Kiruna: Reindeer Herder Tour with Sami Dinner and Transfers

Taking a guided tour through Swedish Lapland to meet reindeer herders and enjoy a Sami dinner sounds like a quintessential winter adventure—and this experience quite impressively delivers that. With a mix of exciting activities, culture, and stunning scenery, it’s a memorable way to get a taste of the Arctic’s authentic charm. We’ve reviewed this tour based on detailed feedback and official info, so you can decide if it’s right for your trip.

What really shines are the opportunity to sled behind reindeer through snow-blanketed landscapes, the chance to step into the life of a Sami reindeer herder, and the cozy, memorable dinner in a traditional lávvu. The small group size keeps the experience intimate, and the scenic transfer offers glimpses of local wildlife like moose — perfect for nature lovers. One thing to keep in mind is the weather dependency; bad weather like blizzards or extreme cold could affect the tour, which is standard for outdoor Arctic adventures. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers craving genuine cultural exposure, natural beauty, and a peaceful escape from city life.

Good To Know

• Authentic Reindeer Sledding: Ride behind reindeer through pristine winter landscapes, a highlight for adventure and photo opportunities.
• Cultural Immersion: Experience life as a Sami reindeer herder, including the chance to feed the herd.
• Traditional Sami Dinner: Enjoy reindeer meat and local foods around an open fire in a Sámi tent.
• Scenic Transfers: The journey through Lapland offers chances to see moose and other arctic animals, adding to the adventure.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personal and engaging experience.
• Weather Considerations: Tour relies on good weather; severe conditions like wind or temperatures below -25°C can lead to cancellations.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Details of the Tour

The Journey Begins with Pickup and Travel: Starting from seven convenient locations in Kiruna, including the ICEHOTEL and Camp Ripan, the tour kicks off with a comfortable 75-minute transfer through snow-dusted forests and open tundra. This part of the experience is not just transit but a prelude to the landscapes you’ll encounter, with the chance to spot wildlife like moose and catch glimpses of Arctic nature.

Reindeer Sledding — Pure Winter Magic: Once at the reindeer farm, the highlight is riding a sled pulled by reindeer. This isn’t just a ride; it’s a moment of connection with traditional Sami culture. The gentle, rhythmic glide over snow-covered hills provides a peaceful yet exciting sensation. We loved the way guides like Anna and Jari emphasized respecting the animals and sharing stories about reindeer herding life, which helps deepen the experience.

Feeding the Herd: After the ride, you’ll have the chance to feed the reindeer, which is both charming and educational. Many reviews highlight how engaging this part is, especially when children or animal lovers are involved. As one reviewer noted, “The reindeer were calm and friendly, and feeding them was unexpectedly fun.” This personal interaction makes the experience more memorable and meaningful.

A Glimpse of Arctic Wildlife During Transfer: On your way to and from the reindeer farm, the guide may stop for photos and wildlife viewing, with the possibility of seeing moose and other Arctic animals. This adds an authentic touch to the day, reminding you that Lapland is a wild, living landscape.

The Sami Dinner in a Lávu: As evening approaches, everyone gathers around a cozy fire inside a traditional Sámi tent. The dinner features reindeer meat and local dishes, giving you a taste of Sami cuisine. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with stories shared by your guide about Sami traditions and the importance of reindeer herding in their culture. Reviewers repeatedly praise the delicious, hearty meal, describing it as “authentic” and “full of flavor,” perfect after a chilly day outdoors.

The Practical Aspects

Duration and Group Size: The tour lasts about 7 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability. It’s limited to 8 people, keeping it intimate and allowing for personalized attention from guides. Small groups tend to foster a more relaxed atmosphere—ideal for those who dislike large, impersonal tours.

Transportation and Comfort: The transfer through the winter landscape is part of the charm — you’ll be riding in a comfortable vehicle, wrapped in provided winter clothes and warm shoes. This practical touch ensures you’re warm and cozy, even in sub-zero temperatures.

Cost and Value: At $281 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but it offers a rich blend of culture, adventure, and scenery. The inclusion of winter gear and hotel pickup/drop-off adds to its value, especially when considering the personalized nature of the experience. Many reviews mention that the guide’s local knowledge and storytelling enrich the experience, making it worth the price.

Weather and Cancellation: The tour is subject to weather conditions — bad weather like blizzards or temperatures below -25°C can lead to cancellations. This is understandable, given the outdoor nature of activities. It’s wise to keep an eye on the forecast and be flexible with your plans.

What to Bring and Prepare

• Warm clothing and outdoor gear are essential; layers are recommended, along with hats and gloves.
• Camera: The snow-covered landscapes and wildlife are picture-perfect.
• Be prepared for cold temperatures and the possibility of wind chills.
• Inform the tour provider of any food allergies or intolerances when booking, as Sami meals are included.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure seekers looking for a genuine cultural encounter and scenic beauty. It’s perfect for family travelers (over age 6), wildlife enthusiasts, and those wanting a peaceful, authentic taste of Sami life. If you’re after luxury or high-energy activities, this might feel more laid-back—but that’s part of its charm.

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Final Thoughts

This tour presents an authentic slice of Lapland’s rich cultural tapestry, wrapped in stunning winter scenery. The chance to push a reindeer sled, feed the herd, and share a Sami meal creates a layered and memorable experience. The small-group size and knowledgeable guides help make it personal and engaging.

While weather can be unpredictable, the overall value lies in the genuine interactions, beautiful landscapes, and cultural insights. It’s a well-rounded choice for those wanting to connect deeply with Sami traditions and enjoy Lapland’s natural splendors.

If you seek a peaceful, authentic, and story-rich day in Swedish Lapland, this tour offers a wonderful mix of adventure and cultural discovery.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, with flexible starting times based on availability.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided experience, traditional Sami food, transfers through the landscape, winter clothing, and the reindeer sled ride.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for children over 6 years old; younger children might find the outdoor conditions too cold or the activities less engaging.

What should I wear?
Warm outdoor clothing, a hat, gloves, and sturdy winter shoes are recommended. All winter gear is provided, but bringing extra layers can be helpful.

Can I see wildlife during the transfer?
Yes, the guide may stop for wildlife viewing, with chances to see moose and other arctic animals.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour can be canceled if weather conditions are too severe, such as blizzards or temperatures below -25°C.

Is the experience authentic?
Absolutely. The focus on Sami culture, feeding reindeer, and enjoying traditional meals makes this a genuine cultural experience.

How many people are in the group?
Limited to 8 participants for an intimate, personalized experience.

In summary, this reindeer herding tour from Kiruna offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see Lapland beyond the typical tourist spots and truly connect with local traditions amidst stunning winter landscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here: