A journey by rail into the Arctic night
Step aboard the Northern Lights Train in Narvik and travel into the Arctic mountains in search of the Aurora Borealis.
The journey follows the historic Ofoten Railway from Narvik, climbing from the fjord into a remote mountain landscape towards the Swedish border. As the train leaves the lights of the city behind, you travel deeper into the Arctic darkness, surrounded by mountains, wilderness and some of Northern Norway’s most dramatic scenery.
The first stop is Bjørnfjell, close to the Swedish border, before the journey continues to the remote mountain station of Katterat, 373 metres above sea level. Here, you step off the train and into the Arctic night.
Far from city lights, the group gathers around a campfire under the open sky. Enjoy a warm drink and fresh pastry while your guide shares stories and you wait for the Northern Lights to appear above the mountains. If the sky is clear and the aurora is active, this remote location provides beautiful conditions for experiencing and photographing the Northern Lights. The journey itself is part of the experience. The Ofoten Railway was built more than 120 years ago to connect the iron ore fields of Northern Sweden with Narvik’s ice-free harbour. Today, the railway offers a remarkable route from the fjord to the mountains and into the Arctic wilderness.
After an evening at Katterat, the train takes you back through the mountains to Narvik.
Good to know
Season: Northern Lights season
Duration: Approximately 3 hours 15 minutes
Meeting point: Narvik Railway Station
Meeting time: 18:30
Departure: 19:00
Return: Approximately 22:15
Destination: Katterat, 373 metres above sea level
Included: Return train journey, guide, Northern Lights documentary, photo tips, campfire, warm drink and pastry
Private groups: The Arctic Train can also be chartered for private groups and tailor-made events
Winter clothing: Available to rent through Your Horizon
FAQ
What makes the Northern Lights Train special?
The experience combines a Northern Lights hunt with a journey on the historic Ofoten Railway.
From Narvik, the train climbs from the fjord into the Arctic mountains, taking you away from the city lights to the remote mountain station of Katterat. Here, surrounded by wilderness, you spend time outdoors around the campfire while waiting for the Northern Lights.
Are the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No. The Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon, so sightings can never be guaranteed.
Katterat is located high in the mountains and far from the lights of Narvik, providing dark surroundings for viewing the night sky when conditions are favourable.
What happens at Katterat?
At Katterat, 373 metres above sea level, you leave the train and spend time outdoors in the Arctic mountain landscape. The group gathers around a campfire, with warm drinks and a fresh pastry while the guide shares stories and helps with photography.
You can also discover some of the history connected to this remote mountain settlement and the Ofoten Railway.
What should I wear?
Warm winter clothing is essential. Part of the experience takes place outdoors at Katterat, where temperatures can be considerably colder than in Narvik.
We recommend thermal layers, an insulated winter jacket and trousers, gloves, a hat and warm winter footwear.
Need warm winter clothing?
Travel light and stay warm. Arctic winter clothing can be rented through Your Horizon and prepared for your arrival.
Can the Northern Lights Train be arranged for private groups?
Yes. The Arctic Train offers charter options for larger and private groups, allowing the railway experience to become part of a tailor-made programme in Narvik.
Contact Your Horizon for private groups, incentives, corporate travel and tailor-made Northern Norway itineraries.
