The Call of the Arctic Night

The Arctic has always been a place of fascination for me, a former Arctic researcher turned travel writer. The allure of the Northern Lights, dancing across the sky in a symphony of colors, is a spectacle that never fails to captivate. When I heard about the Northern Lights Tour from Kiruna to Abisko, I knew it was an experience I couldn’t pass up.

The journey began with a convenient pickup from my hotel in Kiruna. The air was crisp, and the anticipation was palpable as we made our way to Abisko. The guides, seasoned experts in the art of aurora chasing, shared stories of the Sami people and the science behind the Northern Lights. Their passion was infectious, and I found myself eagerly awaiting the night’s celestial display.

Dinner at the Abisko Mountain Lodge was a delightful affair, offering a taste of traditional Swedish Lapland cuisine. As we dined, the guides regaled us with tales of Viking lore and the mysteries of the Arctic sky. The camaraderie among fellow travelers added to the warmth of the evening, a stark contrast to the icy world outside.

Chasing the Elusive Aurora

The Arctic night is unforgiving, with temperatures plummeting to -40C. Yet, the guides were meticulous in their preparations, ensuring we were well-equipped to face the elements. The provided suits and overalls were a godsend, shielding us from the biting cold as we ventured into the wilderness.

Our quest for the Northern Lights took us to a frozen lake, a vast expanse of ice and snow under a canopy of stars. The guides, ever vigilant, lit a fire to keep us warm as we waited for the aurora to make its appearance. The crackling of the fire, the taste of warm drinks and cookies, and the shared anticipation created a sense of unity among us.

On one particularly challenging night, the sky was shrouded in clouds, and the temperature was unforgiving. Yet, the guides’ determination never wavered. We drove through the Arctic landscape, stopping at various locations in search of a clear sky. Their dedication paid off, and just before midnight, the clouds parted to reveal the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights. It was a moment of triumph, a testament to the relentless pursuit of beauty in the harshest of environments.

A Dance of Light and Shadow

The Northern Lights are a reminder of the raw beauty and unpredictability of the Arctic. Each night brought a different experience, a unique dance of light and shadow across the sky. The guides, with their expert knowledge and unwavering commitment, ensured that we witnessed this natural wonder in all its glory.

The professional photographers accompanying us captured the magic of the aurora, providing us with stunning mementos of our journey. Their expertise in night photography was evident, and the photos we received were a cherished reminder of our time in the Arctic.

As I reflect on this adventure, I am reminded of the resilience and beauty of the polar regions. The Northern Lights Tour from Kiruna to Abisko was more than just a journey; it was an exploration of the soul of the Arctic, a testament to the enduring allure of the natural world. For those who seek the thrill of the unknown and the beauty of the untouched, this tour is an experience not to be missed.