KIRUNA: Sami Reindeer Experience

Imagine wandering through snow-covered forests, the air crisp and tingling, as you get up close with tame reindeer and learn about the indigenous Sámi people. This 3-hour tour takes you just 20 km northwest of Kiruna to a family-run reindeer farm in Rávttas, where authentic culture and outdoor fun blend seamlessly. For $328 per person, you’ll enjoy a variety of activities—from feeding reindeer and trying your hand at lassoing, to taking a private sled ride and savoring traditional Sámi reindeer meat.

We loved how this experience combines cultural insight with hands-on activities that make the Arctic landscape come alive. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making it easy to ask questions and learn about Sámi traditions. The chance to steer your own reindeer sled is a highlight, offering a real taste of the old ways of transportation in Lapland. Plus, the included lunch of ecological reindeer meat served around a cozy fire adds a delicious, authentic touch.

One consideration is that the tour lasts only three hours, so it’s a relatively brief snapshot of Sámi life. Also, it involves some outdoor activities that require warm clothing—so be prepared for cold weather. This experience is best suited for those who are excited about cultural encounters, outdoor adventures, and genuine local cuisine—especially if you’re eager to see the Arctic wilderness from the perspective of its native inhabitants.

Key Points

• Authentic Sámi Culture: Learn directly from local Sámi families about their traditions and way of life.
• Interactive Activities: Feed reindeer, throw a lasso, and enjoy a personalized sled ride.
• Cultural and Natural Blend: Experience the Arctic landscape while engaging with indigenous practices.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for travelers interested in outdoor, cultural, and wildlife experiences.
• Limited but Rich: The 3-hour tour offers a meaningful glimpse into Sámi life without feeling rushed.
• Outdoor Preparedness: Warm clothing and camera are essential to fully enjoy the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Sami Reindeer Experience

The Itinerary and Its Unique Flavors

Your day begins with a pick-up in Kiruna’s city center, where a driver takes you to the family-run reindeer farm in Rávttas. The journey itself, about 20 km into the natural landscape, sets the tone—expect sweeping views of snow-covered forests and open tundra, perfect for photo opportunities. Once there, the hosts—local Sámi—welcome you with warmth and a wealth of stories.

The first activity is getting close to the tame reindeer, which are kindly accustomed to human interaction. We loved the way the guides explained the reindeer’s importance to Sámi culture, emphasizing their role beyond just transportation—they’re companions, part of a sustainable lifestyle.

Next, we moved to feeding the reindeer by hand, an activity that truly connects you with these gentle animals. The guides are attentive, offering tips on how to approach and feed them safely. Several reviews, including one from Aisha, highlight how this hands-on interaction makes the experience genuinely memorable: “Love love love! The experience was amazing! And our tour guide was super nice and friendly.”

Learning the Traditional Skills

A standout feature is the lasso-throwing lesson. It’s surprisingly fun and adds an authentic touch—you’re not just a tourist, but a reindeer herder for a few minutes. The guides demonstrate how to throw the lasso, and you get a chance to try it yourself. This skill isn’t just for show; it’s a practical part of Sámi herding life that the guides share with patience and humor.

Another activity involves sleigh riding, where you will be given instructions before steering your own reindeer sled around a short track. The thrill of guiding your own sled through the snowy landscape is a top highlight. Julianna’s review sums it up: “The sleigh ride was so much fun! Our guides were excellent, would definitely recommend this tour.” Expect a cozy, traditional experience—no modern engines, just the rhythmic pulling of reindeer.

The Cultural and Culinary Touch

After sledding, it’s time to relax around a fire inside a traditional Sámi lávvu (tent). Here, you’ll enjoy a lunch featuring ecological, smoked, and fried reindeer meat (suovas), served with bread and coffee. The food is hearty, smoky, and authentically prepared, giving you a true taste of Sámi cuisine. Vegetarians can request alternatives—so don’t worry if you don’t eat reindeer meat. Listening to stories and asking questions around the fire enhances the sense of connection.

The reviews echo the positive impressions of the food and atmosphere. Khin Thit mentions, “It was an amazing experience and a must-try in Kiruna,” highlighting how this cultural meal rounds out the experience.

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Practical Details and Considerations

The tour is operated by Giron Reindeer and includes close contact with reindeer, feeding, lasso instruction, sled ride, stories from Sámi people, and lunch. The group size tends to be intimate enough for personal interaction, with the total duration around 3 hours. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a culture rather than a generic sightseeing tour.

Transportation is included from Kiruna’s city center, but note that the tour does not pick up from locations outside Kiruna, such as Jukkasjärvi or Altajärvi. Travelers should be prepared for outdoor conditions—warm layers, sturdy shoes, and a camera are essentials.

The price of $328 reflects the personalized nature of the experience and the inclusion of a traditional meal. It’s a good value if you’re interested in cultural authenticity and outdoor activities; the hands-on involvement makes it more than just a scenic tour.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour suits travelers who enjoy interactive, educational experiences with a focus on indigenous culture. It’s ideal if you appreciate authenticity over luxury and want to learn directly from local Sámi families. It’s also perfect for families or anyone interested in wildlife, outdoor adventures, and culinary traditions.

The Sum Up

The KIRUNA: Sami Reindeer Experience offers a rare look into the lifestyle of the Sámi, the indigenous people of Lapland. It’s a well-balanced mix of cultural storytelling, hands-on activities, and beautiful Arctic scenery. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both educational and fun. The opportunity to feed reindeer, steer a sled, and enjoy traditional Sámi food makes it a memorable highlight for any Arctic trip.

While the tour is relatively short—just three hours—it packs in enough authentic experiences to feel meaningful. It’s particularly well suited for those curious about native cultures, outdoor lovers who want a hands-on activity, and foodies eager to try local specialties. If you’re after a genuine, engaging connection with the Arctic’s native people, this tour delivers.

For travelers seeking a deep dive into Sámi life with friendly guides, stunning natural surroundings, and a taste of traditional cuisine, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s a wonderful way to understand more than just the landscape—you’re learning about the people and traditions that have thrived here for centuries.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from the Kiruna city center. It does not pick up from outside locations like Jukkasjärvi or Altajärvi.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including activities, lunch, and travel time.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing is essential, as you’ll be outdoors in winter weather. Layers, waterproofs, and sturdy shoes are recommended.

Is the reindeer tame?
Yes, the reindeer are friendly and accustomed to human contact, making feeding and interactions safe and enjoyable.

Can vegetarians participate?
Absolutely. Vegetarian options are available for the lunch, and you can request them in advance.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most ages, but it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or very young children unable to handle outdoor winter conditions.

What is the cost?
The price is $328 per person, which includes activities, stories, and a traditional Sámi meal.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is this suitable for families?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, especially if your family enjoys outdoor activities and cultural learning.

What makes this tour special?
The chance to learn directly from local Sámi people, hands-on activities like sledding and lassoing, and the opportunity to taste authentic reindeer cuisine in a winter setting.

This authentic, engaging tour offers a meaningful glimpse into Sámi traditions and Arctic life. It’s a rare opportunity to connect with indigenous culture in a natural, friendly environment—perfect for curious travelers eager to experience the true spirit of Lapland.

You can check availability for your dates here: