Aurora Safaris receives Stora Turismpriset 2023

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Prestigious award honors pioneering Aurora Safaris in Swedish Lapland

Jonas Gejke and Naila Sher, the dynamic husband-and-wife duo behind Aurora Safaris, have received the coveted Stora Turismpriset 2023, marking a milestone in their journey that began in 2022. This award celebrates their trailblazing initiative in crafting the world's foremost Arctic winter glamping experience nestled in the serene Råne River Valley of Swedish Lapland.

A Journey from Kenya to Swedish Lapland

With a rich background in managing safari camps, a balloon company, climbing ventures, and a restaurant in Kenya, Jonas and Naila relocated to Swedish Lapland in 2017, transforming Gunnarsbyn into their cherished home. Drawing upon their expertise, they've tirelessly refined the Aurora Safari experience, embracing the breathtaking landscapes and the essence of Norrbotten, their newfound community.

Harmonizing Arctic Glamping with Nature

Aurora Safaris stands as a testament to innovation, attracting global visitors eager to immerse themselves in the lap of Arctic nature. Combining nature's allure with creature comforts, the camp offers bespoke, heated cabins amid an ethos of personalized hosting. Grateful for the support and expertise of the locals, the camp has undergone a transformative evolution, now situated on the tranquil shores of Lake Degerselet.

Unveiling uniqueness amid challenges

Innovating for Arctic conditions posed challenges that Aurora Safaris embraced wholeheartedly, distinguishing them as a unique entity. Presently, they boast five nature-integrated cabins and a ‘floating sauna,’ a winter haven adrift on the frozen lake, transforming into a floating sanctuary come summer. Further, their guesthouse in Mårdsel hosts exhilarating snowmobile excursions to the Arctic Circle.

Beyond Aurora Spotting: Community Integration

At the heart of Aurora Safari Camp lies a reimagined communal space, where guests savor homely delicacies and gather for potential aurora sightings by the fire. New additions include a forest sauna with an electric shower and an immersive ‘dinner with the locals’ experience, fostering engaging dialogues and cultural exchanges.

Commendable local collaboration

Aurora Safaris remains deeply entwined with local culture, actively engaging with Sami reindeer herders and collaborating with a network of Arctic culture guides. This symbiotic approach has garnered global attention, establishing Norrbotten on the world map for tourists, journalists, and businesses.

Overwhelmed by this recognition, Jonas and Naila attribute this triumph to their dedicated team and the unwavering support of the Gunnarsbyn community. Their words echo gratitude for the collaborative efforts that have transformed their vision into reality, solidifying their commitment to delivering unparalleled experiences to guests.

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