KIRUNA: Sami Reindeer Experience

Discover the Authentic Sami Reindeer Experience in Kiruna

The KIRUNA: Sami Reindeer Experience offers a captivating look into Lapland’s indigenous culture, with a focus on reindeer herding. Priced at $328 per person and lasting around 3 hours, this tour provides a hands-on encounter with tame reindeer, local Sami traditions, and winter countryside scenery. The tour departs from Kiruna’s Tourist Office and takes visitors 20 km northwest to a reindeer farm in Rávttas.

What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to feed reindeer by hand, try lassoing like a Sami herder, and drive a reindeer sled yourself. The tour culminates with a hearty lunch of ecological reindeer meat (suovas), served around a fire in a traditional lávvu. While suitable for most, travelers should note it’s not accessible for those with mobility impairments or animal allergies. This experience is ideal for those eager to learn about Lapland’s indigenous culture in an engaging, active setting.

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Key Points

• Price: $328 per person for a 3-hour adventure
• Location: 20 km northwest of Kiruna at a reindeer farm in Rávttas
• Activities: Reindeer feeding, lasso throwing, reindeer sled ride, Sami storytelling
• Culture: Authentic insight into Sami traditions and lifestyle
• Food: Lunch with ecological, smoked, and fried reindeer meat (suovas)
• Group Size: Guided by Giron Reindeer, with live guides speaking English and Swedish

Departing from Kiruna’s Tourist Office to the Reindeer Farm

The tour begins at the Tourist Office in Kiruna, where you are greeted by guides from Giron Reindeer. The drive to the Rávttas reindeer farm takes roughly 20 minutes, offering scenic views of the snowy Swedish countryside. The farm is where the reindeer are cared for in winter, and some are kept in a corral for closer interaction.

Once at the farm, the guides introduce guests to the tame reindeer, explaining their role in Sami culture and how they are looked after during winter months. This initial interaction allows for feeding the reindeer by hand, which is both a practical and memorable part of the experience. The warm and caring nature of the reindeer creates a perfect setting for close contact.

Interacting with Reindeer: Feeding and Learning

The reindeer feeding segment offers a genuine chance to get up close and personal with these animals. Guides provide instructions on how to feed them properly, emphasizing respect and gentle handling. Observing the reindeer’s behavior helps deepen understanding of their importance to the Sami people.

This close contact is designed to be both educational and fun, especially for those interested in animal behavior or indigenous lifestyles. The tame reindeer are used to human interaction, making this part of the tour suitable for all ages, aside from those with animal allergies.

Lasso Throwing and Reindeer Sled Riding

One of the most engaging activities is lasso throwing, where participants learn how reindeer herders catch or manage their reindeer using traditional techniques. This hands-on experience gives insight into the skills needed by Sami herders and adds a playful element to the day.

Following the lasso lesson, visitors get a chance to drive a reindeer sled. The guides provide brief instructions before you take the sled around a designated track. This short ride not only offers beautiful winter scenery but also allows you to steer the sled yourself, providing an active and authentic experience.

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Sami Culture and Stories Around the Fire

The cultural component of the tour is brought to life through stories and information shared by the guides from the local Sami community. You’ll learn about Sami traditions, lifestyle, and the significance of reindeer herding in their daily lives.

After the activities, everyone gathers around a fire in a traditional lávvu. This setting creates a cozy atmosphere for listening to stories and asking questions about Sami culture. The guides’ warm storytelling enhances the cultural authenticity and personal connection to the region.

Tasting Reindeer Meat: Ecological and Flavored

The lunch served at the end of the tour features ecological, smoked, and fried reindeer meat known as suovas. This hearty meal includes reindeer meat, bread, and coffee, with vegetarian options available upon request. The fire-side setting in the traditional lávvu makes the meal a memorable part of the experience.

The reindeer meat tasting is more than just a meal; it’s an immersion into Sami culinary traditions and the local way of life. The authenticity of the food enhances the cultural insight gained during the trip.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Duration, and Accessibility

The tour begins at the Tourist Office in Kiruna and concludes back at the same location. The 3-hour duration includes travel, activities, and the meal, making it a compact yet comprehensive experience. The tour is suitable for most travelers but not recommended for those with mobility impairments or animal allergies.

Participants are advised to bring warm clothing and a camera to capture the stunning winter landscapes and interactions. No pets, weapons, or alcohol are permitted during the tour, aligning with safety and animal welfare standards.

The Guided Experience and Language Support

Guides from Giron Reindeer lead the tour in English and Swedish, ensuring clear communication throughout. The guides are praised for their friendly and knowledgeable manner, making the cultural and practical elements accessible and engaging for visitors.

Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, giving flexibility for travelers to plan confidently.

Comparing Similar Experiences in Kiruna

This Sami reindeer tour stands out for its authentic cultural focus, hands-on activities, and warm storytelling. Similar experiences like snowmobile safaris or northern lights tours provide different thrills, but none match the culture of spending time with reindeer herders and learning Sami traditions.

The price point of $328 reflects the comprehensive nature of the experience, including transport, activities, and lunch. Its high 4.8/5 rating based on 36 reviews indicates strong satisfaction among past participants, especially for the guides’ friendliness and authentic cultural content.

Who Will Enjoy the Sami Reindeer Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurers and cultural enthusiasts who want a meaningful connection with Sami traditions and Lapland’s natural environment. It suits those interested in animal interaction and traditional lifestyles, but not suitable for travelers with mobility challenges or animal allergies.

Those seeking a short, immersive deep dive into Sami culture, combined with winter activities like sleding and storytelling, will find this tour well worth the price. The cozy fire and hearty reindeer meal add a warm, authentic touch to the experience.

The Sum Up: A Genuine Sami Cultural Encounter

The KIRUNA: Sami Reindeer Experience provides a thoughtful and engaging look into the life and traditions of the Sami people. With hands-on activities, authentic storytelling, and a hearty lunch, it offers a well-rounded cultural outing outside Kiruna.

While the activities are suitable for most, travelers should be prepared for cold weather and physical activity like walking and sled steering. The friendly guides and authentic setting ensure that this tour remains a top choice for those wanting a genuine taste of Sami culture in a scenic winter landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the guides pick up guests from the Tourist Office in Kiruna and drive to the reindeer farm.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including travel, activities, and lunch.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
No, this tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments due to outdoor activities and walking involved.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?
Yes, vegetarian options are available upon request for the reindeer meat lunch.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing and a camera are recommended to enjoy the outdoor winter scenery and activities fully.

Is the tour appropriate for children?
Yes, it is suitable for most children, provided they can handle cold weather and outdoor activities.

Is alcohol or smoking allowed during the experience?
No, alcohol, smoking, vaping, and sharp objects are not permitted during the tour for safety reasons.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund.

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