Apukka Reindeer Journey

Travelers curious about the Sami culture or seeking a peaceful, snowy escape will find the Apukka Reindeer Journey offers a charming glimpse into traditional Lapland life. This two-hour excursion combines a scenic reindeer-drawn sleigh ride with time to pet reindeer and warm up with hot drinks. It’s a good choice for those who want an authentic experience that’s simple yet memorable, especially if you’re interested in learning about the historic ways locals travel through the Arctic.

What makes this tour stand out is the chance to sit back and glide through snow-covered forests on a cozy, blanket-covered sleigh—a picture-perfect moment for many travelers. Plus, the opportunity to pet and photograph the reindeer both before and after the ride adds a personal touch that’s often missing from more commercialized activities.

A potential drawback is that the overall experience might feel somewhat basic or rushed, especially considering some reviews mention logistical hiccups or issues with timing. It’s not a multi-day adventure or a highly exclusive experience, so if you’re craving a more in-depth or boutique encounter, this might be only a starting point. Still, for those who appreciate straightforward, authentic activities with genuine cultural elements, this tour can be very rewarding.

It’s well-suited for travelers seeking a family-friendly, low-stress introduction to reindeer culture or those who want a peaceful, scenic outing in the Arctic wilderness. If you prefer highly intimate or small-scale experiences, note that this tour can accommodate up to 40 guests, making it more social and less private.

Key Points

• Authentic reindeer sleigh ride through snowy forests offers a traditional Arctic experience.
• Includes winter outerwear and blankets for warmth, plus hot drinks during a forest break.
• Round-trip transportation from central Rovaniemi simplifies logistics.
• Opportunities to pet and photograph reindeer enhance the personal connection.
• The experience is approx. 2 hours, making it a manageable addition to your day.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity offers flexibility.

The Itinerary and What To Expect

When you sign up for the Apukka Reindeer Journey, you’ll meet at the Apukka Resort Adventures, located at Tutkijantie 28 in Rovaniemi. From here, the journey begins with a comfortable transfer to the trailhead, where you’ll meet the reindeer and get suited up with winter gear—thermal overalls, hats, gloves, and cozy blankets to keep the cold at bay.

The core of the experience is the reindeer sleigh ride itself, lasting around 30-45 minutes. The sleighs are traditional and cozy, with riders sitting comfortably on benches covered in blankets. As you glide through snowy forests and open wilderness, you’ll love the silent beauty of the winter landscape—trees heavy with snow and a quiet that only the Arctic can offer.

During the ride, your guide will likely share insights into reindeer husbandry and Sami traditions, giving you a glimpse into the cultural importance of these animals. Some reviews mention appreciative comments about the guide’s storytelling, noting how they shared local customs and stories about reindeer herders.

Halfway through, you’ll stop at a forest hut to warm up with hot drinks—most often coffee or tea—while soaking in the peaceful nature around you. It’s a simple but effective way to stay comfortable, especially if the temperature dips below freezing.

After the ride, there’s time to pet and photograph the reindeer. Many travelers appreciate this personal interaction, as it offers a chance to get close to these gentle creatures and learn about their behavior and care. Visitors often comment positively on the reindeer’s friendliness, noting how “dolcissime” (very sweet) they are.

The return journey takes you back to the starting point, completing a well-paced experience. Since transportation is included and the tour is about 2 hours long, it’s a manageable activity that doesn’t demand a full day or strenuous effort.

The Value and Logistics

The tour is priced at $0.00, which suggests it might be included as part of a broader package or offered free as a promotional activity. Regardless, it’s important to consider that the value comes from the memories and cultural insights rather than exclusive access or luxury amenities.

The group size can be up to 40 travelers, making for a convivial, social atmosphere, but possibly less intimate than smaller tours. You’ll likely meet fellow travelers from all over the world, sharing the experience together.

The duration—about 2 hours—strikes a good balance. It’s long enough to enjoy the ride and interactions, yet short enough to fit comfortably into a day of sightseeing in Rovaniemi. The fact that pickup is offered adds convenience, saving you the hassle of finding the meeting point.

However, some reviews highlight issues like late arrivals or the inability to rebook for others who missed their slot, due to full capacity or tight schedules. It’s wise to arrive on time and communicate promptly if you need assistance.

Considering the weather-dependent nature of the tour, cancellations are possible if conditions are poor. The policy offers full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, which provides some peace of mind.

Authentic Experiences and Cultural Connection

What many travelers cherish about this tour is the chance to connect with Sami tradition in a straightforward, accessible way. While it’s not a deep culture, it does serve as a gentle introduction. The reindeer petting session, combined with the scenic sleigh ride, makes for a memorable, tactile experience.

A few reviews echo this appreciation, with comments like “a beautiful experience,” and “the silence of the forest was magical.” Others, however, express concern about animal welfare, indicating that some visitors might want to research or inquire further about how reindeer are treated. While explicit details aren’t provided, it’s worth noting that some participants found the experience distressing or traumatic for the reindeer, which is an important consideration for ethically minded travelers.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Dress warmly: Even with provided outerwear, layering is key. The snow and wind can be fierce, especially during the longer winter months.
• Arrive on time: Reviews have noted late arrivals can miss out; punctuality ensures you don’t miss your slot.
• Capture the moment: Bring a camera or smartphone, as the snowy scenery and reindeer interactions make for fantastic photos.
• Ask questions: Guides often share insights about Sami culture and reindeer care, making the experience richer.
• Consider your comfort: If you have mobility issues or fear of animals, check with the provider beforehand.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a low-key, culturally meaningful activity. It’s suitable for those who enjoy scenic winter landscapes and want a taste of traditional Sami culture without a long or strenuous commitment.

If you’re after a more exclusive or private experience, this might not be the best fit, given the group size and the commercial nature of the activity. Conversely, if you’re interested in learning about reindeer husbandry, petting reindeer, and enjoying a peaceful forest ride, this tour hits the right notes.

The Sum Up

The Apukka Reindeer Journey offers an authentic taste of Lapland’s snowy wilderness with a traditional reindeer sleigh ride, forest hot drinks, and personal interactions with reindeer. It’s a straightforward, family-friendly activity that appeals to travelers wanting a gentle, memorable Arctic experience. While it may not satisfy those seeking a highly exclusive or deeply immersive cultural tour, it provides a lovely slice of Finnish winter life that’s easy to fit into your itinerary.

It’s well-suited for those who appreciate authentic charm, scenic beauty, and a peaceful connection with nature. The tour’s moderate length and inclusive logistics make it an accessible choice in Rovaniemi, especially for first-time visitors or families.

Just keep in mind that the experience can have logistical hiccups and that animal welfare concerns are raised in some reviews. Doing a little homework or asking questions at booking can help ensure the experience aligns with your values.

All in all, the Apukka Reindeer Journey is a solid, genuine way to enjoy the magic of Lapland’s winter landscapes and connect with a centuries-old way of life.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from central Rovaniemi to the trailhead is included, making it easy to join the activity without worrying about logistics.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience is approximately 2 hours, including transfer, the sleigh ride, forest break, and reindeer interactions.

What should I wear?
While the tour provides winter outerwear and blankets, dressing in warm layers, hat, gloves, and thermal clothing is recommended to stay comfortable during the outdoor portions.

Can I pet the reindeer?
Yes, there’s time before and after the ride to pet and photograph the reindeer, which many travelers find rewarding.

Is this activity suitable for children?
While most travelers find it family-friendly, always check with the provider if you have very young children or specific needs.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 40 travelers can participate, so it’s a lively environment but not overly intimate.

What is the weather policy?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

How do reviews describe the experience?
Reviews are mixed—some praise the scenic ride and interactions, while others mention animal welfare concerns or logistical issues.

Does the tour focus on Sami culture?
The tour introduces aspects of Sami reindeer husbandry, but it’s more of an introduction rather than an in-depth cultural experience.

Can I rebook if I’m late?
Rebooking isn’t typically possible if you’re late, due to full capacity and logistical constraints.

Travelers looking for an authentic, scenic, and family-friendly Arctic activity** will find the Apukka Reindeer Journey offers a charming taste of Lapland’s winter traditions with all the essential elements—reindeer, snow, and stories. Just plan carefully, dress warmly, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the Arctic wilderness.