Frequently Asked Questions

We understand you might have some questions regarding our expeditions. We've gathered the most common ones below. If you can't find the answer you're looking for, feel free to contact us.

Practical Info

We meet in Kiruna, Sweden and travel together to Abisko, the "Northern Lights capital of the world".

High quality gear
Premium skis & boots included
Authentic experience
Dutch & English speaking guide
No hidden cost

Get in touch

Don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or want to chat. You can reach us via info@polarexped.com WhatsApp

Is Polar Exped's Kungsleden winter tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, beginners can join a guided Polar Exped Kungsleden winter hut-to-hut tour, provided they have suitable fitness and prepare with us beforehand. Previous skiing experience is not required for our tour. We discuss your experience, help you prepare and introduce the skiing skills you will use, with guidance throughout the expedition.

This does not mean the winter Kungsleden is suitable for inexperienced people travelling independently. Going alone or with friends who also lack winter mountain experience is not a beginner-friendly alternative to a guided tour. Cold, strong winds, poor visibility and remote terrain require winter travel skills, navigation and emergency preparation. Our beginner-friendly description applies specifically to joining Polar Exped with our preparation and guiding.

How fit do I need to be for a Kungsleden winter hut tour?

You need good physical fitness and the ability to stay active for several hours on consecutive days while carrying a backpack. Being new to skiing is different from being ready for the physical demands of a winter expedition. Snow conditions, wind and terrain can make some days more demanding than others.

Before you confirm your booking, we discuss your current fitness, experience and expectations. We then help you prepare with a personalised training plan. A willingness to train, learn and contribute to the group is an important part of joining.

What equipment do I need for Kungsleden winter hut tour?

On Polar Exped's guided Kungsleden winter hut tour, skis, poles and ski boots are provided. You bring personal clothing and the personal equipment specified in your participant gear list, including a suitable backpack and sleeping equipment for the hut stays.

You do not need to work out the details yourself. We provide participants with detailed specifications and review their equipment with them. Some items can be borrowed or rented, subject to availability. Speak to us before buying specialist equipment.

Are skis better than snowshoes?

For travelling longer distances, like the Kungsleden in the winter - skis are the better choice. They allow you to glide, making the journey faster, more efficient and more enjoyable than walking in snowshoes. Local people have travelled this way for centuries - and for good reason. Some budget operators provide snowshoes mainly to reduce costs and simplify logistics. Unlike skis, snowshoes do not require specialised boots, waxing or climbing skins. However, they are poorly suited to longer journeys because they are slower and require considerably more effort. Skis require more equipment and preparation, but they provide a much better experience for extended winter journeys. At Polar Exped, we provide high-quality skis and boots, and we take care of all the equipment maintenance for you.

What are the Kungsleden huts like in winter?

The STF mountain huts on our Kungsleden route provide shared sleeping rooms, communal kitchens and a warm place to rest after skiing. Hut life is simple and communal: guests help with tasks such as collecting water and bringing in firewood. Facilities vary, and several of the huts have saunas.

On our hut-to-hut tour, Polar Exped arranges and pays for the overnight accommodation as part of the tour price. Our itinerary also includes a stay at Kebnekaise Mountain Station, which offers additional comforts such as showers and a restaurant. The tour page describes the planned overnight stops.

What is included in Polar Exped's Kungsleden winter hut tour?

Guiding throughout the tour
Premium skis, poles and ski boots
Scheduled hut and mountain-station stays
Transfers from and back to Kiruna
Final-day snowmobile transfer
Group safety and satellite communication equipment
Personal preparation support

What's not included?

Personal clothing (we will help you get the right gear)
Travel to Kiruna, Sweden (Air or rail)
Personal (S&R) and travel insurance

What are the main challenges of skiing the Kungsleden in winter?

Being outside is not without risks, but our focus is keeping everyone safe and mitigate any potential risks. We travel during the winter season when the huts and mountain stations are open so that there's support available in case of an emergency. They can be contacted via satellite communication devices that we bring. Your guide has completed a first aid course and the group is carrying a first aid kit. Additionally, the guide has knowledge and experience on the specific route and terrain, both in winter and summer. During the expedition we're not crossing any glaciers and we avoid any potential avalanche zones. The weather is being monitored throughout the winter so we can better understand the snow conditions.

How do food and cooking work on a Kungsleden winter tour?

Nutrition is very important during an expedition as we'll need a lot of calories. Based on evaluations from previous expeditions, we have found that you can do the entire expedition with a budget of €150 - €200. On our hut tours we can resupply along the way, so you can buy what you like.

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