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Things to Do in Swedish Lapland

Things to Do in Swedish Lapland

Swedish Lapland Sweden Travel Guide

Winter & Summer Adventures

From aurora hunts to forest treks, find your adventure.

Winter Wonderland Activities

Northern Lights Hunting

Best time is late Sept to late March, peak Dec-Feb. Tours (snowmobile, dog sled, bus) increase visibility. Abisko National Park is a premier place with clear skies. Book tours via GetYourGuide.

Dog Sledding

A quintessential Arctic experience, glide through snow-covered landscapes pulled by huskies. Tours from 1-2 hours to multi-day. Operators around Kiruna and Jukkasjärvi.

Snowmobiling

Exhilarating way to explore wilderness. Guided tours available for all skill levels. Operators provide thermal suits and helmets.

Seasonal Pursuits

  • Skiing: Alpine at Björkliden, Riksgränsen (heli-skiing, Midnight Sun skiing).
  • Cross-Country Skiing: Groomed trails in Kiruna, Luleå, peaceful winter activity.
  • Ice Fishing: Traditional winter pursuit. Guided tours for equipment and shelter.
  • Fat Biking: Winter cycling on snow trails with specialized bikes.

Sami Heritage

  • Sami Cultural Experiences: Visit Sami villages, learn reindeer herding, listen to joik, taste Sami food (suovas).
  • Nutti Sámi Siida (Jukkasjärvi): Authentic and respectful experience.
  • Jokkmokk Winter Market (Early Feb): Over 400 years old, significant Sami cultural event.
  • Ice Sculpting: Workshops at Icehotel.

Local Crafts

  • Traditional Crafts (Duodji): Learn about or purchase authentic Sami handicrafts.
  • Wood, horn, leather items reflect tradition.
  • Support local artisans by choosing genuine items.
  • Avoid mass-produced "Sami-style" items.

Summer Wilderness

  • Hiking/Trekking: Summer is prime. Kungsleden (King's Trail) offers multi-day treks.
  • Abisko National Park: Numerous day hikes, stunning scenery.
  • Kebnekaise Summit: Challenging multi-day trek to Sweden's highest peak.
  • Canoeing/Kayaking: Explore rivers and lakes in summer. Lule and Torne River areas are popular.

Safety First

Safety should always be the priority. Check weather conditions, inform others of your plans, and consider guided tours for challenging activities. Dress appropriately.

Relax & Rejuvenate

Find tranquility and rejuvenation in the Arctic environment.

Arctic Wellness Retreats

  • Sauna: Integral to Swedish culture. Many hotels, cabins, public facilities have saunas.
  • Arctic Bath (Harads): Luxury floating spa and hotel with cold baths and saunas.
  • Camp Ripan (Kiruna): Aurora Spa with indoor pool, saunas, hot tubs.
  • Wilderness Hot Tubs: Outdoor hot tubs at some lodges, popular for Northern Lights viewing.

Evening & Retail

Nightlife & Socializing

Limited outside of Luleå and Kiruna. Taverns and bars close earlier. Occasional live music.

Aurora Sky Station

Northern Lights viewing with restaurant and coffee shop, more nature-focused than traditional nightlife.

Icebar & Local Finds

Icebar by Icehotel (Jukkasjärvi): Bar made of ice, drinks in ice glasses, unique ambiance.

Jokkmokk Winter Market

Early February. A significant traditional market, offering a wide array of Sami crafts, local cuisine, and goods.

Artisan Workshops

Explore or purchase authentic Sami handicrafts (duodji), made from natural materials like wood and reindeer horn.

Souvenir Recommendations

Consider local delicacies (jams), animal-themed items, or textiles with Sami designs.

Shop & Remember

Discover unique local products and souvenirs.

Authentic Local Crafts

  • Sami Handicrafts (duodji): Wooden cups (kuksa), reindeer horn carvings.
  • Silver Jewelry: Intricate designs reflecting Sami artistry.
  • Leather Items: Products made from local materials.
  • Ethical Shopping: Purchase directly from Sami artisans or reputable sources for fair compensation.

Gift Ideas

Local Delicacies

Jams made from cloudberries or lingonberries. Local honey or smoked fish.

Arctic Themed Items

Miniatures of reindeer, moose, or Northern Lights-themed items. Textiles with Sami designs.

Shipping & Customs

Check home country's regulations for animal products. Keep receipts.

Book Your Arctic Adventure

Guided Tours

Secure your place on popular tours and activities in advance. Browse and book experiences on GetYourGuide.

Seasonal Activities

Ensure availability for cold-weather activities like dog sledding or snowmobiling.

Cultural Experiences

Book Sami cultural visits or Icehotel workshops.

Activity Planning Summary

A brief overview to guide your activity selections.

Best Times to Visit Seasonal Activities

  • Winter (Nov-Mar): Northern Lights, dog sledding, snowmobiling, ice fishing.
  • Summer (Jun-Aug): Hiking, canoeing, Midnight Sun, wildlife viewing.
  • Autumn (Sept-Oct): Fall colors, aurora, foraging.
  • Spring (Apr-May): Longer days, still snow, late skiing.

Preparation Checklist

Dress in Layers

Wear appropriate clothing for variable Arctic conditions.

Book in Advance

Secure accommodations and popular tours well in advance.

Navigation Tools

Carry physical maps and charged devices for remote areas.

Photography Gear

  • Bring camera gear suitable for low light (aurora) and cold temperatures.
  • Consider extra batteries; cold drains them quickly.
  • A camera stand is highly recommended to See The northern lights.
  • Protect your supplies from moisture.

Local Information

  • Consult local tourist information centers upon arrival.
  • Check weather forecasts daily.
  • Inquire about local events and festivals.
  • Be aware of wildlife and local regulations.

Payment & Currency

  • Swedish Krona (SEK) is the currency.
  • Card payments are widely accepted and preferred.
  • Cash is rarely needed.
  • ATMs are available in towns.

Ethical Tourism

Respect Nature
  • Stay on marked trails to protect fragile ecosystems.
  • Leave no trace; pack out all waste.
  • Do not disturb wildlife.
Cultural Sensitivity
  • Be mindful of Sami traditions and land use.
  • Ask permission before taking photos of people.
  • Learn a few Swedish phrases.

Additional Tips

Embrace the natural pace of life in Lapland. Be flexible with your plans, as weather can influence activities. Enjoy the unique Arctic light and tranquility.

Your Arctic Activity Planner

Seasonal Highlights

  • Winter (Nov-Mar): Northern Lights, dog sledding, snowmobiling, ice fishing.
  • Summer (Jun-Aug): Hiking, canoeing, Midnight Sun, wildlife viewing.
  • Autumn (Sept-Oct): Autumn colors, aurora, foraging.
  • Spring (Apr-May): Longer days, still snow, late skiing.

Preparation Checklist

  • Dress in layers for variable Arctic conditions.
  • Book accommodations and popular tours well in advance.
  • Carry physical maps and charged devices for remote areas.
  • Bring camera gear suitable for low light and chilly.
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