Sarek National Park: The Wild Heart of Swedish Lapland
Explore Sarek National Park, where Sweden's untamed wilderness awaits with its majestic peaks, pristine rivers, and incredible wildlife in the heart of Lapland.
Sarek National Park, located in the remote region of Swedish Lapland, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Known for its rugged terrain, the park is home to some of Sweden’s highest peaks and vast glaciers. It’s a land where the northern lights dance in winter and the midnight sun shines in summer. Sarek offers a true wilderness experience. With no marked trails and few facilities, it’s perfect for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. The park is rich in wildlife, including reindeer, moose, and the elusive wolverine. Bird watchers will delight in spotting golden eagles and other rare species. The park’s stunning landscape features deep valleys, wild rivers, and lush alpine meadows. It’s a paradise for trekkers and mountaineers. While it can be challenging, the rewards are immense: breathtaking views, pristine nature, and a sense of solitude that’s hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just love the great outdoors, Sarek National Park promises an unforgettable adventure.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Sarek National Park.
- Visit in summer for milder weather and the midnight sun, or in winter for a chance to see the northern lights.
- Bring all necessary supplies, as there are no facilities or marked trails within the park.
- Consider hiring a local guide if you are unfamiliar with navigating in such remote wilderness.
- Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions; pack appropriate gear for both rain and snow.
- Respect the natural habitat and wildlife. Leave no trace and carry out all your waste.
Sarek National Park: The Wild Heart of Swedish Lapland
Sarek National Park, located in the remote region of Swedish Lapland, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Known for its rugged terrain, the park is home to some of Sweden’s highest peaks and vast glaciers. It’s a land where the northern lights dance in winter and the midnight sun shines in summer. Sarek offers a true wilderness experience. With no marked trails and few facilities, it’s perfect for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. The park is rich in wildlife, including reindeer, moose, and the elusive wolverine. Bird watchers will delight in spotting golden eagles and other rare species. The park’s stunning landscape features deep valleys, wild rivers, and lush alpine meadows. It’s a paradise for trekkers and mountaineers. While it can be challenging, the rewards are immense: breathtaking views, pristine nature, and a sense of solitude that’s hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just love the great outdoors, Sarek National Park promises an unforgettable adventure.
Explore the best of what Sarek National Park has to offer
When is the best time to go to Sarek National Park?
Unmissable attractions to see
Tiveden National Park
Sweden's southern wilderness of glacier-hewn boulders, troll-haunted peaks, and ancient forests—hike rift valleys to crystalline lakes in Tiveden's timeless embrace.
Fulufjället National Park
A raw highland plateau of waterfalls, ancient spruce and the lone, enduring Old Tjikko — Sweden’s wild mountain heart on the Norwegian border.
Greater Mosse National Park
Southern Sweden's expansive bog paradise: hike quaking mires, watch eagles soar, and uncover 14,000 years of wilderness at Naturum's doorstep.
Kosterhavet National Park
Sweden’s first marine national park — a clear, cold Atlantic‑fed sea of kelp, reefs and thousands of marine species around the car‑free Koster Islands.
Norra Kvills nationalpark
A compact, ancient-feeling Småland woodland of mossy boulders, veteran pines and lily-fringed pools — ideal for a short, atmospheric forest walk.
Sonfjället National Park
A compact, granite‑sculpted mountain reserve in Härjedalen where old forest, boulder fields and resident brown bears shape an elemental Scandinavian wilderness.
Tresticklan National Park
Discover southern Sweden's vast roadless wilderness: ancient pines, fissure valleys, lakes, and wildlife in Tresticklan's pristine embrace.
Färnebofjärden National Park
A water‑sculpted national park on the lower Dalälven where islands, rapids and reedbeds create a changing, bird-filled landscape.
Hamra National Park
A compact reserve of ancient spruce and open bogs where plankways and a lookout tower reveal the quiet, living history of Sweden’s mid‑boreal forest.
Garphyttans Nationalpark
Sweden's pioneering national park: flower meadows, woodpecker woods, and hilltop views in a compact haven of cultural heritage near Örebro.
Gotska Sandön National Park
Sweden's remotest Baltic isle: mile-long dunes, ancient pines, seal colonies, and shipwreck lore in pristine isolation.
Ängsö National Park
Discover floral meadows, ancient forests, and coastal serenity on this boat-only island paradise in Stockholm's Roslagen archipelago—one of Sweden's original national parks.
Töfsingdalen National Park
A remote, primeval valley of boulder fields, old pines and tumbling streams — Sweden’s raw wilderness for skilled, solitary exploration.
Djurö National Park
A remote, wind-sculpted archipelago in the heart of Lake Vänern where pines, bedrock and sea-birds shape a singular inland-coast solitude.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Smålandet Moose Safari
Discover the magic of moose and more at Smålandet Moose Safari, a premier wildlife park in southern Sweden, perfect for families and nature lovers.
Tiveden National Park
Explore Tiveden National Park, a breathtaking Swedish wilderness filled with hiking trails, crystal-clear lakes, and diverse wildlife for nature lovers.
Fulufjället National Park
Discover Sweden's highest waterfall, the world's oldest tree, and 140 km of trails in this pristine mountain wilderness on the Sweden-Norway frontier.
Greater Mosse National Park
Explore Greater Mosse National Park, a serene national treasure in Sweden, known for its breathtaking wetlands and diverse wildlife.
Old Town Polkagriskokeri AB
Stockholm's sole polkagriskokeri: watch handmade candy canes take shape amid Gamla Stan's charm, taste retro sweets, and craft your own in workshops.
Garphyttans Nationalpark
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Garphyttans Nationalpark, a national treasure in Sweden perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures.
Ängsö National Park
Discover the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of Ängsö National Park, a natural wonder just outside Stockholm.
WildSweden
Discover Sweden's breathtaking wilderness through guided tours and outdoor adventures with WildSweden, where nature comes alive.
Prästgården Annerstad
Organic farm haven in Småland: shop fresh delights, savor pizzas, hunt treasures, meet animals, and unwind by the river in a historic priest's garden.
Apans Andra Hand
Västertorp's premier second-hand sanctuary for sustainable Swedish style, vintage vibes, and designer deals in a community-driven consignment haven.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Aifur
Experience the best of Scandinavian cuisine at Aifur in Stockholm, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry in an inviting atmosphere.
Hard Rock Cafe
Discover the ultimate fusion of American cuisine and rock 'n' roll culture at Hard Rock Cafe Stockholm, where every meal is a celebration.
Kvarnen
A century‑old Södermalm beer hall serving hearty Swedish classics and an extensive beer selection in a warm, convivial interior.
ICEBAR Stockholm by ICEHOTEL
World's first permanent icebar: sip cocktails from frozen glasses in a -5°C Arctic wonderland rebuilt yearly with stunning themes.
Himlen
Discover Himlen in Stockholm: An exquisite fine dining experience with breathtaking views and a sophisticated ambiance.
Pharmarium
A theatrical cocktail bar in Gamla Stan that turns apothecary history into inventive drinks and shareable small plates in an intimate, cabinet‑lined setting.
Röda Sten Restaurang
Seasonal, vegetarian-friendly café and bar set in a converted industrial riverside space with baked goods, meze plates and a creative, artsy vibe.
Rockbaren
A gritty, multi‑level rock bar near Avenyn serving hearty pub food, beers and late‑night music in a memorabilia‑filled setting.
Boulebarstore Rålambshov
Provence in Rålambshovsparken: Boules, bistro bites, and Mälaren views for unforgettable park hangs.
Beerista
Göteborg's go-to gastropub on Avenyn, pouring extensive craft beers from local micros and world brewers alongside global-inspired pub grub in a cozy, social vibe.
Tjoget
A buzzing Hornstull bar and kitchen where award‑calibre cocktails meet Mediterranean flavours in a warm, late‑night neighbourhood setting.
The Bishops Arms - Park Avenue Gbg
Cosy British-style gastropub on Avenyn with an extensive beer list, hearty pub food and a warm evening atmosphere.
View Skybar & Restaurant
Experience Gothenburg's skyline dining at View Skybar & Restaurant, where modern European cuisine meets breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife.
Cuckoo's Nest
Stylish riverside bar and restaurant in Gothenburg's Lindholmen, blending modern European eats with innovative drinks and cozy vibes by the Göta Älv.
River Restaurant On The Pier
Experience the elegance of fine dining with stunning waterfront views at River Restaurant On The Pier in Gothenburg.
Local Phrases about Sarek National Park
You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.
— Eve
Here are the phrases I use most often in Sarek National Park. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- HelloHej
[hey] - GoodbyeAdjö
[ad-yo] - YesJa
[ya] - NoNej
[nay] - Please/You're welcomeSnälla/Tack
[snell-la/tak] - Thank youTack
[tak] - Excuse me/SorryUrsäkta
[ur-sak-ta] - How are you?Hur mår du?
[hoor mor doo] - Fine. And you?Bra. Och du?
[bra. okh doo] - Do you speak English?Talar du engelska?
[talar doo eng-els-ka] - I don't understandJag förstår inte
[yah for-stor in-te]
- HelloHej
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJag skulle vilja se menyn, tack
[yah skool-luh vil-ya say men-in, tak] - I don't eat meatJag äter inte kött
[yah ay-ter in-te chut] - Cheers!Skål!
[skol] - I would like to pay, pleaseJag skulle vilja betala, tack
[yah skool-luh vil-ya be-ta-la, tak]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJag skulle vilja se menyn, tack
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- Help!Hjälp!
[yelp] - Go away!Gå bort!
[go bor-t] - Call the Police!Ring polisen!
[ring po-lee-sen] - Call a doctor!Ring en läkare!
[ring en le-ka-re] - I'm lostJag är vilse
[yah air vil-se] - I'm illJag är sjuk
[yah air shoook]
- Help!Hjälp!
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- I'd like to buy...Jag skulle vilja köpa...
[yah skool-luh vil-ya sher-pa] - I'm just lookingJag tittar bara
[yah tee-tar bar-a] - How much is it?Vad kostar det?
[vad kus-tar det] - That's too expensiveDet är för dyrt
[det air for deert] - Can you lower the price?Kan du sänka priset?
[kan doo sen-ka pre-set]
- I'd like to buy...Jag skulle vilja köpa...
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- What time is it?Vad är klockan?
[vad air klok-an] - It's one o'clockKlockan är ett
[klok-an air et] - Half past (10)Halv tio
[halv tee-oh] - MorningMorgon
[mor-gon] - AfternoonEftermiddag
[ef-ter-meed-dag] - EveningKväll
[kvel] - YesterdayIgår
[ee-gor] - TodayIdag
[ee-dag] - TomorrowImorgon
[ee-mor-gon] - 1ett
[et] - 2två
[tvoh] - 3tre
[treh] - 4fyra
[feer-a] - 5fem
[fem] - 6sex
[seks] - 7sju
[shoo] - 8åtta
[ot-ta] - 9nio
[nee-oh] - 10tio
[tee-oh]
- What time is it?Vad är klockan?
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- Where's a/the...?Var finns en/den...?
[var fins en/den] - What's the address?Vad är adressen?
[vad air ad-res-sen] - Can you show me (on the map)?Kan du visa mig (på kartan)?
[kan doo vee-sa may (po kar-tan)] - When's the next (bus)?När går nästa (buss)?
[nair gor nes-ta (boos)] - A ticket (to ....)En biljett (till ....)
[en bil-yet (till)]
- Where's a/the...?Var finns en/den...?
History of Sarek National Park
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The Sami people, indigenous to the region, have lived in and around what is now Sarek National Park for thousands of years. They are known for their unique nomadic lifestyle, primarily herding reindeer across vast expanses of land, including the harsh terrains of Sarek. The Sami culture is deeply intertwined with the natural environment, and their traditional knowledge of the area remains invaluable.
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Sarek National Park was established in 1909, making it one of the oldest national parks in Europe. The park was created to preserve the unique Arctic landscape, its flora and fauna, and the traditional lifestyle of the Sami people. It covers an area of about 1,970 square kilometers and features rugged mountains, deep valleys, and some of Sweden's largest glaciers.
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Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Sarek attracted numerous scientific expeditions. Notably, the Swedish geologist and explorer Axel Hamberg conducted extensive research in the region, documenting its geology, climate, and ecosystems. His work laid the foundation for modern understanding of the area's natural history and significantly contributed to the field of Arctic research.
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During World War II, the remote and rugged terrain of Sarek served as a strategic hideout for resistance movements. The park's challenging landscape provided a natural fortress against enemy forces. While not heavily documented, tales of clandestine operations and hidden supply routes through Sarek have become part of local lore.
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In 1996, the Laponian Area, which includes Sarek National Park, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This recognition was due to the region's outstanding natural beauty and its cultural significance as the homeland of the Sami people. The designation has helped to further protect the park and promote sustainable tourism.
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Today, Sarek National Park is managed by the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency. Modern conservation efforts focus on preserving the park's pristine wilderness and supporting the traditional lifestyles of the Sami. Efforts include monitoring wildlife populations, protecting habitats, and promoting eco-friendly tourism practices.
Sarek National Park Essentials
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Sarek National Park is located in the northern part of Sweden, within the Lapland region. The nearest major airport is Kiruna Airport, approximately 180 kilometers away. From Kiruna, you can take a train or bus to the town of Gällivare, which serves as a gateway to the park. From Gällivare, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to the village of Kvikkjokk or Ritsem, which are common starting points for entering the park. Alternatively, you can drive to these villages if you have a rental car.
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Within Sarek National Park, there are no roads or established trails, making it a true wilderness experience. The most common way to explore the park is on foot, so be prepared for extensive hiking and possibly some climbing. Given the remote nature of the park, it is advisable to hire a local guide if you are not an experienced hiker. Outside the park, public transportation options such as buses and trains are available to reach nearby villages and towns.
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The official currency in Sweden is the Swedish Krona (SEK). Credit cards are widely accepted in the towns and villages surrounding Sarek National Park. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially if you plan to make purchases in small shops or need to pay for services in remote areas. ATMs are available in larger towns like Gällivare, but not in the park itself.
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Sarek National Park is generally safe for tourists, but it is a remote and rugged wilderness area. Ensure you are well-prepared with appropriate gear, maps, and knowledge of the terrain. There are no high-crime areas targeting tourists in or around the park. However, always take standard precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night. Wildlife, such as bears and moose, can be encountered, so it is essential to know how to safely handle such situations.
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In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Be aware that mobile phone coverage may be limited in the park. It is highly recommended to carry a satellite phone or a personal locator beacon. Inform someone about your itinerary and expected return time before heading into the park. The nearest medical facilities are located in Gällivare, so consider bringing a comprehensive first-aid kit. Travel insurance that covers medical evacuation is also advisable.
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Fashion: Do wear layered clothing suitable for cold and wet weather. Avoid wearing cotton, as it retains moisture and can lead to hypothermia. Religion: There are no specific religious customs to observe, but always be respectful of local traditions. Public Transport: Do plan your transportation in advance, as services can be infrequent. Don't rely solely on public transport to get around once inside the park. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hej' (Hello). Swedes appreciate politeness. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies like reindeer meat and Arctic char. Don't leave any waste behind; always adhere to the Leave No Trace principles.
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To experience Sarek National Park like a local, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of late spring or early autumn when the park is less crowded but still accessible. Engage with local Sami communities to learn about their culture and traditions. Participate in guided tours or activities such as fishing and dog sledding for a unique experience. Always respect the natural environment and wildlife, and follow all regulations to preserve the park's pristine condition.
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