Daylight with the Herd: A Sami Reindeer Sleigh Ride in Jukkasjärvi
A three-hour daylight sleigh ride and cultural exchange with Sami reindeer herders
When the sun hangs low and wide across the Arctic sky, the world simplifies into a palette of blue and white and the steady rhythm of runners on snow. You sit low in a wooden sleigh, bundled against a wind that smells faintly of pine and metal, and the reindeer ahead pick their feet with an easy, practiced gait. Their harnesses jingle like small bells; their breath clouds in the cold and then dissolves into the pale light. For three hours in Jukkasjärvi, the wilderness has a deliberate, human pace — and you are invited into it.
Trail Wisdom
Layer smart
Use moisture-wicking base layers, an insulating midlayer, and a windproof outer shell — temperatures can be well below freezing.
Protect batteries
Keep camera and phone batteries warm in an inner pocket and bring spares; cold drains power fast.
Respect animal space
Ask guides before touching reindeer and follow instructions to avoid spooking the herd.
Bring a thermos
A hot drink during the stop keeps core temperature up and makes the outing more comfortable.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Short walk to the old Jukkasjärvi church and cemetery with historic Sami graves
- •A quiet Torne River viewpoint a short drive from the meeting point for serene winter photography
Wildlife
Reindeer, Various winter birds such as ptarmigan
Conservation Note
Respect grazing lands and follow guides; avoid disturbing reindeer and pack out all trash to support fragile Arctic ecosystems.
Jukkasjärvi has long been a seasonal center for Sami herding and is also home to the Icehotel, first constructed in 1989 from Torne River ice.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Longer daylight, Mild winter temperatures
Challenges: Thawing ice patches, Slushy trails
Late winter into spring offers more daylight and slightly warmer temps, but expect changing snow conditions and variable ice.
summer
Best for: Not applicable for sleigh rides, Midnight sun experiences
Challenges: No snow for sleighs, Different activities replace sleighing
Summer is not suitable for sleigh rides; the reindeer experience switches to summertime herding insights and hikes.
fall
Best for: Autumn colors, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Unstable early snow, Cooler nights
Early fall can be scenic, but sleigh operations depend on reliable snow — bookings are more common as winter approaches.
winter
Best for: Sleigh rides, Snow-covered landscapes, Cultural winter activities
Challenges: Extreme cold, Short daylight hours early/late season
Winter is the optimal season for sleigh rides with stable snow and full winter operations; dress for Arctic cold.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Insulated winter bootsEssential
Waterproof, warm boots keep your feet dry and stable when approaching sleigh and standing for photos.
Thermal base layersEssential
Layering traps heat and wicks moisture during prolonged exposure to Arctic cold.
Spare camera batteriesEssential
Cold drains batteries quickly; keep spares warm in inner pockets to extend shooting time.
Windproof outer shell
A shell cuts wind chill during open sleigh segments and when stopped for photos.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The Sami day tour adventure runs approximately three hours in total, including sleigh time and an on-site cultural introduction.
Do I need prior experience with animals?
No prior experience is required; guides provide instructions and handle the animals for safety and authenticity.
What should I wear?
Dress in layers: thermal base, insulating midlayer, warm socks, insulated boots, hat and gloves; bring a windproof outer layer.
Is this suitable for children?
Yes — the tour is family-friendly, but children should be supervised and dressed warmly for Arctic conditions.
Will I be able to photograph the reindeer?
Yes — tours include time for photos; follow guide directions for safe positioning and animal welfare.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes — this experience is popular in winter and often sells out; booking ahead is recommended.
What to Pack
Insulated boots, thermal layers, spare camera batteries, windproof jacket — for warmth, dryness, extra power and wind protection
Did You Know
The Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi was founded in 1989 and is rebuilt each winter from ice harvested from the Torne River.
Quick Travel Tips
Fly into Kiruna Airport (KRN); book the tour in advance; expect limited cell service in the backcountry; carry local currency for small purchases
Local Flavor
After the sleigh ride, head to the Icehotel Restaurant or a local café in Jukkasjärvi or Kiruna for reindeer stew, cloudberry desserts and strong coffee — many guides recommend a meal with locals to round out the cultural exchange.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Kiruna Airport (KRN) / Meeting point: Jukkasjärvi village (often near the Icehotel) / Driving from Kiruna: ~17–20 km / Cell service: Variable; good near towns, spotty in fields / Permits: None, but follow guide directions and local grazing rules
Sustainability Note
Support local Sami livelihoods by following guides’ instructions, avoiding feeding or harassing reindeer, packing out all waste, and choosing operators who prioritize animal welfare.