Aurora Hunting with Reindeer

If you’re dreaming of witnessing the elusive Northern Lights, this Aurora Hunting with Reindeer tour in Lapland offers a thoughtful blend of natural wonder, Sami culture, and genuine Arctic adventure. While I haven’t personally done this exact tour, the descriptions paint a vivid picture of a well-rounded and memorable experience. What we love most is the chance to ride in a snowmobile-pulled sleigh through silent wilderness — an unbeatable way to soak in the Arctic silence and vastness. Plus, meeting reindeer up close and enjoying traditional Sámi hospitality makes it more than just a lights chase; it’s a culture.

One potential consideration is the weather — with temperatures dipping to -25°C, you’ll need to be prepared with warm clothing, which can add to your packing list. However, this also means you’ll be fully insulated for comfort, so it’s a small price for the authenticity and excitement.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a genuine Arctic adventure wrapped in cultural insights, rather than just a quick glimpse of the Northern Lights. It suits those who appreciate a small group atmosphere and are eager to learn about reindeer herding and Sámi traditions.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Combines Northern Lights viewing with Sami culture and reindeer encounters.
• Comfort and Safety: Includes transportation, snowmobile gear, and hot drinks to keep warm and cozy.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (max 8), ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Timing Flexibility: Duration around 2 hours, with checkable availability for different starting times.
• Weather Preparedness: Activity is suitable for temperatures down to -25°C, but warm clothing is essential.
• Educational Element: Learn about reindeer husbandry and the local way of life directly from guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Experience

This Aurora Hunting with Reindeer tour in Lapland promises more than just a chance to see the spectacular Northern Lights — it offers an authentic slice of Arctic life. From snowmobile rides in pristine wilderness to close-up reindeer encounters, the tour combines adventure with cultural storytelling. It’s perfect for travelers who want a deeper connection to the Arctic environment and its indigenous traditions, rather than a generic Aurora chase.

The two standout features are the reindeer sleigh ride and the opportunity to meet reindeer up close, which can be surprisingly heartwarming and memorable. Plus, the cozy Sámi hut with homemade reindeer meat soup makes the experience feel genuine and warm, even if the weather outside is cold enough to make your cheeks freeze.

One thing to keep in mind is the weather — with outdoor activities requiring temperatures down to -25°C, dressing warmly is a must. While this might sound daunting, the provided gear and the warmth of the soup and hot drinks help make it manageable.

In all, this experience is best suited for those who love outdoor adventures, cultural insights, and outdoor photography — especially if you’re after a meaningful Arctic experience that goes beyond just chasing lights.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

Starting with Transportation and Gear

The adventure begins with a pickup from your accommodation or a pre-arranged location in Ivalo. From there, you’ll head to the tour operator’s base, where you’ll be supplied with snowmobile gear if you haven’t brought your own. This ensures you stay warm and protected during the outdoor activities.

Snowmobile-Pulled Sleigh Ride

Next, you’ll hop into a sleigh pulled by a snowmobile, which is a delightful way to explore the Arctic landscape without the fatigue of walking. The ride takes you to the edge of the Hammastunturi Wilderness Area, a pristine stretch of untouched nature. During the ride, you’ll enjoy the peaceful silence of the snow-covered wilderness, punctuated by the excitement of scanning the sky for the Aurora Borealis.

The scenery here is breathtaking — snow-laden trees, frozen lakes, and the vast, open sky serve as a perfect backdrop for the Northern Lights, which are best viewed away from city lights. The guide will be on the lookout for aurora activity, but nature’s timing is always unpredictable, so patience and luck are part of the charm.

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Reindeer Encounters and Cultural Learning

After the ride, you’ll stop at a traditional Sámi hut near a reindeer fence. Here, you’ll have the chance to meet reindeer up close, learn about their role in Sami culture, and hear stories about reindeer herding. Many reviewers appreciate this part, citing it as a highlight. One reviewer said, “Meeting the reindeer was unexpectedly touching — they are gentle creatures, and it was a special moment.”

Warmth and Comfort in the Sámi Hut

Inside the hut, you’ll be served homemade creamy reindeer meat soup or a vegan wild mushroom alternative, along with hot berry juice or hot chocolate. This cozy setting offers a welcome respite from the cold and a chance to chat with your guide and fellow travelers about Arctic life. The warmth of the soup and the hospitality help you recharge for the journey back.

Returning and Reflecting

Once the experience winds down, you’ll be transported back to your starting point. Many travelers note that the overall value of the tour — considering transportation, gear, cultural experience, and food — is quite good, especially given the personalized small-group setting.

The Value of This Arctic Expedition

While the price may seem premium, it reflects the inclusion of transportation, warm gear, hot drinks, and a meaningful cultural component. If you’re looking for a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and comfort, this tour offers it.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want to maximize their chances of seeing the Aurora without sacrificing the chance to connect with Sami traditions or enjoy a scenic ride in peaceful winter wilderness.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: About 2 hours — perfect if you want a quick yet immersive experience.
• Group Size: Small groups (limited to 8 participants), which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.
• Weather considerations: The activity is suitable for temperatures down to -25°C. Dress in thermal layers, warm shoes, and additional winter clothing. The tour provider can rent clothing if needed, but contacting them in advance for this service is recommended.
• Best for: Those aged 4 and above, though children under 4 are not suitable. It’s not accessible for wheelchair users or those allergic to animals.
• Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind if your plans change.

Authenticity and Real Traveler Feedback

From reviews, travelers often mention how genuine and friendly the guides are, emphasizing the warmth of Sami hospitality despite the cold outdoors. One reviewer appreciated the “informative and relaxed” atmosphere that made the experience feel authentic rather than touristy. Others highlight how meeting the reindeer and hearing about Sami traditions added depth beyond just watching the Northern Lights.

This Aurora Hunting with Reindeer tour offers an opportunity to combine Northern Lights viewing with culture and outdoor adventure. It’s ideal for travelers eager to experience Lapland’s natural beauty and Sami lifestyle, rather than just ticking the Aurora off a bucket list. The small-group setting, detailed storytelling, and authentic reindeer encounters provide a meaningful Arctic experience.

If you’re looking for a tour that balances adventure and education while keeping comfort in mind, this is a solid choice. It suits those who enjoy outdoor winter activities, are prepared for cold weather, and want a more personalized experience away from large crowds.

In essence, this tour is perfect for travelers seeking a genuine, memorable Arctic moment — a story you’ll be telling for years to come.

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation from Ivalo area is included. You’ll be picked up from your accommodation or another agreed location and taken to the tour starting point.

What should I bring to stay warm?
Warm clothing, thermal layers, and warm shoes are essential. The activity is suitable for temperatures down to -25°C, so dressing appropriately is crucial for comfort and safety.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, hot berry juice or hot chocolate and homemade creamy reindeer meat soup or vegan mushroom soup are provided as part of the experience.

Can I meet the reindeer?
Absolutely. You’ll have the chance to meet the reindeer at the fence after the sleigh ride, which is often a highlight for visitors.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 4 years old. The activity is designed for older children and adults who are comfortable in cold outdoor environments.

What if the Northern Lights don’t appear?
While the guide will be watching for aurora activity, sightings depend on weather and aurora conditions. The experience itself — snowmobile ride, cultural insights, reindeer — remains valuable, even if the lights are elusive.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s winter magic, combining adventure, culture, and comfort in one neat package. Whether you’re after the perfect Aurora shot or a meaningful cultural experience, it’s a chance to connect with the Arctic in a memorable way.

You can check availability for your dates here: