Abisko National Park - The World's Best Northern Lights Destination
Abisko National Park is widely considered the best place on Earth to see the Northern Lights. Located 195 km north of the Arctic Circle in Swedish Lapland, this small village of ~100 residents has become a mecca for aurora hunters worldwide.
Why Abisko is Special
The secret is the "Blue Hole of Abisko" - a unique microclimate created by the surrounding mountains and Lake Torneträsk that produces clear skies even when other areas are cloudy. Statistically, Abisko has the highest probability of clear skies in all of Scandinavia.
Aurora Sky Station
The famous Aurora Sky Station sits atop Mount Nuolja at 900m elevation. A chairlift takes you above any low clouds for unobstructed 360° views. The station includes a warm viewing area, café and experienced aurora guides.
Activities
- Northern Lights tours: Guided aurora hunts with expert photographers
- Dog sledding: Multi-hour to multi-day husky adventures
- Kungsleden start: The famous King's Trail begins in Abisko
- Ice climbing: Frozen waterfalls in the national park
- Cross-country skiing: Extensive trail network
Getting to Abisko
- Train: Overnight train from Stockholm (18h) - the scenic Arctic Circle Railway
- Fly + Bus: Fly to Kiruna, then 1.5h bus to Abisko
- Car: From Kiruna via E10 (about 100km)
Where to Stay
- Abisko Mountain Station: Historic STF lodge with aurora wake-up calls
- Abisko.net: Modern cabins and hostel
- Aurora Sky Station packages: Includes chairlift and viewing