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Midnight sun

When it never really gets dark.

In Gällivare, summer is special. Not because it's hot all the time, but because it never really gets dark. In the middle of the night, it's light. You see the landscape, can go out, hike, fish, or just be outside. It's the midnight sun.


What is the midnight sun?

Midnight sun means that the sun does not set below the horizon, not even at night. It happens in areas north of the Arctic Circle, and Gällivare is right where it begins. The result is simple: It is light 24/7.

When can you see the midnight sun in Gällivare?

In Gällivare, the “real” midnight sun is from the beginning of June to the beginning of July. But the bright nights start earlier and last longer.

  • May: bright evenings that never really get dark
  • June–beginning of July: midnight sun around the clock
  • July–August: still bright nights

Around midsummer, it is the brightest. Then the sun goes lowest towards the horizon, but does not disappear.

How does it feel?

It's easier than it sounds. You look at the clock. It's 11:30 PM. But it feels like the afternoon.

You can:

  • Take a short hike late at night
  • Fish in the middle of the night
  • Sit outside and drink coffee, without a headlamp

It's not strange here. It's business as usual.

Best places to see the midnight sun

You can experience the midnight sun almost anywhere in Gällivare. But some places make it even better:

  • Dundret
    Easy to get up by car along the 5:an-vägen to the top of the mountain External link.. Open views in all directions. Perfect for watching the sun spin around the horizon.
  • Mountains and open landscapes
    The less forest, the more light you see.
  • By the water
    Lakes and rivers reflect the light. Simple, but effective.

Dundret

Dundret is one of the most accessible natural areas in Gällivare. From here, you can get out quickly, regardless of the season. You don't need to plan much. Just get there and start the adventure.

Read more here

What do you do under the midnight sun?

Nothing special or everything. What works during the day works just as well at night:

  • A day hike late at night
  • Fishing in the middle of the night
  • Coffee with fika outside
  • Just sitting still

Many people take the opportunity to stay outside longer. It doesn't feel like the day is ending.

Good to remember

The midnight sun is easy to experience, but it affects you.

  • It can be difficult to fall asleep. Bring a sleeping mask if you need to
  • Keep track of the time; it's easy to lose track
  • Dress for the weather, not the clock

Fishing in Gällivare

Easy to get out, plenty of water to choose from. Fishing in Gällivare is not complicated. There is water everywhere, lakes, rivers, small ponds and mountain water. You don't have to be an expert. Whether you fish occasionally or often, there are plenty of places that work for a day trip.

What do you fish for?

Why the Midnight Sun is Special

It's not just about the light. It's about the way time feels different. You don't control the clock as much. You go out when you want. Stay as long as you want.

The Midnight Sun in Gällivare is not something you need to plan much for.
It's just there.
24/7.
All you have to do is go out.