Restaurang Ripan : Kiruna : Seek The Aurora

Kiruna

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Welcome to Kiruna, nestled in the heart of Swedish Lapland, where the magic of the Northern Lights awaits. Prepare to be captivated by the raw beauty of the Arctic wilderness and the celestial spectacle that dances across the night sky.

The aurora borealis is visible in Kiruna from late September to early April, with peak viewing in February and March, when the nights are longer, and the sky is often clear.

Credit: Oliver S.
Credit: Oliver S.
Credit: Oliver S.
Credit: Oliver S.
Credit: Koen Swiers
Credit: Susanne Jutzeler, suju-foto
Credit: Timo Horstschaefer
Credit: Oscar Ekholm Grahn

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.

82%

There is a 82% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Kiruna area (forecast for 11 January 2026 at 8:29pm UTC)

Kp 5.00

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 76 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 -3 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 5 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 2.54 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 550.7 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.

Moon

Waning crescent 46%

Sunrise 10:28am

Sunset 1:04pm

Moonrise 2:05am

Moonset 9:16am

Clouds

-27°C Feels like -33°C

High: -23°C
Low: -28°C

Chance of precipitation 0%
Cloud cover 36%
North-Westerly winds 1 km/h

Book an amazing adventure in Kiruna

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

Free cancellation Special offer Private tour

Magical Northern Lights Photography Tour Kiruna

4.6 (29)

3 hours From £131.61

3 hours of northern lights hunting, starting from your accommodation in Kiruna and driving to the most popular places. Any time the northern lights are visible, you will get a chance to get out of the car and set up the camera. - Professional photographer included Included: • Hot drinks included • Aurora guide • Transfer from and back to your location in Kiruna
Free cancellation

Kiruna Northern Lights Tour with Photographer

5.0 (672)

4 - 6 hours From £163.67

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

Northern Lights Tour to Abisko

4.2 (13)

6 hours From £145.49

Join us on an exciting night hunt for one of the world’s most extraordinary natural phenomena! Our guides will take you to prime viewing spots where you'll have a high chance of seeing the Northern Lights dance across the sky in vibrant hues of green, pink, and purple. Throughout the tour, we will share fascinating insights into the science and folklore of the Northern Lights, adding an educational dimension to your experience and we will make sure to capture your special moments on camera, providing high-quality photos after the tour. As you explore Abisko’s unique landscapes snow covered forests, frozen lakes, and breathtaking mountain views, you’ll be fully immersed in the natural beauty of the Arctic night. We take care of every detail, from transportation and professional winter gear to snacks and warm drinks, so you can relax and focus on the wonders around you.
Free cancellation

Sunset Zen Husky Tour

4.7 (6)

3 hours From £191.21

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Snowdog The Arctic Adventure Co., ranked No.1 on TripAdvisor in Kiruna. 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

Arctic Afternoon Eco Experience (14:00-17:00- driving the sled)

5.0 (11)

3 hours From £245.25

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Snowdog The Arctic Adventure Co., ranked No.1 on TripAdvisor in Kiruna. 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 Likely to sell out

Northern Lights tour with Reindeer

4.6 (11)

3 hours From £207.42

Embark on a magical reindeer sleigh ride in the enchanting forests of Jukkasjärvi, where a winter wonderland awaits. We offer a chance to witness the mesmerizing northern lights and enjoy a wonderful, close-up encounter with friendly reindeer, a truly unique experience. Alongside these majestic animals, you'll explore the serenity of the wilderness, far from the usual tourist paths. Capture this once-in-a-lifetime experience with your camera, creating memories that will last forever. Join us for an unforgettable adventure in Jukkasjärvi, where the beauty of nature meets the warmth of our hospitality.

Places to check out around Kiruna

Discover Restaurants, Mountains, Hiking Trails and more…

Arctic Thai & Grill

Thai Restaurant
Camp Alta

Campground
Camp Alta Sauna

Sauna
Hjalmar Lundbohmsgården

History Museum
Landströms Kök & Bar

Scandinavian Restaurant
Luossatoppen

Mountain
Luossavaara

Mountain
Midnattssolstigen

Hiking Trail
Mommas Pub

American Restaurant
Restaurang Ripan

Scandinavian Restaurant
Stejk Street Food

Food Stand
Torneälven

River

Explore more nearby Kiruna

Credit: Tobias Fischer

Jukkasjärvi

67°50'59"N, 20°36'7"E

Aurora probability in Jukkasjärvi: 82%

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.
Credit: Stephan Widua

Nikkaluokta

67°51'3"N, 19°0'54"E

Aurora probability in Nikkaluokta: 82%

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.
Credit: yelr

Kurravaara

67°56'35"N, 20°21'31"E

Aurora probability in Kurravaara: 82%

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.