Sweden Winter Activities

The Ice Hotel in Jukkasjärvi – the first in the world – has been rebuilt every year since 1990 out of ice made from the waters of the Torne River. Even if you’re not up for spending the night in one of the icy bedrooms, pay the glacial palace a visit to view its chandeliers and sculptures, sip vodka from ice glasses in the Absolut Ice bar, or tie the knot at the Ice chapel.

On chilly and very clear nights from December to February, look up to see a series of greens, reds, and violets dancing across the sky in what are called the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights. Be prepared to be blown away by this natural phenomenon. The spectacle can be viewed from anywhere within Norrbotten County.

Simulate your own Iditarod race (the annual dog sled competition held in Alaska) by driving your own group of 5-8 huskies through the spectacular nature reserves and national parks of Vindelfjällens, Padjelanta, and Sarek in Laponia. After some initial prepping, the tour guides hand the reigns over and let you guide your team. Tours can be booked from December to May for either six or twelve days.

One of the most exciting ways to traverse the icy Arctic tundra of Northern Sweden is by snow mobile. Kiruna I Norr AB rents these vehicles from their outpost in Norrbotten County; reserve one for a day, and hightail it across the Kalix River and up to the Kebnekaise mountain region, traversing frozen lakes and marshlands en route.

Experience Sami culture – one of the oldest indigenous groups in the world – by spending anywhere from one to three days living on a Sami farm in a native Kåta (hut) or wigwam. While you’re here, enjoy traditional meals, visit the Sami people, and try reindeer sledding.

Set aside a day to follow a guide through dense forests and across frozen rivers in pursuit of wild elk and moose. Bring a camera and keep your eyes peeled for hoof prints and droppings – signs that the creatures are near! Around mid-day you will enjoy lunch cooked over an open fire in a Kåta (traditional Sami hut).