KIRUNA: Sami Reindeer Experience

If you’re looking to connect with the true spirit of Lapland and its indigenous Sami culture, the Sami Reindeer Experience outside Kiruna offers a compelling blend of tradition, nature, and fun. This three-hour tour takes you to the heart of Sami herding life, where you’ll get close to reindeer, learn their significance, and even steer your own sled through snowy landscapes.

What immediately stands out is the chance to engage in hands-on activities like feeding tame reindeer and throwing a lasso — giving you a taste of real Sami herding skills. Plus, the included reindeer sled ride offers a unique way to explore the winter wilderness. That said, it’s a fairly structured experience, so if you’re craving an adrenaline-pumping adventure or hours of solitude, this might be more of a culture than an adrenaline rush.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate cultural authenticity, scenic winter views, and interactive activities. Families, couples, or curious solo travelers will all find something to enjoy, especially if they’re interested in learning about Lapland’s native peoples and their traditions.

Key Points

• Authentic Sami Culture: Direct insights from local Sami guides deepen your understanding.
• Interactive Activities: Feeding reindeer, lassoing, and sled riding bring the experience to life.
• Scenic Setting: The snowy landscape around Rávttas offers memorable winter vistas.
• Genuine Connections: Close contact with reindeer and Sami storytellers provide authentic moments.
• Value for Price: At $328, the tour offers a well-rounded experience including food and cultural insights.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for most, but not for those with mobility issues or allergies to animals.

An In-Depth Look at the Sami Reindeer Experience

The Journey Begins: Transportation & Meeting Point

Your adventure starts with a convenient pickup from Kiruna’s city center or your hotel, making logistics straightforward. The tour is operated by Giron Reindeer, a provider known for their genuine local connections and knowledgeable guides, like the friendly and informative local Sami storytellers who lead the tour.

The drive to Rávttas, about 20 km northwest of Kiruna, sets the tone — expect a scenic ride through wintry landscapes. It’s a brief journey that transitions you from the modern city to a traditional Sami reindeer farm, where the real magic begins.

Getting Up Close with Reindeer

Once at the farm, you’ll meet the reindeer, many of which are cared for in a dedicated corral during winter. Here, we loved how the guides emphasized close contact—feeding the reindeer by hand makes the experience feel personal and authentic. As one reviewer noted, “Our guides were excellent, and I loved the way they explained the reindeer’s role in Sami life.”

The reindeer are generally quite tame, accustomed to human interaction, which makes feeding them both easy and rewarding. You’ll learn how Sami herders care for their reindeer, and how vital these animals are not just economically, but culturally.

Learning & Participating: Lassoing and Reindeer Sledding

The highlight for many is the chance to try lasso throwing, a skill used by Sami herders to catch reindeer. The guide provides clear instructions, and you’ll get to practice with real lassos. This activity isn’t just fun; it’s a window into traditional herding techniques.

Next, you’ll get a briefing on how to steer a reindeer sled, then hop aboard for a short ride. The sleds are designed for beginners, so don’t worry if you’ve never tried it before. You’ll steer your own sled, navigating around a track in the winter landscape, which offers a sense of autonomy and adventure. Past participants particularly enjoyed the opportunity to drive their own sled — a rare and memorable experience.

The Sami Cultural Touches

Throughout the tour, Sami guides share stories and explain the significance of reindeer herding in their culture. One reviewer mentioned how engaging and friendly the guides were, making the experience not just educational but also emotionally resonant.

The guides also introduce you to Sami traditions, such as skiing in the Sami way—a fun, cultural activity that adds a playful dimension to the day. Expect a warm, welcoming atmosphere, enhanced by the stories shared around the fire.

A Hearty, Authentic Lunch

No Sami experience is complete without tasting their traditional cuisine. After the activities, everyone gathers in a lávvu, a traditional Sami tent, to enjoy a lunch featuring ecological, smoked, and fried reindeer meat (suovas). The meal includes bread and coffee, with vegetarian options available if requested in advance.

Guests reported that the food is both hearty and authentic, with the smoked reindeer meat being a highlight. Sitting around the fire, listening to stories from the Sami hosts, adds a cozy, communal ending to your excursion.

Returning & Practicalities

After lunch, the group heads back to Kiruna, concluding the roughly three-hour experience. The tour emphasizes safety and comfort, with a note that it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or animal allergies. The maximum group size tends to foster an intimate atmosphere, often praised by reviewers for the friendly and knowledgeable guides.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Beyond the fun activities, what makes this experience truly special is the authenticity. The guides are local Sami people, sharing their traditions with pride and openness. Guests frequently comment on how much they appreciated learning directly from Sami families, not just about reindeer but the deeper cultural significance.

The scenic winter landscapes, with snow-covered trees and open countryside, provide a backdrop that turns this into a visual feast. The sled ride, in particular, offers a peaceful yet exhilarating way to experience the Arctic environment.

Pricing at $328 per person might seem steep, but considering the inclusions—feeding reindeer, lasso lessons, sled rides, cultural storytelling, and a hearty local meal—the value holds up well. It’s a comprehensive package designed for those eager to connect with Sami traditions in an active, engaging way.

Considerations & Tips

• Dress warmly: layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy boots are essential.
• Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery and candid reindeer moments.
• Vegetarian options are available, but notify the tour provider in advance.
• The pickup location is in Kiruna city center or your hotel, but note that pickups outside Kiruna (like Jukkasjärvi or Poikkijärvi) aren’t offered.
• This tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or animal allergies, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Sami Reindeer Experience offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s indigenous culture, packed with hands-on activities that keep you engaged and immersed. The guides’ warmth and knowledge make the experience feel both personal and educational, enriching your understanding of Sami life.

If you cherish cultural authenticity, scenic winter environments, and interactive outdoor fun, this tour allows you to step into a Sami herder’s boots—literally! While it’s not an adrenaline-pumping adventure, it’s an emotionally memorable encounter with the Arctic’s native people and their animals.

For those traveling to Kiruna wanting a meaningful, well-rounded Arctic experience, this tour balances cultural insight, scenic beauty, and fun, all wrapped into a manageable three-hour outing.

FAQs

How long is the Sami Reindeer Experience?
It lasts approximately three hours, including transportation, activities, and lunch.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Tourist Office in Kiruna and returns there after the experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, generally suitable for most children, but always check with the provider if your kids have mobility issues or animal allergies.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing, layers, waterproof outerwear, and sturdy boots are recommended to stay comfortable in the winter weather.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian alternatives can be requested when booking.

Can I participate if I don’t have previous experience with reindeer or sledding?
Absolutely, the activities are designed for beginners, and guides provide clear instructions.

Is this experience accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to outdoor terrain and activities.

Do I need to bring my own camera?
While the tour provides plenty of photo opportunities, bringing your camera or phone is recommended to capture the scenic landscapes and candid moments.

This Sami Reindeer Experience near Kiruna offers a meaningful glimpse into indigenous culture while providing plenty of opportunities for fun and connection with nature. Whether you’re drawn by the storytelling, the scenic landscapes, or the reindeer themselves, it’s a well-rounded adventure that stays true to Lapland’s soul.