From Abisko/Björkliden: Visit the Sami & Reindeer in Kiruna

Explore Sami Heritage and Reindeer Near Abisko and Björkliden for $156

This 7-hour tour takes you from Abisko or Björkliden to the Márkanbáiki open-air museum in Kiruna, offering a genuine look into Lapland’s indigenous Sami culture. Priced at $156 per person, it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance tickets, and a guided tour. What truly makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to meet majestic reindeer, learn about Sami traditions, and enjoy a cozy meal in a wooden teepee, all in a scenic, wilderness setting.

While the tour offers a rich cultural encounter, it’s important to be prepared for the cold climate typical of northern Sweden, especially during winter months. The duration of 7 hours provides enough time for a relaxed exploration without feeling rushed, making it ideal for those interested in authentic Sami interactions and reindeer experiences.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $156 and lasts 7 hours, with pickups from Abisko and Björkliden.
• Cultural Focus: You visit the Nutti Sami Sida museum in Kiruna, run by the Sami community, and learn about reindeer herding and Sami traditions.
• Reindeer Interaction: You’ll have up-close access to reindeer and can feed them moss, perfect for memorable photographs.
• Local Cuisine: The tour includes time to enjoy food at Restaurant Ovttas, inside a wooden teepee—a cozy spot for a warm drink, sandwich, or Swedish fika.
• Guided Experience: An English-speaking guide leads a guided tour, offering insightful commentary about Sami culture and lifestyle.
• Practical Tips: Visitors should dress warmly with multiple layers, hats, gloves, and insulated boots because of the sub-arctic climate.

Visiting the Márkanbáiki Open-Air Museum in Kiruna

The core of this tour is the visit to the Márkanbáiki museum, a site dedicated to Sami culture, operated by the local Sami community. The museum showcases traditional Sami buildings, art, and poetry, giving a well-rounded understanding of how the Sami people live and interact with their environment. The guided tour during the visit offers interesting facts about Sami traditions, reindeer herding, and modern Sami life.

The museum setting allows visitors to see authentic Sami handicrafts in the museum shop, ideal for buying unique souvenirs. The exhibition emphasizes the Sami lifestyle, making it a meaningful stop for those curious about indigenous cultures.

Reindeer Feeding and Wildlife Moments

One of the key highlights is the chance to get close to reindeer, the iconic animals of Lapland. The tour includes feeding reindeer moss, which creates a special environment for photographs and up-close encounters. This activity is especially suited to those who appreciate wildlife and want a hands-on experience in nature.

The reindeer are described as majestic creatures, and the opportunity to capture memorable images with them adds a personal touch to the trip. The feeding is designed to be simple and accessible, making it a highlight for all ages.

Dining in a Cozy Wooden Teepee Cafe

At Restaurant Ovttas, located inside a wooden teepee, visitors find a warm and inviting atmosphere. The cafe is owned and operated by the Sami community, offering a chance to taste local hospitality. Here, you can purchase a warm drink, sandwich, or enjoy a Swedish fika break.

The location inside a traditional Sami structure enhances the cultural experience, providing authentic ambiance. This stop is perfect for recharging after the outdoor activities and enjoying local flavors.

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Scenic Transport and Comfortable Travel

Travel between Abisko/Björkliden and Kiruna is by climate-controlled bus, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather. The pickup is available at select hotels, including Hotell Fjället, Abisko Guesthouse, and others, with pickup times around 9:00-9:30 AM. The scenic drive takes you through the wilderness, offering glimpses of Lapland’s rugged beauty.

The bus transportation makes this tour accessible and relaxed, avoiding the need for self-driving in potentially challenging winter conditions. This ease of access makes the experience suitable for travelers of various mobility levels.

Tour Schedule and Guided Insights

The guided tour begins at 12:15 PM in Kiruna, where the guide shares fascinating facts about Sami culture and the history of reindeer herding. The expert commentary enhances the visit, helping visitors understand the significance of Sami traditions today.

The timing allows for a leisurely morning before heading to the museum, making it a well-paced half-day activity. The guidance ensures visitors maximize their understanding of the cultural displays and wildlife interactions.

Practical Preparation and Weather Considerations

Because climate in northern Sweden is sub-arctic, visitors should dress in multiple layers, including warm hats, gloves, and insulated winter boots. Weather can change rapidly, so proper clothing is essential for comfort and safety.

The tour operator emphasizes the importance of being properly equipped to enjoy the experience fully, especially during winter months when temperatures can be very cold. This preparation not only ensures comfort but also safety during outdoor activities.

Booking, Cancellation, and Flexibility Options

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind. It also features a “reserve now, pay later” option, allowing travelers flexibility in planning. The availability of different starting times means you can select a schedule that fits your itinerary.

While lunch and snacks are not included, they are available for purchase at the cafe, giving visitors the chance to decide whether to dine inside or bring their own snacks.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour

This tour is especially suitable for those interested in indigenous cultures and wildlife encounters. It offers a relaxed pace with ample time for photos and learning, making it a good choice for families, couples, or independent travelers eager to explore Sami traditions without extensive physical exertion.

However, visitors should be aware of the climate conditions and dress appropriately. The experience’s cultural authenticity and reindeer interaction make it a meaningful addition to a Lapland trip.

Final Thoughts on the Sami & Reindeer Tour in Kiruna

This 7-hour experience provides a genuine glimpse into Sami life, with the chance to see reindeer up close, shop for handcrafted souvenirs, and enjoy local Sami cuisine. Its scenic transport and guided insights enrich the visit, making it both educational and memorable.

While the cost is reasonable for the inclusions, potential travelers should prepare for the cold and manage expectations regarding the time spent at each stop. The tour’s strengths lie in its authentic cultural focus and personal interactions with reindeer, making it a worthwhile activity for those wanting to connect with Lapland’s indigenous heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s activities, including reindeer feeding and cultural visits, are suitable for children, especially those interested in wildlife and indigenous cultures.

What should I wear for this tour?
Proper clothing is essential due to the cold climate. Wear multiple layers, warm hats, gloves, and insulated winter boots to stay comfortable.

Are meals included in the price?
No, lunch and snacks are not included, but they can be purchased at the Restaurant Ovttas cafe.

How long is the transportation between Abisko/Björkliden and Kiruna?
The bus ride takes you through scenic wilderness and is part of the 7-hour experience, with pickup times around 9:00-9:30 AM.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is there a guided tour during the museum visit?
Yes, an English-speaking guide leads a guided tour at the Nutti Sami Sida, providing insightful explanations about Sami culture and lifestyle.

Will I get to interact with reindeer?
Absolutely, you’ll have the chance to feed reindeer moss and take photos with these majestic animals.

What makes this tour different from others in Lapland?
Its focus on Sami culture, reindeer interaction, and authentic Sami hospitality in a traditional setting set it apart from more general Arctic activities.

Is this tour operated in winter only?
While the data emphasizes cold weather preparation, the tour is designed for the Lapland climate, typically during winter, when sub-arctic conditions prevail.

Where do I meet my guide for the tour?
The pickup is at select hotels like Hotell Fjället, Abisko Guesthouse, and others, with timings around 9:00-9:30 AM.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby