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Mine · Kiruna, Norrbotten
Mina de Kiirunavaara (LKAB)
Guided tour of a gallery in the Kiirunavaara iron mine, 540 metres deep: the LKAB visitor centre showcases modern mining, the machines and the history of the town that grew around the mine.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Mina de Kiirunavaara (LKAB)
Kiruna exists because of the mine. The Kiirunavaara mountain contains one of the world’s largest iron ore deposits, mined by the state company LKAB since 1900. Initially the extraction was open-pit; today it is entirely underground, with tunnels that already exceed a thousand metres in depth. The ore is shipped by train along the Malmbanan railway to the ports of Narvik, Norway, and Luleå.
LKAB operates the visitor centre at a mine level 540 metres down. The tour begins in Kiruna, with a bus that descends through spiral tunnels to the bottom. Down there a guide explains how modern mining works, showing giant machines, remotely controlled trucks and the ventilation and safety systems. There is a museum with the mine’s and the town’s history, and a café.
The visit helps to understand Kiruna’s transformation: as the mine advances under the old town centre, the city is being gradually relocated eastward. Historic buildings, like wooden houses and the church, have been moved intact to the new centre.
Tours usually run several times a week, with more dates in summer and winter.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 3 hours, including transportation from Kiruna.
Best time
All year, with dates and languages that vary by season. Spaces are limited: book in advance. Check the minimum age for children.
How to get there
The tour departs from the Kiruna tourist centre, in the town’s new centre, with a bus down to the mine. You cannot go on your own.
Tip
Book through the Kiruna tourist information centre. Bring a warm coat: down in the mine the temperature is mild, but waiting outside can be cold in winter.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Mina de Kiirunavaara (LKAB)
Can you visit the Kiruna mine?
Yes, with a guided tour that departs from the Kiruna tourist centre and descends to 540 metres depth. Book in advance.
Is the mine visit suitable for children?
There are minimum age and height requirements for children, set by the company. Check before booking.
Why is Kiruna being moved?
The mine is advancing under the old town centre and the ground can subside. That is why the town is being gradually relocated eastward.