Kiruna in 1 Day for Friends - Hands-on construction of a functional Quinzhee snow shelter
In Collaboration with Expedition Lapland. Updated on March 28, 2026.
Five-and-a-half hour hands-on expedition near Kiruna: fit professional winter gear, engineer a Quinzhee-style snow shelter, snowshoe on backcountry trails while the shelter sinters, hollow out the interior, then enjoy a hot wilderness lunch cooked over an open fire.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Expedition Lapland, inspired by the tour The Taiga Architect: Hike, Build Igloo & Dine. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Hands-on construction of a functional Quinzhee snow shelter
- Guided snowshoe trek through the Kiruna backcountry
- Practical Arctic survival skills: insulation, shelter excavation and fire-building
- Chef-prepared hot wilderness lunch over an open fire
- Photo opportunities inside and beside your hand-built snow home
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-morning expedition: pickup and briefing in central Kiruna, short transfer to the chosen build site near Luossavaara, construct a Quinzhee-style shelter, hike on snowshoes while the shelter sinters, hollow out the interior, then finish with a hot lunch by the fire and a short debrief.
Meet, pickup & safety briefing — Kiruna center
Group pickup or meet at the local tourist information. Fitting of provided thermal overalls, mittens and helmets; safety briefing and overview of the day's schedule and roles for shelter construction.
Tips from local experts:
- Be ready outside your hotel or meet at Kiruna Tourist Information five minutes before pickup time to keep the schedule.
- Bring a warm base layer and insulated winter boots (operator gear covers outer layers but not personal base clothing).
- Inform the guide of any medical conditions or mobility limitations before the briefing begins.
Transfer to build site
Short vehicle transfer from central Kiruna to the nearby build site in the Luossavaara area where the team will work and hike. Time includes brief transition on arrival.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep cameras and small items in inner pockets during the transfer to avoid losing them when gearing up.
- Use the restroom in town before boarding—the build site has limited facilities.
- Stow all loose items in the vehicle or the provided dry bags; pack snow-safe footwear (waterproof and insulated) for exiting the vehicle.
Mound & pack the Quinzhee dome
Under guide instruction, the group will mound and pack snow to form the exterior dome of a Quinzhee-style shelter using shovels and snow saws. Focus is on structure, packing technique and safety.
Tips from local experts:
- Work in layers and rotate tasks frequently — this conserves energy and keeps everyone engaged.
- Keep mittens dry where possible; the operator provides heavy-duty mittens but bringing a spare pair is useful.
- Follow the guide's signals when packing the dome to avoid uneven compaction that could compromise structure.
Snowshoe trek while shelter sinters
Guided snowshoe walk on nearby trails to observe tracks, learn about local terrain and allow the packed dome to sinter (harden). Short interpretive stops to discuss insulation and Arctic conditions.
Tips from local experts:
- Secure goggles or sunglasses in your jacket pocket—bright snow glare is common even on overcast days.
- Pace yourself on the trek; the guide adapts speed to the group's ability but steady hydration is recommended.
- Keep cameras in protective cases; condensation can form when moving between cold and warmer conditions.
Hollow out the shelter interior
Return to the dome and carefully excavate the inside to form a safe, insulated living space. Learn about ventilation, snow stability checks and safe entry/exit procedures.
Tips from local experts:
- Listen closely to the guide for the correct angles and depth when hollowing to maintain structural integrity.
- Avoid sharp tools near the shelter ceiling; use approved excavation shovels provided by the guide.
- If you feel claustrophobic at any point, notify the guide immediately—participants can step out at any time.
Fire-cooked wilderness lunch, photos & debrief
Celebrate the completed shelter with a hot, chef-prepared wilderness lunch served beside or inside the Quinzhee where safe. Short debrief and group photo opportunity before returning to Kiruna.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a small insulated bottle if you prefer to carry warm drinks afterward; the guide provides hot lingonberry juice and tea/coffee during the meal.
- Dress in layers for sitting periods—you may cool quickly after active work and during the meal.
- Collect personal belongings and check with the guide before leaving the site to ensure nothing is left behind.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 4 |
| Total Places | 4 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Experience, Outdoor, Meal |
