Rovaniemi: Walk with Reindeer

Travelers seeking an authentic taste of Lapland’s legendary wildlife and pristine Arctic air will find the Walk with Reindeer tour at Apukka Resort offers a memorable, meaningful experience. This tour promises more than just a walk — it’s an introduction to reindeer husbandry, Lappish traditions, and the serene beauty of Lapland’s wilderness all wrapped into one.

What makes this experience stand out? For starters, you’ll spend 2 kilometers walking alongside curious, friendly reindeer. The guides are exceptionally knowledgeable, sharing stories that go beyond surface facts and truly deepen your appreciation for these iconic animals. Add in the chance to enjoy a warm cup of black pot coffee by a crackling fire and learn about reindeer herding from a seasoned herder — and you’ve got a balanced blend of nature, culture, and comfort.

A few considerations include the fact that this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and you’ll need to bring appropriate outdoor clothing to stay warm. The overall pace is relaxed and respectful to the animals, making it suitable for travelers looking for an engaging, authentic experience rather than a high-energy adventure.

This tour is a perfect fit for those who love animals, are curious about indigenous traditions, and want an experience that’s both educational and scenic. It’s ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups wanting to enjoy Lapland’s quiet charm in a friendly, well-organized setting.

Key Points

• Authentic reindeer encounter with friendly, curious animals.
• Insightful stories about reindeer husbandry from seasoned guides.
• Scenic 2 km walk through Arctic nature, perfect for photography.
• Warm beverages (black pot coffee) enjoyed in cozy surroundings.
• Flexible booking options with pay later and cancellation up to 24 hours before.
• Transport included from Rovaniemi or Santa Claus Village, making logistics easy.
• Respectful animal interaction emphasizing calmness and patience.
• Limited suitability for wheelchair users — check your clothing needs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Reindeer Walk Tour

The Meeting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village, depending on your accommodation location. The provided transfers make it straightforward for travelers who prefer not to navigate Arctic roads themselves. Once at Apukka Resort, you’ll be greeted by your guide, ready to introduce you to the reindeer and the experience ahead.

The Reindeer Enclosure and First Impressions

When you arrive at the fenced reindeer area, you’ll meet animals that are used to human interaction but still retain their wild, curious nature. According to reviews, the reindeer are friendly and eager to explore, which makes for excellent photo opportunities and a relaxed atmosphere. Travelers have noted that the reindeer love to sniff and investigate, adding a playful, interactive element to the walk.

Walking with Reindeer — The Itinerary

Your guide will open the gate, and you’ll step into the Arctic woods. The 2 km walk is leisurely, allowing plenty of time to appreciate the landscape and observe the reindeer in their natural environment. The guide, often a seasoned herder, shares stories about reindeer husbandry, including how reindeer scrape bark from trees to shed antlers and their role in Sami culture.

A reviewer, Rose, mentioned that this approach allowed her to spend more quality time with the reindeer than traditional farm visits. She also highlighted the better photo opportunities when walking with the animals rather than observing them from a distance.

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The Fire and Coffee Break

Midway through the walk, the group stops at a cozy hut, where you can sit by a fire and enjoy hot coffee or hot chocolate. This pause offers a chance to chat with your guide, ask questions, or simply soak in the peaceful surroundings. Reviewers appreciated this authentic moment, describing it as a warm, welcoming break in the snowy wilderness.

The Learning Experience

Guides are praised for their knowledgeable storytelling. They provide insights into reindeer herding, Sami traditions, and the animals’ behaviors, making the walk both educational and engaging. For instance, one reviewer noted that the guide pointed out bark on trees where reindeer scrape their antlers, a detail that added depth to her understanding of reindeer habits.

Post-Tour Relaxation

After the walk, many travelers choose to stay at Apukka Resort for lunch or a walk around the lake. The resort’s facilities are described as beautiful and well-maintained, with staff who are friendly and accommodating. The experience feels authentic and personal, with the option to extend your Arctic adventure with other activities.

Value for Money and Additional Details

At $116 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the inclusions: the 2 km walk, access to friendly reindeer, a guide who shares expert stories, and the warm coffee break. The small group setting, combined with the transfer service, makes it a hassle-free option for travelers who want an authentic, relaxed experience without hidden costs.

The tour is designed to be flexible — you can reserve your spot and pay later, which provides peace of mind when planning your trip. Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance, adding further convenience.

Notable Aspects

• Duration: While the precise length isn’t specified, expect a few hours including transport, the walk, and the break.
• Guide Language: English-speaking guides are available, ensuring clear communication.
• Group Size: The reviews suggest small, intimate groups that foster a relaxed, personal atmosphere.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users, so consider this if mobility is a concern.
• Clothing: Travelers should dress warmly, as you’ll be outdoors in Arctic conditions.

Why You’ll Love This Experience

This tour offers a genuine connection to Lapland’s iconic reindeer, far from commercialized tourist traps. The guide’s knowledgeable storytelling reveals cultural insights that you won’t find in guidebooks, enhancing your understanding of reindeer herding and Sami traditions.

The scenic walk through snow-dusted woods is both calming and photogenic, ideal for anyone wanting to combine nature and wildlife. The cozy stop with coffee adds a warm, social element, making it a memorable highlight.

For solo travelers or those with limited mobility, this activity is particularly accessible — apart from the physical space for wheelchairs — and the small group size fosters a friendly, inclusive atmosphere.

This tour balances authenticity, comfort, and education. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to connect with Lapland’s wildlife, learn about indigenous culture, and enjoy the Arctic’s pristine environment at a reasonable price.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, transfers are provided from Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village to Apukka Resort and back, making logistics smooth.

How long does the tour last?
While not explicitly stated, expect a few hours including pickup, the walk, and the coffee break.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in outdoor clothing suitable for Arctic temperatures, as the walk is outdoors in snowy conditions.

Are the reindeer friendly?
Yes, the reindeer are described as friendly and accustomed to human interaction, though they are still curious animals.

Can I book this experience last minute?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the tour has been praised for accommodating solo travelers, with no minimum group size required.

Are there any restrictions?
This activity is not suitable for wheelchair users, and all guests are asked to approach animals with respect and patience.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers a 2 km reindeer walk, a guide speaking English, stories about reindeer husbandry, a coffee break, and transfers if needed.

Can I bring snacks for the reindeer?
No, external snacks are not permitted, to protect the animals and ensure a safe environment.

Final Thoughts

The Walk with Reindeer tour at Apukka Resort offers a heartfelt, authentic peek into Lapland’s wildlife and culture. Its combination of a scenic forest walk, engaging storytelling, and a warm coffee break makes it a well-rounded experience for those seeking genuine connection and beautiful surroundings.

The guides’ depth of knowledge and friendly approach shine through in reviews, making this activity stand out as both educational and fun. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, you’ll appreciate the relaxed pace and personal touch.

While it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, the tour’s inclusiveness for most other travelers, plus the value of the experience, makes it a worthwhile addition to any Arctic itinerary. If you love animals, enjoy nature, or are curious about Sami traditions, this walk is more than just a sightseeing activity — it’s a chance to connect with Lapland in a meaningful way.

The Reindeer Walk at Apukka Resort offers a genuine, well-organized, and memorable way to experience the magic of Lapland’s wilderness. It’s perfect for those wanting a quiet, authentic adventure that respects the animals and immerses you in the Arctic’s tranquility.

You can check availability for your dates here: