Rovaniemi: Reindeer Farm, Berry Picking, and Fire-Making

Experiencing Lapland’s wild beauty through a guided tour that combines reindeer encounters, berry picking, and fire-making sounds like a quintessential Arctic adventure. While I haven’t personally tested this tour, detailed accounts and reviews paint a pretty vivid picture of what travelers can expect.

What we love about this experience is its authenticity—getting up close with gentle reindeer, foraging for wild berries in their natural habitat, and learning traditional fire-making techniques. Plus, the chance to relax around a campfire with grilled sausages and warm drinks makes the experience feel both rustic and cozy.

One consideration to keep in mind is the tour duration—around three hours, including transport—which is perfect for a half-day adventure but might be tight for those wanting a more in-depth wilderness immersion. This experience is ideally suited for nature lovers, families, and anyone seeking a relaxed yet engaging glimpse into Sami culture and Lapland’s natural landscape.

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Key Points

Authentic Reindeer Experience: Walk among reindeer, feed them, and learn about reindeer herding from local guides.
Practical Skills: Learn traditional fire-making using natural materials, a valuable skill in the Arctic environment.
Wild Berries: Forage for native berries like blueberries, lingonberries, and cloudberries—perfect for those who love foraging.
Relaxing Campfire: End your trip with grilled sausages and a warm drink, providing a cozy finish to the outdoor adventure.
Transport & Convenience: Includes transportation from Rovaniemi city, with options for pick-up beyond 10 km for an extra fee.
Family Friendly & Easy to Access: Suitable for all ages and stroller-friendly, making it a versatile choice for many travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

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Starting Point & Transportation

The tour kicks off with a convenient pickup from your Rovaniemi accommodation, which is a real plus for travelers wanting a hassle-free start. The transportation is provided to a private reindeer farm located in Porovaara’s area, ensuring a more intimate experience away from crowded tourist spots. If you’re staying further than 10 km from Rovaniemi’s center, there’s an option to arrange pickup for an extra fee, calculated at approximately 2 euros per kilometer.

Reindeer Farm Visit

Walking among reindeer on a private farm is a highlight. Visitors describe the reindeer as “gentle Arctic animals” that are surprisingly calm and approachable. Guides, such as staff from Porovaara “Reindeer Hill,” share insights into reindeer herding traditions, which adds a layer of cultural understanding. Several reviews mention that you get close enough to feed the reindeer, allowing for a memorable, tactile experience.

The reindeer encounter is not just about petting; it’s an educational session that explains their significance in Sami culture and daily life. Expect to learn about their care, the challenges of herding, and how reindeer are adapted to the Arctic environment. The fact that this is a private farm means fewer crowds and more personal interaction, which many guests found particularly satisfying.

Berry Picking in Pristine Forests

Depending on the season, guests have the opportunity to pick wild berries such as blueberries, lingonberries, and cloudberries. The guides lead you into the forest, where you’ll experience what is often called forest therapy—a calming, mindful walk amidst towering trees and quiet wilderness. Reviewers mention how peaceful and restorative the berry-picking experience feels, with one noting, “It’s like nature’s pharmacy, and it’s surprisingly easy to gather enough berries to feel like you’ve accomplished something.”

For those who love foraging, this part of the tour is a real treat. It offers more than just picking berries; it’s an opportunity to connect with the land, learn about native flora, and appreciate the ecosystem’s abundance. Plus, the fresh berries can be enjoyed immediately or taken home as a souvenir of your Arctic adventure.

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Fire-Making Workshop

The fire-making session is a practical skill that feels both satisfying and empowering. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, you’ll learn how to ignite a fire using natural materials—a traditional skill that’s especially relevant in the Arctic climate.

Several reviews highlight that this part of the tour is more than just demonstration; guests get hands-on practice. One guest shared, “I never knew I could make fire with just a few sticks and some patience,” emphasizing the value of this skill. Afterward, everyone gathers around the campfire for a cozy interlude.

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Enjoying the Campfire

The final part of the experience is relaxing by the campfire, where grilled sausages and warm drinks await. This convivial setting allows guests to unwind, share stories, and absorb the tranquility of Lapland’s wilderness. Reviewers consistently mention the delight of the hot drinks and tasty sausages, which provide a satisfying end to the outdoor activities.

Duration & Flexibility

The entire tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including transport time. This makes it perfect for those wanting a half-day experience without feeling rushed. The flexible pickup options are a bonus; however, travelers outside the 10 km radius will need to pay an extra fee, which is reasonable given the convenience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Cultural Insights

Unlike more commercial Santa-themed activities, this tour offers genuine insights into Sami culture and traditional practices. Learning about reindeer herding from local guides provides a window into Sami life, far from touristy clichés.

Connection with Nature

The focus on forest therapy, wild foraging, and outdoor skills offers a grounding experience. Guests often comment on how peaceful and refreshing this connection with nature feels—an antidote to modern stress.

Practical Skills & Fun

Making fire with natural materials isn’t just a lesson—it’s a fun challenge that gives a real sense of achievement. Plus, the berry picking feels both playful and rewarding, especially for those who enjoy foraging or want to taste the berries they collect.

Value for Money

At $199 per person, the tour covers transportation, guided visits, hands-on activities, and a cozy campfire meal. For those interested in authentic, immersive Arctic experiences, the price aligns well with the value offered.

Accessibility & Family-Friendly Nature

The tour is stroller-friendly and suitable for all ages, making it a fantastic option for families with kids or older travelers, provided they’re comfortable walking and outdoor conditions.

Practical Tips & Considerations

Dress warmly: Weather in Lapland can change rapidly, so wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes.
Bring your camera: The scenery, reindeer, and forest surroundings are photogenic and worth capturing.
Plan for extra pick-up fees: If your accommodation is beyond 10 km from Rovaniemi city center, budget for an additional fee.
Timing matters: Depending on the season, berry picking might be limited, so check the best times to visit for this activity.
Group size: The experience seems to work best with at least two paying guests, but it is generally suitable for small groups.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Lapland’s natural and cultural landscape. You’ll walk away with new skills, authentic stories, and a deeper appreciation for the land and its indigenous traditions. It’s especially suited for travelers seeking a hands-on, relaxed outdoor activity that combines cultural learning with the beauty of the Arctic.

If you’re looking for an experience that balances nature, culture, and practicality—all at a reasonable price—this tour from Porovaara “Reindeer Hill” hits the mark. It’s perfect for those who want to step away from busy tourist spots and enjoy the quiet, restorative power of Lapland’s wilderness.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation to and from Porovaara’s private area is included, making for a smooth start and finish.

Can I join if I’m staying outside Rovaniemi city center?
Pick-ups beyond 10 km from the city center are possible for an extra fee of about 2 euros per km, payable to the guide.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. The experience is stroller-friendly and suitable for all ages, making it a good family activity.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended to stay warm and dry during outdoor activities.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts around 3 hours, including transport time.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, reindeer farm visit, berry picking, forest therapy, fire-making lesson, and a campfire with grilled sausages and warm drinks.

Are there any language restrictions?
Guides speak English and Finnish, ensuring clear communication during the activities.

Do I need to bring anything extra?
Just your camera and any personal items needed for comfort in cold weather.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning options.

To sum it up, this reindeer, berries, and fire experience is a wonderful way to get a true taste of Lapland’s outdoors and Sami traditions. Whether you’re after a family-friendly activity, cultural insight, or a peaceful nature break, it offers a meaningful and manageable adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: