Sami Reindeer Farm Excursions in Lapland

There are several Sami reindeer farms in northern Norway, Sweden, and Finland where you can meet the reindeer, learn about Sami culture, and even try reindeer sledding.

Here are a few popular options in Finnish, Swedish, and Norwegian Lapland:

Finnish Lapland

• Sirmakko Reindeer Farm (Levi) – Offers reindeer safaris, feeding experiences, and Sami culture insights.
• Jaakkola Reindeer Farm (Sodankylä) – A family-run farm with storytelling, sleigh rides, and local food tastings.
• Nellim Wilderness Hotel & Reindeer Farm (Inari) – Located near Lake Inari, offering personal reindeer encounters.

Swedish Lapland

• Nutti Sámi Siida (Jukkasjärvi, near Kiruna) – One of the best-known reindeer farms, offering interactive cultural experiences.
• Sápmi Nature Camp (Gällivare) – A small, eco-friendly camp with traditional Sami living experiences and reindeer encounters.

Norwegian Lapland

• Tromsø Arctic Reindeer (Tromsø) – Offers reindeer sledding, feeding, and Sami storytelling experiences in Northern Norway.
• Sami Siida (Alta) – A great place to learn about reindeer herding and Sami traditions.

A Sami reindeer farm excursion is an unforgettable experience that combines nature, culture, and adventure. Here’s what a typical visit might include:

Arrival at the Reindeer Farm

You’ll be greeted by Sami hosts, often dressed in traditional gákti clothing. Many farms are in stunning Arctic landscapes—snow-covered forests in winter or vast green tundra in summer.

Meeting & Feeding the Reindeer

You’ll get up close with the reindeer, feed them lichen (their favorite treat), and learn about their role in Sami culture. Some farms allow you to walk among them in a large enclosed area.

Reindeer Sleigh Ride (Winter Only)

You can experience a traditional reindeer sleigh ride in winter, often following an ancient Sami trade route. The ride is peaceful and slow, giving you time to enjoy the snowy scenery. Some excursions even offer longer rides through the wilderness.

Sami Culture & Storytelling

After the outdoor activities, you’ll gather inside a lavvu (a traditional Sami tent) or a cozy wooden lodge. Around a warm fire, your Sami hosts will share stories about their history, traditions, and the challenges of modern reindeer herding.

Traditional Sami Meal

Many excursions include a meal featuring local delicacies like reindeer stew (poronkäristys), Arctic fish, or cloudberry desserts. Warm berry juice or coffee is often served by the fire.

Joik Singing & Handicrafts

Some farms also showcase Sami music, called joik, a hauntingly beautiful form of singing. You may also have the chance to see or purchase handmade Sami crafts like duodji (traditional knives, jewelry, and clothing).

Northern Lights (Winter Evening Excursions)

If you visit in winter and book an evening excursion, you might get lucky and see the Northern Lights dancing above the farm—an incredible way to end the experience!