Experience the majestic Auroras Kiruna-Abisko & Tipi Dinner

Imagine yourself in the heart of Lapland, surrounded by snow-covered landscapes and starry skies. You’re about to experience a magical evening that combines cosy comfort, tasty food, and the chance to witness one of nature’s most stunning displays.

Your adventure begins at the Máttaráhkká Northern Lights Lodge, nestled away from city lights.

Here, you’ll enjoy a special tipi dinner around a crackling fire. As you savour a delicious BBQ meal, you’ll feel the excitement building for what’s to come.

After dinner, you’ll set off in a warm minivan to explore the best viewing spots for the Northern Lights. Your local guide will take you along quiet roads, away from light pollution, to increase your chances of seeing the auroras dance across the sky.

This unique experience brings together the beauty of Swedish Lapland, the comfort of traditional hospitality, and the thrill of chasing one of the world’s most captivating natural phenomena.

Exploring Kiruna and Abisko

Kiruna and Abisko are two fascinating destinations in Swedish Lapland. These places offer unique experiences, from rich mining history to stunning natural landscapes and local attractions.

History of Kiruna

Kiruna’s story began in the late 19th century with the discovery of iron ore. The town was built in 1900 to support the mining industry. It quickly grew into a thriving community.

LKAB, the state-owned mining company, has been central to Kiruna’s development. The mine has shaped the town’s economy and culture for over a century.

In recent years, Kiruna has faced a unique challenge. The expanding mine threatens the town’s stability. As a result, a massive relocation project is underway. Many buildings are being moved to ensure the town’s future.

Geography of Abisko

Abisko sits in a breathtaking location in northern Sweden. It’s known for its stunning natural beauty and unique Arctic landscape.

The area is home to Abisko National Park, established in 1909. The park covers 77 square kilometres of pristine wilderness.

A key feature is the Abisko River, which runs through a canyon in the park. The famous Kungsleden (King’s Trail) hiking route starts here.

Abisko is also renowned for its clear skies. This makes it one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights.

Local Attractions

You’ll find plenty to do in Kiruna and Abisko. Here are some top attractions:

Outdoor activities are popular in both areas. You can try dog sledding, snowmobiling, and ice fishing in winter. Summer offers hiking, fishing, and midnight sun experiences.

Understanding the Aurora Borealis

The Aurora Borealis is a stunning natural light show in the night sky. It’s caused by charged particles from the sun colliding with Earth’s atmosphere. The best times to see this spectacle depend on location, season, and solar activity.

Scientific Explanation

The Aurora Borealis occurs when solar wind particles interact with Earth’s magnetic field. These particles, mostly electrons and protons, are drawn towards the poles. As they enter the atmosphere, they collide with gas molecules like oxygen and nitrogen.

These collisions cause the molecules to become excited and release energy in the form of light. The colours you see depend on which gases are involved and how high up the reactions happen.

Best Times to View Auroras

The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the darker months, from September to March. This period offers longer nights, increasing your chances of spotting the aurora.

Late evening to early morning hours, typically between 10 pm and 2 am, are ideal for viewing. Clear, dark skies away from city lights improve visibility.

Solar activity plays a crucial role. The sun goes through an 11-year cycle of activity. During solar maximum, auroras are more frequent and intense.

Guided Tours and Packages

Several companies offer guided tours to experience the Northern Lights near Kiruna and Abisko. These packages combine aurora viewing with local activities and dining for a full Arctic experience.

Nightly Aurora Hunts

You can join nightly aurora hunting tours that take you to prime viewing spots. Expert guides drive you in warm minivans to locations with the best chances of seeing the lights. They’ll help you spot auroras and take photos. Tours often include stops at scenic viewpoints and cosy breaks for hot drinks.

Auroras Photography Workshops

If you want to capture stunning aurora photos, consider booking a photography workshop.

Professional photographers lead these tours and teach you camera settings and techniques. They’ll help you find good compositions and use tripods for sharp shots.

Workshops cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced photographers. You’ll learn how to photograph the moving lights and capture the Arctic landscape. Some tours provide camera gear if you don’t have your own. The small group size ensures personalised instruction as you chase the auroras.

The Tipi Dinner Experience

The tipi dinner offers a unique blend of traditional Sami culture and delicious local cuisine. You’ll enjoy a cosy meal around a fire while learning about the region’s customs.

Cuisine and Culture

Your evening begins in a traditional tipi next to the lodge. Inside, you’ll find a warm fire and tables set for a BBQ feast. The menu features local specialities like reindeer meat, Arctic char, and wild berries.

As you dine, your guide will share stories about Sami traditions and life in Lapland. You might learn about reindeer herding, traditional handicrafts, or the importance of nature in Sami culture.

The tipi setting creates a magical atmosphere. Flickering firelight and the scent of wood smoke add to the experience. It’s a chance to step back in time and imagine how the Sami people lived for centuries.

What to Expect

Arrive at the lodge and head to the nearby tipi. Your guide will welcome you and explain the evening’s plan. You’ll take your seats around the fire, where the meal will be prepared and served.

Dress warmly, as the tipi can be chilly despite the fire. Layers are best, so you can adjust your comfort level. The lodge provides warm drinks to help keep you toasty.

After dinner, you’ll board a minivan for your Northern Lights hunt. The tipi meal is just the start of your adventure. Your guide will drive you to the best viewing spots in the area, away from city lights.

Remember to bring your camera to capture the night’s memories. With luck, you’ll see the stunning Aurora Borealis dancing across the sky.

Planning Tipi Dinner in Kiruna-Abisko

Good planning ensures a memorable aurora viewing experience. Consider these key aspects when organising your trip to Kiruna-Abisko.

Accommodation Options

Kiruna and Abisko offer various lodging choices. Hotels in Kiruna provide comfort and easy access to town amenities. For a more rustic stay, consider cabins or guesthouses near Abisko National Park.

The Northern Lights Lodge is a popular option. It offers cosy rooms and is well-situated for aurora viewing. Some places even have glass igloos or aurora domes for night-time sky watching.

Book early, especially during peak season (September to March). Prices vary, so compare options to fit your budget.

Travel and Transport

Kiruna Airport is the main gateway to the region. Direct flights from Stockholm are available daily. From the airport, you can rent a car or use shuttle services to reach your accommodation.

Trains run from Stockholm to Kiruna, offering scenic views along the way. The journey takes about 15 hours.

Once in Kiruna, local buses connect to Abisko. Many aurora tours provide transport to viewing spots. If you prefer flexibility, hiring a car is a good choice.

Weather and Clothing Recommendations

Kiruna-Abisko has a subarctic climate. Winters are long and cold, with temperatures often below -10°C. Summers are short and cool.

Pack warm, layered clothing:

Don’t forget:

Check the weather forecast before your trip. Be ready for rapid changes in conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Visitors to Kiruna and Abisko often have questions about seeing the Northern Lights and enjoying tipi dinners. Here are some common queries and helpful answers.

What is the best time of year to see the Northern Lights in Kiruna and Abisko?

The best time to see the auroras is from late September to early April. Winter months offer longer nights, giving you more chances to spot the lights.

Cold, clear nights are ideal for viewing. December to February are the darkest months, but they can be very cold.

Are special tours available for viewing the auroras, and do they include a traditional tipi dinner?

Yes, there are tours that offer aurora viewing with a tipi dinner. These trips often start with a meal in a warm tipi.

After dinner, guides take you to spots with the best views of the night sky. They use comfy minivans to drive you around.

How can visitors maximise their chances of witnessing the auroras during their stay?

Book a multi-night stay to increase your odds. The lights are not visible every night.

Choose lodging away from city lights. Some hotels offer aurora wake-up calls if the lights appear.

What kind of clothing is recommended for guests attending a tipi dinner under the auroras?

Dress in warm layers. Wear thermal underwear, wool socks, and a thick jumper.

Bring a heavy coat, hat, gloves, and warm boots. The tour might provide extra warm gear.

Do the tipi dinners cater to specific dietary restrictions or preferences?

Many tours can cater to different diets. It’s best to ask when you book.

Typical meals might include local dishes like reindeer or fish. Vegetarian options are often available too.

Are there accommodation options available that enhance the experience of the Northern Lights?

Some hotels have glass igloos or aurora cabins with see-through ceilings or walls.

These rooms let you watch for the lights from your bed. They’re cosy and offer a unique way to enjoy the auroras.