If you’re dreaming of snow-covered landscapes, the thrill of driving a snowmobile, and the quiet anticipation of ice fishing, this tour offers a compelling way to experience Swedish Lapland’s icy beauty. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, extensive reviews and detailed descriptions highlight its appeal—especially for those who love outdoor adventures mixed with cultural moments.
What truly stands out about this experience are the guided snowmobile rides through stunning scenery, the opportunity to learn ice fishing from knowledgeable guides, and the cozy Swedish Fika around an open fire. The small-group setting ensures personalized attention, which is essential when handling powerful snowmobiles or trying to spot wildlife.
One thing to keep in mind: the tour runs about 5 hours, so it’s quite a chunk of your day, and it’s not suitable for children under 15 or those with certain health limitations. This adventure suits active travelers who want an authentic Arctic escapade with a good mix of adrenaline, nature, and local culture.
Good To Know
- Authentic outdoor adventure with snowmobiling, ice fishing, and wildlife spotting
- Small group size for personalized guidance and safety
- All equipment and warm clothing provided, making it easy to pack light
- Educational experience with expert guides sharing local wildlife and safety tips
- Includes a hearty lunch and fika, blending outdoor activity with cozy comforts
- Ideal for active travelers aged 15 and up, seeking a memorable Arctic experience
An Overview of the Experience
This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Lapland’s winter wonderland, combining snowmobiling, ice fishing, and cultural moments into a roughly five-hour package. It’s designed for those who enjoy physical activity, appreciate nature, and want to learn about local wildlife and traditions.
The experience begins with a pick-up in Kiruna, from several convenient locations, including the Camp Ripan and Best Western Hotel Arctic Eden. From there, a 30-minute transfer takes you to the base at Kalixforsbron, where the real adventure kicks off. Here, you’re fitted with warm clothing, including shoes, mittens, a balaclava, and a helmet, all provided to keep you comfortable in the Arctic chill.
More tours and activities we've covered in Kiruna
Snowmobiling Through Arctic Landscapes
Once geared up, you’ll receive a comprehensive safety briefing and driving instructions. Guides, like Martins, are praised for their professionalism and knowledge, making even first-timers feel confident on the snow. The wider track snowmobiles seat two, so you’ll take turns steering and enjoying the ride.
The actual snowmobiling portion is about 3 hours total, split into two segments of 1.5 hours each. During this time, you’ll cruise across frozen lakes, through peaceful forests, and over expansive marshlands. These routes are carefully chosen for their scenic beauty and wildlife potential, giving you a chance to see reindeer, moose, Arctic hares, or Ripa, Kiruna’s official bird.
Reviewers like Andreea appreciated the guides’ enthusiasm and insights, mentioning how much there was to learn about the local ecosystem. The snowmobiles are described as powerful but manageable, with safety instructions helping first-timers get comfortable quickly.
Ice Fishing: A True Arctic Challenge
After the first snowmobile ride, the group heads to the famous ice fishing spot. Here, the guides show you how to drill into the thick ice and prepare for fishing. It’s a relaxing, almost meditative activity, with the added thrill of trying to catch Arctic char. Several reviewers, such as Lydia von, mentioned how special it was to cook over an open fire, making lunch from scratch — “We made lunch over an open fire, which was genuinely memorable,” she says.
Fishing often involves some patience, but it’s not just about catching fish. It’s about embracing the wild environment, learning new skills, and enjoying the quiet of the Arctic. When not fishing, you can help gather firewood and learn how to kindle a fire with just one match — a fun, hands-on experience that really immerses you in the outdoors.
The Cozy Lunch & Fika Break
The highlight for many travelers is the lunch around the fire. Expect grilled sandwiches, hot drinks, and, of course, a traditional Swedish Fika—coffee and sweet treats served in a relaxed setting. Reviews frequently mention how this break offers a perfect balance to the outdoor exertion, giving everyone time to relax and soak in the scenery.
The lunch is also a moment to chat with guides and fellow travelers, swapping stories about wildlife sightings or snowmobile adventures. This conviviality, combined with the stunning winter backdrop, makes it a memorable part of the day.
More Great Thing To Do NearbySecond Snowmobile Ride & Return
Post-lunch, you’ll head out for another 1.5-hour snowmobile ride, further exploring the Arctic terrain. This second loop often takes you through different landscapes, giving a well-rounded view of the area’s natural beauty. Guides like Martins are praised for their storytelling, sharing insights into the wildlife, local culture, and how the Sámi people live in harmony with nature.
Finally, after a short transfer back in the van, you’ll be dropped off at your original pick-up point. The tour wraps up around the 5-hour mark, leaving you with a camera full of photos and a head full of stories.
Practical Details & Value
At $240 per person, this experience offers a fair price considering the inclusive elements: all gear, transfers, guided instruction, and meals. The small group size (max 6 participants) enhances safety and personalization, especially important when handling snowmobiles.
The tour’s timing ensures you experience daylight, which is essential in winter months when darkness can fall early. The duration strikes a good balance—long enough to feel like an adventure, but not so extended as to cause fatigue.
Guests rave about the professionalism of the guides and the stunning scenery. Several reviewers mentioned how knowledgeable and friendly the guides made everyone feel comfortable, regardless of previous experience.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This adventure is perfect for outdoor lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those keen to try snowmobiling for the first time. It’s best suited for travelers over 15, given safety regulations, and those in good health, as it involves physical activity and cold weather.
If you’re looking for a balanced mix of adrenaline, education, and time in nature, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy small-group experiences, authentic local culture, and scenic outdoor activities.
This tour offers a genuine taste of Swedish Lapland’s winter landscape, blending snowmobiling, ice fishing, and cultural insights into a compact, well-organized adventure. The combination of guided safety instructions, expert storytelling, and scenic routes makes it stand out from more generic tour options.
You’ll love the sense of freedom driving across pristine Arctic terrain, the thrill of trying to catch fish through the ice, and the warmth of making a fire and sharing a meal outdoors. The knowledgeable guides, like Martins, add a layer of trust and insight that enriches the entire experience.
While not suitable for very young children or those with certain health issues, this tour is ideal for active, curious travelers eager for an authentic Lapland winter experience. It offers excellent value for the price, especially considering all gear and meals included.
If you’re after a memorable Arctic adventure filled with scenic drives, wildlife spotting, and cozy moments, this snowmobile and ice fishing tour in Swedish Lapland won’t disappoint.
Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transfer to and from Kiruna, with pickup at several convenient locations like Camp Ripan and the Best Western Hotel Arctic Eden.
What should I bring?
You only need to bring your driver’s license or international driver’s license if you plan to drive. The tour provides all necessary warm clothing and gear.
Is it suitable for children?
No, this tour is for travelers aged 15 and above, primarily due to safety and legal requirements for snowmobile driving.
What if I don’t have a driver’s license?
You can still participate as a passenger on the snowmobile if someone in your group has a valid license. You’ll be able to enjoy the ride without driving.
How long is the snowmobiling part?
The snowmobile rides total about 3 hours, split into two segments of 1.5 hours each, including safety briefings and instructions.
Are meals included?
Yes, a light lunch, including grilled sandwiches and Fika, is provided during the fire break.
Can I see wildlife during the tour?
While wildlife sightings depend on luck, guides are skilled at spotting tracks and signs of animals like reindeer, moose, and Arctic hares.
Is the tour flexible with timing?
Availability varies, so it’s best to check the specific start times when booking. The tour lasts about 5 hours total.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.
Will I get cold?
No worries—warm clothing, shoes, mittens, and helmets are all provided. Many guests find that they stay comfortable even in the Arctic cold.
This snowmobile and ice fishing tour delivers a well-balanced, immersive Arctic experience that combines adventure, education, and comfort. Whether you’re seeking a thrill or a peaceful moment in nature, this trip provides a fantastic way to connect with Swedish Lapland’s winter magic.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Fishing Tours in Kiruna
More Tours in Kiruna
More Tour Reviews in Kiruna
Looking for something different? Other Kiruna activities we've written about
- Wilderness Tour with Snowmobile & Ice Fishing
- Polar Nature Tour on Snowmobile
- Kiruna: Tour of Icehotel and Jukkasjärvi
- From Kiruna: Northern Lights Guided Husky Sledding Adventure
- KIRUNA: Sami Reindeer Experience
- Kiruna: Reindeer Herder Tour with Sami Dinner and Transfers
- Kiruna: Northern Lights Tour with Photos
- Kiruna: Northern Light Photo Tour with Equipment
- Kiruna: Morning Husky Sled Ride with Coffee Break
- Kiruna: Cross-Country Skiing Tour with a Guide
- Kiruna: Northern Lights Minivan Chase with Warm Drink
- From Kiruna: Narvik City and Fjord Day Trip