If you’ve ever dreamt of standing beneath a sky ablaze with dancing green and purple ribbons, chances are you’ve come across Abisko. Tucked into the heart of Swedish Lapland, this small Arctic village has earned a near-mythical status among aurora chasers. But why? What makes Abisko so exceptional for witnessing the Northern Lights? And how can you plan a trip that’s both luxurious and authentic?
In this guide, we’ll answer the questions we hear most often from travellers considering our Winter Auroras in Abisko holiday—so you can start picturing your own adventure with clarity and excitement.
What makes Abisko one of the world’s best places to see the aurora borealis?
Abisko is often called “the blue hole of the North.” This nickname comes from its unique microclimate. The village sits in a rain shadow created by the surrounding mountains, meaning it has significantly less cloud cover than many other parts of the Arctic. Clear skies are critical for aurora hunting—you can’t see the lights through thick clouds—and Abisko boasts around 70% aurora visibility rates on winter nights.
Combine that with its far-north latitude, long polar nights, and minimal light pollution, and you have an almost unbeatable recipe for seeing the aurora in all its glory.
When is the best time to visit Abisko for Northern Lights?
While you can see auroras as early as September and as late as April, December through March is prime time. During these months, the nights are longest, the air is crisp, and there’s often deep snow blanketing the landscape—making the experience feel especially magical.
Our Winter Auroras in Abisko itinerary is designed for this period to give you the highest chance of success.
Do I need to be an experienced adventurer to enjoy this trip?
Absolutely not. One of the beauties of Abisko is that you can tailor your activities to your comfort level. Our itinerary includes:
- Guided snowmobile excursions (with full instruction and safety equipment)
- Snowshoeing and ice fishing at a relaxed pace
- Aurora hunts by comfortable all-wheel-drive vehicle
Each night, your private guide will assess the weather and adapt the plan so you don’t have to worry about logistics. Whether you’re an intrepid explorer or simply want to watch the lights in serene comfort, you’ll feel well cared for.
What is it like to stay at the ICEHOTEL?
Many travellers consider a night at the ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi the highlight of their trip. Imagine walking through a gallery of hand-sculpted ice suites, each created by a different artist. Your own Art Suite is a masterpiece of snow and crystal-clear ice.
Despite the icy surroundings (the rooms are kept at about -5°C), you’ll stay toasty warm in thermal sleeping bags on a thick bed of reindeer hides. In the morning, you’re greeted with hot lingonberry juice and a sauna to warm up before breakfast.
If you prefer, you can upgrade to a warm suite or simply visit for a daytime tour while sleeping in heated accommodation.
What about the food? Will I need to cook for myself?
During your stay in Abisko, your private house comes with a fully stocked kitchen featuring premium local ingredients—think fresh Arctic char, smoked reindeer, Swedish cheeses, and homemade breads. You’ll have everything you need to prepare authentic Swedish meals at your own pace.
The exception is your first evening, when you’ll dine at the Aurora Sky Station. Here, you’ll enjoy a four-course gourmet dinner with panoramic views of the mountains and (with luck) the aurora itself.
How many nights do I need in Abisko?
We recommend at least four nights in Abisko to give you the best chance of catching clear skies. Our itinerary includes nightly aurora hunts—because even in this ideal location, nature doesn’t always follow a schedule. The longer you stay, the more opportunities you have to witness the phenomenon.
What other experiences can I add to my trip?
If you’d like to tailor your adventure further, you can add:
- A Sámi and Reindeer Experience to learn about indigenous culture and feed the reindeer
- Extra guided hikes through the birch forests
- Private landscape photography tuition to help you capture the aurora perfectly
We’re here to make sure every detail suits your interests and comfort.
Final thoughts: Is Abisko really worth it?
If you’ve been searching for a place where luxury, authenticity, and the awe of nature meet, Abisko is hard to beat. Between the reliable weather, world-class guides, and the sheer beauty of Swedish Lapland, it’s a destination that stays with you long after you return home.
Ready to plan your own Arctic escape?
Explore the itinerary here or get in touch—we’d love to help you experience the Northern Lights in a way that’s personal, sustainable, and unforgettable.
