Rovaniemi: Early Winter Reindeer Sleigh Ride 1-2 km

Planning a trip to Rovaniemi and curious about what a reindeer sleigh ride really entails? This tour, offered by Apukka Resort, promises an authentic Arctic adventure that transports you back to the old ways of Lapland. It’s a gentle, scenic journey into the heart of Lappish nature — perfect for those seeking a peaceful, cultural experience rather than adrenaline-pumping activities.

What we love about this tour is how it combines tranquility, cultural insight, and comfort. First, the ride itself feels incredibly authentic, guided by seasoned reindeer herders. Second, the stories about reindeer husbandry deepen your appreciation for this ancient livelihood. Lastly, the cozy fire with hot drinks at the end offers a lovely contrast to the icy wilderness. That said, it’s a fairly short ride—just 1-2 km—so if you’re after a longer or more adventurous sleigh, this might not be your only option. This tour suits travelers who value authentic experiences, cultural learning, and a relaxed pace, especially those who want a taste of traditional Lapland life.

Key Points

• Authentic Reindeer Experience: Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll learn about reindeer husbandry firsthand.
• Scenic Winter Trails: Enjoy a peaceful 1-2 km ride through snowy landscapes with stored snow from previous winters.
• Cultural Insights: Gain a deeper understanding of the Lappish way of life, not just a tourist attraction.
• Comfort & Convenience: Warm winter clothing, transfers, and a hot drink make it accessible and hassle-free.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with gentle pacing and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Limited Duration: The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours, perfect for fitting into a busy itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Genuine Look at the Reindeer Sleigh Ride Experience

What to Expect from the Tour

From the moment you’re picked up from either Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village, the anticipation builds. The transportation is organized, with pickups confirmed via email, and you’re whisked off to Apukka Resort, where the magic begins. The drive itself offers a scenic preview of the snowy landscape, setting the mood for what’s to come.

Once at the reindeer farm — just a few minutes’ walk from the main resort — you’ll be greeted by friendly guides and reindeer handlers. Before the ride, there’s a brief introduction about reindeer husbandry, highlighting its importance to the local Sami culture. You’ll learn how reindeer are cared for, trained, and why they’ve been vital for survival in this harsh environment for centuries.

Preparing for the Ride

The tour includes thermal overalls, boots, woolen socks, and mittens, so you can bundle up without worry. Proper winter clothing is crucial, given the outdoor nature of the activity. The guides, always attentive, ensure everyone gets suited up comfortably. This detail, appreciated by reviewers, makes the experience enjoyable even in sub-zero temperatures.

The Sleigh Ride Itself

The sleighs hold 1-2 people comfortably, with the reindeer pulling at a gentle pace along snow-covered trails. As one reviewer pointed out, the ride is taken at a “leisurely walking pace,” perfect for relaxing and soaking in the scenery. The guides walk alongside, steering the sleighs and sharing stories about reindeer life, Sami traditions, and the Arctic environment.

The gentle sounds of reindeer hooves and the soft rustle of snow make the experience peaceful. It’s a departure from the high-adrenaline activities often associated with winter travel, favoring instead a calming connection with nature.

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Post-Ride Reflection and Warmth

After the ride, you’ll gather around an open fire, a cozy spot to warm your hands and feet. You can sip a hot drink—likely tea, coffee, or perhaps a traditional Finnish berry juice—while listening to stories from your guides. Several reviews note how this part of the tour creates a “warm and welcoming atmosphere,” giving you a chance to ask questions and learn more about Sami culture.

Additional Details and Insights

One common theme among reviewers is how the guides go beyond just leading the sleigh. They’re eager to share personal stories and their passion for reindeer husbandry, which enriches the experience. This genuine enthusiasm helps deepen the connection to the land and its people.

The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, including transportation, preparation, the ride, and thefire-side stories. This makes it an ideal choice for those with limited time or looking for a relaxed, meaningful Arctic activity.

Value and Considerations

Is It Worth the Price?

While the tour isn’t the cheapest activity you’ll find in Rovaniemi, it delivers good value, especially considering the cultural education, included gear, and transfers. The experience is intimate, capped at small groups, which means you’ll get personalized attention. The inclusion of hot drinks and winter clothing also minimizes additional costs or worries about dressing appropriately.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for an authentic, gentle experience in Lapland. It’s also well-suited for those curious about Sami culture and reindeer husbandry. If your idea of fun involves fast-paced adventures or long sleigh rides, you might find this a bit too mellow.

Practical Tips

• Dress warmly: The tour provides thermal clothing, but layering is always wise, especially on windy days.
• Book early: Availability varies, and the tour is popular, especially during peak winter months.
• Check pickup times: Confirm your pickup point and time to avoid missing the transfer, as refunds aren’t offered if you miss it.
• Bring a camera: The snowy landscapes and reindeer are photogenic, but be mindful of the cold.

Final Thoughts

This reindeer sleigh ride is a charming way to connect with Lapland’s traditional way of life. It offers a peaceful, scenic journey into the winter wilderness, guided by knowledgeable locals eager to share their culture. The experience strikes a balance between authenticity and comfort, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of travelers.

Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly activity or a quiet moment of reflection amid snowy forests, this tour delivers a genuine taste of Arctic life. It isn’t the longest or most adrenaline-filled activity, but for those craving a meaningful and picturesque encounter with Lapland’s heritage, it hits the mark.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a 1-2 km reindeer sleigh ride, guiding and storytelling about reindeer husbandry, a hot drink, winter clothing (thermal overall, boots, socks, mittens), and transfers if needed.

How long does the experience last?
The entire activity takes about 1.5 hours, including transportation, preparation, the ride, and the fireside stories.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transfers from Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village are included, with pickup times confirmed via email.

What should I wear?
Warm, weather-appropriate clothing — the tour provides thermal overalls, boots, and mittens, but layering with hats and scarves is recommended.

Can children participate?
Yes, the experience is family-friendly and suitable for all ages, provided everyone is dressed warmly.

What is the pace of the ride?
The sleighs are pulled at a leisurely walking pace, making it comfortable for all participants, including those not used to outdoor activities.

Are the reindeer tame and gentle?
Though not explicitly stated, reviews suggest the reindeer are well-trained and accustomed to visitors, contributing to the calm, peaceful atmosphere.

Is this experience suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Solo travelers will enjoy the intimacy, cultural insights, and the chance to meet others during the fireside chat.

This tour offers a genuine, relaxing peek into Lapland’s reindeer herding tradition, blending scenic beauty with cultural storytelling — a memorable addition to any Arctic adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: