KIRUNA: Reindeer Sled Ride in the Countryside

This tour offers a quintessential taste of winter in northern Sweden, combining the thrill of a reindeer sled ride with cultural insights into the Sami way of life. You’re picked up from Kiruna and driven about 20 km into the snow-covered wilderness, where the real magic begins. It’s a well-rounded experience crafted for those eager to connect with nature, enjoy authentic Sami hospitality, and create unforgettable memories in a pristine Arctic landscape.

What I particularly like about this tour is how it balances adventure and culture. The moment you harness your reindeer and slide through the snowy forest, you realize how special this is—there’s no feeling quite like steering a reindeer-powered sled through the winter wonderland. Plus, the chance to visit a Sami village and learn about their traditions adds depth that pure snow activities often lack.

One minor consideration: during the winter months, the travel is dependent on safe ice conditions, especially for crossing the river. While the guides ensure safety, if you’re planning a very tight schedule or visiting at the very start or end of the season, it’s worth confirming availability. Still, this tour offers excellent value for those wanting more than just sightseeing; it’s about experiencing the landscape and culture firsthand.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Sami Culture: Visit a Sami village and gain insights directly from reindeer herders, making this tour more than just a sled ride.
• Hands-on Reindeer Experience: Feed reindeer by hand and walk with your chosen animal, creating a personal connection.
• Scenic Snowy Landscape: Glide through 4-5 km of forest and moorland, with views of the Swedish mountains.
• Hearty Local Food: Enjoy a delicious lunch of smoked and fried reindeer meat, with vegetarian and vegan options available.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate, personal experience.
• Educational and Entertaining: Guides share stories and cultural insights, making the tour both fun and informative.

If you’re looking for a genuine winter adventure in Sweden, this reindeer sled ride in Kiruna offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural exchange, and outdoor fun. The entire experience usually lasts about three hours, starting around 10 am with a pickup from the Kiruna Tourist Office. It’s designed for small groups—no more than eight people—so you’ll get personalized attention and plenty of time for questions.

The Journey Begins: Transportation and Meeting Point

Your day kicks off with a comfortable transfer from central Kiruna. The drive to the Sami village, about 20 km out of town, is smooth and provides a glimpse into rural life—think snowy fields, a few reindeer herders’ cabins, and the distant mountain range. Once there, you’re greeted by Sami guides who are eager to share their stories and traditions.

Learning About Sami Culture at the Village

The first part of the tour involves a visit to a traditional lávvu—a Sami tent—where you can sit around a fire, listen to stories, and ask questions. Guides like the ones reviewed mention the atmosphere as warm and family-like, with guests feeling welcomed and engaged. It’s a rare chance to see how reindeer herders live and learn about their deep connection to the landscape.

Reindeer Hand-feeding and Walking

Before you hop into your sled, you get to walk alongside a reindeer, selecting one to harness. Feeding the reindeer in the corral is a highlight—many travelers, including those reviewed, mention how close they felt to these semi-domesticated animals. It’s a special moment to understand their importance in Sami culture and daily life.

The Reindeer Sled Ride: A Snowy Adventure

The main event is the reindeer sled ride, covering about 4-5 km through snow-laden forests and across frozen moors. The thrill of steering your own reindeer is hard to beat—it’s a quiet, peaceful glide through a landscape that looks like it’s straight out of a Christmas card. The experience is very accessible; guides typically teach you how to harness and steer, making it suitable for first-timers.

Reviewers describe it as “magical,” with one calling it “a very relaxed and enchanting way to see the snowy landscape.” The guides, such as Giron Reindeer, are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the ride both fun and educational.

Lunch: A Hearty Taste of Reindeer

After the sledding, you settle in around the fire inside the lávvu for a delicious lunch. The menu features smoked and fried reindeer meat (called suovas), served with bread and local berries—what locals call preisselbeeren (lingonberries). Vegetarian and vegan options are available, ensuring everyone can enjoy the meal. Many reviews highlight how unexpectedly tasty and filling the food is, with some saying it’s “super lecker” (super delicious).

Sitting on reindeer hides in the warm tent, listening to stories and my guides sharing insights about Sami traditions, makes this part of the experience feel authentic and heartfelt. It’s not just a meal; it’s a culture.

Final Moments: Meeting Reindeer and Closing Thoughts

If you wish, you can return to the corral to feed the reindeer again or take photos with your new furry friends. The guides often share interesting facts about the animals’ winter behavior, such as how they graze in the mountains come April when the snow melts.

The tour ends back at the original meeting point in Kiruna, leaving you with a sense of having experienced a true Arctic adventure—one that combines nature, culture, and genuine hospitality.

This experience suits travelers who want more than just a sightseeing moment. If you’re eager to engage with local Sami culture, enjoy outdoor activities, and savor hearty Nordic food, this tour hits the mark. Families with children over 2 years old, those with a sense of adventure, and anyone interested in reindeer or indigenous cultures will find it especially rewarding.

However, there are a few considerations: the activity involves snow and cold weather, so good warm clothing and comfortable shoes are essential. It’s not suitable for those with back problems, allergies to animals, or over 300 lbs, due to safety and comfort reasons.

Value for Money

For roughly three hours of activity—including transportation, a cultural visit, the sled ride, and a substantial meal—the price is quite reasonable. The small group size enhances the experience, and guides like Giron Reindeer provide personal attention that makes the outing feel special rather than generic. Plus, the option to reserve now and pay later offers flexibility, especially if your plans might shift.

The tour typically starts around 10 am with pickup at the Tourist Office in Kiruna, and you’ll be returned afterward. Confirming availability is wise, especially during the peak winter months of mid-January to end-March when ice conditions ensure safety for crossing the river and moors.

It’s recommended to bring comfortable shoes, warm layers, snacks, and water. No smoking, alcohol, or drugs are allowed—just good sense and respect for the environment.

This reindeer sled experience in Kiruna offers an authentic taste of the Arctic that’s hard to beat. You’ll get to steer your own sled through snow-blanketed forests, learn about Sami traditions firsthand, and enjoy a hearty meal that complements the cold landscape. It’s a peaceful, immersive activity, perfect for travelers looking to connect with nature and culture in a genuine way.

While the logistics and safety measures are well-managed, be prepared for cold weather and travel that hinges on ice conditions. If you’re ready for a serene, hands-on adventure with a touch of cultural storytelling, this tour delivers more than just a thrill—it provides a meaningful memory of Swedish Lapland.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about three hours, starting around 10 am and concluding back in Kiruna.

Is the reindeer sled ride suitable for beginners?
Yes. Guides are experienced and will teach you how to harness and steer the reindeer, making it accessible even for first-timers.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing, comfortable shoes, and layers are essential. Staying warm ensures you enjoy the experience fully.

Can I feed the reindeer?
Absolutely. You’ll have the chance to feed reindeer by hand at the corral, which many travelers find a highlight.

Is vegetarian or vegan food available?
Yes, the lunch includes options for vegetarians and vegans, alongside the traditional reindeer meat.

What if the ice conditions are unsafe?
Guides monitor the weather and ice conditions closely. If crossing the river isn’t safe, the itinerary may adjust, but the cultural and scenic parts are still enjoyable.

This tour is a standout for those eager to experience the true spirit of northern Sweden—combining outdoor adventure, cultural insight, and hearty food—all wrapped up in a small-group setting that feels personal and meaningful.