Come to Swedish Lapland in winter to unwind! Sweden’s northernmost city, Kiruna, offers opportunities to witness the Northern Lights and a range of unforgettable Arctic activities. Enjoy dogsledding through a sparkling frozen wonderland, the exhilaration of snowmobiling, immersing yourself in warm Sami culture, and sleeping in extraordinary hotels. Hearty meals, fresh air, and traditional saunas set the stage to renew mind and body in this historic mining community that’s as resilient and transforming as the landscape itself.
Dog Sledding Through the Arctic Wilderness
Dog sledding in Kiruna is more than just a ride—it’s an unforgettable journey through the heart of Swedish Lapland. Glide across frozen lakes and weave through snow-dusted forests as your team of huskies pulls you across the Arctic terrain. You’ll feel the silence of the wilderness, broken only by the breath of the dogs and the crunch of the snow beneath the sled. Many tours allow you to try mushing for yourself, allowing you to connect with these incredible animals and experience the thrill of leading your own team. Whether you’re new to dog sledding or a seasoned adventurer, this is an exhilarating way to experience Kiruna’s raw, untouched beauty.
Chase the Northern Lights on a Snowmobile
There’s nothing quite like the experience of chasing the northern lights across the snowy wilderness on a snowmobile. As you ride through silent forests and wide-open landscapes under the Arctic sky, you’ll have the chance to witness the aurora borealis in one of the most awe-inspiring settings on Earth. Guided tours take you far from city lights to increase your chances of seeing this natural wonder, and many include warm beverages, snacks, and a cozy fire stop along the way. The combination of speed, scenery, and celestial spectacle makes this an unmissable adventure for thrill-seekers and romantics alike.
Visit a Sami Reindeer Camp
Immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of the Indigenous Sami people with a visit to a reindeer camp. Learn about their way of life, seasonal migrations, and deep connection to the Arctic landscape. You’ll have the chance to feed and interact with the reindeer, hear traditional joik singing, and even try your hand at lassoing. Many tours include storytelling sessions in a traditional lavvu (tent) and a taste of local Sami cuisine. It’s a meaningful and enriching experience that offers a rare look into one of Europe’s oldest living cultures.
Ice Climbing on Frozen Waterfalls
For those craving a physical challenge and a rush of adrenaline, ice climbing on Kiruna’s frozen waterfalls is a must. With the guidance of experienced instructors, you’ll learn how to use crampons and ice axes to ascend towering sheets of ice in some of the region’s most scenic locations. Suitable for beginners and seasoned climbers alike, these excursions offer a hands-on, vertical adventure unlike any other. The combination of rugged landscapes and the surreal beauty of frozen falls makes this a thrilling way to experience the Arctic outdoors.
Explore Abisko National Park
Abisko National Park, just a scenic drive from Kiruna, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Known for its pristine wilderness and dramatic mountain landscapes, the park offers endless opportunities for adventure year-round. Hikers can enjoy lush alpine trails, cascading waterfalls, and the famous Lapporten valley in summer. In winter, the park transforms into a snow-covered wonderland perfect for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and photographing the northern lights. Abisko’s high latitude and low cloud cover make it one of the best places in the world for aurora viewing. Whether you’re exploring under the midnight sun or the polar night sky, Abisko is a stunning escape into the wild.
Dog Sledding Through the Arctic Wilderness
Dog sledding in Kiruna is more than just a ride—it’s an unforgettable journey through the heart of Swedish Lapland. Glide across frozen lakes and weave through snow-dusted forests as your team of huskies pulls you across the Arctic terrain. You’ll feel the silence of the wilderness, broken only by the breath of the dogs and the crunch of the snow beneath the sled. Many tours allow you to try mushing for yourself, allowing you to connect with these incredible animals and experience the thrill of leading your own team. Whether you’re new to dog sledding or a seasoned adventurer, this is an exhilarating way to experience Kiruna’s raw, untouched beauty.
Chase the Northern Lights on a Snowmobile
There’s nothing quite like the experience of chasing the northern lights across the snowy wilderness on a snowmobile. As you ride through silent forests and wide-open landscapes under the Arctic sky, you’ll have the chance to witness the aurora borealis in one of the most awe-inspiring settings on Earth. Guided tours take you far from city lights to increase your chances of seeing this natural wonder, and many include warm beverages, snacks, and a cozy fire stop along the way. The combination of speed, scenery, and celestial spectacle makes this an unmissable adventure for thrill-seekers and romantics alike.
Visit a Sami Reindeer Camp
Immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of the Indigenous Sami people with a visit to a reindeer camp. Learn about their way of life, seasonal migrations, and deep connection to the Arctic landscape. You’ll have the chance to feed and interact with the reindeer, hear traditional joik singing, and even try your hand at lassoing. Many tours include storytelling sessions in a traditional lavvu (tent) and a taste of local Sami cuisine. It’s a meaningful and enriching experience that offers a rare look into one of Europe’s oldest living cultures.
Ice Climbing on Frozen Waterfalls
For those craving a physical challenge and a rush of adrenaline, ice climbing on Kiruna’s frozen waterfalls is a must. With the guidance of experienced instructors, you’ll learn how to use crampons and ice axes to ascend towering sheets of ice in some of the region’s most scenic locations. Suitable for beginners and seasoned climbers alike, these excursions offer a hands-on, vertical adventure unlike any other. The combination of rugged landscapes and the surreal beauty of frozen falls makes this a thrilling way to experience the Arctic outdoors.
Explore Abisko National Park
Abisko National Park, just a scenic drive from Kiruna, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Known for its pristine wilderness and dramatic mountain landscapes, the park offers endless opportunities for adventure year-round. Hikers can enjoy lush alpine trails, cascading waterfalls, and the famous Lapporten valley in summer. In winter, the park transforms into a snow-covered wonderland perfect for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and photographing the northern lights. Abisko’s high latitude and low cloud cover make it one of the best places in the world for aurora viewing. Whether you’re exploring under the midnight sun or the polar night sky, Abisko is a stunning escape into the wild.