KIRUNA: Sami Reindeer Experience

Imagine stepping into a winter wonderland where reindeer roam freely, and Sami stories come to life around a crackling fire. That’s exactly what you get with the Sami Reindeer Experience just north of Kiruna, Sweden. This tour, rated at an impressive 4.8 out of 5 from 36 reviews, promises a genuine peek into the culture of the indigenous Sami people and their beloved reindeer herds.

What we particularly love about this experience is its blend of hands-on activities—feeding reindeer, trying your hand at lassoing, and even steering your own reindeer sled. It’s a perfect mix of cultural insight, nature, and adventure, all wrapped into a manageable 3-hour package.

A small drawback is that it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those with animal allergies, so it’s best to check personal needs beforehand. Still, if you’re after an authentic, family-friendly encounter with nature and Sami culture, this tour hits all the right notes. Perfect for curious travelers, families, or those looking for a meaningful Arctic experience.

Good To Know

• Authentic Sami Culture: Learn directly from local Sami guides and hear captivating stories.
• Hands-On Activities: Feed reindeer, throw a lasso, and steer your own reindeer sled.
• Stunning Winter Scenery: Experience the beauty of the Arctic countryside around Kiruna.
• Tasty Local Cuisine: Enjoy a hearty lunch of reindeer meat in a traditional setting.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for travelers of most ages, excluding those with certain mobility or allergy concerns.
• Small Group Feel: Intimate experiences with knowledgeable guides, enhancing personal connection.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What Is the Sami Reindeer Experience?

This tour is a well-balanced introduction to reindeer herding and Sami culture, set in a picturesque rural area just 20 km northwest of Kiruna. The day begins with a pickup in the city center, followed by a scenic drive to the reindeer farm in Rávttas, where you’ll encounter genuine Sami traditions firsthand.

The core of the experience revolves around close contact with reindeer—feeding them by hand, learning the techniques of lassoing like Sami herders, and finally, taking a short but memorable ride on a reindeer sled. You’ll also have opportunities to learn about Sami life, skiing the Sami way, and listen to stories around the fire, creating a warm, immersive atmosphere despite the wintry surroundings.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Arrival at the Reindeer Farm

The tour kicks off with a pickup from the Tourist Office in Kiruna, a convenient starting point for most travelers. The journey takes around 20 minutes through snowy landscapes, setting the scene for your Arctic adventure. Once at the farm, you’ll be introduced to the tame reindeer, some of which are cared for in a cozy winter corral.

Reindeer Feeding and Cultural Insights

Here, you’ll have the chance to get up close and personal with the reindeer, feeding them by hand—a surprisingly gentle and calming activity. Guides, like the friendly Giron Reindeer, share insights into the reindeer’s role in Sami culture and everyday life. As one reviewer exclaimed, “Love love love! The experience was amazing!” highlighting how meaningful and engaging this part of the tour can be.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lassoing and Steer Your Own Sled

Next, you’ll learn how to throw a lasso, mimicking Sami herders. This hands-on activity isn’t just fun; it offers a window into traditional skills that are still vital for Sami livelihoods. Afterward, you’ll receive instructions before heading out for a reindeer sled ride. Unlike commercial rides, you steer your own sled, which travelers have described as “so much fun” and a highlight they’d recommend to everyone.

Sami Stories and a Traditional Lunch

Post-sledding, everyone gathers around a fire in a traditional Lávvu (Sami tent). Here, you’ll savor a lunch featuring ecological, smoked, and fried reindeer meat (suovas), complemented by bread and coffee. Reviewers mention how relaxing it is to listen to Sami stories and ask questions—adding depth and authenticity to the experience.

Return to Kiruna

After about three hours, the tour wraps up with a scenic drive back to the city center. The small group size ensures a relaxed atmosphere, and guides are eager to answer any lingering questions about Sami culture or Arctic life.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Cultural Connection

Unlike some cookie-cutter Arctic tours, this experience offers direct interaction with Sami people, who share stories and traditions firsthand. Visitors consistently praise the guides, like Julianna, who noted, “Got to spend lots of time with the reindeer and the sleigh ride was so much fun!”

Close Contact with Reindeer

Feeding tame reindeer and learning herding skills provide a sense of connection that photos simply can’t capture. Many reviews emphasize how special it is to interact with the animals, making this tour particularly memorable.

Scenic Winter Landscapes

The countryside around Kiruna provides breathtaking views—snow-covered forests, open plains, and the distant mountains. Expect plenty of opportunities for stunning photos, especially during the sled ride and walks.

Value for Money

At $328 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded cultural and outdoor experience. The inclusion of a traditional lunch and guided storytelling adds to the overall value, especially considering the personalized nature of the activities.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participation

What to Bring

Dress warmly—layered clothing, gloves, and a hat are essential. Don’t forget your camera to capture the snowy vistas and adorable reindeer.

Accessibility and Restrictions

The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or animal allergies. Also, note that pets, weapons, baby strollers, smoking, vaping, alcohol, and explosives are prohibited for safety and comfort.

Meeting Points and Schedule

Meet at the Tourist Office in Kiruna or coordinate a hotel pickup if available. Check availability for the 3-hour slots, as start times vary. Remember, you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Why Would You Love This Experience?

This tour provides a genuine taste of Sami culture, mixing interactive activities with picturesque scenery. Many travelers, like Khin Thit, have called it “an amazing experience” and a must-do in Kiruna. It’s educational, fun, and offers a deeper understanding of the region’s indigenous heritage.

The guides, praised for their friendliness and knowledge, make all the difference. Stories around the fire, coupled with the chance to try traditional Sami foods, create a warm, memorable Arctic encounter.

If you’re after an authentic, family-friendly, and culturally rich adventure in Swedish Lapland, this tour delivers on all fronts.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, your transfer from the Kiruna city center to the reindeer farm is included in the tour.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including pickup, activities, lunch, and return.

Can I book this last-minute?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility to fit it into your itinerary.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing, layered for cold weather, including gloves and a hat, are recommended to stay comfortable outdoors.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, but not suitable for those with mobility impairments or animal allergies.

Can I participate if I don’t speak Swedish?
Absolutely. Guides speak English and Swedish, and reviews highlight that guides are friendly and engaging.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be requested for the lunch, which includes reindeer meat, bread, and coffee.

What if I have allergies or specific dietary needs?
It’s best to inform the activity provider in advance to accommodate any dietary restrictions or allergies.

Is this experience available year-round?
The tour is designed for winter conditions, so it’s most suitable during the snowy months when reindeer herding and sledding are possible.

Final Thoughts

The Sami Reindeer Experience in Kiruna offers an enriching glimpse into lapland’s indigenous culture, paired with authentic outdoor activities. It’s a thoughtful choice for travelers seeking meaningful engagement rather than just sightseeing. The guides’ warmth, the chance to feed reindeer, enjoy a traditional Sami meal, and learn about their way of life make this a standout Arctic adventure.

Ideal for those who appreciate nature, cultural stories, and hands-on experiences, this tour delivers genuine value. While it’s best suited for most able-bodied travelers and those without allergies, it remains a memorable way to connect with the Arctic’s fascinating heritage.

In short, it’s a beautifully curated experience that balances fun, learning, and scenic beauty—perfect for creating lasting Arctic memories.

You can check if your dates are available here: