Kiruna: Northern Lights Tour with Sami BBQ Dinner

Kiruna: Northern Lights Tour with Sami BBQ Dinner — An Authentic Arctic Experience

If you’re heading to the far north of Sweden, particularly Kiruna in Norrbotten County, a Northern Lights tour like this offers more than just a chance to see the aurora borealis; it’s a deep dive into the culture, cuisine, and natural beauty of Lapland. For $189 per person, you’re spending an evening that combines culinary tradition, Arctic scenery, and cultural storytelling. The tour is designed to give you a well-rounded experience—starting with a Sami-style dinner in a cozy lavvu, followed by a late-night chase for the elusive Northern Lights in minibuses.

What truly makes this tour stand out are two things: first, the chance to savor ‘souvas’, the traditional reindeer meat dish cooked over an open fire—it’s not just a meal, but a taste of Sami heritage. Second, the guides’ expertise and friendliness make the whole evening feel personal and relaxed. However, a consideration is that some reviews suggest the Sami cultural component might not meet all expectations, especially if you’re hoping for a deeply immersive history lesson. Still, if you’re after a warm, authentic Arctic evening with beautiful scenery and good food, this tour is a strong choice, especially for those new to Lapland or simply wanting a memorable night out.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate good storytelling, delicious local dishes, and the thrill of chasing the Aurora. It’s ideal for those who value comfort but want a genuine touch of Sami culture, without the intensity of multi-day excursions. Families, couples, or solo travelers eager for a cozy night under the stars will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Authentic Sami Dinner: Enjoy traditional reindeer and moose cooked over an open fire in a Sami-style tent.
• Expert Guides: Guides share stories about the Sami people and Lapland, enhancing the cultural experience.
• Northern Lights Chase: Minibuses take you to the best spots, stopping as soon as the auroras appear.
• Flexible Booking & Refunds: Reserve with the option to pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours before with a full refund.
• Comfort & Authenticity: Cozy Sami-style environment with traditional storytelling and warm drinks.
• Limited Cultural Depth: Some reviews note the Sami cultural element might be less detailed than expected.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Setting

The adventure begins with pickup from centrally located points in Kiruna, easing the logistical stress often associated with Arctic trips. Once on board, you’ll head out in small minibuses—these are ideal for navigating the often snow-covered rural roads—and the ride itself is part of the fun, giving a taste of local life and scenery.

Arriving at the Sami-style lavvu tent in Poikkijärvi, you’re greeted with a welcoming fire and the aroma of cooking reindeer and moose. The site’s scenic setting—by a calm river—sets a peaceful tone, perfect for settling in and preparing for an unforgettable evening. The environment is cozy, with soft lighting and the crackle of the fire creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.

The Sami Dinner: Cooking Over an Open Fire

The meal here isn’t just served; it is prepared in front of you, adding an element of authenticity. The ‘souvas’, lightly smoked reindeer meat, cooked alongside moose and vegetables, follows Sami traditions but with a slight international twist. Watching the guide skillfully tend the open fire and plate up the meal makes you appreciate the effort and tradition behind this cuisine.

While the food is generally praised for its taste, some reviews suggest it may not fully meet expectations for authenticity, with one noting it was “good tasting but should perhaps not be marketed as Sami BBQ.” Still, the experience of cooking over fire and sharing this meal in a traditional tent is memorable. Plus, the warm drinks—like tea or lingonberry syrup—are a comforting touch as you settle in.

Learning and Cultural Stories

As you enjoy your meal, your guide shares stories about the Sami people, their ways of life, and the traditions of Lapland. These stories add context—though, according to some reviews, the cultural narration may be brief or not as in-depth as some travelers might hope. It’s important to manage expectations: this is more of a taste of Sami hospitality and storytelling rather than a comprehensive cultural lesson.

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The Aurora Chase: When Nature Shows Off

Once your stomach is satisfied, the real adventure begins. You’ll board the minibuses for a Northern Lights chase, heading out into the dark Arctic wilderness. The guides use their local knowledge and weather forecasts to find the clearest skies. As soon as the aurora appears, the stop is made, giving you ample time to photograph and marvel at the swirling greens and purples.

Many reviews highlight the guides’ helpfulness in taking photos—critical when you’re trying to capture the moment against the dark, vast sky. Patience is key: the aurora can appear suddenly or require waiting, but when it does, the display can be quite breathtaking.

Returning and Reflection

After the aurora spectacle, the tour returns you to your original meeting point. By then, hearts are full, bellies warm, and hopefully, your camera roll packed with memorable shots. The entire experience typically lasts several hours, blending the comfort of a cozy campfire with the thrill of outdoor adventure.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $189, this tour offers a solid value considering the inclusions: traditional Sami dinner, storytelling, transportation, and professional assistance with photography. If you’re new to the Arctic or looking for a well-rounded, culturally flavored Northern Lights outing, it hits a good balance of comfort, authenticity, and adventure.

While some reviews note the Sami experience could be deeper, most agree that the guides’ friendliness and the quality of the scenery and food compensate well. It’s a package that caters to travelers who want a taste of Sami culture without the complexity of multiple-day excursions.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is perfect for those who want an easy, guided Arctic adventure with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s especially appealing if you value delicious local food, stories from friendly guides, and the chance to photograph the Northern Lights with help. It’s less suited for travelers after a detailed culture or those seeking a more exclusive, personalized experience—reviews suggest the Sami cultural element is somewhat surface-level.

Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate the mix of outdoor adventure, cultural storytelling, and good food will find this tour hits most marks. It’s an accessible way to experience the magic of Lapland’s nights without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
You’ll enjoy a traditional Sami dinner, guided storytelling about the Sami people and Lapland, transportation in minibuses for the Aurora chase, and assistance with photography.

Is the Sami cultural experience authentic?
The tour offers a Sami-style dinner and stories, but some reviews suggest the cultural element might be limited or not as immersive as some travelers expect.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly, especially since outdoor viewing can involve long periods standing in cold weather. Layering and thermal clothing are recommended.

Can vegetarians or vegans participate?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and fish options are available upon request, making this tour accessible for different dietary needs.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience generally takes several hours, from pickup to return, including dinner, storytelling, and Aurora viewing time.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
The guides do their best to find clear skies, but Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity, so patience is essential. The guides will help you with your camera if the lights appear.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, families with children who enjoy outdoor adventures and cozy campfire atmospheres will likely enjoy this tour.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, bookings can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, this tour from Kiruna combines authentic Lapland cuisine, friendly storytelling, and the spectacle of the Northern Lights into a memorable Arctic experience. While it may not satisfy those seeking in-depth Sami cultural education, it offers a warm, scenic, and engaging evening suitable for a wide range of travelers. Whether you’re marveling at the aurora, enjoying a delicious meal, or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings, this tour promises a genuine taste of the Arctic’s magic.

You can check availability for your dates here: