From Abisko/Björkliden: Visit the Sami & Reindeer in Kiruna

Discovering Sami Culture and Reindeer in Kiruna: An Honest Look at the Tour from Abisko/Björkliden

Thinking about venturing into Swedish Lapland to meet the Sami people and their reindeer? This tour from Abisko or Björkliden offers a glimpse into indigenous traditions combined with stunning Arctic scenery. Although it doesn’t promise a full-day adventure, it packs enough highlights to make it memorable.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines cultural learning with the chance to interact directly with reindeer—an iconic part of Lapland’s identity. Plus, the scenic drive through the wilderness really sets the tone, immersing you in the quiet beauty of the Arctic landscape. A cozy café housed in a wooden teepee adds a charming touch, rounding out the cultural feel.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the tour’s limited duration—about 7 hours—meaning it’s a quick, information-packed trip rather than a deep dive into Sami life. Also, since there’s no mention of lunch included, you’ll want to budget for snacks or meals at the café. This experience suits travelers who want a concise, authentic taste of Sami culture combined with a scenic reindeer encounter, especially if you’re staying near Abisko or Björkliden.

If you’re eager for a compact, well-organized introduction to the indigenous Sami community, along with some memorable wildlife moments, this tour could be just right. It’s not overly commercialized, and its focus on genuine cultural exchange makes it stand out amid other Arctic excursions. Now, let’s look at what makes this tour worth considering—and where it might fall short.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Cultural immersion: Learn about Sami traditions at an open-air museum run by the Sami community.
• Reindeer encounters: Get up close, feed moss to reindeer, and capture memorable photos.
• Scenic journey: Relax on a comfortable, climate-controlled bus through the Arctic wilderness.
• Local cuisine: Enjoy a cozy fika or lunch at Restaurant Ovttas, inside a traditional wooden teepee.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it easier to plan.
• Limited duration: The tour lasts around 7 hours, making it suitable for those with tight schedules.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Convenience of Pickup and Drop-off

Starting from select hotels in Abisko or Björkliden, the tour offers the convenience of pickup and drop-off, eliminating the hassle of arranging transportation yourself. Early morning pickup times—ranging from 9:00 to 9:30 AM—give you a head start into the day’s adventures. This setup is particularly helpful if you’re not familiar with the area or prefer a stress-free travel experience.

The Scenic Drive to Kiruna

Once aboard a comfortable bus, you’ll settle in for a scenic 1-2 hour drive through Lapland’s wilderness. The landscape is what makes this region special—vast, sparsely populated, and covered in snow during winter. This part of the journey is less about the destination and more about enjoying the quiet beauty of the Arctic’s natural environment.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting the Márkanbáiki Open-Air Museum

The core of this experience is the visit to the Márkanbáiki museum in Kiruna, a site run by the Sami people themselves. Here, you’ll find traditional Sami buildings and exhibits showcasing their way of life, art, and craft. The museum provides a practical, accessible overview of Sami culture, perfect for those new to the subject or wanting a quick cultural fix.

Guided Tour and Cultural Insights

Included in the tour is an optional guided tour that starts at 12:15 PM, where knowledgeable guides share interesting facts about Sami history, reindeer herding, and regional traditions. According to reviews, this guided component is engaging and enriches the experience, turning a sightseeing trip into a meaningful cultural exchange.

Reindeer Interaction and Photography

One of the highlights is the chance to meet and feed reindeer moss—a simple, yet enchanting activity. Standing close to these majestic animals and feeding them creates a memorable photo opportunity. Several travelers mention that their photos with reindeer became the most treasured moments of the trip.

The Cozy Café Experience

A charming feature is the visit to Restaurant Ovttas, housed inside a traditional wooden teepee. Here, you can purchase warm drinks, sandwiches, or a Swedish fika, making the experience more comfortable and authentic. The café is owned and operated by the Sami community, supporting local livelihoods and craftsmanship.

Shopping for Handcrafted Gifts

The museum shop offers unique Sami handcrafted items—perfect souvenirs or gifts. From jewelry to textiles, these items reflect Sami artistry and cultural heritage, adding a tangible memory to your trip.

Returning to Abisko or Björkliden

After a full day of cultural insights, reindeer encounters, and scenic views, you’ll board the bus for the return trip. The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, which might seem short but is enough to give a meaningful taste of Lapland’s indigenous culture.

What Travelers Say: The Good and the Not-So-Good

One reviewer, Gabriele, points out that they appreciated the chance to combine this trip with other activities like visiting the Ice Hotel, but noted that the return trip at 2:00 PM felt a bit early considering the overall 7-hour duration. It hints that some travelers might want a slightly later finish to maximize their day.

The reviews highlight stunning views as a standout feature—travellers love the scenery, especially when cruising through snow-covered forests. The chance to see reindeer up close and feed moss is also highly praised, with many commenting that their photos turned out beautifully.

On the flip side, because no lunch is included, you’ll want to budget around snacks or the café options. Also, since the tour is roughly 7 hours, it’s more of a quick immersion than a full deep dive into Sami culture or reindeer herding life. If you’re seeking an in-depth experience, this might feel a bit limited.

Practical Details and What to Consider

Price and Value

The tour costs around $156 per person, which reflects the convenience, guided insights, and cultural exposure. For a half-day trip in a remote Arctic setting, it’s reasonable, especially considering the included transportation, museum entrance, and guided tour.

Duration and Schedule

With a duration of about 7 hours, you’ll want to plan your day accordingly. The early pickup times mean you’ll be out exploring before noon, making this suitable for travelers with a flexible schedule or those combining it with other activities later in the day.

Weather and Clothing

Since the tour is in sub-arctic conditions, dressing warmly is essential. Layers, hats, gloves, and insulated boots are recommended. Weather can change quickly, so being prepared ensures you enjoy every part of the experience comfortably.

Accessibility and Suitability

This tour is suitable for most travelers who are comfortable with bus rides and outdoor visits. It’s especially good for those who want a quick but authentic cultural introduction rather than a full-blown immersion.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a convenient, guided introduction to Sami culture and reindeer in Lapland. It’s perfect if you’re staying in Abisko or Björkliden and prefer a half-day outing rather than a full-day commitment. Nature lovers will appreciate the scenic drive and the opportunity to see reindeer, while culture seekers will enjoy learning from Sami guides and browsing authentic crafts.

If you’re traveling with family or between activities, this tour offers a manageable slice of Arctic life without the need for extensive planning. However, if you’re after a deeper cultural experience or a longer reindeer herding immersion, this may feel somewhat brief.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at select hotels in Abisko and Björkliden are included, making it easy to join without extra hassle.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, including transportation, museum visit, and activities.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch and snacks are not included, but there are options available for purchase at the cozy café inside the museum.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility should your plans shift.

What should I wear?
Dress in several layers, including warm hats, gloves, and insulated winter boots, since weather conditions can be quite cold and change rapidly.

Are children welcome?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed nature of the tour and focus on outdoor activities suggest it’s suitable for older children who can handle outdoor winter weather.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a short, engaging introduction to Sami culture and reindeer in Lapland, this tour from Abisko or Björkliden hits the mark. It combines scenic drives, cultural insights, and genuine animal encounters, all within a manageable timeframe. The experience’s emphasis on cultural authenticity—run by the Sami community themselves—adds a layer of sincerity that many travelers value.

While it’s not a deep dive into every aspect of Sami life, it’s a charming, practical way to connect with the Arctic’s indigenous heritage. The views alone make it worth considering, especially if you’re eager for memorable photos and a taste of Lapland’s traditional lifestyle. Perfect for those with a flexible schedule or limited time, this trip offers a meaningful peek into a world that’s both timeless and strikingly beautiful.

Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a wildlife lover, or simply after some spectacular scenery, this tour can be a highlight of your Arctic adventure. Just remember to bundle up and come ready to enjoy the quiet magic of Lapland.

You can check availability for your dates here: