Northern Lights Photo Expedition Dinner Included from Abisko

Watching the northern lights dance across the Arctic sky is a bucket-list experience many travelers dream of. This tour from Abisko, Sweden, offers a chance not just to see this spectacular natural display, but to photograph it professionally. Guided by a seasoned photographer with credits from National Geographic, BBC, and the European Space Agency, this adventure blends awe-inspiring scenery, expert guidance, and local warmth into a package that’s hard to beat.

What truly makes this tour stand out is the blend of scenic journeying and insightful photography lessons, tailored to help both beginners and seasoned shutterbugs capture the auroras’ fleeting beauty. Plus, the included dinner adds a cozy, cultural touch to the late-night adventure.

That said, it’s worth noting that the tour’s success hinges on good weather and clear skies—something that’s always a bit unpredictable in the Arctic. Still, with small groups and personalized attention, this experience will appeal most to those eager to combine natural wonder with photography tips and local charm.

Key Points

• Expert Guidance: Led by a professional photographer with high-profile credentials, ensuring top-notch advice and tips.
• Stunning Locations: Travel up to 300 km in a 4×4 to remote spots free from light pollution, maximizing your chances of seeing and photographing the auroras.
• All-Inclusive Photos: Receive a selection of tour photos afterward, so you can focus on enjoying the experience without worrying about snapping perfect shots.
• Cultural Touch: Enjoy a traditional two-course dinner in a local restaurant, adding a taste of Swedish hospitality.
• Time Flexibility: The 4 to 6-hour tour adapts to weather and aurora activity, giving a reasonably flexible window for sightings.
• Small Group Atmosphere: With a maximum of 8 travelers, you get personalized attention in a relaxed setting.

An Honest Look at the Experience

Starting in Abisko: The Perfect Launchpad for Northern Lights

The tour kicks off at 7:00 pm at Abisko Mountain Lodge, a cozy base offering easy access to some of the region’s best vantage points. The small group size (up to 8 travelers) is a plus, fostering a more intimate experience and allowing guides to tailor advice as needed.

Before heading out, everyone is treated to a delicious, two-course dinner at a local restaurant. This is a thoughtful touch, especially after a day of travel, and provides a warm, hearty start to the evening. The reviews suggest that this meal is both satisfying and authentic—likely featuring local ingredients and flavors.

The Journey in Search of the Aurora

Once fueled up, the adventure begins in a 4×4 van, driving through the icy landscapes of Swedish Lapland. The up to 300 km journey takes you away from artificial lights, into areas only known to locals, dramatically increasing your chances of witnessing the northern lights in all their glory.

During the drive, the guide offers basic astronomy lessons—a fantastic feature for those new to celestial phenomena. Expect insights into the science behind the auroras, which enhances the experience far beyond just watching the sky.

The Perfect Spots and Why They Matter

The guide’s expertise is evident here—knowing the best spots for viewing is crucial, especially in a landscape as vast as this. Reviewers noted that the locations are carefully chosen for their visibility and scenic value, offering memorable backdrops for photos and a sense of genuine wilderness.

Photography Tips and Guidance

This isn’t just a sightseeing tour; it’s also a photography-focused expedition. The guide’s professional background shines through as he shares camera settings, composition advice, and timing tips to help you capture the aurora’s fleeting dance. Whether you’re a beginner or more experienced, you’ll appreciate the tailored advice that can elevate your shots.

The Photos: A Lasting Memory

One of the tour’s standout features is that all the photos taken during the night are included. This means you can relax and enjoy the show, knowing you’ll receive a collection of high-quality images afterward. According to a review from Noemi_C, the photos were “beautiful” and the experience included a “pleasurable pause by a Sami tent in front of the fire.” It’s clear that the photos and the cultural moments blend seamlessly, creating lasting memories.

The Aurora Show: A Game of Chance?

While the tour maximizes your chances with remote locations and flexible timing, the northern lights are a natural phenomenon—and unpredictable. The guide’s deep knowledge of weather patterns and aurora activity helps, but no one can guarantee a sighting.

However, the small group size and personalized approach mean that if the lights are elusive, your guide will likely offer alternative spots or additional tips for future sightings. Many reviews highlight the guide’s professionalism and enthusiasm, which enhances even the cloudy nights.

Final Thoughts on Value

At $112, this tour offers competitive value—especially considering the expert guidance, included dinner, and the photos you’ll receive. For travelers passionate about photography, it’s a rare opportunity to learn from a professional with credentials from top institutions. For those simply eager to see the lights and enjoy Swedish hospitality, the experience still delivers a memorable Arctic adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This expedition is particularly suited for adventurous travelers who want more than just a glimpse of the northern lights. Photography enthusiasts will find the guidance invaluable, while casual viewers will appreciate the chance to relax, enjoy the scenery, and leave with beautiful photos. Small groups ensure a personal touch, and the included dinner adds a cozy element after hours under the arctic sky. It’s ideal for those who value knowledgeable guides and authentic local experiences, but are also prepared for the unpredictability of nature.

Practical Details and Tips

• Meeting Point: Abisko Mountain Lodge (Lapportsvägen 30)
• Start Time: 7:00 pm
• Duration: Approximately 6 hours, depending on weather and aurora activity
• Price: $112, a reasonable rate considering the guided expertise, dinner, and photos
• Transport: In a comfortable 4×4 van, traveling up to 300 km in remote areas
• Group Size: Max 8 travelers, offering a personalized experience
• Included: Dinner, photos, certified guide
• Not Included: Tips, alcoholic beverages

Be prepared for cold weather, dress warmly, and bring a camera if you want to take additional photos beyond what’s provided. Also, keep an eye on the weather forecast; clear skies are essential for a good aurora sighting.

FAQ

What time does the tour start? It begins at 7:00 pm at Abisko Mountain Lodge.

Is dinner included? Yes, a two-course dinner at a local restaurant is part of the package.

How long does the tour last? Expect around 4 to 6 hours, depending on weather conditions and aurora activity.

What kind of transportation is used? The tour travels in a 4×4 van, perfect for navigating icy roads and reaching remote spots.

Can I see the northern lights if the weather is cloudy? The guide closely monitors weather and aurora forecasts, but if conditions aren’t suitable, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled with a full refund.

Will I get photos of the trip? Yes, all photos taken during the tour are provided afterward, so you can keep the memories without worrying about camera settings.

Is this suitable for someone who isn’t into photography? Absolutely. While there are photography tips, it’s also a fantastic chance to enjoy the show and relax in the Arctic landscape.

What is the maximum group size? Up to 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Final Thoughts

This Northern Lights Photo Expedition from Abisko offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, expert guidance, cultural experience, and stunning scenery. The small group size and knowledgeable guide make it feel intimate and tailored, while the included dinner and photos add value. If you’re looking for a true Arctic experience that combines natural beauty with photography, this tour is a compelling choice.

While no one can control the weather, the meticulous planning and local expertise increase your chances of witnessing the auroras in all their glory. Whether you’re a budding photographer eager to learn or a traveler chasing the magic of the northern skies, this tour is designed to leave you with unforgettable memories and stunning images to share for years to come.