Why Visit Abisko in October 2025?
If you’re dreaming of seeing the Northern Lights in Sweden, October is one of the best times to plan your trip to Abisko National Park. With long dark nights, fewer tourists compared to December or January, and the famous “Blue Hole” above Abisko, your chances of experiencing a magical aurora show are very high.
Abisko in October is also quieter, which means lower hotel prices and more availability on Northern Lights tours. Whether you’re a photographer chasing that perfect shot or simply want to check this natural wonder off your bucket list, October 2025 could be your golden window.
👉 Pro Tip: For maximum success, book a guided Northern Lights tour in Abisko. Tours use expert guides and minivans to chase clear skies. Check top Abisko tours here on Viator.
Can You See the Northern Lights in Abisko in October 2025?
Yes — October is a prime month for aurora hunting in Abisko. The official Northern Lights season in Swedish Lapland runs from September to April, and October offers several advantages:
- Longer nights (up to 14 hours of darkness).
- Milder temperatures compared to mid-winter, making outdoor viewing more comfortable.
- Fewer crowds, which means you’ll enjoy a quieter, more intimate experience.
Thanks to Abisko’s unique microclimate — the Blue Hole of Abisko — clouds often clear above the village even when nearby regions remain overcast. This makes Abisko one of the most reliable places on earth to see the aurora borealis.
👉 Book early: October tours and hotels in Abisko fill up quickly, especially around weekends and school holidays. See available Abisko hotels on Expedia.
Abisko Weather in October 2025
Before packing your bags, it’s important to know what weather to expect in Abisko during October:
- Average temperatures: +2°C (36°F) daytime, dipping to -4°C (24°F) at night.
- Daylight hours: Around 9–11 hours early October, shrinking to 6–7 hours by late October.
- Snow: Light snowfalls are possible, especially toward the end of the month, but deep snow cover usually arrives in November.
This mix of cool but not extreme weather makes October perfect for aurora hunting, hiking, and scenic photography.
Best Northern Lights Tours in Abisko (October 2025)
Booking a guided tour is the smartest way to maximize your chances of seeing the aurora. Here are the top tour types in Abisko you should consider for October 2025:
1. Northern Lights Minibus Chase
- Small groups in heated vans.
- Guides drive to locations with clear skies.
- Perfect for first-timers who want reliability.
2. Northern Lights Photo Tour
- Professional photographers guide you.
- Learn how to capture the aurora with your own camera.
- Tripods often included.
3. Aurora Sky Station Experience
- Cable car up to Mount Nuolja.
- Panoramic views far from artificial light.
- Café and observatory at the top.
- Note: The Sky Station typically opens mid-November, so confirm dates for 2025.
4. Combo Experiences
- Aurora chase + Sami culture.
- Aurora + snowshoe walk or wildlife spotting.
- Great for travelers who want more than just lights.
👉 Tip: Many tours offer free rebooking if the aurora doesn’t appear.
👉 Book a Tour in Abisko Now on Viator
Where to Stay in Abisko in October 2025
Finding the right accommodation is key to enjoying your aurora adventure. Abisko offers a mix of cozy lodges, hostels, and comfortable guesthouses:
STF Abisko Turiststation
- The classic base inside Abisko National Park.
- Aurora can often be seen right outside the property.
- Easy access to tours and trails.
Abisko Guesthouse & Activities
- Budget-friendly, great for solo travelers.
- Offers its own aurora tours and photography workshops.
Camp Ripan (Kiruna)
- If you prefer staying in Kiruna (1.5 hours away).
- Spa facilities, cabins, and Sami-inspired dining.
- Perfect for mixing aurora with other Lapland activities.
👉 Compare hotel prices in Abisko and Kiruna on Expedia.
How to Get to Abisko in October 2025
Abisko is remote but well connected:
- By Train: Night train from Stockholm to Abisko (16–18 hrs). Comfortable cabins available.
- By Flight: Fly into Kiruna (from Stockholm or Gothenburg), then take a 1.5-hour train or transfer to Abisko.
- By Car: Driving is possible, but October can bring icy conditions.
For most visitors, the night train or Kiruna flight + transfer is easiest.
Packing List for Abisko in October
October in the Arctic means preparing for cold nights and possibly early snow. Don’t leave without:
- Thermal base layers.
- Insulated jacket (down or synthetic).
- Warm hat and gloves.
- Waterproof boots.
- Tripod + wide-angle lens (if photographing the aurora).
- Headlamp with red light mode (so you don’t ruin night vision).
👉 Tip: Some aurora photo tours provide gear like tripods, so check before packing.
Things to Do in Abisko Besides Aurora
While the Northern Lights are the star, October also offers:
- Scenic hikes on trails like Kungsleden.
- Photography of golden autumn landscapes.
- Sami culture experiences in nearby villages.
- Day trips to Kiruna or the Icehotel (if open for the season).
Sample 3-Day Abisko Itinerary for October 2025
Day 1: Arrival in Abisko → evening minibus aurora chase.
Day 2: Day hike + evening photo tour.
Day 3: Relax, optional day trip to Kiruna → final night aurora watching by the lake.
👉 This schedule balances tours with free time to enjoy nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is October too early for the Northern Lights in Abisko?
No. October is an excellent time, with high chances of clear skies and active aurora displays.
How many nights should I stay in Abisko?
At least 3 nights to maximize your chances.
Can I see the aurora from my hotel?
Yes — many hotels in Abisko have great viewing spots just outside the door.
Do I need a tour to see the aurora?
You can see it without a tour, but tours improve your odds by chasing clear skies.
Final Tips for Visiting Abisko in October 2025
- Book early: Accommodation and tours sell out months ahead.
- Be flexible: Aurora sightings are never guaranteed, so plan other activities too.
- Stay warm: Dress in layers and always prepare for cold nights.
- Use your affiliation wisely: Combine your stay with tours and flights booked via trusted platforms like Viator and Expedia.
Ceck these out to learn more:
Stockholm to Abisko Night Train (2025): Complete Guide
Best Northern Lights Tours in Abisko (2025)
Kiruna vs Abisko for Northern Lights: Which Base Is Better in 2025?
Where to Watch the Aurora in Abisko (Free Spots + Map) — 2025 Guide
👉 Ready to experience the magic? Browse Northern Lights tours in Abisko on Viator or compare hotels on Expedia now to secure your October 2025 adventure.
