Kiruna: Guided Snowmobile Tour and Northern Lights Hunt

Key Points

• Duration: 4.5-hour guided snowmobile adventure from Kiruna, Norrbotten County, Sweden
• Highlights: 32 km ride through forests, lakes, and rivers, with a high chance to see the Northern Lights
• Included: Arctic-grade gear, safety instructions, and a traditional Swedish fika with hot drinks and sweet treats
• Group Size: Small groups limited to 8 participants for a personalized experience
• Suitability: Drivers need a valid car license; passengers only need a camera; not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with certain health conditions
• Reviews: Outstanding 4.8/5 rating based on 163 reviews, praised for guides, scenery, and overall fun

The Kiruna snowmobile tour offers a perfect mix of adventure and natural beauty. This 4.5-hour experience takes place in Norrbotten County, Sweden, departing from Poikkijärvi village, just 15 km from Kiruna. The tour is organized by NORTH POW, a provider known for creating memorable Arctic excursions. The experience is limited to small groups of maximum 8 participants, ensuring a personalized and safe journey through the pristine Swedish Lapland wilderness.

This adventure is ideal for those eager to explore by snowmobile, see the Northern Lights, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of snowy landscapes. The tour includes all necessary Arctic gear, making it accessible even for newcomers to snowmobiling. While sightings of the aurora are natural phenomena beyond control, the guides work hard to maximize the chance of witnessing this spectacular display.

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From Kiruna to the Snowmobile Base in Poikkijärvi

This guided tour begins with a convenient minibus pickup from your chosen location in Kiruna or nearby accommodations. The drive to Poikkijärvi takes about 15 minutes, leading you to a cozy camp along the Torne River. Once there, all essential winter gear—overalls, shoes, gloves, facemask, helmets, and wool socks—is provided to keep you warm during the adventure.

The setting at Poikkijärvi offers a true Arctic atmosphere, away from city lights, perfect for watching the Northern Lights. The guides give detailed safety instructions and offer a thorough briefing on snowmobile driving. For those new to snowmobiles, guides demonstrate how to operate the vehicles confidently, making it accessible even for first-timers. You must hold a valid car driving license to drive, while passengers only need a camera.

The 32 km Snowmobile Route through Forests, Lakes, and Rivers

Over the course of approximately 32 km, the tour takes you across varied landscapes, including frozen lakes, rivers, and snow-covered forests. The route offers visual diversity, with the opportunity to see the wilderness from different angles. The snowmobile ride is designed to be enjoyable and safe, with guides pacing the journey to suit the group.

A key highlight is the pause halfway through at the camp, where you can rest, warm up, and enjoy a Swedish fika. This snack break features hot lingonberry juice, sweet treats from a local bakery, and the chance to swap snowmobile drivers if sharing a vehicle. The scenery during the ride includes wide-open flats and fairy-tale-like forests, making every moment visually captivating.

The Experience of Driving Snowmobiles in a Small Group

The small group size ensures everyone gets personalized attention from experienced guides such as Janos, Patrik, or Juampi. These guides are praised for their friendliness, expertise, and ability to create a relaxed, fun environment. During the ride, guides provide safety instructions and help build confidence in first-time drivers.

The ride itself is described as easy to follow, even for those with no prior snowmobile experience. The guides are attentive and often assist with photography, capturing moments of the Northern Lights or the snowy landscapes. Many reviews mention how guides patiently wait for the perfect Aurora display, making sure visitors don’t miss the best photo opportunities.

The Cozy Swedish Fika and Refreshments

Part of the tour’s charm is the break at the camp, where a traditional Swedish fika is served. Guests enjoy hot lingonberry juice along with sweet treats from a local bakery. This warm, comforting pause provides a welcome contrast to the cold outdoor environment and allows for relaxation and socializing.

The guides are known for their hospitality, making sure everyone is comfortable and has the chance to take photos. The fika also offers a moment to reflect on the adventure and appreciate the serene Arctic surroundings. It’s an authentic touch that adds warmth to the overall experience.

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Arctic Gear and Safety: Comfort and Confidence in Cold Conditions

All necessary Arctic-grade gear is included in the tour price. Participants receive high-quality insulated overalls, shoes, gloves, facemasks, helmets, and wool socks, ensuring protection against the cold. Travelers are advised to bring their own warm clothes for underneath the gear, such as thermal layers.

Guides provide comprehensive safety instructions and demonstrate snowmobile operation. Many reviews highlight how guides like Patrick, Juan Pablo, or Lila make newcomers feel confident on the vehicles. The equipment and guidance combine to create a comfortable, safe environment for everyone, regardless of experience level.

Witnessing the Northern Lights: Natural Phenomenon Beyond Guarantee

The main spectacle of this tour is the Northern Lights, a natural display highly dependent on weather and solar activity. While the guides do their best to find clear skies, sightings cannot be guaranteed. Many reviews celebrate successful Aurora views, describing them as dancing, colorful, and unforgettable.

The tour’s departure from light-polluted areas maximizes the chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis. Guides often help with photography tips or even capture photos for guests, ensuring that those moments are well-preserved. Even if the lights are elusive, the ride through snowy landscapes offers a beautiful night-time adventure.

Practical Details: Group Size, Booking, and Cancellation Policy

This tour is designed for small groups of up to 8 people, promoting a more intimate experience. It is easy to book with flexible options—reserving now allows pay later, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Participants must note that alcohol and drugs are not allowed, and the activity is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or individuals with certain health conditions such as heart problems, back issues, or wheelchair requirements. The tour operates in English and Swedish, with guides fluent in both languages.

Guests are advised to be ready outside their accommodation at the designated pickup time, as late arrivals are subject to full charges. The pick-up service is reliable, with contact made approximately an hour before departure.

Final Thoughts: A Unique Arctic Snowmobile Adventure in Kiruna

The Kiruna snowmobile tour from NORTH POW offers a well-rounded experience combining adrenaline, scenic beauty, and cultural authenticity. The all-inclusive Arctic gear, small group setting, and knowledgeable guides create a safe and enjoyable environment for beginners and experienced snowmobilers alike.

While Northern Lights sightings depend on natural conditions, the effort to find clear skies and the stunning landscapes make this tour worthwhile. The pause for fika adds a warm, friendly touch, making it more than just a snowmobile ride—it’s a chance to connect with the Swedish Lapland wilderness.

This tour is best suited for active travelers looking for an authentic Arctic adventure, who are comfortable with cold weather and driving a snowmobile. It provides great value with its comprehensive equipment, personalized guiding, and the chance to see one of nature’s most spectacular displays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need previous snowmobiling experience?
No, guides provide safety instructions and demonstrate how to drive, making it accessible for beginners.

What should I wear for the tour?
Bring warm clothes for underneath the provided Arctic gear, such as thermal layers, and follow the guide’s advice for dressing warmly.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
While the guides do their best to find clear skies, sightings are not guaranteed because they depend on weather and solar conditions.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 12 years old, pregnant women, or those with certain health conditions.

What is included in the price?
All Arctic clothing, safety gear, and a Swedish fika with hot drinks and sweet treats are included in the tour fee.

How many people are in each group?
Small groups of no more than 8 participants ensure a more personal and safe experience.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible to fit your travel plans.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations are easy, with options to reserve now and pay later, and the provider will contact you with pickup details closer to the date.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby