About Kiruna
Kiruna is Sweden’s northernmost city and one of the main gateways into Swedish Lapland.
It is larger and more practical than destinations such as Abisko or Jukkasjärvi, but you do not have to travel far before the city lights disappear and the landscape opens into mountains, frozen lakes and forest.
Our current Kiruna programme is centred on Máttaráhká Northern Lights Lodge, around 5 km outside the city. That distance is enough to give the property a much more wilderness-led feel while keeping Kiruna and the wider region within easy reach.
The area also has strong Sámi heritage, this area has much more to it than just the world famous ICEHOTEL®.
Mountains, Sámi Culture and Aurora Hunts
The landscape around Kiruna is noticeably more mountainous than many parts of Finnish Lapland.
Our Máttaráhká programme makes good use of that setting, with snowmobile journeys above the treeline, husky sledding and dedicated Aurora searches by both snowmobile and minivan.
The minivan element is useful because it allows guides to cover more ground when local cloud conditions are less favourable.
The current programme also includes a visit to ICEHOTEL®, giving you the chance to experience Jukkasjärvi without making the ice hotel your entire holiday
Where to Stay in Kiruna
Máttaráhká Northern Lights Lodge
Máttaráhká Northern Lights Lodge is our main Kiruna base.
It is a small, family-run property with just seven double rooms and sits around 5 km outside the city, looking towards the surrounding mountain landscape.
The lodge is named after a mother goddess in Sámi mythology and incorporates Sámi-inspired design into the interiors.
Its small size is a major part of the appeal, particularly for travellers who want a more personal base than a large city hotel.
Best for: couples, small groups, Sámi culture, mountain scenery, snowmobiling and active short breaks.
