Swedish Lapland: A Trekking Week with Helicopter Flight
Exploring the vast, empty wilderness of Swedish Lapland sounds like a dream for those craving untouched nature and adventure. This 6-day experience offers a chance to fly into the heart of Norrbotten County’s rugged landscapes by helicopter—an unforgettable way to start any trek. The trip is designed for those who want to combine the thrill of helicopter travel with remote hiking through some of Europe’s most beautiful and least trodden terrains.
Two things I particularly like about this tour are the spectacular aerial views during the helicopter ride and the opportunity to trek through all vegetation zones, from lush valleys to highland tundra. These features promise a diverse and visually stunning journey. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the group size and physical demand—carrying your own gear and navigating uneven terrain requires a good level of fitness and independence. Plus, the small helicopter can only accommodate three participants at a time, so groups larger than that will experience multiple flights.
Key points / Takeaways
- Unique helicopter access into remote wilderness sets this apart from typical hiking tours.
- Diverse landscapes from valleys to high mountains offer varied scenery and terrain.
- Self-supported trek means you carry your own equipment, adding to the adventure and challenge.
- The tour is small group, limited to six participants, fostering a more intimate experience.
- The best time to go is between July and September, when weather and daylight conditions are ideal.
- Equipment rental is available, but you’ll need to bring provisions and personal gear, making it more flexible but also requiring planning.
Into the Heart of Swedish Lapland: An Adventuresome Introduction
The adventure begins in the tiny mountain village of Ammarnäs, a quiet gateway to one of Sweden’s most pristine wilderness areas. Meeting at the cozy Hotel Ammarnäsgarden, you get a sense of anticipation—ready to leave behind the world of roads and crowds. The real highlight kicks off with a helicopter flight that feels like a scene from a documentary, lifting you over endless forests, snow-capped peaks (if you’re early enough in the season), and shimmering lakes. The pilot, often a guide himself, provides commentary, making the flight both scenic and informative.
This aerial approach is a rare treat. Unlike packing into a bus or van, the helicopter offers an intimate, bird’s-eye view of the landscape—perfect for photography and for realizing just how vast and wild this region really is. The helicopter can carry three passengers plus luggage, and for larger groups, multiple flights are scheduled, which might slightly extend the start time but doesn’t diminish the thrill.
Once on the ground, the real trekking begins. The route, customizable by arrangement, guides you through Vindelfjäll’s highest mountains and the most charming valleys**. You’ll pass crystal-clear mountain lakes, rushing streams, and endless tundra, all with the comfort of knowing your campsite is often just a few steps away from some of nature’s most pristine water bodies.
Ready to hit more trails? More hiking adventures we feature in Ammarnas
What to Expect on the Trekking Route
You’ll spend your nights in tents, pitched next to lakes or along streams that sing you to sleep. It’s a true back-to-nature experience, with no permanent accommodations in sight. Each participant carries their own gear, which means careful packing is a must. If you’re not used to hiking with a load, a rental option is available for equipment, and it’s worth considering to lighten your pack.
The route encompasses all vegetation zones—this zone-hopping is one of the tour’s biggest charms. You’ll start in lush valleys, where birch and pine dominate, then climb into highlands marked by sparse bushes and rocky outcrops. For those who’ve never experienced tundra terrain, it’s a fascinating change from forested trails and offers a chance to see some truly wild, unspoiled nature.
Guides like NordTrek AB are well-versed in the region’s terrain and weather, and they often speak German, English, and Swedish. Their local knowledge is invaluable, especially if weather turns unpredictable—which it can. They also help with safety tips and gear advice, making sure everyone stays comfortable and prepared.
Practicalities: Planning Your Arctic Adventure
The 6-day duration provides ample time to explore without feeling rushed, but it’s essential to be in decent shape since you’ll be carrying your own equipment. The price of around $1,762 per person reflects the inclusion of helicopter flights, some trekking equipment rental, and guided support. However, you will need to supply your own provisions, so planning your meals and snacks is crucial. A detailed list of required gear and food can be sent on request, simplifying packing.
Timing-wise, July through September is recommended—Swedish summer offers longer daylight hours and milder weather, ideal for trekking. Remember, this isn’t an experience for children under 10 or those with mobility issues, given the physically demanding nature and remote locations.
The tour is operated with small groups (up to six participants), enhancing the chance for personalized guidance and a more intimate connection with nature. Cancelation policies are straightforward—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, flexible enough for most travelers’ plans.
Is It Worth the Price?
At just over $1,700, this trek isn’t cheap, but it’s packed with unique experiences that justify the cost. The helicopter flight alone adds a layer of adventure and access to areas most visitors never see, and the guided support helps ensure safety and enjoyment in these challenging terrains. Plus, the raw beauty of Swedish Lapland—crystalline lakes, endless tundra, and towering peaks—is priceless for nature lovers.
Compared to more conventional hiking tours, this experience offers a sense of exclusivity and adventure that’s hard to match. It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with self-supported trekking, enjoy remote wilderness, and crave a genuinely authentic Arctic experience.
Who Should Consider This Tour
This trip is perfect for seasoned hikers seeking something beyond the usual trail. If you enjoy physical activity, are comfortable carrying your own gear, and want to see a part of Europe that remains largely untouched, it’s an excellent choice. The helicopter adds an extra thrill and makes the journey feel more like an expedition than a standard trek.
It’s also suitable for those who appreciate small-group travel, personalized guides, and a flexible itinerary. However, if you prefer luxury accommodations or travel logistics handled entirely for you, this might not be the best fit. The focus here is on adventure, self-reliance, and raw natural beauty—an experience that will likely be remembered long after returning home.
Final Thoughts
This Swedish Lapland trekking adventure offers a compelling combination of aerial access and remote hiking that very few experiences can match. The opportunity to soar over breathtaking landscapes and then explore them on foot makes this a unique journey into one of Europe’s most pristine wilderness areas.
While it demands some physical effort and planning, the payoff is well worth it: the chance to walk in a landscape that few have seen, sleep next to mountain lakes, and feel the full scale of Nordic nature. Guides like NordTrek AB ensure safety, local insight, and a genuine connection to this wild corner of Sweden.
If you’re after an adventure that’s both extraordinary and authentic, this trek offers a rare glimpse of a truly unspoiled world—perfect for explorers who crave the road less traveled.
FAQ
Can I join if I’ve never camped before? Yes, but be prepared for basic camping conditions. The tour is designed for those comfortable with self-supported trekking, but equipment rental can ease the burden.
What’s included in the price? The tour price covers helicopter flights, guided support, and the option to rent trekking equipment. You need to bring provisions and personal gear.
How physically demanding is this experience? Expect to carry your own gear and hike through varied terrain, including highlands and tundra. Good fitness and outdoor experience will help you enjoy it more.
What’s the best time to go? July through September offers the best weather and daylight hours, ideal for trekking.
Is this suitable for children? No, it’s designed for adults and children over 10 years old due to physical demands and remote locations.
What if the weather turns bad? Guides are experienced in handling unpredictable weather, and routes are flexible. Safety is a priority, and plans can adapt accordingly.
This experience is a rare chance to combine aerial adventure with rugged trekking in Sweden’s most pristine landscapes. Whether you’re seeking solitude, stunning vistas, or a genuine challenge, it’s an expedition worth considering.