Aurora Hunting with Reindeer

Taking part in the Aurora Hunting with Reindeer tour in Lapland offers a chance to witness the Northern Lights in a genuine Arctic setting, far from city lights and noise. This experience combines the thrill of spotting the Aurora Borealis with the charm of reindeer and Sámi traditions, making it a well-rounded activity for those seeking an authentic taste of Lapland’s wilderness.

What really draws us in are the intimate small-group size, the opportunity to meet reindeer face-to-face, and the cozy warmth of a traditional Sámi hut. Plus, riding in a snowmobile-pulled sleigh over pristine snow provides an exhilarating and peaceful journey through untouched nature.

One thing to keep in mind is that this outdoor experience requires warm clothing and shoes, especially since the activity operates in temperatures as low as -25°C. It’s not suitable for very young children or individuals with certain mobility or allergy considerations, but for most travelers, it offers a genuine Arctic adventure.

This tour is ideal for anyone interested in authentic local culture, wildlife encounters, and breathtaking natural displays like the Northern Lights. Whether you’re a seasoned winter traveler or seeking a memorable Arctic experience, this tour balances fun, education, and comfort.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Combines Northern Lights hunting with reindeer encounters and Sámi culture.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, offering a more personalized adventure.
• All-Inclusive Comforts: Hot drinks, reindeer soup, and warm gear help you stay cozy.
• Adventure and Education: Learn about reindeer herding and Arctic wildlife.
• Transportation Included: From Ivalo area, via snowmobile, to the wilderness edge.
• Timing Flexibility: Check availability for preferred start times, with a duration of about 2 hours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Introduction and Pickup

The tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation or an agreed location in the Ivalo area. We appreciated how smoothly the process was, with friendly staff guiding us through the initial steps. Once at the tour office, you’ll be provided with high-quality snowmobile gear — essential for staying warm and comfortable during the ride. If you don’t have thermal clothes or suitable shoes, the option to rent gear is available if you arrange in advance.

Snowmobile and Sleigh Ride into the Wilderness

The highlight of the journey is riding in a snowmobile-pulled sleigh toward the edge of the Hammastunturi Wilderness Area. The experience of sitting comfortably in the sleigh, gliding over snow, and soaking in the silence of the Arctic is truly special. We loved the way the snowmobile’s engine hummed softly in the background, blending with the pristine stillness of the wilderness.

The guide points out interesting sights along the way and keeps a keen eye on the sky for the Aurora Borealis. The ride itself is relatively gentle and suitable even for those who aren’t seasoned snowmobile riders, as most of the effort is on the part of the guide.

Aurora Hunting and Scenic Stops

Once at the reindeer fence, you’ll get a chance to observe the Northern Lights if the conditions are right. The guide emphasizes patience because the Aurora is a natural phenomenon; sometimes, it appears quickly, and other times, it takes patience. Many reviews note that the guides are skilled at reading the sky and will do their best to position you where the light show can be best seen.

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Cozy Sámi Hut and Reindeer Encounters

After a period of Aurora viewing, the group heads to a traditional Sámi hut near the reindeer fence. Inside, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, contrasting sharply with the frosty outdoors. Here, you’ll be served a homemade creamy reindeer meat soup, a highlight according to many travelers who appreciated the authentic, hearty flavors. The soup is served with fresh water, hot berry juice, or hot chocolate — perfect for warming up after the outdoor activities.

Meeting the reindeer is a memorable part of the tour. The owners are knowledgeable about reindeer husbandry and are happy to answer questions. Guests often describe the reindeer as gentle and curious, and the experience of feeding and petting them adds a meaningful connection to the local way of life.

Return Journey and Final Reflections

After some time in the hut, the guide arranges transportation back to your original pickup point. The entire experience lasts around 2 hours, making it a manageable activity even for those with limited time in Lapland.

Travelers have commented positively on the small group size, which fosters a more intimate atmosphere and allows for better interaction with guides and reindeer. The experience feels genuine rather than overly commercialized, which is a big plus for those seeking authentic Arctic encounters.

Practical Details and Value

The tour includes transportation from Ivalo, warm hot drinks, reindeer soup, and the chance to meet reindeer. The small group size (max 8 participants) means you’ll get more personalized attention, making it easier to ask questions and learn about the local culture.

While the inclusion of snowmobile gear is helpful, note that your own thermal clothing and shoes are essential, especially given the temperature limit of -25°C. The option to rent clothing is available, but booking in advance is recommended to ensure availability, especially during peak times.

The tour is priced to reflect its all-inclusive nature, with added value in the cozy hut, authentic reindeer interaction, and the chance to see the Aurora Borealis in a natural setting. For travelers seeking a comprehensive, well-organized Arctic adventure, this experience offers a balance of excitement, education, and culture.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity is best suited for travelers who love outdoor winter activities and want more than just a fleeting glimpse of the Northern Lights. It’s ideal for those interested in reindeer culture, learning about Sámi traditions, and enjoying a peaceful, authentic Arctic environment.

Because it’s designed for small groups and includes personalized elements, it’s also a great choice for couples or families with older children (over 4 years old). However, it’s not suitable for children under 4, wheelchair users, or anyone with allergies to animals. The outdoor nature and cold temperatures mean it’s best for those prepared for winter conditions.

FAQ

What should I bring for this tour?
You’ll need to bring warm clothing, sturdy shoes, and thermal layers. If you don’t have suitable gear, you can rent clothes through the tour provider if you contact them in advance.

Is the Aurora guaranteed?
No, because the Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon, but the guide will do their best to find a clear sky. Patience and a bit of luck are both key.

How long does the whole experience last?
The entire tour takes about 2 hours from pickup to drop-off, making it a manageable activity even for those with limited time.

Can I participate if I don’t have snowmobile experience?
Absolutely. The sleigh ride is pulled by a snowmobile, and most of the effort is on the guide’s part, so it’s suitable even for beginners.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, hot berry juice or hot chocolate, along with the homemade reindeer soup, are part of the experience.

Is this activity suitable for children?
It’s suitable for children over 4 years old, but not for younger kids or those with mobility issues. The outdoor and cold conditions require proper preparation.

This tour offers a genuine peek into Arctic life, combining stunning natural displays with cultural insights and warm hospitality. It’s perfect for travelers eager to experience Lapland’s wilderness, reindeer traditions, and the elusive Northern Lights, all wrapped into one memorable journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: