Kiruna: Reindeer Feeding and Northern Lights Tour

If you’re considering a trip to northern Sweden, this Reindeer Feeding and Northern Lights Tour from Kiruna might just catch your eye. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on the detailed reviews and descriptions, it’s a thoughtfully curated experience that offers a real taste of Sami culture, Arctic wildlife, and the thrill of hunting for the Northern Lights.

What really draws us in are the opportunity to get up close with reindeer in their natural environment and the chance to witness the Northern Lights while traveling through some of Sweden’s most scenic winter landscapes. The authentic Sami stories and a cozy fika in a traditional kota add a cultural layer that makes this tour stand out.

A possible consideration is that the tour lasts around 5 hours, which might be a bit long for travelers with limited time or younger children. Also, since the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, there’s no guarantee you’ll see them on any given night—patience and luck play a part.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural exchanges, and are prepared for cold weather. If you’re after a respectful, authentic Arctic experience that balances wildlife, culture, and sky-gazing, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Authentic Sami Culture: You’ll learn about Sami traditions and words, making the experience more meaningful.
• Wildlife Connection: Feeding reindeer gives you a rare chance to see these animals close-up in their habitat.
• Northern Lights Hunting: Multiple stops along the way increase your chances of catching this natural light show.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup and drop-off from Kiruna simplify logistics.
• Limited Group Sizes: Small groups (max 8 people) make the experience more personal and engaging.
• Weather & Conditions: Dress warmly, as outdoor winter conditions can be harsh and variable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting the Journey from Kiruna

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your accommodation in Kiruna, which is a real advantage if you’re staying nearby—no need to worry about transportation logistics. The minibus is described as comfortable, and with a small group cap of 8, you’ll likely get a more personalized experience. The driver-guide sets the tone, explaining what’s ahead and sharing insights about the region even before you arrive at Övre-Soppero.

Scenic Drive & Northern Lights Hunting

The drive itself is part of the magic. Your guide will make several stops at viewpoints specifically chosen for the best chance of spotting the aurora borealis. This is key because, as reviews mention, Northern Lights sightings aren’t guaranteed—nature is unpredictable. But the effort to stop at multiple vantage points shows the tour’s attempt to maximize your chances.

Reindeer Feeding Experience

Once you arrive at Övre-Soppero, the highlight kicks in: feeding the reindeer. You’ll get close to these gentle Arctic animals and learn about their lives and Sami traditions from your guide, who’s often praised for their knowledge and storytelling skills. One reviewer appreciated Niels sharing charming stories about his family and Sami words, making the experience more personal and educational.

Feeding reindeer is not just about tossing some food—it’s about understanding their role in Sami culture and their survival during winter. Many travelers find this part of the tour memorable because it’s rare to get this kind of close encounter in such a respectful environment.

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Traditional Fika in a Sami Kota

After the reindeer experience, you’ll step into a traditional Sami kota to warm up around a fire. Here, you’ll enjoy a Swedish fika—a warm drink and a sweet snack sourced from a local bakery—while absorbing Sami stories. This cozy moment offers a nice balance after the outdoor cold, and the reviews confirm that the atmosphere here is genuine and welcoming.

Return Journey and Continued Aurora Search

On the way back, the guide continues their hunt for the Northern Lights, with additional stops for a chance at another glimpse. Some reviews mention that guides like Patrick go to great lengths to locate the aurora, even under cloudy skies. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, this effort boosts your odds and makes the experience more engaging.

Duration and Practical Details

The entire experience lasts around 5 hours, making it a well-paced half-day adventure. Pickup times are flexible based on your location, and you’ll receive a call or message with your exact pickup time about an hour beforehand—important to keep your phone handy. The tour’s small group setting makes it easier to connect with the guide and ask questions.

Cost & Value

While the price isn’t specified here, reviews suggest that the experience offers good value, especially considering the cultural, wildlife, and sky-gazing components combined. The inclusion of transportation, warm drinks, and snacks adds to the overall experience, making it more than just a wildlife encounter.

Suitability and Considerations

This tour isn’t meant for everyone—children under 12, pregnant women, wheelchair users, and those with animal allergies are advised against participation. The outdoor parts mean you’ll need warm layered clothing, sturdy shoes, and patience for weather fluctuations, which are typical in Arctic conditions.

What Travelers Are Saying

Authenticity is a recurring theme in the reviews. One guest from Mexico shared how Niels’ stories and Sami words made the tour truly special, and they appreciated the respect shown toward the animals and environment. Another traveler from Brazil praised Gaia, their guide, for her knowledge and friendly attitude. Sightings of the aurora, even under less-than-ideal conditions, left many with unforgettable memories.

A common thread is the combination of cultural education, wildlife interaction, and sky watching. The guides’ efforts to make the experience personal and the scenic stops for aurora hunting are repeatedly highlighted as strengths.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Reindeer Feeding and Northern Lights Tour from Kiruna fits best with travelers who want a genuine, respectful Arctic experience. If you’re curious about Sami culture, enjoy learning about local traditions, and are eager to see reindeer in their natural environment, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also ideal if you’re interested in chasing the Northern Lights but understand the natural unpredictability involved.

Keep in mind, the outdoor parts require warm clothing and patience. If you’re traveling with very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. But for adventurous spirits, outdoor enthusiasts, and those wanting a mix of wildlife, culture, and sky-gazing, this tour offers a memorable slice of Arctic life.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your accommodation in Kiruna are included, making it a convenient option for travelers.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, including transportation, activities, and breaks.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable, warm clothes in layers, sturdy shoes, a camera, snacks, and water. Dressing warmly is crucial due to outdoor winter conditions.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, sightings depend on weather and solar activity. Guides make several stops to increase your chances, but nature can be unpredictable.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Probably not, as the tour involves some walking on uneven terrain and has restrictions for wheelchair users.

Are children under 12 allowed?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 12, according to the provided info.

What makes this tour special?
The chance to interact with reindeer, learn Sami stories, enjoy fika inside a traditional kota, and hunt for the Northern Lights make it a well-rounded Arctic experience.

This tour offers a respectful, authentic peek into Sami culture and Arctic wildlife, all wrapped in the adventure of chasing the Northern Lights. For those seeking a meaningful and scenic escape in Sweden’s north, it’s worth considering—and with a small group, you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: