Jokkmokk is the gateway to the mountains of Lapland and makes an excellent destination for active travellers. There are all sorts of things to do here: from outdoor adventures like skiing, hiking and dogsledding to cultural Sami experiences, museum visits and guided tours. And there is no shortage of good dining in town either - Jokkmokk was named Swedish Food Capital of the Year in 2014.
Jokkmokk is best known as a Sami village with a history that stretches back to the 1500s.
For that reason, it is highly recommended that all visitors to Jokkmokk take the opportunity to participate in one of the many Sami traditions on offer. Visit Ájtte, The Swedish Mountain and Sami Museum, for example, where you can learn more about the nature and history of the local mountains and their Sami culture. You can also visit the Vuollerim 6000 Nature and Culture Stone Age village and museum.
If you come in February, be sure not to miss the Jokkmokk market. The market is a meeting place for the Sami, and a great spot to buy local handicraft products and experience reindeer racing across the Tavasti Lake. Just be sure to dress warmly - it is not unusual for the temperature to dip below -25 degrees.
Jokkmokk offers plenty of activities in the winter and summer seasons alike. Enjoy downhill and cross-country skiing, canoeing and fishing. Other popular activities include dogsledding and horseback riding. Hiking enthusiasts should pay a visit to Sarek, one of Sweden's most popular areas for mountain tourism. Keep in mind that the area is best suited to seasoned hikers and mountain-climbers, and there are no cabins available for the public. If you'd rather get to know the town of Jokkmokk itself, pay a visit to the Old Pharmacy, which organises guided walking tours through the centre of town.
The easiest way to reach Jokkmokk from the main Swedish cities is by car or train. The town is divided into two parts by the E45 and the Inland Railway. Several major cities in the vicinity also offer bus connections, and there are four airports within a 200 km radius.
Why not take a weekend trip to Jokkmokk to experience the Sami culture, wonderful outdoor activities in a stunning countryside, and some excellent dining!
