Short Break
Science of astronomy and the northern lights: Sweden
Next trip 5 days from 24 February 2028
Prices from 拢4,999
Booking information
24 February 2028 – 5 days for 拢4,995 per person
Register your interest for 2029 and we will contact you when confirmed details including finalised dates and prices are available.
Discover a place of awe-inspiring natural beauty where scientists from all over the world come to study climate change and conduct research in an Arctic environment. From striking alpine forests to picturesque snowcapped mountains, travelling to northern Sweden during the winter months offers a truly magical experience.
Travel deep into the Swedish Arctic on a journey combining astronomy, scientific discovery and remarkable feats of engineering. Timed around February’s new moon, when darker skies offer excellent opportunities for northern lights viewing, this adventure takes you into the spectacular wilderness of Abisko National Park and to the renowned Aurora Sky Station. Discover how science and creativity meet at the extraordinary Icehotel, constructed using ice from the Torne River, before venturing beneath Kiruna to explore one of the world’s largest underground iron ore mines and the innovative technologies shaping its future.
Accompanying you throughout will be astronomy expert and science writer Jamie Carter, whose 25 years of experience make him an engaging guide to the Arctic night sky. Through exclusive talks, guided stargazing and informal discussions, Jamie will reveal the fascinating science behind the aurora borealis, from solar storms and Earth’s magnetic field to the atmospheric processes that create its shifting colours. His expertise will help you look beyond the spectacle and understand the remarkable forces at work above the Arctic Circle.
This tour is perfect for astronomy enthusiasts, inquisitive travellers and anyone fascinated by the intersection of science and the natural world. Whether you dream of witnessing the northern lights, discovering pioneering engineering or experiencing the beauty of the Arctic wilderness, this journey offers a rewarding blend of exploration, discovery and unforgettable experiences.
In partnership with Intrepid Travel.
Itinerary
This itinerary has been carefully planned, but this type of travel requires a degree of flexibility. Local conditions, weather, transport or other unforeseen circumstances may require changes to the programme. Intrepid Travel鈥檚 experienced tour leaders will manage any changes on the ground, and while every effort will be made to operate the tour as described, the itinerary may be amended where necessary.
Day 1: Kiruna arrival
Welcome to Kiruna! On arrival at Kiruna Airport, you will be met and transferred to the STF Abisko Turistation, in Abisko National Park, which takes around 90 minutes. There will be time for you to settle into your accommodation before this evening鈥檚 welcome meeting and activities.
Situated 200 kilometres north of the Arctic circle on the shores of Lake Tornetr盲sk, Abisko National Park was established in 1909 by a group of Swedish scientists who wanted to preserve the area in its original condition for research. The region has continued to be of key scientific interest and is home to the Abisko Scientific Research Station. The station is primarily used for biological, climate, ecological, environmental and geological research and contains on-site laboratories as well as smaller off-site field research facilities.
In the evening, there will be a welcome meeting with the group and your tour leader before dinner at the hotel.
Day 2: Snowshoeing In Abisko National Park and evening visit to the Aurora Sky Station
Today begins with the expert lecture from Jamie.
In the afternoon, strap on snowshoes and set off into the peaceful wilderness around Abisko National Park, as the experienced guide helps you track the footprints and signs of local wildlife. Along the way, you will learn to recognise animal trails and hear stories about surviving and thriving in the Arctic environment.
After dinner, take a short walk to the base of the nearby mountain, where you鈥檒l be kitted out in warm clothing before a 20-minute ride on a chairlift to the Aurora Sky Station.
This world-famous spot is undoubtedly one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights. It lies 900 metres above sea level on Mount Nuolja, right at the centre of what is known as the “aurora oval”, in an area with very few distracting sources of light or sound. During the winter months, with no light pollution and frequent cloudless skies, there is nothing to hinder auroral displays, and the peace and quiet of this area is the ideal atmosphere from which to look out for the northern lights.
Once at the station, you will learn more about the northern lights from Jamie and hopefully spend time enjoying this amazing natural phenomenon before returning to your hotel.
Day 3: Travel to the Icehotel and afternoon visit to a local reindeer farm
After breakfast, you will be transferred by road to the Icehotel, a journey of around 90 minutes through Sweden鈥檚 beautiful snowy wilderness.
The first and original Icehotel was built in Jukkasjarvi, Swedish Lapland in 1989 and took just two weeks to complete. It was made out of ice, snow and “snice” 鈥� which combines snow, water and air. This was made using snow cannons and has a higher density than snow itself, making it stronger and perfect for building purposes. Small ice crystals in the snice trap air between them. It is as white as snow and a good insulator because of the trapped air. Kept at a constant -5掳C to -8掳C (23掳F to 18掳F), the interior actually feels quite pleasant, especially when outside temperatures can drop to around -37掳C (-35掳F)!
Enjoy a private tour of the Icehotel.
In the afternoon, after a short transfer you will visit Nutti S谩mi Siida where you will step into the rich culture of the indigenous S谩mi people. Meet and feed the friendly reindeer, learn about their significance in S谩mi life, and try your hand at reindeer sledding, gliding around a 200 metre track in a wooden sled pulled by one of these gentle animals. Afterwards, warm up around the fire in a traditional S谩mi tent (lavvu), enjoy freshly brewed coffee, and taste a hearty reindeer herder鈥檚 lunch, while hearing stories of a lifestyle deeply connected to nature and the Arctic landscape. Warm winter overall, warm shoes, gloves, and balaclava is included in your visit.
Return to the Icehotel where you will spend both nights sleeping in one of their warm rooms.
Day 4: Visit Kiruna mine, the LKAB Visitor Centre and Esrange Space Visitor Centre
In the morning, travel to the town of Kiruna, the northernmost town in Sweden. Surrounded by snow-covered mountains and vast wilderness, Kiruna is a place where industry, Arctic nature, and indigenous S谩mi culture come together. It鈥檚 also a town undergoing a remarkable transformation due to the expansion of the iron ore mine beneath it. Much of Kiruna, including its historic church and town centre, is being relocated several kilometres to the east.
Descend deep underground into the Kiruna mine (LKAB Visitor Centre) one of the world鈥檚 largest iron ore mines. Traveling by bus directly from the Tourist Centre into the mountain, you will arrive at the expansive visitor centre located 540 meters below the surface. Here, in a fully immersive environment, exhibitions, films, and heavy machinery showcase the story of over a century of mining. Learn how this industry shaped Kiruna and continues to define its future, including the massive urban relocation project currently underway. Your guide will also explain how modern mining technologies allow operations to reach depths of up to 1,365 meters.
Afterwards, you will explore the town’s shifting architecture and learn about its fascinating history from its founding in the early 1900s as a mining hub, to its current role in space research and sustainable Arctic living.
Finish the day with a visit to the Esrange Space Visitor Centre, located just outside the city in the vast northern wilderness. This pioneering facility is Europe鈥檚 gateway to the edge of space, where high-altitude balloons and satellites are launched. During your visit, you’ll gain insight into Sweden’s contributions to space science, Arctic research, and the exciting future of exploration.
After a long day of travelling, conclude the day with a farewell dinner.
Day 5: Kiruna departure
After breakfast, you will be transferred back to Kiruna Airport for your return flight home.
FAQs
Where does this tour start and end?
This tour begins and ends in Kiruna, Sweden. Please speak to Intrepid Travel, who can offer flight advice and book flights for those travelling from the UK.
How fit do I need to be to enjoy this tour?
This trip will require a standard level of fitness. There will be a number of optional activities available from the Icehotel for varying levels of fitness. All these are optional, and for those wanting to relax at the hotel, instead of partaking in activities, this will be completely fine.
Travelling to northern Sweden during February will be cold. Some cold weather gear will be provided, on day one when travelling to the Aurora Sky Station and on days two and three, while staying at the Icehotel.
A full suggested packing list will be sent to you before departure and the camps are set up to support guests throughout the varying temperatures.
What will the weather be like?
February is one of the coldest months in Abisko, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from -5掳C to -15掳C, while nights can drop to -20掳C or below. Snow blankets the landscape, creating ideal conditions for winter activities. Daylight hours gradually increase throughout the month, while long, dark evenings offer excellent opportunities for northern lights viewing. Abisko is renowned for its relatively clear skies, although aurora sightings cannot be guaranteed. Warm thermal layers, insulated winter clothing, waterproof boots, gloves and a hat are essential.
Are the northern lights guaranteed?
This tour has been timed to take place during the optimal season for experiencing the northern lights, when long hours of darkness provide the greatest opportunity for aurora viewing. Sweden lies beneath the auroral oval, making it one of the world鈥檚 best locations to witness this natural phenomenon. Clear, dark skies, low light pollution and remote coastal and Arctic landscapes create ideal conditions for watching the sky come alive with shimmering colours and movement.
While the itinerary has been designed to maximise your chances of seeing the northern lights, they are a natural phenomenon and sightings can never be guaranteed. Aurora activity depends on solar activity, as well as local weather conditions, and cloud cover, wind, snow or changing atmospheric conditions may occasionally prevent visibility on some nights. Patience and flexibility are an important part of the experience, as the most memorable displays often appear when conditions align.
Is this suitable for solo travellers?
All of our tours, cruises and expeditions are perfect for solo travellers. If you want your own room, you will need to pay a solo supplement for this tour. However, if you are happy to share a room with a fellow guest of the same sex, we will do all we can to match you with another guest so you don鈥檛 have to pay the solo room supplement.
Route map
Booking information
Booking administration
This tour is operated by our trusted partner Intrepid Travel on behalf of New Scientist Discovery Tours. Their dedicated specialist team will be your main point of contact from booking until you return home, handling your reservation, payments, travel documents, pre-departure information and any questions about your tour or travel arrangements.
Highlights
- Join astronomy expert Jamie Carter for guided stargazing and insights into constellations and the latest astrophysics discoveries
- Experience Abisko National Park鈥檚 pristine skies and Arctic wilderness – one of the world鈥檚 best places to witness the magical northern lights
- Learn about the science of the northern lights from experts at the Aurora Sky Station, where you鈥檒l uncover the fascinating physics behind this natural wonder
- Gain insight into the conditions that make Abisko one of the most reliable spots for aurora viewing
- Stay at Sweden鈥檚 ICEHOTEL in a warm, cosy room – experience icy artistry by day and total comfort by night.
- Enjoy a private tour of the Icehotel and get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how the structure is built and maintained
- Visiting the LKAB Visitor Centre in Kiruna offers a unique opportunity to explore the world鈥檚 largest underground iron ore mine
- Uncover the dramatic story behind Kiruna鈥檚 bold, history-making relocation – an entire town on the move!
- Maximum group size of 15 guests
Meet the expert
Jamie Carter
Jamie is an award-winning journalist who writes about the night sky and eclipses. He is the recipient of the 2023 Popular Media Award from the American Astronomical Society’s Solar Physics Division, and is the world’s foremost solar eclipse journalist, an experienced science, travel and photography journalist, and a stargazer writing about exploring the night sky, moon-gazing, astro-tourism, astronomy and space exploration.
Jamie is the editor of WhenIsTheNextEclipse.com and SmartTelescopeReviews.com, and author of When Is The Next Eclipse? A traveler鈥檚 guide to total solar eclipses 2026-2034 and A Stargazing Program for Beginners: A pocket field guide. He also writes for publications and websites including Space.com, Live Science, Sky & Telescope magazine, BBC Sky At Night magazine, The Planetary Society, New Scientist, Travel+Leisure, T3, the South China Morning Post and Digital Camera World.
What’s included
- Two nights of accommodation at the Abisko Turiststation
- Two nights at Icehotel (both in warm rooms)
- Land transportation as indicated in the itinerary
- Entrance to sites visited
- Arrival/departure group airport transfers
- Welcome dinner at Abisko Turiststation
- Breakfast each day
- Chairlift excursion to the Sky Station
- Rental of a thermal one-piece suit, boots and mittens to use while staying at the Icehotel
- Transfers to and from Abisko and the Icehotel
What’s not included
- Travel insurance
- International flights
- Visa/ETA (if applicable)
- Gratuities for local guides, drivers and porters
- Single supplement – 拢870
Non-refundable deposit payment of 拢1,200 is required to secure your place due to payment restrictions imposed by the Icehotel.
Accommodations
STF Abisko Turistation
The STF Abisko Turistation is the only resort located within Abisko National Park in the heart of Swedish Lapland. It is the Swedish tourist association’s largest mountain resort, with a total of 377 beds in the main building, as well as private cabins. All rooms have standard facilities, including private bathrooms. There is also a sauna and lounge at the resort. The building boasts spectacular views over Lake Tornetr盲sk and the surrounding mountains.
The Icehotel, Jukkasj盲rvi,
Nestled amidst tranquil wilderness in the heart of Swedish Lapland, the Icehotel is located in Jukkasj盲rvi, 200 kilometres north of the Arctic circle. From its hallways lined with ice art and glittering chandeliers, to the atmospheric ice bar, it is a magical place. There are both cold and warm rooms available. The lounge bar is in the main reception building and there is also a restaurant serving delicious meals. The hotel is open from December until spring.
Please note for both nights you will be staying in warm rooms at the Kaamos Hotel which is part of the Icehotel complex.
Please note: If required for reasons beyond our control, we reserve the right to substitute alternative accommodation of equal or higher quality or adapt the itinerary if required.