Horse Sleigh Ride Under The Night Sky in Apukka Resort, Rovaniemi

If you’re dreaming of a true Arctic adventure that combines the thrill of a horse-drawn sleigh, the serenity of a snow-blanketed landscape, and the possibility of catching the elusive northern lights, then this Horse Sleigh Ride in Rovaniemi might just be the highlight of your winter trip. While many daytime rides offer scenic views, this tour’s focus on a nighttime journey adds a layer of enchantment that’s hard to beat.

What we love about this experience is how it blends the timeless charm of a sleigh ride with the opportunity to see the Northern Lights in their natural habitat—and all wrapped in the warmth of provided blankets. The storytelling around a bonfire adds a cozy, cultural touch. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour can be quite cold, so bundling up is essential. This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate authentic, atmospheric adventures and don’t mind braving the cold for a chance to see the sky sparkle.

Key Points

• Evening adventure with horse-drawn sleigh across frozen lakes and snow-covered forests.
• Northern Lights visibility possible, with the night sky as your backdrop.
• Authentic storytelling around a bonfire, sharing myths and local tales.
• Warm blankets and winter gear provided for comfort in Arctic conditions.
• Small group size (up to 12 people) for a more intimate experience.
• Convenient pickup service from Apukka Resort enhances ease of access.

The Experience: A Nighttime Journey Through Lapland

This horse-drawn sleigh ride begins at the cozy Apukka Resort, a well-regarded hub for Arctic excursions. Starting at 8:30 pm, the tour is timed perfectly for those who want to combine daytime activities with an unforgettable night adventure. Most travelers, on average, book their tickets about a month in advance—an indication of its popularity and the limited spots available for this intimate experience.

The transportation is straightforward — you’ll meet your guide at the Apukka Adventures meeting point, located conveniently at Tutkijantie 28, Rovaniemi. Once the group gathers, a friendly guide will provide a brief overview, emphasizing safety and what to expect, easing any nerves about the cold or the ride itself.

The Ride: Gliding Over Ice and Snow

Once underway, you’ll hop into a traditional horse-drawn sleigh—a slow, rhythmic glide that feels both relaxing and exhilarating. Expect to cross a frozen lake, where the snow crunches softly beneath the runners, and the dark sky above is often dotted with stars. As you settle in under warm blankets, the gentle clip-clop of the horses creates a calming soundtrack, perfect for soaking in the Arctic silence.

Travelers report being captivated by the views, describing it as “a magical ride in the snow at night,” with one reviewer noting the cold was “very worth it to see the Northern Lights.” The quiet beauty of this ride is heightened by the darkness, making it easier for the sky’s natural light show to shine through if the auroras decide to appear.

The Bonfire and Stories

Midway through, the group stops at a bonfire at the forest’s edge. Here, your guide shares tales of local myths and legends, adding cultural depth to the experience. From stories about mythical creatures to tales of Lapland’s Sami roots, this part of the tour makes the experience more than just a ride—it’s a moment of connection to the land and its history.

Sitting around the fire, with the crackling flames and the cold night around you, creates a cozy atmosphere that many find charming. The storytelling is appreciated for its “fascinating information” and authenticity, as noted by one delighted guest.

What To Expect in Terms of Comfort and Practicalities

Though the ride offers warm blankets, travelers should come prepared for Arctic cold. The tour provides winter clothing to help, but layering with thermal basewear, hats, and gloves is recommended. The small group size (max 12 participants) ensures personalized attention, but it also means that booking in advance is wise, especially during peak winter months.

The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, a length that balances adventure with comfort. The return is straightforward, ending back at the meeting point, with ample time before bed for a warm drink or reflection on the night sky.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At a cost of $184.06 per person, this experience isn’t the cheapest Arctic activity, but it’s a strong value considering the intimacy, uniqueness, and cultural authenticity it provides. Unlike larger, more commercial tours, this one focuses on quality over quantity—small groups mean better chances for meaningful interaction and better viewing conditions.

The inclusion of pickup (if offered by the provider) makes logistics easier, especially in the cold, and the mobile ticket option provides flexibility. The opportunity to see the Northern Lights—one of nature’s most spectacular displays—in a setting designed for maximum visibility, adds significant value for travelers seeking a memorable Arctic night.

What the Reviews Say

Two recent reviews give this tour a solid 4.5 out of 5 overall. Guests praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides for their engaging stories and helpful tips. One reviewer, Lisa, called it an “amazing night,” highlighting how the experience from start to finish was “great,” with her guide “giving us lots of fascinating information.”

Another guest, Stacey, described the ride as “magical,” emphasizing the twinkling snow and the Northern Lights—if they appear. She noted the cold was intense, but “so worth it.” It’s clear that the atmosphere and authentic experience resonate with visitors, making this tour memorable.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This horse sleigh ride at night is ideal for travelers who want to combine the romance of a traditional Arctic experience with the thrill of possibly witnessing the Northern Lights. It’s perfect if you value small-group intimacy, storytelling that adds cultural context, and the chance to be outdoors in a truly pristine winter setting.

If you’re someone who appreciates genuine moments—listening to myths around a bonfire, feeling the silence of a snow-covered landscape, and watching for celestial phenomena—this tour offers excellent value. The variable luck of seeing the Aurora makes it a bit of a gamble, but for most, the experience itself more than compensates for the uncertainty.

Travelers who dislike cold may want to consider additional layers or have realistic expectations about how chilly it can get, but overall, the combination of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and the potential for a Northern Lights sighting makes this a memorable Arctic adventure.

FAQ

Q: How long does the tour last?
A: The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, from pickup to drop-off.

Q: What time does it start?
A: The tour begins at 8:30 pm, making it ideal for nighttime sky viewing.

Q: Is pickup included?
A: Pickup is offered, which adds convenience, especially in cold weather.

Q: Do I need special clothing?
A: The tour provides warm blankets and winter clothing, but layering with thermal wear is advisable.

Q: How many people are in each group?
A: The tour has a maximum of 12 travelers, providing a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

Q: Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
A: Yes, there is free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Q: Is there a chance to see the Northern Lights?
A: Yes, the ride offers a good chance, but it depends on the weather and aurora activity.

Q: What is the price for?
A: The fee covers the sleigh ride, storytelling, bonfire, blankets, and transportation.

Q: Is this suitable for children?
A: It’s most suitable for most travelers comfortable in cold weather; check with the provider for age restrictions.

Q: What makes this tour different from daytime sleigh rides?
A: The nighttime setting offers the possibility of viewing the Northern Lights and a more atmospheric experience under the Arctic sky.

This tour captures the quiet magic of Lapland’s winter nights, combining tradition, culture, and the hope of celestial wonder—all wrapped in a cozy, authentic package. If you’re looking for a memorable Arctic experience that’s both scenic and culturally rich, this horse sleigh ride is definitely worth considering.