Northern Lights in Abisko | Kiruna

Abisko, located in Swedish Lapland, is renowned for being one of the best places in the world to view the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). The combination of its geographical location, clear skies, and unique microclimate makes it a prime destination for those hoping to witness this spectacular natural phenomenon. Here's a detailed look at the Northern Lights in Abisko:

1. Why Abisko is Ideal for Northern Lights Viewing

• Geographic Location: Abisko is situated above the Arctic Circle, at 68°21′N latitude, making it one of the northernmost settlements in Sweden. This location offers long, dark winters and extended nights, perfect for observing the Northern Lights.
• Clear Skies and Microclimate: One of the main reasons Abisko is so renowned for Northern Lights sightings is the Abisko National Park's microclimate. The park lies in a natural rain shadow created by the Torne Mountains, which helps to keep the skies clear, especially in winter. This means there is a lower chance of cloud cover, offering better visibility for the auroras.
• Minimal Light Pollution: Abisko is a relatively small village with little light pollution, allowing the Northern Lights to be seen in all their glory. The nearby Abisko Turiststation offers optimal conditions for aurora watching with minimal interference from artificial light.

2. When to See the Northern Lights in Abisko

• Best Time: The best time to see the Northern Lights in Abisko is during the winter months, particularly from September to March. The long, dark nights during this period provide the best opportunities to catch the auroras, with the peak season for sightings being from December to February.
• Solar Activity: The intensity of the Northern Lights is influenced by solar activity, which follows an 11-year cycle. When the sun is more active, the auroras tend to be more vibrant and frequent. It’s important to note that while the lights can appear anytime during the aurora season, their visibility depends on solar activity.
• Nighttime Hours: The Northern Lights are most visible between 9:00 PM and 2:00 AM, with the best chances occurring around midnight. However, this can vary depending on solar conditions and weather.

3. How to See the Northern Lights in Abisko

• Abisko Turiststation: One of the best places to experience the Northern Lights is from Abisko Turiststation. Located just outside the village, it offers comfortable accommodation and is surrounded by pristine nature. The station has an Aurora Sky Station, which is a designated viewing area located on Nuolja Mountain. Visitors can take a chairlift to the top, where they have an unobstructed view of the night sky.
• Aurora Sky Station: The Aurora Sky Station is famous for its 360-degree panoramic views of the sky, offering an exceptional opportunity to view the Northern Lights. It also offers guided tours that explain the science and folklore behind the auroras. The station has an observatory where visitors can enjoy the light display in comfort.
• Abisko National Park: The surrounding Abisko National Park provides plenty of excellent spots for self-guided Northern Lights watching. Visitors can explore the park and find a secluded spot away from artificial lights. The park also offers some hiking opportunities during the day and activities like cross-country skiing in the winter months.
• Northern Lights Tours: For those who prefer a more guided experience, several local tour operators offer specialized Northern Lights tours. These can include snowmobile safaris, dog sledding trips, and even reindeer sled rides, providing an immersive way to explore the Arctic landscape while chasing the lights.

4. Aurora Photography in Abisko

• Photography Tips: Abisko is a photographer’s paradise, especially for capturing the Northern Lights. To take great photos of the auroras, it’s important to use a camera with manual settings. Here are some tips:
  • Use a wide-angle lens (14-24mm) with a fast aperture (f/2.8 or faster).
  • Set a high ISO (around 800 to 1600) to capture the lights without too much noise.
  • Long exposure times (10-30 seconds) are often ideal for capturing the movement of the auroras.
  • Tripods are essential for stable, long-exposure shots.
• Photography Workshops: Some tour operators in Abisko also offer Northern Lights photography workshops, where professional photographers provide guidance on how to capture the aurora with the best possible techniques.

5. Other Activities During Aurora Season

• While the Northern Lights are a major attraction, Abisko offers plenty of other activities to enjoy during the winter months:
  • Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the surrounding national park.
  • Dog sledding and snowmobiling tours, which are popular ways to explore the Arctic wilderness.
  • Ice fishing on Torneträsk Lake, one of the largest lakes in Sweden, which freezes during the winter and offers unique outdoor experiences.
  • Winter hiking with the chance to explore the picturesque landscapes of the area covered in snow and ice.
  • Visit to the Icehotel in nearby Jukkasjärvi, one of the world’s most famous ice hotels, where you can marvel at ice art and enjoy the chilly atmosphere.

6. Other Northern Lights Viewing Spots Near Abisko

• While Abisko is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights, there are a few other locations in the surrounding region that are also excellent:
  • Jukkasjärvi: Just to the south, near Kiruna, is Jukkasjärvi, home to the famous Icehotel. It is another great spot for viewing the auroras, especially as you can combine it with a stay in the ice hotel.
  • Riksgränsen: A ski resort located on the border between Sweden and Norway, Riksgränsen offers great opportunities to view the Northern Lights, along with skiing and snowboarding in the Arctic wilderness.

7. Conclusion

Abisko is a premier destination for Northern Lights enthusiasts, offering some of the best chances in the world to witness this spectacular natural phenomenon. With its clear skies, remote location, and access to the Aurora Sky Station, it’s no surprise that Abisko draws visitors from around the globe in search of the perfect aurora experience. Whether you are a photographer, hiker, or simply someone who wants to witness the beauty of the Aurora Borealis, Abisko provides an unforgettable experience.