Kuusamo: Reindeer Sleigh Ride and Farm Visit

If you’re heading to northern Finland, a visit to Kujala Reindeer Farm offers a charming peek into the world of reindeer herding. This tour combines a 1.5 km reindeer sleigh ride with an authentic farm experience, giving you a taste of Sami culture and rural life amid stunning winter scenery.

What we particularly love about this experience is how accessible and genuine it feels—it’s not just a tourist trap, but an honest, hands-on encounter with one of Lapland’s most iconic animals. Plus, the knowledgeable guides share stories and insights that deepen the experience, making it educational as well as fun.

One thing to consider is that the tour lasts around 1.5 hours, so it’s perfect if you’re on a tight schedule or want a manageable, relaxed outing. It might not be ideal for travelers who prefer a more adventurous, longer excursion, but for those seeking a family-friendly, authentic farm visit with a magical sleigh ride, it hits the mark.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate cultural insights, enjoy scenic winter landscapes, and want a memorable, hands-on activity that’s both fun and educational. It’s especially great for families, couples, or anyone curious about the Sami way of life.

Key Points

• Authentic reindeer farm experience in Kuusamo, offering a genuine glimpse into local herding traditions.
• Scenic 1.5 km sleigh ride through the winter landscape, perfect for capturing photos and soaking in the views.
• Close-up encounters with hundreds of reindeer including feeding opportunities with lichen.
• Knowledgeable guides share stories and insights throughout the tour.
• Opportunity to shop for reindeer-related products and crafts, supporting local artisans.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later policies.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Reindeer World of Kuusamo

Taking a trip to Kuusamo isn’t complete without experiencing its legendary reindeer herding culture. The Kujala Reindeer Farm offers a relaxed, friendly way to connect with these gentle animals amid Finland’s winter wonderland. This tour is designed to blend education, tradition, and natural beauty, making it a must for anyone wanting an authentic Arctic adventure.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins with your guide meeting you at the farm, where you’ll get a brief introduction to reindeer herding—an age-old livelihood in Lapland. From there, the highlight is the 1.5 km sleigh ride. This isn’t a high-speed adventure but a leisurely glide through snow-covered fields, along the riverside, and into the farm’s forested areas. You’ll sit comfortably beneath warm reindeer hides, listening to stories about reindeer life and herding practices.

The ride itself is designed to showcase the landscape, giving you the chance to appreciate the peaceful winter scenery. The snow-laden trees, quiet riverbanks, and crisp air create a true winter fairy-tale atmosphere. As some reviews mention, this ride is not only scenic but relaxing, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Meeting the Reindeer

After the sleigh, you’ll visit the ancient corral—home to hundreds of reindeer. This part is especially popular because it offers an up-close look at these animals. Guides and staff are eager to share their knowledge, explaining how reindeer are herded, fed, and cared for. The opportunity to feed the reindeer with lichen is a highlight, as many visitors find joy in hand-feeding these curious creatures.

Guests have remarked that the reindeer are very friendly and well looked after. One reviewer fondly mentioned a favorite reindeer named Repa, describing him as “so sweet.” The chance to take photos amidst the reindeer herd is another big plus, allowing you to capture memories of this unique experience.

Shopping and Farm Life

The farm shop offers a variety of reindeer products—from traditional handicrafts to souvenirs. Supporting local artisans, you’ll find items made from reindeer leather, fur, and antler, along with other Sami crafts. This is perfect for souvenirs or gifts that carry a genuine story.

The guided tour around the farm adds context, explaining how reindeer herding integrates into local life, and giving you a deeper appreciation of the farm’s history and traditions.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details

The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable activity that fits well into a day’s itinerary. Cost is $94 per person, which, considering the inclusion of the sleigh ride, farm visit, and guide, offers good value—especially given the authentic, personal nature of the experience.

Bookings can be canceled freely up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve your spot with the option to pay later—adding flexibility to your planning.

For those wondering about logistics, check the availability in advance to see the starting times, as they may vary depending on the season and day. Bring your camera, as the scenery and reindeer photos will be delightful.

What the Reviews Say

Feedback from recent visitors consistently praises the guides for their friendly and knowledgeable approach. One visitor described the experience as “magical,” highlighting the “wonderful staff” and “fantastic facilities.” Another mentioned the stunning views and how easy it was to find the location.

Many reviewers emphasize the value for money—noting that it’s a memorable, personal experience that doesn’t feel rushed or overly commercialized. The chance to feed and interact with the reindeer after the ride makes it especially special; as one guest shared, “Met and fed the reindeers after the 1.5 km ride,” creating lasting memories.

Why This Tour is Worth Considering

This tour offers a hands-on, authentic glimpse into reindeer herding, with a scenic sleigh ride that captures the essence of Finnish Lapland in winter. The combination of gentle adventure, cultural insight, and genuine animal encounters gives it a unique charm.

It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a gentle, family-friendly activity that’s both educational and fun. If you’re enthusiastic about local traditions, wildlife, or simply want a peaceful experience amid snow-dusted trees, this tour hits the right notes.

Who Will Love This Experience

Travelers who enjoy cultural exchanges, scenic outdoor activities, and wildlife encounters will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s also perfect for first-time visitors to Lapland who want a genuine, low-key introduction to reindeer herding without overdoing it.

Families with children, couples seeking a romantic winter outing, or anyone interested in Sami culture will all appreciate the opportunity to learn, feed, and photograph friendly reindeer in a beautiful setting.

FAQs about the Kuusamo Reindeer Farm Visit

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly. The gentle nature of the reindeer and the relaxed pace of the sleigh ride make it suitable for children of most ages.

How long does the experience last?
The entire tour takes approximately 1.5 hours, including the sleigh ride, farm visit, and shopping time.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera to capture the scenic views and close-up reindeer encounters. Dress warmly, especially if the weather is cold, as you’ll be outdoors for much of the experience.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, which adds flexibility to your planning.

What language is the tour guided in?
The tour is guided in Finnish and English, ensuring clarity for most visitors.

Are the reindeer friendly?
According to reviews, the reindeer are very friendly and accustomed to visitors, making feeding and photos enjoyable.

Where do I find the farm?
The tour is based at Kujala Reindeer Farm in Kuusamo, and the location is easy to find, with good facilities and clear directions.

Final Thoughts

The Kuusamo Reindeer Sleigh Ride and Farm Visit offers a wonderful blend of tradition, scenery, and animal interaction. For around $94, you’ll enjoy a scenic ride, learn about reindeer herding from friendly guides, and get up close to these iconic animals. The authentic farm environment and the chance to support local artisans through farm shop purchases make this experience worthwhile.

It’s best suited for travelers who value genuine cultural experiences in a stunning winter landscape. Whether you’re traveling as a family, couple, or solo adventurer, this activity provides a memorable, heartwarming way to connect with the Sami way of life and enjoy Finnish Lapland’s peaceful beauty.

If you’re looking for a relaxed but meaningful Arctic adventure, this tour will not disappoint. It combines nature, culture, and a touch of magic—all in a manageable, well-organized package.

You can check availability for your dates here: