Kiruna, Sweden’s northernmost town, is a playground for outdoor lovers seeking winter adventures in the Arctic. Its vast, snow-covered wilderness offers endless opportunities for hiking and trekking, even in the deepest winter months. What makes Kiruna truly special is the combination of pristine natural landscapes and unique cultural experiences like ice fishing and the chance to see the Northern Lights. We especially love how some tours, like the Snowshoe Hike & Ice Fishing Tour, mix physical activity with authentic local traditions—think roasting marshmallows over an open fire after a snowshoe trek.
If you’re after a straightforward daytime snowshoe adventure, there’s the Daytime Snowshoe Hike—a great way to soak in the scenery and maybe spot some wildlife. For those chasing the Northern Lights, the Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike offers a magical nighttime experience under starry skies, complete with warm drinks and silence only the Arctic can deliver. And for a full-day immersion, the Abisko National Park Snowshoe Hike combines hiking, history, and a picnic in one of Sweden’s most breathtaking parks.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour, highlighting what makes them unique and helping you choose the perfect Arctic outing.
1. Kiruna: Snowshoe Hike & Ice fishing Tour
At number one, we have a tour that truly hits the mark for combining nature, culture, and hands-on winter skills. This Snowshoe Hike & Ice Fishing Tour lasts about four hours and is perfect for travelers who want to experience the Arctic landscape with a guide sharing local insights. The tour begins with snowshoes on your feet, allowing you to trek across snow-laden forests and frozen lakes—no previous experience needed. Along the way, your guide explains Swedish Lappland’s wildlife and cultural traditions, making this more than just a walk.
What sets this tour apart is the chance to try ice fishing—a classic Arctic activity. After some patience on the frozen lake, you’ll get to see how local people fish through the ice, then warm up with a traditional fika—coffee, lingonberries, and a light meal cooked over an open fire. The reviews reflect its popularity, with visitors praising the guide’s friendliness and detailed explanations, like one saying, “We thoroughly enjoyed our day out in the snow.”
Bottom Line: This tour offers a balanced mix of outdoor activity and culture, ideal for those wanting a comprehensive Arctic experience with expert guidance.
2. Kiruna: Daytime Snowshoe Hike
Coming in at number two is the Daytime Snowshoe Hike, which is about three hours long and rated 4.9 out of 5 from 46 reviews. For around $127 per person, it’s a fantastic way to explore Kiruna’s snowy forests and wildlife during daylight hours. The tour includes pickup from nine different locations, making logistics simple for visitors staying in town.
During the hike, you’ll walk through stunning winter scenery, gaining an understanding of the local flora and fauna. The guide shares insights into the animals that inhabit the area, like reindeer and foxes, and points out the tracks they leave in the snow. The itinerary features scenic viewpoints, with plenty of opportunities for photos and peaceful moments amidst the silence of winter. After the hike, a warm drink is served, offering a cozy break with a view.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on nature education combined with accessible activity. It’s perfect for active travelers who want a scenic, informative hike but don’t want to commit to a full-day tour.
Bottom Line: A highly-rated, easy-to-access experience that’s ideal for those wanting to see the Arctic landscape in daylight, with a relaxed pace and educational touch.
3. Kiruna: Snowshoe Trek with Aurora Hunt and Warm Beverage
Number three on our list is the Snowshoe Trek with Aurora Hunt, rated perfect 5/5 based on 10 reviews. This three-hour tour offers a chance to chase the Northern Lights in a quiet, snow-covered wilderness. It’s tailored for travelers eager to see the Aurora Borealis away from city lights, with an emphasis on nature’s most spectacular light show.
The tour includes snowshoes, overalls, and boots to keep you warm, so you can focus on the starry sky and the dance of the Aurora. The guide takes you to a scenic spot for optimal viewing, where you can enjoy a hot beverage and a sandwich—in the comfort of warm clothing. The experience is described as “magical” and “peaceful,” especially when the lights start to flicker overhead.
Given its 3-hour length, this tour is suited for those with limited time but a strong desire to witness one of nature’s most awe-inspiring phenomena. The small-group size ensures an intimate, personalized experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for Aurora seekers who want a cozy, guided experience under the stars, with the added comfort of warm drinks and gear.
4. Kiruna: Snowshoe Trek with Warm Beverage and Sandwich
At number four, this Snowshoe Trek with Warm Beverage and Sandwich offers a relaxed, scenic exploration of Swedish Lapland. Rated 5/5 from three reviews, it focuses on the beauty of the winter landscape and the chance to spot signs of wild animals like reindeer, moose, and foxes.
The tour provides full gear—warm overalls, snowshoes, and poles—so you can focus on the scenery. It includes a stop for a hot drink and a sandwich, making it a perfect choice for travelers who want a comfortable outdoor experience with light refreshment. The guide shares local stories and insights into the wildlife and environment, enhancing the sense of connection to the landscape.
Guests appreciate the “beautiful trip” and the chance to learn about nature, with the guide’s information making the experience richer. Round-trip transfers streamline logistics, removing hassle from your Arctic adventure.
Bottom Line: A peaceful, educational snowshoe experience suited for nature lovers who appreciate simplicity and comfort in a pristine setting.
5. Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike
Number five on our list is the Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike, rated 4.8 out of 5 from four reviews. This evening tour lasts about 3.5 hours and is ideal for those who want to combine physical activity with the chance to witness the aurora in its full glory.
The tour begins with an easy hike into the wilderness, where the silence of the snow and the darkness create a perfect environment for aurora viewing. The itinerary includes a brief stop for hot drinks and local snacks around a campfire, perfect for warming up after trekking through the snow. All necessary gear is provided, so you just need to dress warmly.
The focus here is on nighttime adventure and aurora viewing—a peaceful, almost meditative experience that appeals to nature lovers and night sky enthusiasts. The small group size helps ensure a quiet, personal experience under the stars.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting an active, yet tranquil way to see the Northern Lights in an authentic Arctic setting.
6. Kiruna: Abisko National Park Snowshoe Hike with Lunch
Finally, at number six, the Abisko National Park Snowshoe Hike with Lunch offers a full six-hour adventure into one of Sweden’s most scenic parks. This tour is perfect for travelers who want to enjoy wilderness, history, and nature.
Starting from Kiruna, you’ll learn about the Iron Ore Railway’s history and explore the semi-frozen creek of Abisko Jåkkå, looking for animal tracks along the way. The highlight is a homemade outdoor lunch served amid the snowy landscape—think steaming soup, bread, and local ingredients. The guide shares insights into the science and geology of the area, making it a great pick for curious travelers.
The tour offers a deep dive into Arctic ecology and history, suitable for those prepared for a longer, more substantial hike. Its mix of nature, education, and cultural history makes it stand out.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for active travelers eager to learn about the landscape and history while enjoying a hearty outdoor meal.
How to Choose Your Perfect Kiruna Hiking or Trekking Tour
When deciding between these adventures, consider your fitness level, interests, and time available. If you’re mainly interested in wildlife and scenery, the Daytime Snowshoe Hike is a solid choice. For those wanting a nighttime experience with Aurora viewing, the Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike offers a cozy, memorable outing. If you’re keen on cultural insights and hands-on activities like ice fishing, the Snowshoe Hike & Ice Fishing Tour is ideal.
For a longer, more comprehensive day in the wilderness, the Abisko National Park Snowshoe Hike provides a mix of history and nature. All tours provide gear, but check if transfers are included if you’re staying outside town.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak winter months when the Northern Lights are most active.
Final Thoughts
Kiruna offers a remarkable range of winter hiking and trekking experiences that cater to different interests and fitness levels. Whether you’re after a scenic daytime walk, a night under the stars hunting the aurora, or a full-day adventure exploring national parks, there’s something here for everyone. For most travelers, a combination of these tours—like a daytime snowshoe followed by an aurora hunt—makes for a memorable Arctic trip.
Consider what suits your style—whether it’s gentle wildlife spotting, culture, or chasing the Northern Lights—and book early to secure your spot. Kiruna’s winter landscape waits with quiet, icy beauty just for you.