Kiruna: Where Snowy Adventures Meet the Aurora
Deep within the Swedish Lapland, one can find the impressive city of Kiruna, the northernmost city in all of Sweden.Despite being nestled within the arctic circle, the city is a tourist hot spot for the blend of untouched tundra, adventure, culture, and polar activities.As a small and significantly spread population lives across the expansive arctic tundra, the town is quiet, allowing an unparelleled experience of the infinite tundra and the magic of the silence.Unlike several other towns within Sweden, the cold and snow is not the reason for the attraction.Instead, the reason is the sense of awe and curiosity which the city and its breathtaking winter skys filled with northern lights and the glorious summers with the midnight sun, offer to everyone.
A brief history of Kiruna.
In the late 1800s, Kiruna was nothing more than a small mining settlement.However, due to being settled within one of the richest iron ore deposits on the globe, the settlement soon grew in size and importance.As the mine was expanded, more and more of the settlement was integrated, and the city was growing in importance to Kiruna’s culture and economy.However, when the mining operations expanded further underground, the city began to face issues on the surface.This forced the city to relocate several of its buildings to new plots of ecologically appropriate empty land several kilometers away.Despite being a decently large undertaking, the migration of the entire town is nearly complete.This program and the various changes brought to Kiruna is a testament to Kiruna’s resilience, and unique ability to innovate.Today the city is a rare fusion of modern changes, traditional Sami culture, and history rooted in mining.
Midnight sun & summer glow
As winter goes, summer Kiruna is equally enchanting.From late May to mid July, the sun shines nonstop.With the sun shining incessantly, the temperature is pleasantly warm, allowing you to undertake outdoor activities at all hours while the Arctic landscapes undergo their beautiful transformation.During the Midnight Sun, hiking, canoeing, and mountain activities are particularly good.
What makes Kiruna special
The world famous ICEHOTEL
Perhaps the most stunning site in Kiruna, ICEHOTEL, is rebuilt every winter using snow and ice.There is no other place in the world with hand crafted entries, ice sculptures and frozen suites, all within the beauty of the Arctic.Ever night, the hotel draws the ice for its building from the Torne River while world renowned artists create unique suites.During the Kiruna trip, visiting ICEHOTEL is an essential and unforgettable experience.And for those who decide not to stay overnight, a visit is still a must.
Northern lights magic
From the end of September to the beginning of April, Kiruna is one of the best locations in all of Europe to see the Northern Lights.With no nearby large cities and clear winter skies, the region provides ideal conditions.The lights dance in green and purple hues, and often leave the audience in a trance.Going into the wilderness on a Northern Lights tour is a great way to see the lights for yourself.You will be given a chance to see the lights in all their glory and is given help with photography, along with warm drinks and snacks.
Arctic adventures for every traveller
Thrill seekers and peace seekers are equally served in Kiruna:
1. Dog sledding through forests, 2. Snowmobiling on frozen lakes
3. Reindeer sledding, 4. Remote lakes ice fishing
5. Snowshoe treks in the wilderness, 6. Aurora photography safaris
7. Ice climbing winter survival
These activities help you form a close bond with the Arctic and create irreplaceable, unforgettable memories.
Getting there and best time to visit
Kiruna is well connected with an airport that has seasonal direct flights from major European hubs.Most travelers get to Kiruna from Stockholm, with flights taking about 1.5 hours.
Best months to view the Northern Lights:
Late September – early April, Peak viewing is from December to February
Best months to experience the Midnight Sun:
Late May – mid-July
Best months to experience winter activities:
December – April
Due to the extreme circumstances of the seasons and visitor demand, it is a good idea to book tours, hotels and transportation early.
Cultural heritage and the Indigenous influence of the Sámi
The cultural core of Kiruna is intertwined with the Indigenous Sámi people, whose customs influence the everyday activities of the area.Reindeer husbandry, crafts, traditional Sámi singing, and knowledge of the environment are all integral to the ways of the Sámi.Many activities and tours in Kiruna are facilitated by Sámi guides who narrate stories of the Arctic, providing insight into survival, heritage, and the spiritual relationship with the region.The abundance of culture in Kiruna gives the town the value of being more than just beautiful.
Traveling from the UK? Understanding how to apply for Sweden visa from UK
If you are not a UK or EU citizen, you must apply for a Sweden visa from UK before you can visit Kiruna.This first step forms the base for the travel, and it’s important to get it right.The process involves submitting your visa application at a Swedish visa processing center, and compiling the relevant documentation which includes your travel plan, accommodation bookings, bank statements, passport photos, proof of travel insurance and other important travel documents.Many travelers to Kiruna, for example, include a stay at the ICEHOTEL or Northern Lights excursion, to highlight their planned trips and activities for the Arctic.Depending on the season and demand, processing times may vary, so get your Sweden visa as soon as possible.After receiving your Sweden visa from the UK, travel to any part of the Schengen zone, including Sweden, which allows you to fly to Stockholm and take a domestic flight to Kiruna.Proper planning allows you to focus solely on enjoying the Arctic adventures that Lapland has to offer.
Top things to do in Kiruna
1. Visit the seasonal ICEHOTEL & its artistic ice suites, 2. Take guided tours to see the Northern Lights
3. See Sami culture and traditions of reindeer herding, 4. Visit the relocated Kiruna Church and hear about the city moving project
5. Take a husky sledding tour with experienced mushers, 6. Taste food from Swedish Lapland
7. Visit the educational center of the iron ore mine, 8. In summer, experience the Midnight Sun
9. Go cross country skiing or on winter hiking trails, 10. Visit the nearby Abisko National Park and explore its wilderness
Kiruna is a combination of nature, science and culture with a bit of adventure.
Why you should have Kiruna on your travel bucket list
Kiruna is one of the very few places on the planet where you can really feel the wildness of nature.Kiruna is home to stunning frozen panoramas which glow under the aurora and to summer nights which are illuminated by perpetual daylight.Kiruna has a diverse collection of experiences that are almost surreal.The destination is extremely popular and worth travelling for, due to its culture, history, hospitality, and wildness.