A Genuine Encounter with Sami Culture and Reindeer in Northern Sweden
If you’re visiting Abisko or Björkliden and want to step beyond the usual scenery of snow and northern lights, this 7-hour tour offers something truly authentic: a close look at the Sami people, their reindeer herds, and their traditional way of life. For $156 per person, you’ll be transported by comfortable bus to the Márkanbáiki open-air museum in Kiruna, where you’ll meet reindeer, explore Sami crafts, and learn about their history and traditions.
What we particularly appreciate about this experience is how it combines interactive animal encounters — feeding reindeer moss — with educational insights delivered by genuine Sami guides. The cozy setting of Restaurant Ovttas inside a traditional wooden teepee adds a warm, cultural touch not often found in more commercial tours. Plus, the scenic drive through Lapland’s wilderness offers a chance to relax and take in the stark, beautiful landscape.
That said, a point to consider is the timing of the guided tour, which starts around noon and lasts about 7 hours. Some travelers have noted that the early end — around 2 p.m. — might feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re hoping to extend your visit or combine it with other activities. This tour is best suited for those genuinely interested in Sami culture and reindeer, and who are comfortable with some cold weather and layers.
For travelers craving a meaningful, small-group experience that combines education, culture, and nature, this tour is a strong choice. It’s particularly recommended for those who enjoy interactive wildlife encounters and want a taste of Sami life beyond just sightseeing.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Authentic Cultural Experience: Visit a Sami-led open-air museum and learn about their traditional lifestyle.
- Close Animal Contact: Get the chance to feed reindeer moss and take memorable photos with these majestic creatures.
- Cultural Shopping & Refreshments: Shop for handcrafted Sami items and enjoy a warm fika inside a cozy wooden teepee.
- Comfortable Journey: Relax on a climate-controlled bus with hotel pickup and drop-off in Abisko or Björkliden.
- Educational Guided Tour: Benefit from expert insights about Sami culture, reindeer herding, and traditional Sami buildings.
- Limited Flexibility: The tour is about 7 hours, with a possible early finish, so plan your day accordingly.
An In-Depth Look at the Sami & Reindeer Tour
The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transportation
As soon as we confirm our booking, we appreciate that transportation is included — pickup at select hotels in Abisko and Björkliden. The buses are described as comfortable and climate-controlled, essential for the cold northern climate. We particularly liked the early pickup times at around 9 a.m., giving us a full day of exploration without feeling rushed.
The scenic drive to Kiruna offers a chance to relax and take in the stark, snowy landscapes that define this part of Swedish Lapland. Whether you’re gazing at frozen lakes or the expansive wilderness, the journey itself sets the tone for an authentic Arctic experience.
Visiting the Márkanbáiki Sami Open-Air Museum
Once in Kiruna, the focus shifts to the Nutti Sami Sida, an open-air museum run by the Sami community. This is not a generic cultural stop — it’s a place where Sami traditions are alive. We loved the way the guides explained traditional Sami building techniques, how these structures are designed to withstand the harsh climate, and how they serve as both homes and cultural symbols.
The guided tour during the visit provides a wealth of information about Sami lifestyle, arts, poetry, and reindeer herding. We found the descriptions of how Sami people interact with the environment both fascinating and insightful, giving us context that many travelers miss when visiting more commercialized attractions.
More Great Tours NearbyReindeer Encounters: Feeding and Photos
One of the tour’s highlights is the chance to meet the reindeer up close. You can purchase a bag of Arctic moss to feed these gentle animals — a simple activity that makes for great photos and even better memories. The reindeer are majestic, curious creatures, and feeding them moss is an experience that sticks with you.
An attendee named Gabriele mentioned, “I was able to combine the Sami camp with the Ice Hotel. I would have preferred a later return trip; 2:00 p.m. was very early, and it only took 6 hours, not the stated 7.” This feedback hints that timing may be trimmed, but still, the opportunity to interact with reindeer in such an intimate way is worth it.
Enjoying Sami Hospitality at Restaurant Ovttas
A cozy highlight is the Restaurant Ovttas, set inside a traditional wooden teepee. Here, you can enjoy a warm drink, a sandwich, or a Swedish fika — a coffee break with pastries or bread. It’s run by the Sami community, which adds an authentic touch to your snack stop. The combination of the Sami setting and warm refreshments provides a welcome respite, especially if you’re visiting during colder months.
Why This Tour Works
The real value here comes from the authentic interactions — feeding reindeer, listening to Sami guides, and browsing handcrafted Sami arts and crafts. The guided tour is a good way to connect with the material, especially since the Sami guides are usually local and passionate about sharing their culture.
The scenery on the drive and the chance to see reindeer—Lapland’s most iconic animal—are things you’ll remember long after the tour ends. Plus, the flexibility to purchase unique gifts at the shop means you can take home a special souvenir, like handcrafted jewelry or textiles.
Possible Drawbacks: Timing and Length
One thing to keep in mind is the duration and timing of this trip. Some travelers, like Gabriele, felt that the tour ended quite early, around 2 p.m., making it feel a bit rushed if you wanted a longer visit. The tour’s 7-hour length is reasonable, but if you have other plans or want more time at the museum or to explore Kiruna, this might feel tight.
Plus, since no lunch is included (you can buy food at the cafe), if you’re hungry or looking for a full meal, plan to bring snacks or be prepared to purchase food during the stop.
Who Will Appreciate This Tour?
This tour is well-suited for those interested in culture and authentic encounters. It’s perfect if you want a meaningful experience with Sami traditions, reindeer, and local crafts, all wrapped into a manageable day trip. It’s also ideal for travelers who enjoy interactive wildlife experiences and are comfortable spending time outdoors in cold weather.
If your goal is to see reindeer and learn about the Sami people in a relaxed environment, this tour hits the mark. However, if you are looking for a longer or more flexible itinerary, or if you’re pressed for time, consider how the early end time might impact your plans.
Final Thoughts
This from Abisko or Björkliden to Kiruna tour provides a genuine slice of Sami life, with opportunities to connect with reindeer and learn firsthand about Lapland’s indigenous culture. It combines comfort, education, and authentic experiences at a fair price, making it a worthwhile addition to any Arctic adventure.
While the timing may be a little tight for some, especially if you want to extend your visit or explore Kiruna afterward, the chance to feed reindeer and shop Sami crafts makes this a memorable, cultural highlight. It’s especially suited for travelers who value meaningful, small-group experiences and enjoy learning about indigenous traditions that are still very much alive today.
FAQ
Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at select hotels in Abisko and Björkliden are included, and the buses are comfortable and climate-controlled.
What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, with the guided activities and travel time factored in.
When does the guided tour start?
The guided tour begins at about 12:15 p.m., and you need to report for it at the reception.
Are meals included?
No, lunch and snacks are not included, but you can buy food and drinks at Restaurant Ovttas or bring your own snacks.
What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, including hats, gloves, and insulated winter boots. Weather conditions can change quickly in northern Sweden.
Can I buy souvenirs?
Yes, there’s a shop at the museum selling handcrafted Sami items, ideal for unique gifts.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the interactive reindeer feeding and cultural aspects generally appeal to families, provided children are dressed for cold weather.
Is there any flexibility in the timing?
The tour is scheduled to start around noon, and the end time can be early, around 2 p.m., which may limit extended visits.
How many people typically join this tour?
The reviews suggest small group sizes, offering a more personal experience, but exact numbers are not specified.
Is this tour available year-round?
While not explicitly stated, the description indicates it operates during the colder months when reindeer herding and Sami culture are most visible, but check availability for your travel dates.
In summary, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of cultural education, wildlife interaction, and scenic travel, making it an enriching addition to your Arctic adventures. It’s best for curious travelers eager to learn and connect with Lapland’s indigenous roots, with enough comfort and authenticity to make the experience truly memorable.
You can check availability for your dates here: