed the overall environment, the starry skies, and the storytelling.

Final Return and Reflection

After spending time around the fire, you’ll reboard the train for the return trip to Narvik. Most reviews mention arriving back with memories, photos, and a newfound appreciation for the Arctic environment. The experience is designed to be both fun and educational, with opportunities to learn about the area’s history, geology, and local culture.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Dress warmly: Layers, hats, scarves, socks, thermal clothing, and a tripod for photography are highly recommended.
• Camera readiness: The guides offer photo tips, but bringing a tripod will help capture the lights if they appear.
• Weather watch: Cloud cover can spoil the sky-viewing—be prepared for the possibility that you might not see the aurora.
• Group size: While not specified, reviews suggest this is a small-group experience, fostering intimacy and personalized attention.
• Duration: The tour lasts approximately three hours, making it a manageable evening activity that fits well into a larger Northern Norway itinerary.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour appeals most to travelers who want an authentic Arctic experience with a mix of scenic train travel and cultural stops. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy guided excursions where expert storytelling enhances the experience. If you’re a photographer or Aurora enthusiast, the stops and guidance can help improve your chances of capturing that elusive green glow. It’s also a good pick for anyone wanting a cozy, small-group adventure with the comfort of train travel and campfire warmth.

However, those with mobility issues or traveling with very young children may need to consider the physical aspects—standing outside in winter conditions isn’t suitable for everyone. Since the tour is weather-dependent, flexibility and patience are advisable.

Final Thoughts

This Northern Lights Arctic Train tour from Narvik offers a thoughtful blend of scenic transportation, cultural stops, and Arctic camaraderie. The guides, notably those praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, add a personal touch that elevates the experience. The inclusion of cozy campfire moments, combined with stunning vistas and historical stops, makes it a well-rounded choice for those eager to experience the Arctic in comfort.

While the chance of seeing the Northern Lights is always subject to weather and solar activity, many travelers walk away with unforgettable memories—whether or not the sky offers a show. For anyone seeking a relaxed yet immersive Arctic adventure, this train journey hits a sweet spot of value, authenticity, and adventure.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The ticket covers roundtrip train travel, snacks, beverages, a campfire experience, and guidance, including photo tips and a documentary about the Northern Lights.

Are thermal suits provided?
No, thermal suits are not included, so travelers should bring weather-appropriate clothing for cold nights.

How long is the train ride?
The train ride lasts about an hour, with scenic stops along the historic Ofoten railway.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
While the tour increases your chances by heading away from city lights, Aurora visibility depends on weather and solar activity.

What stops are part of the itinerary?
Stops include Narvik station, Bjørnfjell (15-minute photo stop), and Katterat station (guided tour and cultural exploration).

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 3 years old. The outdoor, cold conditions may also make it less ideal for young children.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, the experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to outdoor stops and the nature of the terrain.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothes, hats, scarves, socks, a camera, tripod, and weather-appropriate gear to stay comfortable during outdoor stops.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In summary, if you’re after an authentic, scenic, and cozy Arctic adventure with the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights, this train tour from Narvik offers a compelling option. It combines the charm of historic rail travel, expert guidance, and the thrill of waiting under the starry sky for nature’s light show—all in a package that emphasizes comfort, authenticity, and memorable moments.