Kiruna: Reindeer Herder Tour with Sami Dinner and Transfers

If you’re dreaming of stepping into a winter wonderland and experiencing genuine Sami culture, this Reindeer Herder Tour from Kiruna might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t done this exact tour myself, I’ve read through a variety of reviews and detailed descriptions to give you a clear picture of what to expect. And honestly, it sounds like a memorable way to connect with the Arctic landscape and local traditions.

What really catches my eye about this experience are the opportunity to ride a reindeer sled through stunning snowy scenery and the chance to enjoy a traditional Sami dinner in a cozy lávvu (Sámi tent). Plus, the transfer through the winter landscape offers more than just transport—it’s a chance to see moose and other Arctic animals in their natural environment. One thing to keep in mind: the tour is quite specific in its focus on cultural and natural immersion, which makes it a great fit for travelers looking for a meaningful, authentic experience. However, if you’re not comfortable outdoors in cold weather, especially around -25°C or wind, you’ll want to plan accordingly.

This tour is ideal for those who want a hands-on experience with reindeer herding, enjoy scenic winter landscapes, and are eager to try traditional Sami cuisine. It’s not designed for kids under 6 or those with serious animal allergies, but beyond that, it appeals to a broad range of travelers interested in cultural authenticity and Arctic scenery.

Key Points

• Authentic Reindeer Experience: Ride a sled and feed the reindeer, gaining insight into Sami reindeer herding traditions.
• Scenic Transfers: The journey through Lapland’s winter landscape is part of the adventure, with potential sightings of moose and Arctic wildlife.
• Cultural Dinner: Enjoy a traditional Sami meal in a cozy lávvu, around an open fire, with reindeer meat as a highlight.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, offering a more personal and relaxed experience.
• Practical Comforts: Includes winter gear and warm shoes, so you can focus on enjoying without worrying about the cold.
• Weather Dependent: The tour can be canceled in severe weather, like strong wind or temperatures below -25°C, so flexibility is key.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Warm Welcome to the Arctic: The Experience Breakdown

Getting There and the Journey Begins

Your day kicks off with a pickup from one of seven designated locations in Kiruna—whether it’s Camp Ripan, the ICEHOTEL, or the Scandic Kiruna, the convenience is there. The ride to the reindeer farm takes about 75 minutes, during which you’ll get to enjoy the scenic winter landscape. Keep your camera ready, as the transfer itself is a highlight, with chances to spot moose and other arctic animals along the way. The reviews note that this part of the tour isn’t just transportation—it’s an integral part of the experience, giving you a taste of the wild surroundings.

Reindeer Sledding and Feeding

Once at the reindeer farm, the real fun begins. You’ll get to ride a sled pulled by a reindeer, a peaceful glide through snow-covered forests and open fields. This isn’t just a tourist activity—it’s an authentic experience, giving you insight into Sami traditions. Many reviewers mention how surprisingly serene and beautiful the sled ride is, especially with the snow crunching underfoot and the quiet of the Arctic.

Feeding the reindeer is both fun and eye-opening, providing a direct connection with these gentle animals. The tour guides often share stories about reindeer herding life, making it more than just a ride—it’s an educational peek into Sami culture.

Sami Dinner in a Lávvu

After working up an appetite, you’ll gather in a traditional lávvu, a Sami tent, warmed by an open fire. Here, the focus is on enjoying delicious reindeer meat in a setting that’s both rustic and cozy. Expect authentic Sami dishes, often described as tasty and hearty, with some reviewers highlighting the delicious food and tapas-like offerings. It’s a chance to relax, listen to stories from Sami guides, and soak in the flicker of firelight. For many, this meal feels like the perfect capstone to the day—an immersion into local culture with genuine flavors.

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The Scenic Transfer Back

The return journey is equally scenic, with the possibility of spotting wildlife and enjoying the serene winter environment. The whole day’s pace is manageable at around 7 hours, which balances activity with moments to appreciate the surroundings without feeling rushed.

What We Loved About This Tour

Our favorite aspects of this experience are the combination of outdoor activity and culture. Riding a reindeer sled in the snow provides a peaceful, almost meditative connection to nature—not to mention stunning views that are unlike anything back home. The Sami dinner offers a delicious taste of local traditions, with many reviewers praising the quality and authenticity of the meal.

The small group size means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the inclusion of warm winter gear and shoes means you can focus on the experience rather than battling the cold. Plus, the flexibility of booking with a free cancellation option adds peace of mind.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

The main consideration is the weather—since the tour is subject to cancellation if conditions are too harsh (like blizzards or temperatures below -25°C). This is understandable for safety reasons but could mean some uncertainty if you’re visiting during an unpredictable winter. Also, the tour is not suitable for young children under 6 or anyone with animal allergies, so plan accordingly.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for an authentic, hands-on experience that combines nature, culture, and traditional food, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor winter activities, want a meaningful cultural encounter, and don’t mind bundling up for a day in the cold. If your idea of a perfect Arctic adventure involves scenic drives and modern comforts, this might not be your best fit. However, if you want to truly feel the Arctic and connect with Sami traditions, this tour offers a genuine taste of Lapland.

Practical Details

• Duration: About 7 hours, including transfers and activities.
• Price: $281 per person, a reasonable cost considering the included activities, meals, and gear.
• Group size: Limited to 8, providing intimacy and personalized attention.
• Included: Guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, traditional Sami food, transfer through scenic winter landscape, winter clothes and shoes, reindeer sled ride, reindeer feeding.
• Weather: Tour might be canceled if conditions are unsafe; flexibility is advised.
• Not suitable for: Children under 6 or those with animal allergies.
• Booking: Offers a flexible “Reserve now & pay later” option, which is handy if your plans are still a bit uncertain.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
The tour is not recommended for children under 6, mainly because of the outdoor cold conditions and the nature of the experience. Also, people with animal allergies should avoid it.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing, a hat, gloves, and outdoor gear are essential. The tour provides winter clothes and shoes, so you don’t need to bring your own.

What is included in the Sami dinner?
You’ll enjoy a traditional Sami meal, often made from reindeer meat, in a cozy lávvu around an open fire. Many reviews mention the deliciousness of the food and the cultural significance.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour can be canceled in severe weather conditions like strong wind, blizzards, or if temperatures drop below -25°C. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How long is the transfer from Kiruna?
The transfer to and from the reindeer farm takes about 75 minutes each way, allowing for a scenic journey through Lapland’s winter landscape.

Is it possible to see wildlife during the transfer?
Yes, travelers have noted the chance to see moose and other Arctic animals during the ride, adding a touch of wildlife viewing to the day.

Wrapping It Up

This Reindeer Herder Tour from Kiruna offers a thoughtfully curated, authentic slice of Arctic life. You’ll get to experience the peaceful sled rides, connect with Sami culture through a hearty traditional dinner, and enjoy stunning winter scenery along the way. The small group setting, warm gear, and flexible booking make it a practical choice for travelers craving genuine, immersive moments in Lapland.

If you’re after a day that combines outdoor adventure with cultural storytelling and delicious local food, this tour is well worth considering. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe in the crisp winter air, and learn a bit about the Sami way of life—an experience that will stay with you long after you leave the Arctic.

You can check availability for your dates here: