Sleigh Bells and Sky Fire: Chasing the Aurora with Reindeer in Jukkasjärvi
Three hours with reindeer beneath the auroral ceiling—intimate, cultural, and utterly Lapland.
There is a moment in deep Lapland when the world seems to hold its breath. The sky unspools a curtain of green and violet, and beneath that living ceiling the forest becomes a silhouette theatre—trees reaching like black hands, the snow a soft, soundless stage. You sit wrapped in furs on a wooden sleigh, the reindeer exhaling tiny clouds of steam, and the only movement that matters is the slow, steady hoofbeat that carries you away from light and toward the vast, electric night. This is Jukkasjärvi—an Arctic hamlet that doubles as a doorway to the aurora and a place where reindeer are not just scenery but partners in travel.
Trail Wisdom
Layer for Arctic Nights
Dress in insulating layers, including a windproof outer shell and insulated boots; temperatures can plummet after sunset.
Protect Camera Batteries
Carry spare batteries in an inner pocket to keep them warm; cold rapidly drains power during long exposure shots.
Respect Reindeer Space
Follow guide instructions when approaching animals—avoid feeding or loud movements to keep stress low for the herd.
Book for Clear Nights
Choose dates with flexible scheduling to improve chances of a clear-sky aurora display.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the frozen banks of the Torne River at twilight for quiet aurora views
- •Visit a local Sámi camp or cultural center to learn reindeer-herding practices
Wildlife
Reindeer, Arctic fox (rare)
Conservation Note
Operators work with local herders and follow guidelines to minimize disturbance to reindeer and their grazing areas; visitors should avoid straying from established routes.
Jukkasjärvi has been a Sámi reindeer-herding region for centuries and is home to the Icehotel tradition, which blends local materials with contemporary design.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Longer daylight, Snowy landscapes, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Unstable melt conditions, Variable temperatures
Late winter-into-spring offers more daylight and quieter trails, but melting snow can change route conditions and visibility.
summer
Best for: Midnight sun adventures, Hiking and river activities
Challenges: No auroras, Reindeer calves and different herd patterns
Summer in Lapland is vibrant but unsuitable for aurora tours; this activity is primarily a winter pursuit.
fall
Best for: Early aurora season, Crisp skies, Quiet trails
Challenges: Unpredictable weather, Shorter nights
Autumn can bring strong auroral displays, though nights are shorter and weather less predictable than deep winter.
winter
Best for: Aurora viewing, Sleigh rides, Snow-covered scenery
Challenges: Extreme cold, Limited daylight
Winter is peak season for aurora tours and sleigh rides—long nights and stable cold increase visibility but require proper gear.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Insulated Winter BootsEssential
Keeps feet warm and dry during prolonged exposure to snow and cold.
Thermal Base LayersEssential
Traps body heat and wicks moisture during cold nights.
Tripod and Spare BatteriesEssential
Stabilizes long-exposure aurora shots and ensures your camera keeps working in the cold.
Windproof Shell and GlovesEssential
Protects against wind chill while riding open sleighs.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The experience runs about three hours from start to finish, including sleigh time, stops for photos, and warm drinks.
Will I be warm on the sleigh?
Operators provide blankets and hot beverages, but guests should wear proper insulated layers, boots, and face protection.
Are the reindeer tame?
Yes, the reindeer used for these tours are accustomed to human contact and guided by experienced handlers, but interaction should follow guide directions.
Can I photograph the aurora from the sleigh?
Absolutely; bring a tripod and spare batteries. Guides will help position the sleigh for good vistas when possible.
Is the tour child-friendly?
Generally yes; children who can sit safely in a sleigh and tolerate cold weather are welcome—check operator age and safety policies before booking.
Do I need prior experience with reindeer or sleighs?
No prior experience is required. Guides provide instruction and handle animal management throughout the tour.
What to Pack
Thermal base layers, insulated boots, tripod and spare batteries, windproof outer layer—each protects from cold and helps capture the aurora
Did You Know
The Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, the world’s first, was founded in 1989 and is rebuilt each winter using ice harvested from the Torne River.
Quick Travel Tips
Fly into Kiruna Airport (KRN); plan 20–30 minute transfer to Jukkasjärvi; expect spotty cell service in deep forest; book aurora tours with flexible dates for clear-sky windows
Local Flavor
After the ride, warm up with traditional Sámi dishes such as suovas (smoked reindeer) or a reindeer stew at a local lodge; the Icehotel’s restaurant and nearby cafés offer Arctic cuisine and craft beers—look for operators and eateries run by local Sámi entrepreneurs to support the community.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Kiruna Airport (KRN); Driving distance: ~17–20 km from Kiruna to Jukkasjärvi; Cell service: generally available near town and lodges but limited on forest tracks; Permits: none typically required for guided sleigh tours—book in advance, especially in peak winter months.
Sustainability Note
Respect reindeer and herding lands: do not feed animals, stay on guided routes, and support operators who employ local Sámi staff and practice low-impact touring.