Kiruna: Sami-Inspired BBQ Dinner with Northern Lights Chase

Key Points

• Authentic Sami-inspired dinner featuring reindeer and moose meat over an open fire in Poikkijärvi
• Expert guides like Daniel, Sony, and Henrik are praised for their knowledge and hospitality
• Chase the Northern Lights in minibuses, with stops made as soon as the aurora appears for optimal photos
• Small-group experience ensures personalized attention and cozy atmosphere
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Tour is suitable for ages 5 and up; dress warmly for outdoor conditions

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The Sami-Inspired BBQ Dinner in Poikkijärvi

This tour begins with a pick-up from various locations in Kiruna around 6:00 PM, including hotels and the ICEHOTEL. The journey takes you to Poikkijärvi, where the experience truly starts in a Sami-style lavvu tent by a calm river. Inside, the fire crackles as guides serve a traditional Sami dish, ‘souvas,’ made with lightly smoked reindeer and moose, cooked over an open fire.

The guide explains Sami culinary traditions while preparing the meal, offering an authentic and warm atmosphere. The dinner includes vegetables and is cooked following old Sami methods, but with some international and modern twists. Guests enjoy a complimentary lingonberry syrup to sip as they relax by the fire, surrounded by soft light.

Learning About Sami Culture and Lapland’s Heritage

Throughout the evening, guides share interesting stories about the Sami people, their traditions, and the history of Lapland. This storytelling adds depth to the experience, helping visitors understand the culture behind the food and environment. Guides like Daniel, Sony, Henrik, and Léonie are highlighted for their knowledge, friendliness, and hospitality.

Many reviewers praise how guides go beyond just the scenery, actively engaging with guests and sharing authentic insights. The storytelling creates a cozy, educational atmosphere that enhances the local immersion.

The Northern Lights Chase in Minibuses

After the hearty Sami dinner, the tour shifts outdoors for the aurora borealis chase. Guided in small minibuses, the group heads out to find the best spots for viewing the Northern Lights. The guides do their best to predict and locate the lights, stopping as soon as the aurora appears. This maximizes the chance for guests to see, photograph, and enjoy the display.

Multiple reviews mention the dedication of guides like Sony and Daniel, who actively drive around to find clear skies, even in challenging weather conditions. The night is paced to allow plenty of photo opportunities and relaxed observation, with guides offering help to capture the perfect shot.

Practical Details of Pickup and Duration

This 4-hour tour departs from multiple pickup points in Kiruna starting at 6:00 PM, with scheduled pickups until 7:00 PM depending on location. The pickup times range from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and the tour wraps up back at the starting points around 10:00 PM.

Guests should dress warmly and bring comfortable outdoor clothing and shoes, as the night can be cold. The tour is suitable for children over 5 years old. It offers a flexible booking system with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, and the option to reserve now and pay later.

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The Experience in a Small Group

This tour emphasizes a smaller group size, making the experience more personal and cozy. Many reviews highlight the friendly and knowledgeable guides who create a welcoming environment. Guides like Henrik, Daniel, Sony, and Léonie are praised for their storytelling, hospitality, and effort to make sure everyone enjoys the evening.

Guests consistently mention the warmth of the Sami-style tent, the delicious dinner, and the personalized attention. The small-group setting also means easier interaction, questions, and a more memorable experience overall.

The Food: Sami Recipes with a Modern Touch

The Sami BBQ dinner is a key highlight, with lightly smoked reindeer and moose meat, cooked over an open fire. The meal is described as delicious and authentic, with some reviews mentioning that it’s prepared with care and love.

Vegetarian and vegan options are available, accommodating different dietary preferences. Guests enjoy the cozy ambiance of eating in the Sami-style tent while listening to stories and enjoying the fire. The dinner is often praised as a delicious highlight of the tour, with some reviewers noting the attention to flavor and presentation.

The Chance to See the Northern Lights

While the lights are not guaranteed, many reviews mention successful sightings thanks to the guides’ expertise. The guides drive to locations with the best chances of clear skies, especially on clear nights, to optimize the viewing experience.

Even if the aurora does not appear, guests value the effort put into chasing the lights and the overall atmosphere of outdoor adventure. The guides’ dedication and knowledge are frequently praised for making the night memorable regardless of the lights’ visibility.

Guides Known for Their Hospitality and Knowledge

Many reviews emphasize the exceptional guides who lead the tour, including Daniel, Sony, Henrik, and Léonie. They are noted for their friendly attitude, storytelling skills, and willingness to help with photography and Aurora spotting.

Guide personalities like Henrik, who plays the guitar and sings, and Sony, who assists with photos, help create a cozy, engaging atmosphere. Their local knowledge and dedication are clear highlights that elevate the experience.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The tour is suitable for families with children over 5 years old. Guests should dress warmly in layers, including warm shoes, as outdoor waiting can be cold. Vegetarian and vegan meal options are available, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility.

Because the tour involves outdoor activities in cold weather, guests should be prepared for winter conditions. The tour’s small-group nature ensures a more intimate experience, which is perfect for those wanting personalized attention.

The Experience Provider and Similar Tours

This experience is offered by Explore Arctic, a provider with a solid reputation based on numerous positive reviews. They also offer other Northern Lights tours, including photo safaris, street food dinners, and day trips in the Kiruna area.

Many travelers compare this tour with similar offerings, noting that the personalized guides, authentic Sami dinner, and aurora chase in minibuses make this experience stand out. The reviews consistently highlight excellent guides and memorable food as key reasons to choose this tour.

Final Thoughts on the Sami-Inspired Dinner and Aurora Chase

This 4-hour Kiruna tour combines culture, delicious Sami cuisine, and the thrill of chasing the Northern Lights. The small-group format and dedicated guides create a relaxed, intimate atmosphere that many reviewers praise for making the experience truly special.

While Aurora sightings depend on weather conditions and luck, the tour’s effort to find clear skies and personalized attention make it a worthwhile choice for anyone wanting to experience Lapland’s beauty and culture. The delicious dinner and storytelling add richness to the evening, making it more than just a lights chase.

This tour suits travelers interested in cultural experiences, outdoor adventure, and photography. It offers a trusted, well-reviewed option for those seeking a memorable Arctic night in Kiruna.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed on this tour?
No, the Aurora is a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed. Guides do their best to find clear skies and the lights, especially on clear nights.

What should I bring for the outdoor part of the tour?
Guests should wear warm clothing and shoes to stay comfortable during outdoor waiting times.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are offered to accommodate different dietary needs.

Can children participate?
Yes, children over 5 years old are suitable for this tour, which involves outdoor activity and cold weather.

What is included in the 4-hour experience?
The tour includes Sami-inspired BBQ dinner, storytelling about Sami culture, Northern Lights chase in minibuses, and local hospitality from guides.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations are flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. You can reserve now and pay later via the booking platform.

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