Kiruna: Northern Lights Tour with Photos

Introduction

If you’ve ever dreamed of witnessing the Aurora Borealis in all its shimmering glory, this Northern Lights Tour with Photos in Kiruna might be just what you’re looking for. Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides and a talented photographer, this 5-hour adventure promises not only a chance to see the lights dancing overhead but also to get high-quality photos to remember the moment forever.

One of the things we love about this tour is how it combines the thrill of chasing the Northern Lights with comfort — hot drinks, warm snowsuits, and a cozy campfire make the experience both magical and practical. However, a note of caution: seeing the Aurora isn’t guaranteed since it depends heavily on weather and sky conditions, which can be unpredictable.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a well-organized, small-group tour with expert guidance and a focus on capturing memories. It’s perfect if you’re a photography enthusiast or simply want to make sure you don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.

Key Points

• Expert guides with extensive knowledge of the Aurora Borealis & the local area.
• Small group sizes (limited to 8 participants) for a more intimate experience.
• Professional photographer capturing photos and videos during the tour.
• Comfortable amenities including hot drinks, snacks, and warm snowsuits.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Chasing elusive clear skies with guides actively seeking the best viewing spots.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This tour offers a balanced blend of adventure, comfort, and personalized attention. You’re picked up from your accommodation in Kiruna and driven to a location where the sky looks promising — often a bit outside the city to avoid light pollution. The guides use their local knowledge and experience to get you into the best viewing spots, even if that means hopping in and out of the vehicle multiple times to chase clouds, as some reviews mention.

One of the most praised aspects is the focus on photography. A skilled photographer is onboard, making sure you get stunning images of the Northern Lights and of yourself under the swirling auroras. Multiple reviews highlight how the photos became treasured keepsakes and how guides like Iris and Onur went “above and beyond” to make everyone feel comfortable in front of the camera.

The journey is not just about the spectacle overhead but also about the cozy atmosphere around the campfire. You’ll be served hot drinks and snacks, which are essential when you’ll likely be standing in freezing temperatures for hours. The crackling fire, the dark sky filled with stars, and the dancing lights create a truly other-worldly vibe.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Hotel Pickup and Group Introduction

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel in Kiruna. The process is smooth — just remember to wait outside as instructed, since guides are unable to contact you inside the reception. The group size is kept small (up to 8 people), ensuring a more personal experience and easier interaction with your guides.

Location Scouting & Driving

Once onboard, your guide will assess the weather and sky conditions, then set out to find a location with the clearest view of the night sky. As several reviewers mention, the guides are proactive and determined, often driving to different spots to maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora. For example, guides like Robin and Dimitry have been praised for their dedication, often hopping in and out of the vehicle multiple times — sometimes 8-10 times — to track down clear patches of sky.

Aurora Hunt & Photo Opportunities

When the sky begins to show signs of the Aurora, you’ll be encouraged to step outside and gaze upwards. The guides will provide explanations about the science behind the lights, making the experience both awe-inspiring and educational. Many reviews mention the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge, which enhance the overall experience.

Your photographer guide will take photos and videos of you and the Aurora, ensuring that you leave with high-quality memories. Several guests have expressed how impressed they were with their photos — some even saying the guides “made sure we saw the lights” and “kept going until they got good content.”

Warmth & Refreshments

While waiting, you’ll be kept warm by a crackling campfire, with hot drinks and snacks offered. Some reviews highlight how this simple touch made a big difference, especially in extreme cold. Remember to dress warmly, with comfortable shoes and suitable clothing, as you’ll be outside for extended periods. The tour provides snowsuits, but you might want to bring extra layers for added comfort.

Return & Reflection

As the tour winds down, usually after around 5 hours, you’ll be driven back to your hotel in Kiruna. Many guests remark that even if the Aurora didn’t put on its most spectacular display, the entire experience — the chase, the warmth, the photos, and the stories — was unforgettable.

The Value of This Experience

At $209 per person, this tour offers a lot for your money. The inclusion of professional photos and videos is a significant perk, allowing you to relive the moment without the hassle of capturing the perfect shot yourself. The small group size ensures personalized attention and reduces the crowded feeling that can detract from viewing the Aurora.

The hot drinks, snacks, and warm snowsuits are thoughtful touches that enhance comfort in the Arctic cold. Plus, the flexible booking with free cancellation offers peace of mind for travelers unsure of weather conditions or with changing plans.

While the tour doesn’t include extra food or drinks beyond hot beverages, the focus remains on the Aurora experience itself — a natural, fleeting phenomenon that cannot be scheduled, only hoped for.

Authentic Experiences & Real Reviews

Many guests have left glowing reviews; some mention guides like Onur, Marta, and Robin, who are praised for their passion, knowledge, and dedication. One reviewer shared that Robin kept driving to chase clear skies, hopping on and off the bus several times, showcasing the guides’ commitment even when weather was challenging.

Another guest appreciated the educational aspect — Onur explaining how the Aurora works — making the experience more meaningful. The ability of guides to adapt and go the extra mile is repeatedly highlighted, making this tour feel more personalized and trustworthy.

The photos are also a highlight. Multiple guests have remarked on how guides like Iris and Cristina went “above and beyond” to make sure everyone got memorable shots, even in difficult conditions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for photographers or anyone wanting professional-quality photos of the Northern Lights. It suits travelers who prefer a small, intimate group experience with knowledgeable guides. Since food and drinks are limited to hot beverages and snacks, it’s best for those willing to dress warmly and stay outside in cold weather for several hours.

It’s also suitable for travelers who want reassurance that guides will do their best to find clear skies, even if the weather isn’t perfect. However, keep in mind that seeing the Aurora is not guaranteed — weather conditions and sky clarity are beyond anyone’s control.

Children under 10 and pregnant women are advised not to join, given the outdoor conditions and the late-night nature of the experience.

FAQs

Is it possible to see the Northern Lights on this tour?
While guides work hard to find clear skies and chase the Aurora, there’s no guarantee due to weather dependency. However, they do their best to maximize your chances.

What is included in the tour?
You get hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided aurora hunt, hot drinks and snacks, snowsuits, and photos/videos taken by a professional photographer.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 5 hours, with starting times varying depending on availability. Check with the provider for specific schedules.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the transportation is spacious and comfortable, with some reviews praising the friendly and amusing guides who make the journey enjoyable.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly with comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and hiking boots if possible. The tour provides snowsuits, but additional layers are recommended.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if weather conditions look unfavorable.

Are children allowed?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 10 years or pregnant women, mainly due to the late hours and outdoor cold.

Where do I meet the guides?
Guests are asked to wait outside their hotel at the designated pickup point. Guides cannot contact you inside the reception.

Final Thoughts

The Kiruna Northern Lights Tour with Photos offers a well-rounded Arctic adventure, combining expert-guided Aurora chasing, professional photography, and cozy amenities to keep you warm. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want to maximize their chances of seeing the Aurora while also securing beautiful images of the experience.

The small-group setting, dedicated guides, and dynamic approach to finding clear skies make it stand out among many aurora tours. While weather and sky conditions remain outside of control, the enthusiasm and professionalism of the team make every effort to deliver a memorable night under the shimmering sky.

If you’re after a genuine, personalized experience that balances adventure with comfort and great photo opportunities — and you’re okay with the natural uncertainty of Aurora sightings — this tour in Kiruna will not disappoint.

In essence, this tour is ideal for those seeking a heartfelt Arctic adventure, professional photos, and guides who genuinely care about giving you the best possible shot at witnessing the Northern Lights.