Kiruna

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Kiruna is Sweden’s northernmost city, situated in the heart of Swedish Lapland well above the Arctic Circle. Its remote location and minimal light pollution make it one of the best places in Scandinavia to see the Northern Lights.

The city is perhaps best known for its extraordinary relocation. Due to subsidence caused by the LKAB iron ore mine, large parts of Kiruna are being moved several kilometres east. It’s a remarkable engineering feat and visiting during this transition offers a truly unique experience.

Kiruna is also a gateway to some of Swedish Lapland’s finest wilderness. The surrounding landscape of frozen lakes, snow-covered forests and mountains provides stunning backdrops for aurora viewing. Dog sledding, snowmobile excursions and visits to the famous Icehotel in nearby Jukkasjärvi are popular ways to fill the daylight hours while waiting for darkness and the aurora.

The city’s compact centre has a good selection of restaurants and accommodation, making it a comfortable base for a Northern Lights trip. Kiruna Airport has direct flights from Stockholm, putting the Arctic within easy reach.

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How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

Many factors contribute to your likelihood of viewing the aurora in Kiruna. Geomagnetic activity, cloud cover and the amount of ambient light all play a big part. Check the forecasts for how good the viewing conditions are today.

Aurora Probability and Atmospheric Conditions

0%

There is a 0% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Kiruna area (forecast for 25 August 2026 at 6:12am UTC)

Kp 1.33

The Kp-index is a scale used to measure geomagnetic activity. It ranges from 0 to 9, with higher values indicating greater geomagnetic activity.

  • 0-2 (Very low) Far north, quite dim, and not very active.
  • 3-5 (Moderate) Can be seen further south, with increased brightness and activity. Chance of good viewing conditions nearer the pole.
  • 6-7 (High) Visible in many northern regions, with vibrant displays.
  • 8-9 (Extreme) Widespread visibility, often seen in areas much further south than usual, with intense and colorful displays.
HPI 14 GW

The Hemispheric Power Index (HPI) is a vital measure used to assess the strength of auroral activity at the poles. It estimates the total auroral energy input, with values above 20 GW indicating an aurora-active state. When the HPI reaches levels of 100 GW or more, it signifies a very significant geomagnetic storm, which can lead to spectacular auroral displays.

Bz 2 nT

Bz refers to the north-south orientation of the magnetic field embedded in the solar wind. It is measured in nanoteslas (nT).

When Bz is negative (southward), it allows solar wind particles to penetrate the Earth’s magnetic field more easily. A strong negative Bz is often associated with increased chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

Conversely, when Bz is positive (northward), the Earth’s magnetic field tends to block the solar wind, resulting in reduced aurora activity.

Bt 6 nT

Bt measures the overall power of the Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF) from the Sun; higher numbers (e.g., above 20 nT) mean more energy available for aurora.

Density 1.51 p/cm3

Solar wind density refers to the number of charged particles in a given volume of the solar wind, typically measured in particles per cubic centimetre (p/cm3).

A typical solar wind density is around 2.76 p/cm3.

The density of the solar wind affects how many particles reach the Earth’s magnetosphere. A higher density means more particles are available to interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. When these charged particles collide with the gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, energy is released in the form of light that we see as the aurora.

Speed 346.3 km/s

Solar wind speed refers to the velocity at which charged particles are ejected from the Sun’s outer atmosphere, known as the corona.

A typical solar wind speed is about 375 km/s. When both speed and density are high, the energy transferred to the Earth’s magnetosphere increases, enhancing the chances of seeing vibrant auroras.

Light Levels

Moon

Waxing gibbous 82%

Sunrise 4:39am

Sunset 8:43pm

Moonrise 9:45pm

Moonset 1:00am

Weather Forecast for Kiruna

Clouds

10°C Feels like 9°C

High
14°C
Low
8°C

  • Chance of precipitation 0%

  • Cloud cover 91%

  • Westerly winds 6 km/h gusts of 7 km/h

Aurora season in Kiruna

The aurora season in Kiruna runs from September to March, with the best viewing conditions in October, February and March.

Peak viewing In season Off season

Book an amazing adventure in Kiruna

Explore this selection of tours and activities to make the most of your visit to Kiruna.

  • Free cancellation

    Sunrise Zen Husky Tour (10:00 to 13:00 - sitting on the sled)

    5.0 (121)

    3 hours From £182.26

    If you are interested in dogs, you will love being here at Snowdog. We have an amazing bunch of super friendly canines. Oh, of course, we have a big bunch of superhero puppies you may wish to meet? We will tell you about Lapland, dog sledding and of course the resident Hero's - our dogs.

  • Free cancellation

    Polar Sunrise Eco Experience (10:00-13:00- driving the sled)

    5.0 (14)

    3 hours From £233.76

    Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our dog sledding tours offer a perfect blend of excitement and tranquility as you glide through the pristine Arctic landscape. Guests rave about the professionalism of our guides, who not only ensure safety but also share fascinating insights about the region and its traditions. Interact with our team of well-cared-for, eager sled dogs—often described as the heart and soul of the experience. Reviewers frequently highlight the seamless logistics, personal touch, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re chasing the northern lights or soaking in a polar sunrise, our tours provide once-in-a-lifetime memories for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Experience why so many travelers call their time with us “life-changing”!

  • Free cancellation

    Northern Light Photo tour

    4.7 (18)

    4 hours From £157.69

    Borrow a camera equipment and a tripod from us and follow our professional Sami photo guides to find the best spots to photograph the aurora. Our guides are born in the area and have been out in the forest since childhood. With our local knowledge we choose the best spots for northern light for the night. There are always chances to see the aurora - even in bad weather there is many different spots with better weather if you know where to go.

  • Free cancellation

    Kiruna Northern Lights Tour with Photographer

    5.0 (814)

    4 - 6 hours From £133.38

    After we pick you up from your hotel in Kiruna, we will start to chase the northern lights that depends on each night according to the weather conditions. We can drive to Abisko, Kiruna’s boreal forest or wherever we can find clear sky to see Aurora Borealis. Lights of Vikings have a really high success rate in finding clear sky which is one of the most important criteria to see the Northern Lights. Our concept is famous for driving long distances if necessary! Wherever we go during the tour, we will tell you many stories about the northern lights and Vikings. After finding clear sky, we’ll admire the northern lights and we will take pictures which we’ll send to you within 3 days after the tour. If you bring your own camera, we will help you set it up to get the best shots. As the northern lights dance in the sky we will serve hot drinks and make a camp fire for you to keep warm. After the northern lights tour, we will drive you back to Kiruna.

  • Free cancellation

    Snowmobile Adventure in Lapland: Guided Tour from Kiruna

    4.9 (9)

    3 hours From £78.85

    Explore the stunning winter landscapes of Lapland on a guided snowmobile adventure. Glide across frozen lakes and through snowy forests, learning about the region’s wildlife and traditions from experienced guides. This 2 to 2.5-hour tour includes safety briefings, driving instructions, and the chance to spot wildlife like moose and reindeer. Whether you drive your own snowmobile or ride in a sled, discover the calm beauty of the Arctic wilderness while creating lasting memories. Duration is 2 to 2.5 hours, with tours starting at 10:00 and 14:00. There is an option to drive your own snowmobile or ride in a sled. Guided tour includes safety briefing and driving instruction. Warm drinks and clothing provided for a comfortable experience. To drive, you must choose one of the following options: Drive Your Own or 2 People Driving. If you book a sled ride, please note that this option does not include driving.

  • Free cancellation Private tour

    Private Christmas Walking Tour in Kiruna with Historic Church

    No reviews

    2 hours From £767.79

    This private Christmas walking tour reveals Kiruna’s Arctic heritage. You will explore a historic northern city shaped by Nordic traditions and mining civilization. Kiruna Church glows with architectural elegance during the festive season. What winter legends and cultural traditions live beyond the Arctic Circle? Historic streets create a peaceful and inspiring holiday atmosphere. You will feel the warmth of local heritage beneath the northern sky. Classical wooden architecture reflects centuries of resilience and community spirit. Each step uncovers stories of transformation and cultural identity. A professional guide shares festive traditions and historical insight with depth. The route offers a refined and meaningful seasonal experience. Discover Kiruna through Christmas charm and timeless Scandinavian heritage. Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

Places to check out around Kiruna

Discover Restaurants, Mountains, Hiking Trails and more…

Explore more nearby Kiruna

Get off the beaten track, these nearby destinations also offer opportunities to see the Northern Lights and are within easy reach of Kiruna.

  • ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

    Credit: Tobias Fischer

    Jukkasjärvi

    67°50'59"N, 20°36'7"E

    Aurora probability in Jukkasjärvi: 0%

    Jukkasjärvi, a charming village in Swedish Lapland, is renowned for its iconic Icehotel, stunning natural beauty and rich Sami culture, making it a unique destination for experiencing the Arctic wilderness.

  • An old wooden shed on the road from Kiruna to Nikkaluokta in Lapland

    Credit: Stephan Widua

    Nikkaluokta

    67°51'3"N, 19°0'54"E

    Aurora probability in Nikkaluokta: 1%

    Nikkaluokta, a Sami village in Swedish Lapland, serves as a starting point for hiking the iconic Kungsleden trail north towards Abisko, offering stunning views of the Kebnekaise mountain and a glimpse into Sami culture.

  • The Northern Lights over the village of Kurravaara in Swedish Lapland

    Credit: yelr

    Kurravaara

    67°56'35"N, 20°21'31"E

    Aurora probability in Kurravaara: 0%

    Kurravaara, a small village in Swedish Lapland, is nestled on the shores of Lake Torne, providing a peaceful retreat with opportunities for experiencing the Northern Lights, fishing and enjoying the serene Arctic landscape.

Other places in Sweden

Abisko•Björkliden