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Sweden - Reindeer sledding in Sweden

by News from the Wires

If you're looking for proper outdoor adventure, then reindeer sledding is an exciting and unusual alternative to dog sledding - and this tour is steeped in the traditions of the Sámi people.

The Sámi Reindeer Expedition in Lapland is a six-day experience led by a local Sámi guide, driving your own reindeer sled through the magical winter landscape of Swedish Lapland in the far north of Sweden, deep inside the Arctic Circle.

This is the land of the Sámi, the indigenous people of the region. Along the way you'll get to know the Sámi people, their culture and the animals of this wonderful area.

In particular, you will develop a very special relationship with the reindeer, a noble animal that is the most well-known symbol of Sámi culture.

A reindeer sledding tour in Lapland offers you good chances to see the spectacular Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). Deep in the wilderness, far away from areas of light pollution, this is one of the best locations to see the Northern Lights in Sweden.

If conditions are suitable, the sky is illuminated with shifting curtains of colour - a truly magical experience!

On your journey through the quiet winter world of Lapland, you will be seduced by the silence and the grandeur of the surroundings, where all you will hear is the crunching of the sled as it glides over the white powdery snow.

The journey will take you along old Sámi tracks through snow-clad forests of pine and fir trees. During your experience you will sleep in Sámi Lavvus (teepees) and wilderness camps, and dine around the open fire. Along the way you will have the opportunity to go snowshoeing and try your hand at ice-fishing on the frozen lakes!

The expedition is guided by reindeer herders who are experts on Lapland, and whose families have been working with the reindeer for generations.

While in the 21st century, the Sámi people may rely more on snowmobiles than reindeer for their winter transport needs, reindeer nevertheless remain absolutely central to Sámi daily life, and reindeer sleds have been used by the Sámi herders for thousands of years.

Your guides' homestead is located in the small village of Jukkasjärvi, on the edge of the wilderness. Jukkasjärvi is also the home of the renowned ICEHOTEL, and if you wish you can choose to extend your experience with a stay here.

Experience the tranquillity and splendour of this region, a perfect adventure for those who want to be close to the wilderness.

You will care for your own team of reindeer and learn to handle your own sled on your journey of discovery across the mountains and through the forests of Swedish Lapland.