KIRUNA: Reindeer Sled Ride in the Countryside

Nestled in the heart of Swedish Lapland, Kiruna offers a captivating winter adventure that immerses visitors in the region’s traditional Sami culture. A reindeer sled ride through the enchanting countryside promises an unforgettable experience, as participants guide their own sleds under the watchful eye of experienced herders. Traversing snow-capped forests and frozen moors, this activity provides a unique opportunity to hand-feed the friendly reindeer and gain insights into the Sami way of life. With personalized attention and small group sizes, this excursion promises a memorable connection to the Arctic landscape. However, the true allure of this adventure lies in the stories waiting to be discovered.

Good To Know

• Experience driving your own sled through snowy forests and frozen moors, guided by local Sami reindeer herders.
• Immerse in Sami culture by hand-feeding reindeer and relaxing in a traditional Sami hut with stories.
• Enjoy a lunch of smoked and fried reindeer meat with Sami bread, catering to various dietary needs.
• Small group size allows for personalized interaction with the herders and an intimate exploration of the winter landscape.
• Flexible cancellation policy offers full refunds up to 24 hours in advance, accommodating travel uncertainty.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

KIRUNA: Reindeer Sled Ride in the Countryside

The reindeer sled ride in Kiruna offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the snowy countryside of northern Sweden, with a duration of approximately 3 hours and a price starting from £268.21 per person.

Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the activity is available from mid-January to the end of March.

The experience includes a pickup from Kiruna to a Sami village 20 km away, where you will learn to drive their own sled with guidance from reindeer herders.

Riders will then embark on a scenic 4-5 km journey through snowy forests and frozen moors, with the chance to hand-feed reindeer in their corral.

Reindeer Sled Ride Itinerary

KIRUNA: Reindeer Sled Ride in the Countryside

Reindeer Sled Ride Itinerary

Participants will be picked up from Kiruna and driven to a nearby Sami village, located approximately 20 km away, to begin their reindeer sled ride adventure.

Under the guidance of experienced reindeer herders, they’ll learn how to drive their own sled. The ride takes them through snowy forests and frozen moors, covering a distance of around 4-5 km.

Along the way, guests will have the chance to feed the reindeer by hand in their corral.

After the sled ride, they’ll have the opportunity to relax in a traditional Sami hut, known as a lávvu, and hear stories around the fire.

Meals and Dietary Options

The reindeer sled ride experience includes a lunch featuring smoked and fried reindeer meat, known as suovas, served with traditional Sami bread.

Vegetarian and vegan options are also available to accommodate different dietary needs.

Guests will sit on soft reindeer hides while enjoying their meal, adding to the authentic Sami experience.

The reindeer meat is locally sourced and prepared by the Sami guides, ensuring a truly traditional and delicious lunch.

Whether you’re a meat-eater or prefer plant-based options, the lunch menu caters to all tastes, allowing everyone to savor the flavors of the Arctic region during this unique activity.

Group Details and Language

This reindeer sled ride experience is a small-group affair, capped at 8 participants.

Tour guides fluent in both English and Swedish lead the excursion, ensuring clear communication and a seamless experience for all guests.

Whether you’re a native Swede or an international traveler, you’ll be able to fully engage with the Sami culture and traditions as the guides share their knowledge and insights.

With the intimate group size, you’ll have ample opportunities to ask questions and interact with the reindeer herders, creating a truly immersive and personalized adventure in Kiruna’s winter wonderland.

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Important Requirements and Restrictions

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the reindeer sled ride isn’t suitable for:

• Children under 2 years old
• Individuals with back problems
• Those with animal allergies
• Participants over 300 lbs (136 kg)

Participants are required to bring:

• Comfortable shoes
• Warm clothing
• Snacks
• Water

Smoking, alcohol, and drugs are strictly prohibited during the activity. This is because the reindeer are semi-domesticated and can be fed by hand, but they graze in the mountains starting in April.

Adherence to these important requirements and restrictions is crucial for the well-being of both the participants and the reindeer, ensuring a memorable and responsible adventure in Kiruna’s snowy countryside.

Reindeer Herding and Grazing

Reindeer are a crucial part of Sami culture in northern Sweden, as they’ve been herded and grazed by the indigenous Sami people for centuries.

These semi-domesticated animals are adapted to thrive in the harsh Arctic climate, grazing on lichen, mosses, and other vegetation found in the region’s mountainous terrain.

From April through November, the reindeer are herded and allowed to graze freely in the mountains, while during the winter months, they’re brought closer to Sami villages and settlements.

The reindeer provide the Sami with meat, milk, and hides, and are deeply woven into their traditional way of life and spiritual beliefs.

Pickup and Transportation

Guests are picked up from their accommodations in Kiruna and transported to a nearby Sami village, situated approximately 20 kilometers away, to begin their reindeer sled ride experience.

The journey to the village provides an opportunity to admire the snowy countryside and get a glimpse of the local Sami culture.

Upon arrival, guests are warmly welcomed by the reindeer herders who’ll guide them through the experience.

The transportation is included in the activity package, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free start to the excursion.

Whether traveling solo or as part of a small group, guests can look forward to an authentic and immersive encounter with the region’s natural wonders and traditional way of life.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

With a flexible cancellation policy, guests can receive a full refund up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled activity start time. This allows for convenient planning and peace of mind should plans change unexpectedly. The operator understands the unpredictable nature of travel, and therefore provides this generous cancellation window to ensure customer satisfaction.

Cancellation Window	Refund Amount
Up to 24 hours	100%
Less than 24 hours	0%
Weather-related	100%
Medical Emergency	100%
No-Show	0%

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Activity Suitable for People With Disabilities?

The activity may not be suitable for people with certain disabilities. It has restrictions for those with back problems or over 300 lbs. However, the provider may be able to accommodate some disabilities with prior notice and coordination.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks for the activity. However, a provided lunch of smoked and fried reindeer meat and bread is included in the tour price. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available upon request.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Activity?

There is no option to extend the duration of the reindeer sled ride activity. The tour is a fixed 3-hour experience that cannot be customized or expanded upon. Additional time would need to be booked as a separate activity.

Can I Purchase Additional Souvenirs or Gifts During the Experience?

Yes, participants can purchase souvenirs and gifts during the reindeer sled ride experience. The tour includes opportunities to visit a Sami village, observe reindeer, and browse local handicrafts and artisanal products available for purchase.

What Is the Minimum Group Size Required for This Activity?

The minimum group size required for this activity is 1 person. It’s a small group experience limited to 8 participants, so there’s no minimum group size beyond a single person.

Sum Up

This reindeer sled ride in Kiruna’s countryside offers a truly immersive and memorable experience.

Participants can drive their own sled, hand-feed the reindeer, and learn about Sami culture in a small group setting.

With stunning natural landscapes, personalized insights, and the chance to connect with the Arctic environment, this adventure is a must-do for those seeking an authentic encounter with Sweden’s northern wonders.

You can check if your dates are available here: