Sweden is covered in vast expanses of untouched nature, providing an endless habitat for wildlife such as bears, reindeer, moose and birds of all sizes. Sweden is therefore ideal for wildlife safaris – here’s an eco-friendly selection to consider.
No matter where you happen to be in Sweden, you’re never far from nature. Even urban environments have some form of natural haven within striking distance. A considerable portion of Sweden is uninhabited, and much of this land is untouched nature, spanning forestry, flower meadows, lakes, rivers, mountains and archipelago. This natural wonderland attracts wildlife in varied forms. So what creatures are you likely to encounter? The deep, enchanted forest – which covers nearly 70 % of the country – is a paradise for Swedish moose, bears, beavers, red squirrels and many other species.
Take full advantage of Sweden’s nature and the rich wildlife it attracts, through a number of outdoor experiences, like eco-friendly wildlife safaris with focus on various beasts – from Swedish moose to bears and beavers, and an exciting range of birdlife. We’ve singled out a selection of adventures, from shorter excursions to five-day, fully immersive experiences. Many of the organisers share a desire and drive to protect biodiversity and spread knowledge about Swedish nature and wildlife, sharing information on Sweden’s freedom to roam, which covers the delightful custom of foraging.
Here is a crop of Swedish wildlife safaris:
The red fox usually lives in groups or pairs. They are very adaptable and are available in all environments. They occur from the northernmost wilderness to the villa garden in the south.
Photo: Johan Gustafsson/imagebank.sweden.se
Wild Sweden, a reputable, eco-minded safari organiser, offers an experience in Arctic Sweden focused on tracking down reindeer and Swedish moose, and perhaps even golden eagles.
Explore the captivating world of muskoxen at the Muskox Centre in Härjedalen. Here, you can observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Step into the enclosure for a magical experience where you can get up close with these ancient animals. Be sure to visit the exhibition to satisfy your curiosity and learn more about them. By visiting the enclosure, you will embark on a unique nature adventure while also supporting important research, breeding programs, and educational efforts.
Bears in Sweden roam surprisingly close to civilisation. A mere two-hour drive from Stockholm Arlanda airport, you’re able to experience brown bears in their natural habitat courtesy of organiser Wild Nordic. From a custom-made wooden hideout in the enchanted pine forest of the northern region of Gästrikland, you’ll benefit from views in three directions. At this vantage point, you’re likely to spot bears, as well as other creatures of the forest, such as foxes, badgers and red squirrels. The hideout has space for four people and the trip includes a night’s stay plus snacks and breakfast. This unforgettable adventure is bookable between May and September.
The Scandinavian brown bear is a peaceful omnivore that mainly feeds on berries, ants, grass and herbs. Bears could once be found all over Sweden. In the late 1920s, the bear became a protected species, after almost becoming extinct. Today there are around 3300 bears in Sweden and they can mainly be found in the northwestern part of Sweden.
Photo: Håkan Vargas S/imagebank.sweden.se
Photo: Håkan Vargas S/imagebank.sweden.se
Photo: Anders Tedeholm/imagebank.sweden.se
Hälsingland is one of Sweden’s key regions for bear watching, with vast forests providing a natural habitat for brown bears. Between Järvsö and Edsbyn, Björnsafari i Hälsingland offers guided bear-watching experiences, including two nights in a secluded wildlife hide. Another option is Norrigården, near Ramsjö, where visitors can observe and photograph wildlife, including bears and wolverines, from specially designed hides. Sightings are never guaranteed, but these experiences offer an opportunity to discover Sweden’s wildlife in its natural habitat.
An all-round Swedish wildlife experience organised by Wild Sweden, you’ll be using the delightful Kolarbyn Eco Lodge as your base. From here you can discover the wildlife of Västmanland on a four-day adventure combining guided moose and beaver safaris. Organised in partnership with WildSweden, the experience includes three nights in a traditional forest hut, with opportunities to explore the surrounding nature on foot or by canoe. You'll also learn how to light a fire and prepare meals outdoors using ingredients provided during your stay. Guided wolf safaris can be booked separately through WildSweden.
Eagle Safari in Skåne through Nature's Best. There are several ecotourism tour operators in Sweden. The best way to find them is through Nature's Best, which is the first national quality label for nature tours in Europe.
Photo: Staffan Widstrand/imagebank.sweden.se
Photo: Staffan Widstrand/imagebank.sweden.se
Photo: Håkan Vargas S/imagebank.sweden.se
Photo: Helena Wahlman/imagebank.sweden.se
From its base in the deep forest of the idyllic province of Gästrikland, Wild Nordic offers a range of activities with focus on various forms of Sweden’s wildlife. If you’ve always dreamt of getting close to a golden eagle, this one’s for you. You’ll be guided to a cabin – built from mostly recycled wood and boasting views in three directions – frequented by these magnificent creatures. The hut is also a magnet for other birds, including different species of woodpeckers, goshawk and white-tailed eagles. Various kinds of tits (great blue coal, crested and willow tits), ravens, nuthatches, tree creepers, bullfinches, bramblings and robins are among the other birds you’re likely to encounter. This experience, which includes a night’s stay in the cabin and snacks, is available between December and March.
Nestling in scenic nature a 20-minute drive from Östersund in the region of Jämtland, the team at Moose Garden will take you on an educational one-hour tour to meet a herd of elks roaming in a sprawling enclosure combining meadow and woodland. You’ll get the opportunity to stroke and feed them a lunch of raw potatoes sourced locally. It’s an unforgettable experience, even for Swedes who’ve grown up with elks in their midst. Please check for available tours as outside the main season, they may offer a limited number of guided tours only on selected weekends.
A contemporary hotel and spa Frösö Park Hotel is a 20-minute drive away on the island of Frösön. Don’t miss Stocke Titt nearby – a quality café set within a historic homestead with marvellous mountain views, where you might even spot a Swedish moose.
Each spring, millions of viewers tune in to Sweden’s Great Moose Migration live stream, known locally as Den stora älgvandringen. Filmed in the forests near the Ångerman River in northern Sweden, the slow television phenomenon quietly captures moose as they make their ancient journey towards summer grazing grounds. With hours of serene woodland footage, birdsong and the occasional majestic elk wandering into frame, the broadcast has become an unexpectedly gripping celebration of nature, patience and the simple beauty of the Scandinavian wilderness. The broadcast will return in 2027 but you can still view the 2026 stream on SVT Play.
