When most people dream of seeing the Northern Lights, they picture deep winter with snow-covered trees, frozen lakes, and thick jackets pulled tight against the cold. And while winter in Abisko certainly has its magic, there’s another season that often flies under the radar and it might just be Abisko’s best kept secret.
Autumn in Abisko, especially October and November, is one of the most underrated times to visit. Those early season months offer a rare calm before the winter rush.The air is crisp, the crowds are few, and lake Torneträsk, the largest lake in the region, hasn’t frozen over yet. That means you get something winter visitors miss out on. When the skies are clear and the lights are active, the auroras reflect off the open water, creating double displays of dancing light in the sky and on the surface below. If you’ve never seen the Northern Lights mirrored in a vast Arctic lake, you’re in for a rare and breathtaking treat.
In addition, autumn is warmer than the deep winter months. You’ll still need a coat, of course, but you won’t be battling -25°C temperatures to enjoy the night sky. That makes aurora chasing and outdoor activities much more comfortable, especially for first-time Arctic travelers.
The autumn also brings peak aurora activity. Geomagnetic activity tends to spike around the equinox, meaning October and November often deliver incredible northern lights displays.
Besides the warmer weather and large aurora activity, autumn is one of the most exclusive times to travel. Many tour operators don’t begin their full operations until later in the winter, which means the few who are open (like us) can offer a more personal and flexible experience. It’s an ideal time for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to soak in the raw beauty of Lapland without interruptions.
If you’re curious about experiencing Abisko this time of year, we offer a few hand-picked trips that make the most of everything autumn has to offer. The 4-night 100% Private Aurora Escape is a fully curated, all-inclusive experience designed for travelers who want to slow down and soak it all in. With a private guide, cozy lodging, and flexible daily plans, it’s the ideal way to enjoy the magic of the lights without the winter crowds. For a more flexible adventure in terms of dates, the Autumn Anytime Aurora Adventure gives you the freedom to build your own aurora holiday while still having expert support and camera gear ready when you need it. If you are not looking for a package, we also offer individual activities such as a scenic Morning Hike in Abisko National Park, Explore the Icehotel, Visit to the Sámi & Reindeer in Jukkasjärvi, and, of course our Autumn Abisko Aurora Chase. For a full overview of available activities please visit our Activity Calendar.
Autumn might not be the most obvious time to visit, but for those in the know, it’s one of the most rewarding. If you’re dreaming of a more relaxed, reflective, and exclusive Northern Lights adventure, Abisko in October or November might just be the hidden gem you’ve been looking for.
