Landströms Kök & Bar : Kiruna : Seek The Aurora, Northern Lights Travel Guide

Kiruna

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.

Aurora Probability and Atmospheric Conditions

68%

There is a 68% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Kiruna area (forecast for 14 March 2026 at 3:37am UTC)

Kp 5.67

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 108 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 -7 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 10 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 0.47 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 662.5 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

Waning crescent 32%

Sunrise 6:05am

Sunset 5:31pm

Weather Forecast for Kiruna

Snow

1°C Feels like -5°C

High: 2°C
Low: -4°C

Chance of precipitation 100%
Cloud cover 53%
Southerly winds 10 km/h gusts of 16 km/h
Snow 1 mm

Book an amazing adventure in Kiruna

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

Free cancellation

Kiruna: Aurora Chase with Street Food Dinner & Nature Guides

5.0 (68)

5 - 6 hours From £143.68

Highlights Authentic Tipi Dinner: Start your adventure with a delicious local meal by a crackling fire inside the famous Stejk Street Food tipi. Small Group, Secret Spots: We use agile minivans to escape the crowds and reach hidden wilderness locations that large tour buses cannot access. Science-Driven Experts: Be guided by one of our core specialists, Rostam, Hannah, or Jonas. All are experts in Aurora science and bring unique insights into photography, wildlife, or local heritage. Cozy Campfire & Fika: Experience the magic of the Arctic night around a wilderness campfire with warm lingonberry juice and traditional Swedish snacks. Flexibility Without Limits: We don’t follow fixed routes. We travel in all directions, wherever the sky is clearest, to maximize your chance of seeing the Northern Lights. .
Free cancellation

From Kiruna: Narvik City and Fjord Day Trip

5.0 (3)

8 - 9 hours From £176.53

Embark on a breathtaking journey from Kiruna, Sweden, to Narvik, Norway, exploring stunning landscapes, picturesque viewpoints, and the charming city of Narvik. This day trip blends natural beauty with cultural experiences, offering peaceful valleys, frozen lakes, and snow-covered mountains. Along the way, we’ll stop for photos and to enjoy the quiet Arctic scenery. Crossing into Norway, the landscapes grow even more dramatic, with towering peaks and deep fjords. The highlight is Narvik Fjord, a striking body of water framed by cliffs and snowy hillsides. Several viewpoints let you breathe in the fresh air and take in unforgettable sights. This relaxing journey offers Arctic wilderness, scenic stops, and stunning views—a perfect way to experience the beauty of two countries in one day.
Free cancellation Special offer

Northern Light Minibus Hunt to Abisko National Park

4.9 (7)

3 hours 30 minutes From £139.66

Some moments in life don’t wait — and the Northern Lights are one of them. They appear when they choose to, without warnings or guarantees. That’s why they matter. Out here in the Arctic night, under a sky full of stars, you’re reminded how precious every second is — and how important it is to actually live it. On this tour, we guide you into the quiet darkness, away from the noise, to places where the sky opens and the world feels still. You stand beneath the shifting lights, breathing in the cold air, waiting for something magical to happen. The aurora teaches a simple truth: life won’t slow down. You have to step into it. Book the tour. Take the chance. Create the memory you’ve been dreaming about — not someday, but now. Travel in a warm, comfortable minibus with an experienced guide. This tour is perfect for anyone who wants the best chance to see the Northern Lights — couples, families and solo travellers alike.
Free cancellation

Aurora Borealis Dogsled Tour

5.0 (4)

3 hours From £309.95

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Aurora Borealis Dogsled Tour. 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

Guided Northern Lights Tour at Kiruna

3.6 (28)

4 hours From £139.17

Kiruna is located in an ideal position in Lapland to view the northern lights. During winter we have long dark nights and even 6 weeks without a sunrise! The first step to chasing the aurora is to get away from the city light pollution and that's exactly what we do on this tour. Our skilled guides will study the aurora and weather forecast to find the best locations based on their prior knowledge of the area, and then off we go! In our minivan, we will drive up to 125km away from the city if necessary to chase the aurora out in the arctic wilderness. There are many different locations we can visit depending on the forecast, one of which is the beautiful Abisko National Park area. Of course, it is up to mother nature where the chase will take us, but our guides will do their best to help you search for this incredible natural phenomenon
Free cancellation Special offer

Afternoon Snowmobile Tour

No reviews

3 hours 30 minutes From £111.01

From the moment you sit on the snowmobile, you’re not just starting an adventure — you’re stepping into the Arctic as it truly is. The crisp air, the silence of untouched winter, and the vast horizon ahead set the stage for something unforgettable. This is more than a ride. It’s a guided journey led by someone who knows the land, its stories, and its rhythms. We travel through forests heavy with snow, across frozen lakes, and into valleys where the light feels softer, cleaner, almost magical. With high-quality Arctic clothing and traditional Swedish fika provided, all the practical details are taken care of for you. Simply come with an open mind and a sense of adventure, and we’ll handle the rest. It’s an unforgettable experience that stays with you long after your journey ends. This is a shared snowmobile tour where two people ride on one snowmobile—one as the driver and one as the passenger, with the possibility to switch during the tour. The price shown is per person.

Places to check out around Kiruna

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: 67%

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: 69%

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: 68%

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.