Full-Day Reindeer Tour with Pickup in Kiruna

Exploring Swedish Lapland isn’t just about chasing northern lights or visiting ice hotels; it’s also about connecting with the local culture and wildlife. This full-day reindeer herder tour from Kiruna offers a rare glimpse into the traditional life of the Sámi people, led by experienced guides who are passionate about sharing their world. The highlights include feeding reindeer, reindeer sledding, and enjoying a hearty Sami-style lunch—all within a small, intimate group.

What makes this tour truly stand out is the personal touch: only eight travelers per group means you get time to really connect, ask questions, and participate actively. We love how the experience balances learning and adventure, giving you not just a ride but a meaningful insight into a lifestyle that’s been maintained for generations.

A potential consideration is that the activity is weather-dependent, with a temperature limit of minus 27°C for safety. So, if you’re visiting in the coldest part of winter, it’s worth being flexible or checking the forecast.

This tour is perfect for travelers who crave authentic, hands-on experiences—especially those interested in Sámi culture, wildlife, or outdoor adventures. If you’re after a leisurely, surface-level activity, this might be more than you need. But if you want to truly connect with Lapland’s traditions, this is a perfect choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Sámi Culture: Full immersion with a local reindeer herder.
• Active Participation: Feeding reindeer and trying reindeer sledding.
• Small Group: Only up to 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
• All-Inclusive: Pickup from Kiruna and a hearty traditional lunch included.
• Weather Sensitive: Canceled if colder than -27°C for safety.
• Highly Rated: Consistently praised for knowledgeable guides and genuine experiences.

What to Expect from the Reindeer Herder Tour

This full-day journey begins early in the morning, with pickup directly from your Kiruna hotel, making logistics effortless. The drive out to the reindeer farm takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, during which guides like Frederik often share insights about Sámi culture and the landscape you’re passing through. Many reviewers highlight how smoothly the transfer is organized, and how friendly the guides are, making the transition into Lapland’s wilderness seamless.

The Reindeer Feeding Experience

Once at the farm, you’ll be warmly welcomed and outfitted with winter jackets, boots, gloves, and other gear—so don’t worry if you’re not prepared for freezing weather. The guides take time to explain the importance of reindeer in Sámi culture, describing their relationship with the land and people. Observers have noted how much reindeer love to run and how eager they are to be fed, with many reviewers mentioning how adorable and friendly the animals are.

Birgitte_P describes her experience as “very cool,” especially feeding the reindeer and hearing stories from the herders. Several reviewers emphasize how personal and authentic the interaction feels: “They only organize it in small groups so you can really get to know the animals and their stories,” one guest mentions.

Reindeer Sledding: A Highlight

The reindeer sled ride is often cited as the tour’s standout feature. You’ll get to drive your own reindeer team along a 1 km trail in the snow-covered landscape. Reviews describe this part as “a lot of adrenaline,” and many compare it to a “bucket list” experience. For some, it’s their first time behind the reins of a reindeer, and guides like Frederik are praised for their patience and clear instructions.

A reviewer named Ellen_C notes how excited her children were during the sledding—highlighting that this experience isn’t just for adults but also perfect for families. The joy of gliding through the snowy silence, with reindeer pulling you along, creates a magical, almost fairy-tale moment.

Traditional Sámi Meal in a Tent

After the sledding, it’s time to warm up with a lunch in a traditional Sami tent (a lavvu). Food offerings often include reindeer meat, which reviewers describe as “delicious,” sometimes prepared as kebabs or served with bread and campfire cooking. Manuela_P emphasizes that the meal is “more than just a snack,” and a wonderful way to connect with Sami culinary traditions.

This part of the day is also an opportunity to sit around a campfire, listen to stories, and learn about the Sami way of life directly from your guides. Many reviews mention how genuine and heartfelt these stories are, making the experience deeply personal rather than touristy.

Wildlife and Nature in Sápmi

Beyond the activities, the tour offers a deep appreciation for the stark beauty of Lapland’s winter landscape. Expect endless snowy vistas, frosted forests, and a sense of solitude far from city noise. Travelers often remark on how peaceful and restorative this environment feels—a perfect escape into nature.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 8:30 am, so early risers will want to plan accordingly. The small group size (max 8 people) enhances the experience, making it more intimate and allowing for personalized attention from the guides.

The price of $290.71 per person is quite reasonable considering the inclusions: transportation, gear, reindeer feeding, sledding, and lunch. Reviewers agree that the value is high, especially given how much hands-on participation and authentic culture you gain.

Gear and Weather Considerations

Guides provide winter jackets and boots, but if you have your own warm gear, bringing it along can enhance comfort. Be aware of the weather: if temperatures drop below -27°C, the tour will be canceled for safety reasons. This strict policy ensures everyone stays safe while enjoying Lapland’s chilly beauty.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance—a smart option if weather looks particularly harsh. The tour is organized by Go to Lapland AB, a reputable provider known for hosting small, well-structured experiences.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

This full-day reindeer herding experience is worth prioritizing if you want a genuine connection with Sámi culture and nature. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy interactive outdoor activities and don’t mind getting a bit cold in exchange for authentic insights and personal stories.

The experience is praised for knowledgeable guides like Frederik, who are enthusiastic, friendly, and eager to share their way of life. Many guests find this day to be a meaningful highlight of their time in Lapland—far more impactful than just taking a quick ride or sightseeing.

If you’re after a unique, hands-on adventure that combines wildlife, culture, and outdoor fun, this tour hits the mark. It offers value for money through its inclusions and small-group intimacy, making it an enriching addition to your Arctic itinerary.

The Sum Up

This full-day reindeer herder tour from Kiruna provides a rare opportunity to step inside Sámi culture and truly connect with the land and animals of Swedish Lapland. With personalized attention, authentic activities, and delicious traditional food, it’s a well-rounded experience that’s more than just a sightseeing activity—it’s a cultural journey.

Perfect for those who love nature, wildlife, and learning about indigenous traditions, this tour offers genuine interactions, memorable moments, and stunning scenery. The small-group format ensures an intimate, relaxed environment, where you can ask questions and really understand the significance of the reindeer in Sámi life.

While the weather can influence availability, the overall value and authenticity make it a standout choice for travelers eager to embrace Lapland’s true spirit. Whether you’re seeking a family adventure, a cultural deep-dive, or an outdoor thrill, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is provided, with pickup directly from your Kiruna hotel, making it easy to start your day without extra logistics.

What should I wear?
Guides provide a winter jacket and boots, but it’s wise to dress warmly with layers, especially if you tend to feel cold. The tour operates in potentially very cold conditions, so good gear is essential.

How long is the reindeer sled ride?
The sled trail is approximately 1 kilometer long, giving you enough time to enjoy the scenery and experience a traditional mode of Arctic transport.

What is included in the lunch?
The lunch is served in a traditional Sami tent and often features reindeer meat, cooked and served in a way that highlights local culinary traditions. It’s hearty and satisfying.

What happens if the weather is too cold?
If temperatures drop below -27°C, the tour may be canceled for safety reasons. In such cases, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How many people are on each tour?
Groups are limited to eight travelers, ensuring a personalized and engaging experience.

Can children participate?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and children often enjoy the hands-on feeding and sledding activities, making it suitable for family outings.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility in planning your trip.

This full-day reindeer tour from Kiruna is a rare chance to experience Lapland’s culture and wilderness intimately. With knowledgeable guides, authentic activities, and stunning scenery, it promises a memorable Arctic adventure that’s well worth the price.