KIRUNA: Reindeer Sled Ride in the Countryside

If you’re heading to Sweden’s Arctic north and seeking something authentic, this Reindeer Sled Ride in Kiruna promises a memorable peek into Sami traditions and the stunning winter landscape. While I haven’t personally been on this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions reveal it as a gentle, immersive adventure suited for travelers craving genuine cultural connection and scenic tranquility.

What we love about this experience is how it combines a hands-on reindeer interaction, the thrill of steering your own sled through snow-blanketed forests, and a warm, communal meal around a fire. Plus, the visit to a Sami village provides insightful stories and a chance to learn about indigenous lifestyles. That said, if you’re seeking high-energy winter sports or an adrenaline rush, this might feel more relaxed than you prefer. Nonetheless, this tour is ideal for those who want a meaningful cultural exchange paired with beautiful surroundings.

This experience primarily appeals to travelers interested in Sami culture, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a peaceful, engaging introduction to northern Sweden’s traditions. It’s perfect for small groups, offering a more personal, intimate feel, and is especially suitable for families with children over age 2, provided they meet certain health criteria.

Good To Know

• Authentic Sami Culture: Visit a Sami village, hear stories, and learn about reindeer herding traditions.
• Hands-On Reindeer Experience: Walk with, feed, and harness your own reindeer for the sled ride.
• Scenic Winter Landscape: Enjoy traveling through snowy forests and on the frozen moors near the mountains.
• Delicious Local Food: Savor smoked and fried reindeer meat, with vegetarian and vegan options available.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Reindeer Sled Ride Experience

The Journey Begins in Kiruna

The tour starts with a pickup from the Tourist Office around 10 am, making it a smooth start for those staying in central Kiruna. From here, you’ll be driven roughly 20 km to a traditional Sámi village. The drive itself offers a glimpse of the changing landscape—think snow-blanketed forests and the distant mountain range—setting the perfect mood for the culture ahead.

Visiting a Sami Village

Arriving at the Sami settlement, you’ll be greeted by reindeer herders who are eager to share their way of life. We loved the way guides like Giron Reindeer take the time to introduce visitors to Sami traditions, stories, and their deep connection to reindeer herding. As some of the reindeer are fed in a corral, you’ll have the chance to walk alongside them and even feed them by hand—an experience many visitors describe as surprisingly intimate and heartwarming.

Preparing for the Sled Ride

After meeting the reindeer, you’ll select your own animal, walk with it, and learn how to harness it to the sled. This hands-on approach is what makes the experience stand out. It’s not just a ride—it’s participation that offers a real sense of connection. Guides often explain how the reindeer are semi-domesticated, free to graze in the mountains come spring, but during winter, they’re cared for closely by their herders.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Reindeer Sled Ride

The highlight of this tour is the approximately 4-5 km reindeer sled journey through the snowy woods and across the frozen moors. The scenery is breathtaking; snow-laden trees stretch endlessly, and the stillness of the landscape creates a sense of serenity. Many reviews, like that of Tordis, mention how magical it feels to “experience the snow-covered landscape in this way,” describing the ride as “very relaxed and enchanting.”

Riding your own reindeer, steering through the quiet wilderness, offers a peaceful alternative to more adrenaline-fueled winter activities. The sleds are easy to handle, and guides are there to assist if needed. The experience is suitable for all ages over 2, with the caveat that those with back problems or animal allergies should consider their comfort.

Relaxing Around the Fire

Post-ride, you’ll settle into a traditional lávvu, a Sami tent, where you can unwind and listen to stories from your guide. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with stories that deepen your understanding of Sami life. The fire provides a cozy backdrop while you sample a hearty lunch.

The Lunch: Reindeer Meat & More

Food is definitely a highlight here. You’ll enjoy a meal featuring smoked and fried reindeer meat (suovas), served with bread. Reviewers like Tordis praise the meal, noting how delicious and wholesome it is, with one describing it as “super tasty,” especially when paired with local vegetables and berries. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, making this accessible for different dietary preferences.

Sitting on reindeer hides in the warm, communal setting of the lávvu, you’ll find yourself savoring every bite and soaking in the authentic atmosphere. This type of meal isn’t just about sustenance—it’s an integral part of Sami hospitality and culture.

Practical Details

Duration & Availability

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with starting times varying based on availability. It runs from mid-January to the end of March, aligning with the period when the ice on the river is thick enough for safe crossing and snow coverage is optimal.

Transportation & Group Size

Included is transport from specific points in central Kiruna, making logistics simple. The group size is limited to 8 people, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

Cost & Booking

You can reserve your spot with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You also have the option to reserve now and pay later, offering peace of mind in planning your trip.

What to Bring

Travelers should dress warmly, wear comfortable shoes, and bring snacks and water for the trip. Since the experience involves being outdoors in cold weather, layering is advised, and waterproof clothing can enhance comfort.

What’s Not Allowed

Smoking, alcohol, and drugs are prohibited, aligning with the respectful, family-friendly nature of the activity.

Authentic Insights from Past Participants

One guest, Bernard, simply called it a “Bonne découverte du monde Sami” (Good discovery of Sami world), reflecting how the experience offers genuine insight into Sami culture. Tordis praised it as a “very relaxed and magical” day, highlighting how tranquil and special the landscape feels when experienced on a sled. Both reviewers appreciated not just the scenery but the warmth of the communal fire and the delicious reindeer meal, emphasizing the value of the cultural exchange and authentic hospitality.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While it isn’t the cheapest activity in Kiruna, the combination of hands-on participation, cultural storytelling, scenic beauty, and hearty local food makes it a worthwhile investment. It’s a comprehensive introduction to Sami traditions, allowing you to connect with the local culture in a relaxed, meaningful way. The small group size adds to the value, ensuring you won’t feel lost in a crowd and that your questions are answered.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers interested in culture and nature lovers seeking a peaceful way to experience winter in Sweden. It’s perfect for families with children over 2, provided they meet the health criteria, and for anyone wanting a more authentic, less commercialized activity.

If you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping snow sports or high-energy activities, you might find this somewhat quieter. But for those wanting a gentle, authentic adventure with a touch of storytelling and delicious food, this tour hits the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When is this activity available?
It runs from mid-January to the end of March, during the period when the ice is thick and snow coverage ideal for sledding.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience takes about 3 hours, including transportation, the sled ride, and the meal.

Is the reindeer sled ride suitable for children?
Yes, children over 2 years old can participate, but those with back problems or allergies should consider their comfort.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly with layers, including waterproof outerwear, sturdy shoes, and gloves. Bring snacks and water for the trip.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking can be made now with the option to pay later.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available?
Yes, the lunch menu includes options for vegetarians and vegans.

What is included in the tour?
Transport from Kiruna, the reindeer sled ride, visiting a Sami village, feeding reindeer, stories about Sami culture, and a traditional lunch.

Is the experience eco-friendly?
The focus on local, sustainable reindeer farming and traditional Sami practices suggests an environmentally conscious approach.

Is the tour physically demanding?
Not particularly; it’s mainly a relaxed, participative activity suitable for most fitness levels, barring specific health restrictions.

Final Thoughts

This Reindeer Sled Ride in Kiruna provides a well-rounded, authentic taste of Sami culture set amidst stunning winter scenery. It offers more than just a ride—it’s an interactive journey into the traditions of the indigenous people, combined with beautiful landscapes and hearty local cuisine. Small group sizes, flexible booking, and a focus on storytelling make it an inviting choice for travelers who want a genuine, memorable Arctic experience.

Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful way to enjoy the snowy wilderness, this tour offers good value and heartfelt authenticity. It’s best suited for those looking for a calm, immersive activity that leaves a lasting impression of Sami hospitality and the Arctic landscape.

Final Recommendations

If you want a relaxed, culturally enriching activity that provides a deeper understanding of the Sami people, this reindeer sled tour is a perfect fit. The chance to steer your own sled, feed reindeer, and enjoy stories around a fire creates a genuine connection to the land and its people. Pair it with other winter activities in Kiruna, and you’ll have a well-rounded Arctic adventure.

This experience isn’t about high-speed thrill rides but about appreciating the slow, silent beauty of snow-covered forests and connecting with indigenous traditions in an authentic way. It’s a wonderful option for travelers seeking something meaningful and unique in northern Sweden.

You can check if your dates are available here: