Reindeer experience – A local family home visit

Meet reindeer up close during a personal home visit with a local family near Kirkenes. Feed them by hand, join them for a walk, and warm up by the campfire with stories about reindeer herding — with a chance of reindeer sledding.

Price from

2,000 NOK

2,000 NOK

per adult

Season

December - March

Duration

2 hours

Starting time

16:30 and 19:00

Group size

2 - 6 people

Fitness level

Easy

Languages

English & Norwegian

Tour highlights

  • Hosted by a local family in Kirkenes — a genuine home-visit experience
  • Hands-on interaction with reindeer: feeding, walking, and learning about their lives
  • Learn about reindeer herding traditions and everyday Arctic life by a cozy campfire
  • Try throwing a traditional reindeer herder’s lasso
  • Rare chance of reindeer sledding in the Kirkenes region (depends on the reindeer’s mood)
  • Ethically operated and off the beaten path
  • Calm, intimate experience ideal for families and culturally curious travellers

What to expect?

Together with a local family here in Kirkenes, Maiken and Kimmo, we have created a personal reindeer experience, far away from mass tourism and rushed schedules.

Their reindeer usually roam freely in the Pasvik Valley, following the seasons and the natural rhythm of Arctic life. During this visit, you step into their world: meeting the reindeer, learning about their characteristics and fascinating qualities, feeding them by hand inside the yard, and joining them for a short walk.

Around a crackling campfire, you warm up with hot drinks while listening to stories about reindeer, local traditions, and life in Arctic Norway. You will also learn how to throw a traditional lasso, a skill used by reindeer herders for generations.

If conditions allow and Petter the reindeer is up for it, there may be an opportunity to try reindeer sledding. This is something truly unique in the Kirkenes area. Please note: It can never guaranteed. Here, the animals set the pace.

This experience is especially well suited for families with children, travellers seeking authentic encounters and local connections.

On clear evenings, there is also a chance to see the Northern Lights, though this natural phenomenon can never be guaranteed.

Is this tour suitable for me?

Great for families with children — no physical fitness required. The tour involves minimal walking, and activities like feeding and walking the reindeer are gentle and adapted to all ages.

Good to know before you book

  • This tour typically runs Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Other days and times are available on request.
  • Reindeer sledding is optional and depends on the reindeer’s willingness. This is an ethically operated, animal-centred experience, and sledding is never guaranteed.
  • Dress warmly in winter layers, as this experience takes place outdoors.
  • The activities are suitable for children, making this a perfect family experience. Small children must be carried by a parent if they want to go inside the reindeer fence.
  • Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed.

What's included?

  • Pickup and drop-off in Kirkenes
  • English or Norwegian-speaking Guide (German-speaking Guide on request)
  • Campfire with hot drinks

Meeting point & pickup

We pick you up in Kirkenes, from your hotel or Airbnb — no need to arrange your own transport. You can select your pickup location during the booking process.

Pickup from the Snow Resort is not included and can be booked at 200 NOK per person.

What to bring?

  • Warm winter clothing (jacket, pants, hat, gloves)
  • Winter boots

Check availability for this tour

Questions about this tour?

Get in touch – we’ll help you find the right tour, sort out dates, or put together something that fits your time in Kirkenes. We get back to you quickly.

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