Beyond Aurora

Celestial Delights

The absence of light pollution and smog, coupled with the location of Kiruna on the 66^th latitude north makes it ideal for celestial experiences – so much so that it’s the scientific space research center of Europe and picked by NASA as the top location in the world for catching the Aurora Borealis. The northern lights are of course a favorite, but star-gazing and catching meteor showers are equally awe-inspiring. 

One of the best ways to experience it is to stretch out on a warm reindeer fur atop the fluffy snow, enveloped in the distinct silence of the surrounding forest. Combine it with snowmobiling, a photography class or join a wilderness dinner at our rustic camp. 

The Blue Magic

The counterpart of the midnight sun is the polar night, or Kaamos, which occurs in winter when the sun doesn’t climb above the horizon during day time. What’s so special about the Kaamos is the beautiful light conditions – pastel violet, orange and pink hues around mid-day transform into a soft, deep-blue glow, sometimes called the polar twilight. The polar night occurs in December and early January, as the Arctic winter tightens its grip and Icehotel is reincarnated in a new rendition.

Mid-day sunset adventures

Experience dusk and dawn within just a couple of hours of each other. Short, clear days mark the end of the Polar Night when the sun doesn’t climb above the horizon during the daytime. Go dog sledding and ride Icelandics into the sunset at 2 pm.

Fall aurora

Most people don’t know that you can actually experience the beautiful Aurora Borealis, Northern Lights, from as early as September, when the forests are dressed in cascades of yellow, orange and red and days are crisp and clear.

During this period, we offer a torch-lit Northern Lights Hike and guided photography classes in the forests enveloping the village of Jukkasjärvi.

Also, in the spirit of Scandinavians, you shouldn't miss the Sauna Ritual. Heat up in the wood-fired sauna before you make your dash for a refreshing river plunge. Afterward, wrap up in your robe, and sit back on the reindeer-clad benches to gaze at the night sky, and hopefully catch the Aurora before making your way to the shower or another session in the warmth of the sauna. 

100 days and nights of sunshine

Between May and July, the axial tilt of the Earth means that the entire area north of the Arctic Circle is exposed to sun 24 hours. Right through the night – which is why we call it the midnight sun. Trying river rafting or hiking under the warm golden glow is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience.