Arctic Reindeer Farm Experience with Snowshoeing in the Wild

If you’re dreaming of a winter adventure in Lapland, this Arctic Reindeer Farm Experience offers a compelling mix of wildlife, wilderness, and local culture. Offered by Soma Adventures, this 3-hour tour in Finland’s Lapland promises more than just the typical snow-covered scenery—think reindeer encounters, snowshoeing across icy lakes, and cozy campfire moments.

While we haven’t personally joined this tour, the reviews and detailed itinerary paint a vivid picture of what to expect. What we love about it? First, the chance to get up close with authentic reindeer and learn about traditional herding—a genuine peek into local life. Second, the snowshoeing adventure itself offers a serene way to explore Lapland’s pristine wilderness. The one thing to keep in mind? It’s not suitable for children under 13, so this is more geared toward teens and adults who appreciate quiet, outdoor beauty.

This experience suits nature lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and those wanting an authentic Arctic adventure—especially if you’re eager to avoid large crowds and prefer small-group settings. Now, let’s walk through what makes this tour worthwhile, what you’ll experience step-by-step, and how it stacks up value-wise.

Key Points

• Authentic Wilderness Setting: Experience the raw beauty of Lapland’s snow-covered landscapes.
• Close Reindeer Encounters: Learn about reindeer farming and feed these majestic animals.
• Snowshoeing on Frozen Lakes: Explore peaceful lakes and forests with guided snowshoe walks.
• Campfire and Local Treats: Warm up by a cozy fire while enjoying sausages and homemade marshmallows.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Expert Local Guides: Guides are knowledgeable and passionate about sharing regional traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: Why This Tour Might Be Your Arctic Highlight

If you’re seeking a deeply authentic experience of Lapland’s winter landscape, this tour could be just what you need. The idea of wandering through silent forests, feeding reindeer, and sitting by a campfire under a starry sky sounds memorable, doesn’t it? We appreciate how this experience combines cultural insights with outdoor adventure, giving travelers a genuine connection to the local lifestyle.

Two features stand out: the reindeer farm visit—where you can pet and feed animals raised by locals—and the snowshoeing across a lake and forest that promises a peaceful, unspoiled view of the Arctic. The warmth of a campfire with sausages and marshmallows adds a cozy finish to an active day.

One consideration? Since the tour involves snowshoeing and outdoor activities, dress warmly—layers and waterproof gear are recommended. Also, it’s not suitable for children under 13, so families with younger kids might want to look elsewhere.

This tour is ideal for adventure travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone craving an intimate taste of Lapland’s natural charm.

What You Can Expect: The Day Unfolds

The Pickup and Journey to Wilderness

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from Sirkka or Levi, two central locations in the region. The drive lasts about 30 minutes, giving travelers time to relax and enjoy scenic views of snowy forests and frozen lakes. These short transfers are perfect for setting the mood—quiet, pristine, and full of Arctic promise.

Visit to a Reindeer Farm: Learning and Feeding

Once at the reindeer farm, you’ll step into a world where reindeer herding remains a vital tradition. Guides, often locals, share their knowledge about these majestic animals, which have been part of Arctic life for centuries. You’ll get to pet and feed the reindeer, an activity that many reviews describe as a highlight. Elizabeth F mentions that her group “strolled among/feed the reindeer and learned about reindeer farming,” which gives you an idea of how personal and hands-on the encounter is.

More Great Tours Nearby

Cozy Campfire and Local Snacks

After the farm visit, everyone heads to a small, cozy hut by a lake, where an open fire awaits. Here, you’ll enjoy sausages cooked over the open fire, with options for homemade marshmallows and pastries. This part of the experience offers a chance to relax, chat, and savor the flavors of Lapland’s outdoor culinary traditions. Sara describes it as “a beautiful little house in front of the lake,” where the group enjoyed “sausages cooked fireside.”

Snowshoeing in the Wilderness

The grand finale is a guided snowshoe walk across an icy lake and into the surrounding forest. With snowshoes provided, you’ll traverse the quiet, snow-covered landscape—an experience that reviewers like Marwa call “amazing,” noting how they “got to meet the reindeer, feed them, and walk on snow.” If the weather cooperates, you’ll witness the stunning scenery of starry skies and possibly the Northern Lights—though this isn’t guaranteed.

For those concerned about snowshoeing difficulty, the reviews mention that even if snow conditions aren’t perfect (like Heli’s group where “there wasn’t enough snow for snowshoes”), guides adapt activities so everyone still has a good time.

The Itinerary in Detail

While the tour’s core is straightforward, the specifics matter. The stops include two pickups from Sirkka or Levi, then a 30-minute drive to the farm, where the reindeer experience takes about an hour. The guided village tour lasts approximately 2 hours, covering reindeer culture and local traditions. Afterward, a second short drive leads to the cozy hut by the lake.

The entire experience wraps up with drop-offs in Sirkka, ensuring a smooth end to your Arctic day. The total duration is about 3 hours, making it a manageable yet packed half-day adventure that balances outdoor activities with cultural insights.

Transport and Group Size

Transportation is by van, with small groups limited to 8 people—meaning plenty of personal interaction and fewer crowds. The intimate size also allows guides to be more attentive, which many reviews praise, describing guides as “authentic and passionate” and “very nice local guides.”

Cost and Value

At $215 per person, this tour offers a good value for those seeking authentic experiences beyond typical snow tourist activities. The price includes pick-up and drop-off, guidance, snowshoes, and campfire snacks—an all-inclusive package that minimizes surprises.

Considering how personalized and hands-on the experience is, many travelers find this a worthwhile expense. The chance to pet reindeer, snowshoe in the Arctic wilderness, and enjoy local treats makes it a comprehensive mini-vacation.

Authenticity and Experience: Why Travelers Rave

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and genuine insight into local traditions. Elizabeth F mentions Heli, a born-and-raised Laplander, who “gave us a real inside look at the beauty and lifestyle of the region.” Sara appreciated the “authentic and passionate guide” who enhanced their visit.

The scenery and peacefulness of the snow-covered wilderness are also key. Marwa’s comment about walking on snow and “definitely a must-do activity” underscores how memorable the journey is.

While weather can sometimes limit certain activities (like snowshoeing if there isn’t enough snow), guides seem flexible and committed to ensuring a fulfilling experience, as noted in reviews about Heli filling time with other activities.

Practical Tips for Your Arctic Adventure

• Dress warmly: Layers, waterproof gear, and insulated boots are essential.
• Book early: Tours are limited to small groups, so availability might fill up fast during peak winter.
• Bring your camera: The scenery—reindeer, snow, starry skies—is perfect for photos.
• Be prepared for silence: This isn’t a noisy, busy tour—expect tranquility and contemplative moments.
• Children under 13 are not suitable; plan accordingly if traveling with family.
• Check availability: The start times vary, so verify when you can join.
• Cancelation policy is flexible—full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Experience?

This Arctic Reindeer Farm and Snowshoeing tour offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s wilderness combined with meaningful cultural interactions. Its small-group format and knowledgeable guides make it appealing for travelers who value a personal touch and authentic stories. The experience is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities but want a comfortable, well-organized adventure.

If you’re after a quiet, immersive Arctic experience that combines wildlife, scenery, and local traditions, this tour is a strong contender. It’s especially suited for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and cultural travelers wanting more than just a photo op—an experience that feeds the soul as well as the camera.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your Levi area accommodation are included, making it easy to start and end the day comfortably.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly—think layers, waterproof outerwear, insulated boots, gloves, and a hat. It’s cold in Lapland, especially when snowshoeing.

How long does the tour last?
The whole experience runs about 3 hours, including transportation, activities, and breaks.

Can I see the Northern Lights during this tour?
While viewing the Northern Lights isn’t guaranteed, the tour offers the chance to capture them along with starry skies and campfire scenes.

Is this suitable for children?
No, it’s not designed for children under 13 due to the outdoor activities and cold conditions.

What if the weather isn’t ideal?
Guides are prepared to adapt activities if snow conditions are less than perfect, focusing on other parts of the experience.

What’s included in the price?
Guidance, snowshoes, snacks by the campfire, and transportation are all included. Additional personal expenses are optional.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How many people will be on the tour?
Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a cozy, personal experience with plenty of guide attention.

To sum it up, this tour provides a well-rounded, authentic Arctic adventure that combines local culture with outdoor fun. Whether you’re eager to feed reindeer, walk through snowy forests, or simply enjoy Lapland’s silent, starry nights, it’s a memorable way to connect with the region’s true spirit.

You can check availability for your dates here: