Getting Around Abisko. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transport Overview

Abisko has no metro, trams, or local bus system in the traditional sense. The train serves as the main mode of transport, both for arriving from outside and for limited local movement.

The SJ (Swedish Railways) train acts as a limited local transport option between Abisko Östra and Abisko Turiststation. These two stops are the only "public transport" within the immediate Abisko area.

Train Hubs

Abisko Östra: The hub for the village's small supermarket and other guesthouses.
Abisko Turiststation: The hub for Abisko National Park entrance and the Aurora Sky Station chairlift.
Ticketing: Purchase train tickets online via SJ.se or through their app. No specific local fare system.
Frequency: Train services are infrequent. Only a few trains operate per day in each direction.

Walking

Walking is the main way to get around within the national park and between the two Abisko areas. Distances are manageable for most people (about 2-3 km between Östra and Turiststation).

Route Maps

The two train stations, Abisko Östra and Abisko Turiststation, remain the main transport hubs. These stations are within walking distance of their respective village areas and lodge facilities.

Accessibility

SJ trains generally offer accessibility features. However, navigating snow or ice-covered paths in Abisko has challenges for those with mobility issues. The natural terrain of the national park is not always smooth.

Efficient Navigation Tips

Walking & Scheduling

Factor in walking times between attractions. Abisko is best explored on foot.
Check train schedules carefully for any inter-Abisko travel or connections to Kiruna or Narvik. A missed train means a long wait.
In winter, dress warmly. In summer, prepare for mosquitoes.

Wilderness Guidelines

Adhere to park regulations and warning signs, especially in wilderness areas.
Inform someone of your route if venturing far.
Stay safe; Abisko's natural beauty comes with certain responsibilities.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Pre-booking

Taxis require pre-booking from Kiruna.

High Cost

Transfers from Kiruna are costly due to distance (1500-2000 SEK+).

No Ride-Share

Apps like Uber or Bolt are not available in Abisko or Kiruna.

Airport Taxis

Pre-arrange taxi service from Kiruna Airport.

Rental Options

Rental options in Abisko are confined mostly to cars in Kiruna and bicycles in summer.

Car Rental Requirements

Valid Driving License: Needed for rental.
International Driving Permit: Recommended if your license is not in English/Swedish.
Credit Card: For deposit.
Minimum Age: Typically 18-21, with potential surcharges for younger drivers.

Winter Driving Note

Mandatory Winter Tires: From December 1 to March 31.
Challenging Conditions: Snow, ice, and reduced visibility make driving harder.
Fuel Stops: Limited in Abisko; fill up in Kiruna.
Wildlife Vigilance: Watch for reindeer and moose on roads.

Bicycle Rentals

No Sharing Programs: No public bicycle sharing programs exist.
Seasonal Availability: Rentals might be available from STF Abisko Turiststation or Abisko Mountain Lodge during the summer months.
Inquire Directly: Check with lodges for current availability.

No Dedicated Lanes: Limited bicycle infrastructure exists outside of a few local paths.
Safe Walking: Paths and national park trails are safe for walking.
Not Practical: Not practical for the climate and terrain in winter.

Driving Rules & Parking

Driving Side

Drive on the right side of the road.

Headlights

Headlights must remain on at all times, even during daylight.

Parking

Parking is available at Abisko Turiststation and in Abisko Östra.

Specialized Transport

Beyond standard options, some unique transport modes serve specific purposes.

Tour Transfers & Limited Services

No hop-on-hop-off services operate.
Tour operators often arrange transfers for their activities, like dog sledding or snowmobile tours. These are not public transport.
No boat taxis or water transportation services as a main access point.
The Abiskojåkka River is not navigable for public transport.

Seasonal Water Transport

Lake Torneträsk Boat Tours: During summer, boat tours are available on Lake Torneträsk.
Hiker Transport: Some services might transport hikers to specific trailheads across the lake. Inquire with STF Abisko Turiststation for details.
Explore with Purpose: These services cater to specific recreational needs, not general travel.
Scenic Views: Offers an unique perspective of the lake and surrounding landscape.

Mountain Access & Accessibility

Abisko Sky Station Chairlift

This chairlift operates daily during summer and winter seasons.

Access to Mount Njullá and Aurora Sky Station.

Summit Access

A main means of reaching the mountain's summit for views or aurora watching.

Panoramic views and aurora opportunities.

Accessibility Limitations

Abisko National Park's natural terrain (uneven paths, snow, ice) limits accessibility for mobility needs.

Outdoor activities and most trails are generally not wheelchair-friendly.

Driving Comfort & Safety

Winter Driving Advice

If you plan to rent a car, especially in winter, confirm you are comfortable driving in snow and ice conditions.
Ensure your rental car has the needed winter tires.
Do not attempt to drive in the Arctic winter without prior experience in snow and ice.

Wildlife on Roads

Watch out for reindeer and moose on the roads, especially at dusk and dawn.
These animals present a collision risk.
Drive carefully and adhere to speed limits.

Sea/River Travel Limitations

No direct ferry services or cruise ports serve Abisko.
Abisko is an inland destination.
The Abiskojåkka River is not navigable for public transport.
Immigration procedures at seaports are not applicable for Abisko.

No direct arrival by large vessels.
Limited motorboat use on Lake Torneträsk for specific tours.
Any connections from water to land transport are not for direct arrival.
Water conditions on large lakes can be challenging.

Travel Smart in Abisko

Abisko’s character means local travel leans on walking and the train. Plan movements by checking limited train schedules.

Always adhere to park regulations and warning signs, especially in wilderness areas. Inform someone of your route if venturing far.

Getting Around Abisko