Arctic Adventure with Reindeer and Northern Lights Hunt 18:30 pm

Imagine a winter evening wrapped in the mystery and beauty of the Arctic, where you can feed reindeer and maybe catch a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights. That’s essentially what the Arctic Adventure with Reindeer and Northern Lights Hunt promises—and mostly delivers. This tour, offered by Paradise Lapland AB, combines the charm of Sámi culture, the thrill of a Northern Lights search, and a genuine chance to connect with reindeer in their natural environment.

What makes this experience stand out is its thoughtful approach to helping local wildlife, its cultural depth, and the opportunity for some spectacular Arctic visuals. We love the chance to see reindeer close-up as they usually roam freely across the tundra, and the fact that the tour is small, intimate, and flexible.

One thing to keep in mind is that the aurora viewing depends heavily on weather conditions, meaning cloudy or foggy nights could limit your chances. This tour is best suited for travelers who are curious about Sámi culture, enjoy nature, and are excited by the idea of an authentic, somewhat rustic Arctic experience.

Good To Know

• Authentic Reindeer Interaction: You get to feed reindeer and learn about their survival challenges in winter.
• Cultural Insight: The tour includes stories and perspectives from Sámi guides, offering a meaningful cultural experience.
• Northern Lights Chance: While auroras aren’t guaranteed, the tour’s timing and location maximize your chances.
• Small Group Flexibility: With a maximum of 8 travelers, it offers a personalized experience.
• Convenient Logistics: Pickup and drop-off from Kiruna make the experience smooth and hassle-free.
• Value for Money: At $250, it combines transportation, cultural exposure, wildlife interaction, and the aurora hunt into one package.

An In-Depth Look at the Arctic Adventure Tour

Starting Point: Kiruna and the Scenic Drive

The tour kicks off at 6:30 pm with a pickup from your Kiruna accommodation — a big plus if you’re staying in town, as it takes the hassle out of logistics. The 90-minute bus ride to Övre-Soppero is a highlight itself, especially under the polar night where the landscape is covered in shadows and subtle snow reflections. The guide, often someone like Nils or Juampi as some reviews mention, shares insights into Sami culture and the local environment, making the journey both relaxing and educational.

The Sámi Village: Övre-Soppero

Arriving at the small Sámi village, you step into a winter wonderland where reindeer are kept and cared for. This isn’t a typical zoo visit—you’re invited to get close, feed the reindeer, and observe them as they go about their winter routines. Several reviews highlight that the guides are knowledgeable and passionate, often sharing stories about the reindeer herding lifestyle. For example, one traveler noted that their herdsman was only about 20 years old but displayed deep respect and understanding of the animals, which added authenticity.

Feeding reindeer feels surprisingly personal—reviewers mention how “brilliant” and “magical” it is to walk among, pet, and feed these gentle creatures. It’s a rare chance to see animals that usually spend their winter in the wild, surviving off the land, but here, they get a bit of extra nourishment thanks to the tour’s effort to help them through tough conditions.

The Aurora Hunt: Hunting Under the Polar Night

While the main focus is on the reindeer, the Northern Lights hunt is woven into the entire experience. The tour’s timings—starting at 6:30 pm and lasting around five hours—are designed to capitalize on the dark Arctic sky. The guides actively look for clear patches and promising conditions, sometimes driving to different locations, as one reviewer appreciated with the guide Patia, who “drove us to an area where the stars and Northern Lights were shining.”

It’s worth noting that some guests, like Annie Q, felt the aurora hunt was a bit of a disappointment when the experience was mostly a drive with minimal effort spent on searching for the lights. However, others like Rajesh S and Christopher C found the aurora viewing to be a highlight, especially when the guides went out of their way to find clear skies or new vantage points. The unpredictable nature of the auroras means patience and a bit of luck are necessary—something many travelers accept as part of the Arctic adventure.

Food, Comfort, and the Arctic Atmosphere

Many reviews mention the warm, welcoming atmosphere created by the guides. Some describe drinking lingonberry juice or enjoying traditional Sami snacks while waiting under the starry sky. The tour isn’t overly focused on gourmet food but emphasizes hearty, warming bites that match the cold environment. The small group size (max 8) means you can chat, ask questions, and soak up the Arctic night’s quiet beauty.

Practical Details: Transportation, Duration, and Value

Transportation is a major convenience here. The minibus pick-up from Kiruna ensures you don’t have to think about transport in the dark, and the journey itself is part of the experience, with scenic views and insightful commentary. The tour lasts about five hours, which is a good length to balance activity and rest, especially considering the cold.

At $250, the experience is priced to reflect the small-group intimacy, cultural richness, wildlife interaction, and the aurora hunt, which is often a challenge to see. Several reviews point out that it offers good value considering all these elements, especially with the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge.

Authenticity and Guides that Make the Difference

What sets this tour apart is the interaction with real Sámi guides and reindeer herders, who share their stories with genuine warmth. One reviewer called their guide “Lili,” a “lovely and authentic person,” emphasizing how their passion added to the experience. The guides aren’t just there to lead—they’re storytellers and caretakers, adding depth and meaning to the evening.

Reindeer Care During Tough Conditions

A key element that many reviews appreciate is the effort to help the reindeer during difficult weather. Because of a dry summer and a rainy autumn, the reindeer’s survival is more challenging this year, prompting the tour organizers to provide extra food. This act of kindness resonates with guests, making the visit more than just sightseeing—it’s a small act of conservation and compassion.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers with a curiosity for culture and nature, looking for an authentic Arctic outing rather than a luxury sightseeing extravaganza. It’s ideal if you don’t mind a bit of cold, enjoy small-group intimacy, and want a genuine connection with reindeer and Sámi traditions.

If your main goal is to see the Northern Lights, keep in mind that nature’s unpredictability means sightings aren’t guaranteed, but the effort and scenic setting make the journey worthwhile. The tour’s cultural component—learning about Sámi life and seeing reindeer up close—adds a dimension that many find deeply meaningful.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a cozy, culturally rich, and scenic Arctic experience. The opportunity to feed reindeer, combined with the chance to hunt for the aurora and learn about Sámi traditions, makes it a well-rounded choice for those seeking authentic, memorable moments in Lapland.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides create an intimate atmosphere, and if you’re lucky with the weather, the Northern Lights could crown your night with their magic. The $250 price tag reflects the value of the personalized experience, cultural insights, and wildlife interactions—definitely worth considering for a meaningful Arctic adventure.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 6:30 pm, making it perfect for catching the aurora after sunset.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup from Kiruna is offered, making logistics straightforward and convenient.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately five hours, including transportation, reindeer feeding, and potential aurora hunting.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience and plenty of interaction with guides.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
While the tour aims to hunt for auroras, sightings depend on weather and solar activity. Some guests see stunning displays; others do not, but the experience remains worthwhile.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with cold weather and outdoor conditions.

What’s the main focus of the tour?
The primary highlights are feeding reindeer and exploring Sámi culture, with the aurora hunt as a potential bonus.

How is the weather in winter?
Expect cold temperatures and polar night conditions, so dress in layers of wool and synthetic clothing.

What’s the value of this experience?
Considering the cultural, wildlife, and scenic elements packed into five hours, $250 offers good value—especially with the small-group approach and expert guides.

To sum it up, the Arctic Adventure with Reindeer and Northern Lights Hunt offers a meaningful glimpse into Sámi culture, the beauty of Arctic wildlife, and the thrill of chasing the elusive Northern Lights. It’s perfect for travelers who want an authentic, small-group experience that combines cultural learning, wildlife interaction, and outdoor adventure. If you’re prepared for winter conditions and have realistic expectations about aurora sightings, this tour can become a highlight of your Lapland trip—full of stories, stunning views, and maybe a little bit of magic.