Kiruna isn’t just about breathtaking northern scenery and midnight sun; it also offers some genuinely memorable lunch experiences that reflect the region’s unique culture and environment. If you’re eager to taste traditional Sami cuisine, enjoy a lively husky sled ride with a hearty meal, or explore snow-covered landscapes with a homemade outdoor lunch, Kiruna has options to satisfy every interest. We especially like the Lunch tour to the Sami village Nikkaluokta for its seamless blend of cultural insight and authentic food — plus, the chance to see moose and reindeer in the wild. For an adrenaline rush combined with a warm meal, the Husky Sled Ride with Traditional Lunch hits just the right note. And if snowshoeing in pristine wilderness sounds appealing, the Abisko National Park Snowshoe Hike with Lunch offers a cozy outdoor meal in a stunning winter setting.
Below, you’ll find a quick overview of these top lunch experiences, each offering a different taste of Kiruna’s Arctic charm.
1. Lunch tour to the Sami village Nikkaluokta
At number one, the Lunch tour to the Sami village Nikkaluokta offers a wonderful mix of culture and scenic beauty. Led by a local Sami guide, this 5-hour tour takes you to Nikkaluokta, a small Sami settlement near Sweden’s highest mountain, Kebnekaise. The tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5.0/5 from two reviews, reflecting how well it captures the authentic Sami experience.
The trip includes learning about Sami culture, Arctic nature, and spotting wildlife like moose and reindeer along the way. During the summer, you’ll enjoy a gentle hike and visit the Nikkaluokta chapel, while in winter, the visit shifts to the guide’s home for traditional Sami activities and a home-cooked Sami meal. The highlight is the lunch at a Sami-owned restaurant, where you can sample local specialties in a friendly, genuine setting.
What makes this tour stand out is its deep cultural focus combined with stunning views of Kebnekaise. The attention to authentic Sami cuisine and the chance to see moose in their natural habitat make it ideal for travelers interested in culture and wildlife.
Bottom line: If you want an authentic, culturally rich Arctic lunch with stunning scenery, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s on the pricier side, but the insider experience and personalized storytelling make it worth the cost.
2. Kiruna: Husky Sled Ride with Traditional Lunch
Number two on our list is the Husky Sled Ride with Traditional Lunch — a perfect pick for adventure lovers who want to combine outdoor excitement with hearty Arctic fare. For around 3 hours, you’ll have the option to drive your own team of Alaskan Huskies or sit back and enjoy being guided through beautiful snowy forests and open landscapes.
This tour’s highlight is the interactive husky experience, where plenty of time is spent playing with the dogs and learning about their care. Afterward, you’ll settle in for a warm, traditional lunch featuring moose meat and vegetables — a filling, satisfying meal that keeps you energized for more exploration. Reviews consistently praise the friendly guides and the “lovely lunch break,” making it clear this tour offers good value for the adventure and authentic food.
What sets this experience apart is the genuine interaction with the dogs, the chance to try guiding your own team, and the scenic setting. It’s ideally suited for active travelers or families looking for a fun, hands-on Arctic adventure.
Bottom line: This tour combines the thrill of husky sledding with a tasty local lunch, making it a memorable, active way to experience Kiruna’s winter landscape.
3. Kiruna: Abisko National Park Snowshoe Hike with Lunch
Our third pick is a longer, immersive experience: the Snowshoe Hike in Abisko National Park with Lunch. Spanning about six hours, this tour takes you into the heart of one of Sweden’s most beautiful national parks. The focus is on exploring the snow-blanketed wilderness on snowshoes, a great way to enjoy the Arctic landscape while getting some exercise.
Along the way, you’ll learn about the fascinating history of the Iron Ore Railway, observe animal tracks on the semi-frozen Abisko Jåkka creek, and enjoy stunning vistas of the winter scenery. The outdoor lunch is a highlight: a homemade meal served in the crisp air, allowing you to sit back and absorb the peaceful landscape. The tour also offers insights into local science projects and the area’s natural history, adding an educational element.
While this tour doesn’t have reviews listed, the combination of outdoor activity and local storytelling makes it appealing to nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful, scenic experience. The longer duration and physical activity mean it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable in winter conditions.
Bottom line: If you love winter hiking and want a chance to enjoy a homemade outdoor lunch amidst breathtaking scenery, this snowshoe hike is an excellent, immersive option.
$202 per person
How to Choose the Best Lunch Experience in Kiruna
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and available time. The Sami village tour is perfect if you want cultural insight and wildlife viewing in a half-day. The husky sled ride is best for adventure-seekers who want an active, hands-on experience combined with a traditional meal. Meanwhile, the snowshoe hike offers a longer, more contemplative outdoor experience with a cozy outdoor lunch for those who enjoy physical activity and scenic solitude.
Budget also matters: the Sami tour is the most comprehensive and priced accordingly, while the husky sled ride strikes a nice balance between adventure and value. For the outdoor enthusiast, the snowshoe hike offers a full-day immersion into winter wilderness with a hearty homemade meal.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak winter months, and always check availability since these experiences are popular during the high season. Whether you’re keen on cultural discovery, outdoor adventure, or simply soaking up the Arctic landscape with a warm meal in hand, there’s a Kiruna lunch experience suited to your interests.
Kiruna offers a range of memorable lunch experiences that showcase its natural beauty and cultural richness. For a taste of Sami traditions, the Nikkaluokta visit tops the list. If you crave adventure, the husky sled ride delivers excitement alongside hearty local food. And for those who want to connect deeply with the winter landscape, the snowshoe hike provides a peaceful, scenic adventure. Whichever you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these authentic Arctic moments.