
Sweden
Sweden - Tent - Trekking on the Kungsleden
Sweden - Tent - Trekking on the Kungsleden
Duration
7 days
Start/End
Luleå
Tour type
Group
Level
Demanding
Accommodation
Guesthouse, tent
Overview
On this trek you hike the particularly beautiful section of the Kungsleden between Saltoluokta and Kvikkjokk, partly through Sarek National Park. Peaks, glaciers, lakes and wild rivers await you – and, as a highlight, the climb up 1,179-metre Skierfe with views into the Rapa delta. You sleep in tents.
The Kungsleden trail in northern Sweden is one of the most famous long-distance hiking trails in Europe. On this trekking tour, you'll hike the particularly beautiful section between Saltoluokta and Kvikkjokk, partly through the renowned Sarek National Park – often described as Europe's last wilderness. You can expect breathtaking landscapes with high peaks, glaciers, lakes, and wild rivers, as well as a unique tranquility far from civilization. A highlight of the tour is the ascent of the 1,179-meter-high Skierfe, offering spectacular views into the Rapaädno River delta. This region is home to reindeer, moose, eagles, and, with a bit of luck, even brown bears. Large herds of reindeer migrate through the high valleys, and many moose inhabit the Rapadalen valley. The focus of the trip is on enjoying nature, tranquility, and ample time for rest and photography. Overnight stays are at secluded campsites off the Kungsleden trail – often accompanied by magnificent sunsets. Scandinavian hiking dreams come true here.
Tour Code
Tour language
GermanItinerary
Day 1
Lulea - Alvsbyn
Guesthouse
You will travel to Sweden independently. You will be picked up at Luleå Airport and taken to the guesthouse in Älvsbyn – welcome to Lapland! During a relaxed preparatory meeting, we'll discuss the itinerary for the trekking tour, answer any questions, and check the equipment together. We'll end the first day with a group dinner and get in the mood for the upcoming adventure. Directions: An environmentally friendly alternative is the night train from Stockholm-Arlanda to Älvsbyn, which takes you directly to Lapland without changing trains (see additional information).
Lulea - Alvsbyn
Day 1
Guesthouse
You will travel to Sweden independently. You will be picked up at Luleå Airport and taken to the guesthouse in Älvsbyn – welcome to Lapland! During a relaxed preparatory meeting, we'll discuss the itinerary for the trekking tour, answer any questions, and check the equipment together. We'll end the first day with a group dinner and get in the mood for the upcoming adventure. Directions: An environmentally friendly alternative is the night train from Stockholm-Arlanda to Älvsbyn, which takes you directly to Lapland without changing trains (see additional information).
Day 2
Kungsleden hike: Saltoluokta - Sitojaure
Camping
Hiking distance approx. 20 km, ascent 370 m, descent 360 m
After breakfast, we will travel together to Kebnats. From there, we will take the ferry across and reach Saltoluokta, the starting point of our hiking tour on the Kungsleden trail. The first leg of the hike leads through a light, ancient birch forest. After a short time, we leave the tree line behind and ascend to the wide, treeless plateau. Here you can already feel the unique solitude and pristine wilderness of this region. The trail winds through an impressive landscape shaped by mighty glaciers during the Ice Age. We finally pitch our tents in an idyllic spot by Lake Sitojaure. Together we prepare a warm dinner and let the day end amidst the tranquil nature of Lapland.
Kungsleden hike: Saltoluokta - Sitojaure
Day 2
Camping
Hiking distance approx. 20 km, ascent 370 m, descent 360 m
After breakfast, we will travel together to Kebnats. From there, we will take the ferry across and reach Saltoluokta, the starting point of our hiking tour on the Kungsleden trail. The first leg of the hike leads through a light, ancient birch forest. After a short time, we leave the tree line behind and ascend to the wide, treeless plateau. Here you can already feel the unique solitude and pristine wilderness of this region. The trail winds through an impressive landscape shaped by mighty glaciers during the Ice Age. We finally pitch our tents in an idyllic spot by Lake Sitojaure. Together we prepare a warm dinner and let the day end amidst the tranquil nature of Lapland.
Day 3
Kungsleden hike: Sitojaure - Aktse
Camping
Hiking distance approx. 13 km, ascent 300 m, descent 300 m
In the morning, we hike to the boat landing at Sitojaure and cross the lake by motorboat. Our next leg begins on the opposite shore. At approximately 13 kilometers, this is the shortest day hike of the tour and allows plenty of time to experience the surrounding nature in peace. Along the way, we enjoy the expansive landscapes, look out for wildlife, and have the opportunity to gather mushrooms and berries, depending on the season. On the path across the open plateau towards Aktse, we might be lucky enough to encounter large herds of reindeer, which are frequently seen in this area. In the evening we reach Aktse's beautifully situated cabin. We pitch our tents nearby for the next two nights, with a direct view of the famous Rapadalen valley and Lake Laitaure. Against this breathtaking backdrop, we end the day enjoying magnificent views and profound tranquility.
Kungsleden hike: Sitojaure - Aktse
Day 3
Camping
Hiking distance approx. 13 km, ascent 300 m, descent 300 m
In the morning, we hike to the boat landing at Sitojaure and cross the lake by motorboat. Our next leg begins on the opposite shore. At approximately 13 kilometers, this is the shortest day hike of the tour and allows plenty of time to experience the surrounding nature in peace. Along the way, we enjoy the expansive landscapes, look out for wildlife, and have the opportunity to gather mushrooms and berries, depending on the season. On the path across the open plateau towards Aktse, we might be lucky enough to encounter large herds of reindeer, which are frequently seen in this area. In the evening we reach Aktse's beautifully situated cabin. We pitch our tents nearby for the next two nights, with a direct view of the famous Rapadalen valley and Lake Laitaure. Against this breathtaking backdrop, we end the day enjoying magnificent views and profound tranquility.
Day 4
Kungsleden hike: Ascent of Skierffe (1,179 m)
Camping
Hiking distance approx. 15 km, ascent 800 m, descent 800 m
Today's plan is to climb Skierfe. We'll set off early in the morning and first ascend to the plateau. From there, the path leads steadily uphill to the summit. Upon reaching the top, we are rewarded with one of Lapland's most impressive views: From Skierfe, the rock face plunges almost vertically for around 700 meters, offering a spectacular panorama of the entire Rapadelta. In the heart of the intricate river system, the Nammasj rises like a "rock in the surf," while on the opposite side, the imposing wall of Tjakkeli looms. These are impressions you won't soon forget. The entire area is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Laponia. After thoroughly enjoying the view, we make our way back, shoulder our backpacks and hike back to our camp.
Kungsleden hike: Ascent of Skierffe (1,179 m)
Day 4
Camping
Hiking distance approx. 15 km, ascent 800 m, descent 800 m
Today's plan is to climb Skierfe. We'll set off early in the morning and first ascend to the plateau. From there, the path leads steadily uphill to the summit. Upon reaching the top, we are rewarded with one of Lapland's most impressive views: From Skierfe, the rock face plunges almost vertically for around 700 meters, offering a spectacular panorama of the entire Rapadelta. In the heart of the intricate river system, the Nammasj rises like a "rock in the surf," while on the opposite side, the imposing wall of Tjakkeli looms. These are impressions you won't soon forget. The entire area is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Laponia. After thoroughly enjoying the view, we make our way back, shoulder our backpacks and hike back to our camp.
Day 5
Kungsleden hike: Laitaure - Part
Camping
Hiking distance approx. 20 km, ascent 380 m, descent 340 m
In the morning, we begin our long day's hike once again with a boat trip, crossing Lake Laitaure. Once on the opposite shore, the path leads first through a pristine birch and coniferous forest. After a short climb, we reach an open plateau offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, tranquil lakes, and endless forests. Along the way, we cross several rushing mountain streams, which are safely traversable via small bridges. In the evening, we pitch our tent near the beautifully situated Parte cabin, located on a small peninsula. In this special atmosphere, we enjoy our last evening in the "last wilderness of Europe".
Kungsleden hike: Laitaure - Part
Day 5
Camping
Hiking distance approx. 20 km, ascent 380 m, descent 340 m
In the morning, we begin our long day's hike once again with a boat trip, crossing Lake Laitaure. Once on the opposite shore, the path leads first through a pristine birch and coniferous forest. After a short climb, we reach an open plateau offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, tranquil lakes, and endless forests. Along the way, we cross several rushing mountain streams, which are safely traversable via small bridges. In the evening, we pitch our tent near the beautifully situated Parte cabin, located on a small peninsula. In this special atmosphere, we enjoy our last evening in the "last wilderness of Europe".
Day 6
Kungsleden hike: Kvikkjokk / return to Älvsbyn
Guesthouse
Hiking distance approx. 17 km, ascent 100 m, descent 250 m
Today is the last leg of our hike. We begin by following the path through a wooded river valley, before the trail climbs briefly and leads us through a pristine, typical northern Swedish forest. Along the way, we repeatedly pass idyllic lakes that invite us to pause and admire the scenery. In the afternoon we reach the small village of Kvikkjokk. There, our driver picks us up and takes us back to the guesthouse in a minibus, where we spend our last night. Over a farewell dinner, we reminisce about the eventful tour and enjoy a relaxing end to the day.
Kungsleden hike: Kvikkjokk / return to Älvsbyn
Day 6
Guesthouse
Hiking distance approx. 17 km, ascent 100 m, descent 250 m
Today is the last leg of our hike. We begin by following the path through a wooded river valley, before the trail climbs briefly and leads us through a pristine, typical northern Swedish forest. Along the way, we repeatedly pass idyllic lakes that invite us to pause and admire the scenery. In the afternoon we reach the small village of Kvikkjokk. There, our driver picks us up and takes us back to the guesthouse in a minibus, where we spend our last night. Over a farewell dinner, we reminisce about the eventful tour and enjoy a relaxing end to the day.
Day 7
Alvsbyn - Luleå
Our eventful days in Swedish Lapland are coming to an end. After breakfast, we will transfer to Luleå Airport. Afterwards, you will begin your individual departure or onward journey – with unforgettable impressions of the wilderness of Lapland in your luggage.
Alvsbyn - Luleå
Day 7
Our eventful days in Swedish Lapland are coming to an end. After breakfast, we will transfer to Luleå Airport. Afterwards, you will begin your individual departure or onward journey – with unforgettable impressions of the wilderness of Lapland in your luggage.
Services
What's included
Camping and cooking equipment (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, stove, dishes, cutlery, tarp)
4x tent
Accommodation for the first and last night of the tour is in a comfortable guesthouse with shared bathroom (sleeping in a shared room in a sleeping bag).
6x breakfast, 5x packed lunch, 6x dinner
Full board and drinks (excluding alcoholic beverages) are included throughout the entire tour (starting with dinner on the arrival day and ending with breakfast on the departure day). Snacks such as cookies, granola bars, chocolate, small salami sausages, cheese, crispbread, and nuts will be provided.
All transport and transfers as described
Minibus, On foot
Transfer included on arrival and departure day (Luleå Airport).
German-speaking outdoor guide
Ferry costs from Kebnats to Saltoluokta
Boat crossings by motorboat
2x guesthouse
- Free coffee/tea and Wi-Fi -
During the trekking tour, participants will sleep in two-person tents. Solo travelers can request a single tent.
What's not included
Individual travel to and from the destination (we are happy to put together a suitable offer)
Travel insurance (we are happy to put together an individual offer)
personal equipment
Personal expenses, tips
Meals and drinks not mentioned
Optional excursions and activities
Character of the trip
Fitness
Demanding
Altitude
Gentle
Culture / nature
Pure nature
This trek requires good physical condition and sure-footedness. You'll hike for five days, with stages of approximately 13 to 20 km and up to 800 meters of elevation gain. You'll sleep in a tent, which requires a willingness to embrace a simple lifestyle in the wilderness.
The trails are sometimes rocky and wet, and the weather in Lapland can be cold and rainy even in summer. Experience with multi-day hikes is recommended.
Dates and prices
Group dates
Optional
Number of participants
2 - 8
per person
Notes on the trip
Requirements and guidelines
The Swedish mountains are quite different from the Alps: instead of steep climbs, you'll find gentle, expansive landscapes. The elevation gain is less, but the daily stages are usually a bit longer, ranging from 12 to 20 kilometers. However, you shouldn't underestimate the tour. The climate near the Arctic Circle is comparable to high mountain regions: temperatures can reach 30°C in summer, but the weather can also change rapidly. Towards the end of summer, the first night frosts are possible. You should enjoy nature, be in good physical condition and sure-footed, and be able to carry the equipment for a five-day camping trip in your backpack. The focus is not on athletic performance, but on the intense experience of nature far from civilization. No prior experience is necessary; the trails are well-marked and easy to follow. The days are filled with hiking, photography, and enjoying the peace and vastness. Deep river valleys, endless plateaus, wild rivers, glaciers, and striking peaks characterize the landscape. Moose, reindeer, wolverines, and golden eagles are at home here – with a bit of luck, you might spot them. Since we will be trekking through the Arctic wilderness for several days, helping out is essential, for example with setting up tents, cooking, or other daily tasks. Team spirit and mutual support are important. We carry all our equipment and provisions in backpacks (55–65 liters). Each person takes on approximately 6–7 kg of shared equipment and provisions. Huts are mostly unstaffed, and shopping opportunities are rare. Drinking water is plentiful and can be taken directly from nature – a water filter is not necessary.
Baggage
Trekking backpack (at least 65 liters + 10 liters), Note: Each participant carries some of their own food and equipment. Please leave enough space in your backpack for your food bag. You will also need to carry other equipment such as a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, and cooking utensils.
clothing
Windproof and waterproof jacket (Gore-Tex), Hiking trousers made of lightweight, quick-drying material (long/short, possibly zip-off trousers), Hiking boots (Gore-Tex); ankle-high and well broken in. (waterproof), The complete packing list / equipment recommendation will be sent after booking the trip.
equipment
Sleeping bag liner made of cotton, fleece or silk
Route description
Since outdoor excursions are weather dependent, the program may be changed at short notice due to prevailing weather conditions. For organizational reasons, the tour may also be conducted in reverse, from Kvikkjokk to Saltoluokta.
Arrival and departure
The nearest airport is in Luleå. For organizational reasons, group transfers are usually provided at Luleå Airport in the afternoon. Therefore, you may have to wait at the airport. If this is the case, we will inform you in advance if possible. This also applies to the return transfer to the airport. Please arrive by 7:00 PM on the first day of the tour, as we will be explaining the function of the equipment, discussing the tour itinerary, and checking your personal equipment on the evening of your arrival. A great alternative is taking the night train from Stockholm to Älvsbyn. Especially in summer, when the midnight sun shines, you might even spot moose and reindeer along the way. Fly to Stockholm the day before your tour starts and board the night train to Älvsbyn directly at Stockholm-Arlanda Airport in the evening. A direct, eco-friendly journey to Swedish Lapland! The guesthouse is about a 10-minute walk from the train station. On the night train, you can choose between seats and sleeper berths. There are 6-berth compartments (either mixed or gender-segregated) or private compartments. A restaurant car and a wake-up service are available. Further information and booking can be found at www.sj.se
