Aurora Hunting with Reindeer Caravan

Aurora Hunting with Reindeer Caravan is a truly unique way to experience the Arctic wilderness near Kiruna, Sweden. At $321 for about 7 hours, this tour offers a blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll spend your evening traveling in a traditional reindeer caravan, feeding reindeer, and hunting for the elusive northern lights.

What we love about this tour is how immersive the experience feels—from the moment your guides pick you up, you’re stepping into a world where the rhythms of Sami life are palpable. The warm gear provided ensures comfort despite the freezing temperatures, and the chance to share a meal around a fire adds an inviting touch of authenticity.

One thing to consider is that the tour is quite weather-dependent, as clear skies are crucial for seeing the aurora borealis. If the weather turns bad, your hosts will offer an alternative date or a full refund.

This tour is perfect for those who want more than just a quick glimpse of Lapland, but a meaningful, hands-on experience. Families, couples, or solo travelers interested in Sami culture and nature’s spectacular shows will find it especially rewarding.

Key Points

• Authentic Sami Culture: You’ll get a rare glimpse into the traditions of the Sami people, including feeding reindeer and listening to stories.
• Northern Lights Opportunity: Traveling away from city lights in the wilderness maximizes your chances of seeing the aurora borealis.
• Comfort and Convenience: Winter gear and dinner are included, making the experience smooth and fuss-free.
• Small Group Feel: With a maximum of 8 travelers, the tour feels intimate and personalized.
• Educational and Fun: Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making it a memorable learning experience.
• Weather Dependency: The tour’s success hinges on good weather, so flexibility is key.

The Experience in Detail

Starting from Kiruna

The adventure begins with a pickup around 5:30 pm, right at your accommodation or a designated meeting point. As you leave the city behind, the landscape shifts to vast, snowy wilderness. The trip eastward on the “aurora borealis road” takes you into the heart of Lapland, where the silence is almost deafening and the skies are often crystal clear—perfect for northern lights gazing.

The Reindeer Caravan Journey

Once you arrive at the reindeer herding area, you’ll meet your guides, who are often Sami locals. The main event is the reindeer sledding, where a reindeer “rajd” pulls you across the snow. The reviews beautifully highlight how peaceful and magical this feels—”the creaking snow and reindeer sounds create a truly authentic atmosphere.” You’ll feel like a part of Sami life, especially when you’re encouraged to feed the reindeer, which many reviewers describe as a highlight: “feeding and interacting with tons of reindeer” — a simple but unforgettable joy.

Cultural Insights

Your guides, often Sami people like Fredrik or Bertrice, are praised for their warmth and expertise. They don’t just take you on a ride—they share stories, answer questions, and give you a window into centuries-old traditions. As one reviewer put it, they are “extremely knowledgeable about Sami culture”, which adds depth to the experience.

The Scenic Wilderness and Aurora Viewing

Traveling further into the wilderness, you’ll take in stunning vistas—snow-blanketed trees, open skies, and the vast silence of Lapland. If luck is on your side, the northern lights will dance overhead, a spectacle that leaves travelers in awe. Many reviews mention the “spectacular northern lights” and how they made the evening truly unforgettable.

The Fire and Dinner

The tour wraps up around a warm fire, where hot drinks and a reindeer meat dinner await. Reviewers consistently mention the delicious, simple fare—cooked over fire or inside traditional tents—adding a cozy, communal ending to your adventure. Vegetarian options are available upon request, which adds a considerate touch for diverse dietary needs.

Practical Details and Group Size

This experience is designed for a small group—no more than 8 travelers—fostering a cozy, intimate atmosphere. The tour lasts about 4 hours of actual activity, but the overall experience spans around 7 hours including transportation and prep. The price includes warm clothing (jackets and boots), essential for comfort in sub-zero temperatures, and return transport is available if needed.

What the Reviews Say

Guests consistently praise the “friendly hosts” and the “authentic Sami experience”. Many mention that the guides are “welcoming,” “knowledgeable,” and “willing to answer questions,” making it feel less like a tour and more like visiting friends in their home. The opportunity to feed reindeer before sledding and the delicious reindeer meat meal are favorite moments, often described as “beyond expectations.”

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is weather dependency—cloudy skies or storms can obscure the northern lights or even cancel the tour. Also, since the experience involves outdoor activities in winter, participants should be prepared for cold temperatures, even with the provided gear. The tour’s small group size means that if you’re part of a larger travel party, you’ll want to book early to secure a spot.

Who is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for a deep, authentic connection with Sami culture combined with a chance to see the northern lights in a winter wonderland, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for adventurous families, couples, or solo travelers who don’t mind bundled-up outdoor fun and are eager to learn from local guides. Nature lovers and those interested in cultural history will find it especially meaningful.

This experience isn’t suited for anyone who requires luxurious comforts or who is not comfortable in cold weather, but for those who enjoy simple, genuine outdoor adventures, it’s a perfect choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
You’ll receive winter jackets and boots, a reindeer sled ride, dinner, and transport from your accommodation. Guides are friendly and knowledgeable throughout.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts about 7 hours, with approximately 4 hours of active activity, including travel, sledding, feeding reindeer, and dining.

What is the best time to book?
Since the tour depends on clear skies for Northern Lights viewing, booking during the winter months from December to March gives you the best chance. Early booking is recommended because the tour is limited to 8 guests.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the small group size and engaging activities make it suitable for families. Just ensure children are prepared for cold weather and outdoor activity.

What if the weather is poor?
Your guides will monitor the forecast closely. If the weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How personalized is the experience?
With a maximum of 8 travelers, the tour feels quite intimate—guides can answer questions thoroughly and tailor some parts of the experience.

Is vegetarian food available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be arranged upon request, ensuring everyone enjoys the meal indoors by the fire.

Will I see the Northern Lights?
While sightings depend on weather and solar activity, many guests do report spectacular views, especially when away from city lights.

How physically demanding is the sledding?
The sled ride is generally gentle, but you should be comfortable sitting outdoors in winter conditions. The activity is suitable for most, but check with your guides if you have specific health concerns.

To sum it up, Aurora Hunting with Reindeer Caravan offers a genuine taste of Arctic life, combining Sami traditions, stunning scenery, and the thrill of the northern lights. It’s a well-organized, authentic experience that emphasizes cultural connection and natural beauty. If you’re eager to step outside typical tourist routes and truly feel the magic of Lapland, this tour will not let you down. Just remember to dress warmly, keep your hopes high for a glimpse of the aurora, and prepare for a memorable night under the stars.