Kiruna is a place where the Arctic wilderness offers an incredible variety of tours and experiences that turn a visit into a memorable adventure. Whether you’re drawn to dog sledding, reindeer herding, or chasing the elusive northern lights, Kiruna’s wide-open spaces and unique culture make every activity special. One of our favorites is the Sit Down Husky Ride Dog Sled Tour, which combines the thrill of mushing with local charm—plus homemade cake and hot drinks. It’s perfect for families or anyone wanting a cozy yet exhilarating experience. If you prefer to take the reins yourself, the Self-drive Husky Morning Tour offers a rare chance to steer your own team and connect with the dogs on a deeper level. For those seeking a mix of culture and stunning scenery, the Guided Tour to Icehotel and Jukkasjävri immerses you in both art and Sami traditions.
No matter your interest, Kiruna’s wide range of adventure tours and cultural experiences guarantees you’ll find something that suits your style and makes your trip unforgettable.
Quick Overview
In our list of the 14 Best Tours & Experiences in Kiruna, you’ll find options that span dog sledding, reindeer encounters, snowmobiling, and ice fishing. For example, the Sit Down Husky Ride Dog Sled Tour in Kiruna offers a family-friendly, intimate sled ride through frozen lakes and forests, complete with homemade cake. Those looking for a hands-on adventure can try the Self-drive Husky Morning Tour and experience the joy of guiding their own team during daylight hours. For a peaceful, scenic treat, the Sunrise Zen Husky Tour combines the beauty of Lapland at dawn with the chance to meet and care for the dogs.
Other exciting options include reindeer sledding with Sami culture immersion, snowshoe hikes with ice fishing, and unforgettable northern lights safaris by snowmobile or snowshoe. Keep reading to find out which tour matches your interests and travel style.
1. Sit Down Husky Ride Dog Sled Tour in Kiruna
Add some husky action to your Kiruna trip with this family-friendly sled ride that offers a peaceful escape from the tourist crowds. The tour lasts around 2.5 hours and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easy. You’ll wear provided Arctic outerwear and ride in a sled pulled by calm, friendly huskies. The route explores frozen lakes and trails, with chances to spot wildlife like moose and reindeer along the way. What’s more, you can enjoy hot drinks and homemade cake in a traditional tipi tent, adding a cozy touch to the Arctic landscape.
Guests consistently praise the personalized small group experience and the opportunity to cuddle with the dogs. One reviewer noted, “Andrew was a fantastic guide who shared stories and made the ride even more memorable.” This tour is ideal for families or anyone wanting a gentle, authentic sledding experience with a lot of dog love.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a perfect introduction to husky sledding, combining fun, comfort, and local charm at a reasonable price.
2. Kiruna: Self-drive Husky Morning Tour
For those eager to truly mush their own team, this Self-drive Husky Morning Tour is a standout. Over about five hours, you’ll learn how to harness and drive the team with expert guidance. The tour starts with a thorough briefing on controlling the sled, then you’ll set off across the arctic tundra, feeling the thrill of steering your own dogs. Afterward, enjoy tea, coffee, and a light Sami-inspired meal in a traditional tent.
What makes this tour unique is the hands-on approach—you’re not just a passenger but a musher for the morning. It’s a favorite among those who want to connect deeply with the dogs and experience the Arctic landscape from the front seat.
Guests rave about the genuine interaction—they describe it as “one of the best days of my life” and praise the passion of guides and the friendly, happy dogs.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for an authentic and active Arctic adventure, this self-drive tour delivers a memorable day guiding your own team.
3. Sunrise Zen Husky Tour (10:00 to 13:00)
Experience the quiet beauty of an Arctic sunrise on this Sunrise Zen Husky Tour, perfect for early risers. This 3-hour excursion involves sitting comfortably on a sled as your team of huskies pulls you through the Poikkijärvi Woods. The small group size of just eight travelers makes for a personal, immersive experience. After the ride, you’ll have a chance to meet the dogs and learn how to care for them.
The highlight is the spectacular sunrise, transforming the snow-blanketed landscape into a scene of shimmering pinks and oranges. The guides serve hot drinks and snacks, making the experience both refreshing and relaxing.
Reviewers love how peaceful and memorable the morning is, with one saying, “The dogs, the sunrise, and the quiet forest made this a truly breathtaking experience.”
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for travelers who want a serene, scenic start to their day with the added bonus of a personal connection to the dogs.
4. Full-Day Reindeer Tour with Pickup in Kiruna
In number 4 on our list, the Full-Day Reindeer Tour offers an immersive dive into Sami culture. Guides, including a Sami herder, take you into the wilderness for about 7 hours, where you’ll drive reindeer sleds, feed the reindeer, and learn about their significance to Sami life. The tour includes round-trip transport from Kiruna, a delicious traditional lunch, and opportunities to ask questions about Sami traditions and wildlife.
This experience stands out because it goes beyond simple sledding—you’re actively involved in reindeer herding activities and gain insights into indigenous culture. Reviewers say it’s “more than just a ride,” highlighting how authentic and educational the trip feels.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers interested in culture, wildlife, and a full day of Arctic living, this tour offers depth and connection.
5. Autumn Husky Sit and Drive Cart Tour from Kiruna
No winter needed for this Autumn Husky Sit and Drive Cart Tour—it’s a rare chance to harness and drive huskies during the fall. Over about 3 hours, you’ll learn how to harness the dogs, then drive a cart through scenic forest trails with a guide accompanying you. The tour includes hot drinks and a cinnamon roll by the fire, making it both active and relaxing.
Guests love the unique experience of guiding the dogs, with one reviewer calling it “absolutely amazing.” The opportunity to help feed and unharness the dogs adds a personal touch.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want to experience husky life in a different season, this tour combines outdoor fun with genuine interaction.
6. Kiruna: Snowshoe Hike & Ice Fishing Tour
For a full-day outdoor adventure, the Snowshoe Hike & Ice Fishing Tour is ideal. It combines a guided snowshoe trek through snowy forests with ice fishing on a frozen lake. Along the way, you’ll learn about local wildlife and survival skills, such as how to build a fire and fish through a hole in the ice. A traditional fika (coffee and biscuits) is served over the open fire, making the experience both educational and cozy.
Reviews mention the enjoyable balance of activity and relaxation, with comments about the friendly guides and beautiful scenery. One reviewer praised the “amazing day out in the snow,” emphasizing the chance to “roast marshmallows and drink hot cocoa.”
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want a mix of adventure and culture.
7. Kiruna: Daytime Snowshoe Hike
The Daytime Snowshoe Hike offers a 3-hour journey into the snowy landscapes surrounding Kiruna. With nine pickup points in town, you’ll explore scenic snow-covered forests and learn about local flora and fauna. The guides point out wildlife tracks and share stories about the environment, making it both informative and active.
Travelers appreciate the comfortable pace and the chance to spot Arctic wildlife. The tour includes warm drinks and a scenic walk, making it suitable for those seeking a moderate outdoor activity.
Bottom Line: Ideal for nature lovers who want a manageable, scenic daytime adventure with cultural insights.
8. Snowmobile Aurora Expedition with dinner
At number 8, the Snowmobile Aurora Expedition with dinner combines adventure with gastronomy. After being provided with winter gear, you’ll snowmobile through forests, over lakes, and along the Torne River, searching for northern lights. The tour lasts around 5 hours, ending with a traditional Lappish meal around a campfire, complete with dessert.
The tour’s highlight is the aurora chase guided by locals who know the best viewing spots. Reviewers mention experiencing one of the best auroras they’ve ever seen, making it worth the price.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want to combine nighttime adventure with local cuisine and reliable northern lights spotting.
9. Experience the Majestic Auroras Kiruna-Abisko & Lodge Dinner
This Aurora & Dinner tour offers an elegant evening combining cultural cuisine with aurora chasing. You’ll enjoy a Lapland-inspired 2-course dinner in a cozy lodge as the guides set out on scenic road trips between Kiruna and Abisko.
The tour is especially suited for travelers who want a comfortable, food-focused experience with the chance to see the northern lights in a beautiful setting. Guests mention the delicious food and friendly staff.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those combining gastronomy with a relaxed aurora viewing experience.
10. Guided Tour to Icehotel and Jukkasjärvi
The Icehotel & Jukkasjärvi Tour blends art, culture, and architecture. The tour includes a visit to the original Icehotel, where you can explore sculpted ice art and enjoy a guided walk. You’ll also visit Jukkasjärvi Church, the oldest in the region, and meet reindeer at Nutti Sami Siida.
This tour is praised for its informative guides and authentic cultural insights, with many visitors highlighting the artistic ice sculptures. It’s a compact, well-rounded day experience at a good value.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a cultural, artistic, and wildlife experience in one trip.
11. Once-in-a-lifetime Snowmobile Safari to Lapland Viewpoint
This Snowmobile Safari stands out for its spectacular views over Lapland from the mountain viewpoint. Over 5 hours, you’ll cruise scenic trails on easy-to-maneuver snowmobiles, with opportunities for ice fishing along the way. The tour includes hot drinks and a delicious lunch at the scenic summit.
Guests rave about the outstanding vistas and expert guides who keep the ride fun and safe. One reviewer called it “a magnificent experience,” especially for photographers and nature lovers.
Bottom Line: For those seeking visual grandeur and outdoor thrill, this is a top choice.
12. Wilderness Tour with Snowmobile & Ice Fishing
This Wilderness Tour combines snowmobile riding with ice fishing in a more guided, relaxed setting. It offers instruction, a light lunch, and transfers. You’ll learn about local flora and fauna while exploring the Arctic landscape.
Reviewers note the well-organized nature of the trip and mention the friendly guides. One described the experience as “a great balance of activity and relaxation,” perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: Suited for those who want a full Arctic experience without extreme physical demand.
13. Kiruna: Northern Lights Tour with Sami BBQ Dinner
Join this Northern Lights & Sami Dinner, where you’ll taste reindeer ‘souvas’ and hunt for the aurora in a comfortable minibus. The tour emphasizes cultural storytelling and local cuisine, with a cozy fire to wait for the lights.
Reviewers mention the delicious food and friendly guides, making it a good choice for travelers wanting both cultural insight and aurora viewing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a cultural experience combined with nighttime aurora hunting.
14. Aurora Hunt on Snowmobile – Small Groups
Finally, the Aurora Hunt on Snowmobile offers a small-group, active way to chase the northern lights. Guided by experienced locals, you’ll drive easy-to-handle snowmobiles through scenic Arctic terrain for about 3.5 hours, with stops for hot drinks and photos. The tour emphasizes personalized service and flexibility.
Guests appreciate the professional guides and the stunning aurora sightings. One reviewer said, “Evia was amazing; we saw the lights and enjoyed the safety and warmth of the group.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for adventure seekers who want a small, intimate northern lights tour with plenty of photo opportunities.
How to Choose Your Perfect Kiruna Tour
Picking the right experience depends on your interests, fitness level, and time available. If a family-friendly, relaxed sled ride appeals, the Sit Down Husky Ride is a good start. For a full culture, the Reindeer Tour offers Sami insights alongside wildlife encounters. Active travelers might prefer the Self-drive Husky Tour or the Snowmobile Safaris, which combine scenery with physical activity.
Timing is also key—winter offers the best conditions for most snow-based experiences, while autumn is perfect for huskies without snow. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the Northern Lights safaris.
Final Thoughts
Kiruna’s range of tours and experiences makes it a prime destination for adventure seekers and those interested in culture and nature. If you’re after a gentle sled ride, the Sit Down Husky Ride fits nicely. Want to steer your own team? The Self-drive Husky Tour is perfect. For a cultural deep dive, the Icehotel and Jukkasjärvi offers an artful look at local traditions.
No matter your choice, early booking helps secure your spot during peak seasons. With so many options, your Arctic adventure in Kiruna will be truly unforgettable.