Kiruna: Snowshoe Trek with Aurora Hunt and Warm Beverage

If you’re considering a winter adventure in northern Sweden, a snowshoe trek with an Aurora hunt in Kiruna might just be your ideal experience. While this isn’t an activity for thrill-seekers looking for adrenaline, it offers a peaceful, immersive way to enjoy the Arctic landscape and catch a glimpse of the legendary Northern Lights.

What caught our eye about this tour are the combination of simplicity and authenticity—you don’t need to be a seasoned hiker, thanks to provided gear and a flexible pace. Plus, the inclusion of a warm beverage and a sandwich makes it feel less like an expedition and more like a cozy outdoor outing. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that it’s not suitable for children under 10 or anyone with mobility issues, so check that your travel companions fit these criteria.

This tour is best suited for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone eager to experience Arctic nights without too much fuss. If you’re in Kiruna and want a relaxed but memorable Arctic experience, this could be just right.

Key Points

• Accessible for all fitness levels: The pace is set by you, so it’s suitable even if you’re not super athletic.
• Warmly equipped: You’ll be provided with overalls, boots, snowshoes, and poles, making the experience comfortable and manageable.
• Chance to see the Northern Lights: The tour takes you to multiple spots where auroras are most likely to appear, with the added bonus of starry skies and snow-covered landscapes.
• Comfortable and cozy: The inclusion of a warm beverage and sandwich ensures you stay energized and warm during breaks.
• Flexible cancellation policy: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind.
• No hotel transfers: The meeting point is conveniently located in Kiruna’s city center, close to Scandic Hotel.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is This Snowshoe Trek Really Like?

Imagine walking through a quiet, snow-blanketed wilderness, the crunch of snow under your feet, and the sky above flickering with the possibility of green or purple auroras. That’s what this tour promises—a chance to enjoy the Arctic’s winter beauty while keeping things simple and relaxed.

The activity lasts about three hours, which includes the time needed to get geared up, walk, stop, and enjoy your drinks and sandwich. The meeting point is the Kiruna Guidetur office in the city center, close to Scandic Hotel, making it easy to find and conveniently located.

Getting Ready for the Trek

When you meet your guide, you’ll be fitted with warm overalls, boots, snowshoes, and poles. This gear is crucial because it transforms the snow into a walkable surface and keeps you warm. The overalls are designed to be windproof and insulated, so even if the temperature dips below freezing, you’ll stay comfortable.

The guide will give a quick orientation, making sure everyone is familiar with the snowshoes and how to walk with them. The pace is set to suit the group, so there’s no pressure—whether you’re a beginner or more experienced, you can enjoy the walk at your own speed.

The Landscape and the Walk

As you set off, the surroundings are breathtaking. Snow-covered trees, silent forests, and open fields stretch out in all directions. Because of the snow’s brightness, the landscape remains luminous even during the dark hours, thanks to the reflective white surface and the natural light from stars and, hopefully, the Northern Lights.

Many travelers mention how peaceful and calming this setting is. One review notes, “We loved the way the snowshoes made walking over the snow so effortless, and the landscape was just stunning.” The trail itself might take you to several key spots where the guide hopes to spot the auroras, depending on weather and solar activity.

The Break with Warm Drinks and Food

Halfway through, you’ll stop for a well-deserved break. The provided warm beverage and sandwich are simple but effective—hot drinks help warm your hands, and the sandwich keeps your energy up for the rest of the walk. It’s a nice touch that makes the outing more of a cozy outdoor picnic than just a trek.

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Aurora Hunting and the Night Sky

The real highlight is the chance to see the Northern Lights. The guide will take you to different locations that are optimal for viewing. Because the tour is set in the wilderness, away from city lights, your chances of witnessing the auroras are good, weather permitting.

While no one can guarantee seeing the lights, many reviews mention how magical it is to stand under a starry sky, waiting in silence as the sky dances with colors. One reviewer shared, “It was one of those moments where everything feels so still, and then suddenly, the sky flickered green—you can’t help but feel awe.”

Suitability and Limitations

Since the tour is designed to be accessible and flexible, it’s great for most people who are reasonably mobile. However, it’s not suitable for children under 10 or those with mobility impairments. The activity doesn’t involve strenuous hiking but does require walking in snow over uneven terrain.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At its core, this is a straightforward experience—no frills, but well-organized. You’re paying for the gear, the guiding, and the chance to experience the Arctic night. The inclusion of warm clothing and food adds value, especially because gear rental in cold environments can be expensive elsewhere.

Compared to more intense or longer aurora tours, this one is relatively short and relaxed, making it appealing for travelers who want a taste of Arctic winter without dedicating a whole day. It’s priced reasonably when you consider the outdoor gear, guiding, and the experience of discovering the Northern Lights in such an intimate setting.

Additional Details to Consider

• Tour duration: About 3 hours, including gear-up and breaks.
• Availability: Check specific starting times based on your travel dates.
• Weather: The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon—weather conditions like snow, clouds, or wind can affect visibility.
• Seasonal note: Tours between December 24th and January 6th include a 300 SEK holiday surcharge.
• What to bring: Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, snacks, and water. Pack extra layers if you tend to get cold.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This snowshoe trek is perfect for adventurers who enjoy a relaxed outdoor experience and want a genuine taste of Arctic winter. It’s especially good if you’re not looking for intense hikes or long excursions but still want a memorable aurora experience in a beautiful setting.

Travelers who appreciate comfort and simplicity will find the gear provided makes the experience enjoyable rather than exhausting. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to combine outdoor activity with the magic of the Northern Lights, without the need for advanced hiking skills or strenuous effort.

But if you’re after a more adrenaline-pumping or extensive Arctic adventure, you might want to look elsewhere. This tour is all about enjoying the tranquility of winter landscapes and the thrill of a potential aurora sighting in a cozy, manageable package.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 10 years old, mainly because of the physical activity and outdoor conditions.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
No, gear like overalls, boots, snowshoes, and poles are provided, making it easy to join without special equipment.

Will I see the Northern Lights?
While the tour increases your chances by taking you to good viewing spots, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and can’t be guaranteed. Clear skies and solar activity are key factors.

How strenuous is the walk?
The pace is set by you, and the terrain is manageable with snowshoes. It’s suitable for most fitness levels, especially since you’re not required to hike for hours.

What should I wear?
Wearing warm clothing, including layers, is recommended. The tour provides overalls, but bring your own warm gloves, hat, and possibly extra layers depending on your comfort level.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Where do I meet the guide?
The meeting point is at the Kiruna Guidetur office in the city center, near Scandic Hotel, which makes it easy to find and access.

This snowshoe trek offers a gentle, immersive way to experience the Arctic night and hopefully witness the Northern Lights. It’s simple, cozy, and accessible—perfect for travelers seeking an authentic and relaxed winter adventure in Kiruna.

You can check availability for your dates here: