Gazing up at the dancing northern lights against a backdrop of snowy wilderness is one of life’s bucket list experiences. Also known as the aurora borealis, this celestial phenomenon is often observed during winter nights up in the Arctic Circle. 

There are several Kiruna tours that focus on hunting down the northern lights in Swedish Lapland. You’ll head out to the remote forests and mountain regions around Kiruna with an expert guide who will know all the best viewing locations. These trips often take in Abisko National Park or the beautiful Mount Eatnamvárri.

On some excursions, a professional photographer will accompany the group to capture the magic on film. Feeling adventurous? There are also opportunities to see the northern lights from Kiruna on a snowmobile or dog sledding tour. 

While waiting for the northern lights to appear, you can warm your hands with cups of steaming tea or coffee. Then, after the enchanting night sky show, you’ll head inside a traditional Sami tipi to enjoy a delicious campfire dinner.
 

The Abisko National Park is less than 100 kilometers from Kiruna, so it makes a popular day trip for adventurous explorers. This is classic alpine wilderness, with flowering meadows, backcountry forests and rugged peaks. If you want to discover some of Lapland’s most beautiful landscapes, this is the place to go!

In summer, wildflowers are blooming, and nature is at its finest. If you’re lucky, you might spot bears, elks and even wolverines while out hiking on the trails. Hang out there long enough and you’ll get to experience the famous midnight sun. 

Yet it’s winter when the park comes into its own. Kiruna tours to Abisko are highly coveted, as this is one of the best places to see the northern lights in Sweden. You can try your hand at ice fishing on the frozen lakes too for a taste of local life.  

Winter is also a great time for seeing moose as the white snow makes them easy to spot. Keep your eyes peeled for reindeer and golden eagles while you’re at it. 
 

If you want to experience Swedish Lapland in an authentic way, then dog sledding tours in Kiruna are the answer. After getting kitted up in warm outdoor gear, you’ll be introduced to your husky team who will be eager to get underway. 

Sit back and enjoy the ride as your expert guide navigates through dense forests and pristine lakes. You’ll whiz through the frozen landscapes like a pro while staying all cozy on the sled. See if you can spot deer and moose during the journey. 

Kiruna dog sledding tours can be enjoyed in the morning, for crisp icy scenes, or at night if you want to see the northern lights. No matter what time of day you travel, you’ll enjoy a welcome break at a snug countryside hut or tipi for refreshments. 

For something extra special, 2-day tours from Kiruna are also available. On these adventures, you’ll head deep into the wild with your trusty husky companions. After crossing lakes and forests you will arrive at your overnight cabin for saunas and stargazing. 
 

Feel the need for speed as you slice through the ice on a thrilling snowmobile ride through the Arctic forests. These exhilarating Kiruna tours are fast-paced and fun-packed, with over 150 kilometers of trails to explore. You’ll cover a lot of distance by snowmobile, which means you’ll get to see even more of this enthralling icy world. 

You can ride tandem on a snowmobile, but if you want to drive, you must present your driving license at the briefing. Then it’s time to take on the winter forests. You’ll traverse the icy wilds, zooming alongside rivers and even riding over frozen lakes. 

After expending lots of energy riding through the winter landscapes, you’ll stop for lunch at an inviting wood cabin. Warm yourself by the fire and swap stories about wildlife sightings with your companions. 

For the ultimate adrenaline rush, combine a snowmobile trek with some northern lights viewing. These evening tours are at their best between November and February when the skies are at their darkest. 
 

If you prefer to use your own two feet to get around, then you’re in luck. There are lots of hiking trails around Kiruna, with something to suit all abilities. Guided hikes are the best way to explore as you’ll have a local on hand to reveal the secrets of the landscape. 

Short walks through the ancient birch forests are among the most popular hiking tours in Kiruna. You’ll navigate the snowy trails with your guide, stopping to follow wildlife tracks and keeping watch for deer. Groups are small to ensure a peaceful experience. 

For something more strenuous, opt for a full-day hike in the Abisko National Park. You’ll get to see the famous Lapporten mountain as well as plenty of canyons and waterfalls. Immersed in this tranquil wilderness you’ll feel a million miles from the city. 

Many of these hikes take in Lake Torneträsk, which lies in the heart of the Scandinavian Mountains. The views here are breathtaking in every direction, and it’s a great place to spot the aurora if you’re there in the evening. 
 

Sweden’s Ice Hotel is one of the most famous attractions in the country. Often featuring on Kiruna tours, this architectural marvel is a must for anyone visiting Lapland. Constructed entirely out of ice, the hotel is rebuilt every year, with different designs by sculptors from across the world. 

The ice is harvested from the frozen Torne River and turned into one of the most unique accommodation offerings in the world. Hardy souls can spend the night in one of the individually crafted ice rooms. For those who prefer to sleep in the warmth, day trips are the next best thing.

You’ll be transferred by road from Kiruna, with a scenic drive alongside Lake Torneträsk. On arrival, you will have a couple of hours to explore the ice chapel and the bedrooms. There’s an open-air Sami museum where you can feed the reindeer too.

Up the thrills by arriving at the Ice Hotel in style on a snowmobile tour. You’ll have an hour to wander around the hotel and admire all the different sculptures before heading back into the forest.