Levi Polar Lights Tours: Reindeer and Husky Taster

If you’re planning a quick but memorable encounter with Lapland’s winter wonderland, the Reindeer and Husky Taster offered by Polar Lights Tours might just be what you need. Designed for travelers seeking a taste of Arctic life without the lengthy commitment, this 1.5-hour adventure combines the thrill of husky sledding with the tranquility of a reindeer sleigh ride. It’s a brisk introduction to the region’s traditions, scenery, and wildlife.

What we really like about this experience is how it manages to balance activity with relaxation—just enough speed and excitement with peaceful, scenic moments. Plus, the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the whole outing feel warm and genuine even in the coldest weather. The only potential downside? The rides are relatively short, which might leave some craving more—though that’s a fair trade-off for a quick, well-organized tour.

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors, families, or anyone short on time but eager for a genuine taste of Lapland. If you want to see what makes this part of the world so special without committing to a full-day experience, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic experience: Combining reindeer sleigh rides and husky sledding for a true Lapland flavor.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides are friendly, well-informed, and passionate about sharing local traditions.
• Scenic landscapes: Enjoy the snowy, peaceful scenery that captures the essence of winter in Lapland.
• Short and sweet: Perfect for those with limited time or as a first introduction to winter activities.
• Comfort and safety: The tour includes a safety briefing and is wheelchair accessible.
• Value for price: At $153, it offers a good balance of activity, scenery, and cultural insight.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting from Levi Center at Hissitie 11, the tour kicks off with a relatively short bus transfer—about 15 minutes—that transports you from the town’s buzz to the peaceful countryside. This initial leg sets a calm, anticipatory mood as you leave behind the more populated areas and move toward the snowy wilderness.

Once there, a brief safety briefing is your introduction to what’s ahead. Expect about 10 minutes of instructions, which are essential for understanding how to handle the sleds and what to watch out for. The guides are praised for their professionalism and attentiveness, making sure everyone feels confident before the rides begin.

The Husky Sled Ride

The highlight for many is the husky sledding segment. You’ll hop onto a large sled pulled by a team of friendly, well-trained dogs. The guide drives for about 1 km, giving you a quick but exhilarating taste of what it’s like to be pulled by these energetic animals.

From reviews, it’s clear that while the ride is short, it’s often considered just right—”plenty to be honest,” as one reviewer put it—especially given the cold temperatures. The experience of feeling the speed and power of the huskies is unforgettable, and guides like Salla go out of their way to make it both fun and safe.

The Reindeer Sleigh Ride

After the husky dash, the pace relaxes with a peaceful reindeer sleigh ride. Gently gliding through the snow-covered landscape, you’ll get to soak in the serenity of the winter scenery. The reindeer are described as docile and cute, adding to the charm of this calmer, more contemplative part of the tour. The tranquility of this ride often earns praise: “Enjoying the calm winter wonderland in the reindeer sledge,” as one reviewer shared.

Additional Stops and Refreshments

The tour includes a few extra moments to enjoy photographs and local snacks, enhancing the cultural experience. These are brief stops, but they add a personable touch, allowing you to appreciate the setting and chat with guides about local traditions. Hot juice and snacks are provided, perfect for warming up after your chilly adventures.

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The Itinerary Breakdown

Start: The meeting point at Levi Center Hissitie 11 makes it convenient to begin. The location is easy to find, right across from the parking lot and next to a familiar restaurant (Kotipizza).

Transport & Safety Briefing: After a short bus ride, you’ll receive a 10-minute safety briefing that emphasizes both fun and precaution—crucial for first-timers or those unfamiliar with sledding.

Guided Tour: During the 30-minute guide-led segment, you’ll learn about the local area and its traditions. Expect professional narration that enhances the experience beyond just riding.

Photo & Snack Stops: These mini-breaks are highlighted as moments to capture memories and enjoy local flavors—simple but meaningful touches.

Return: After around 1.5 hours, you’ll be back at the original meeting point, giving you time to explore other parts of Levi or relax after your Arctic adventure.

What’s Included and Not

Included in the tour are Levi center pickup and drop-off, the husky sled ride, the reindeer sleigh ride, and hot juice with a snack—a decent package for the price. Not included is hotel pickup and drop-off, which means you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and guided in English and Finnish, making it suitable for a diverse group.

How to Make the Most of It

To maximize your experience, dress warmly—layer up, wear a hat, and sturdy winter shoes. The tour takes place in cold conditions, sometimes as low as -20°C, so proper attire is key. Be prepared for the short rides—they are designed to give a quick taste rather than a lengthy adventure, which suits many travelers but might disappoint those craving more extensive sledding.

Booking in advance is a good idea, especially during peak season, and the flexible cancellation policy (up to 24 hours) offers peace of mind.

Authentic Feedback from Participants

Many reviewers highlight guide professionalism, friendliness, and the beautiful scenery. Petra describes the team as “well organized” and appreciates the chance to enjoy the calm winter landscape in the reindeer sledge. Sara found the guides welcoming and knowledgeable, with the dogs and reindeer being well-trained and adorable.

Margherita calls it her “highlight” of the trip, specifically mentioning guide Salla, who made the experience especially enjoyable. The warmth and expertise of the guides really seem to stand out, transforming a brief ride into a memorable moment of Arctic hospitality.

However, some note that the rides feel short, and that darkness can limit the scenery—important considerations if you prefer daylight views or longer rides.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This Reindeer and Husky Taster is ideal for travelers new to Lapland or those with limited time but eager to experience the region’s unique culture and landscapes. It offers a charming introduction to traditional sled rides, guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals. It’s also a good pick for families or couples seeking a balanced mix of activity and relaxation.

If you’re after a more in-depth or longer husky sledding adventure, this might feel a bit rushed. But for a quick, authentic taste of Arctic life—complete with scenic rides, cultural insights, and cozy refreshments—it hits the mark. Expect a friendly, well-organized outing that leaves you with a handful of beautiful memories—and maybe a new appreciation for the hard work and joy of Lapland’s working dogs and reindeer.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially since the rides are relatively short and the guides are friendly. Just ensure children are dressed warmly.

How long are the sled rides?
The husky sled ride is approximately 1 km, which is enough for a quick thrill. The reindeer sleigh ride is a gentle glide through scenic snow.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from Levi center, making it convenient to join without extra planning.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing, a hat, and sturdy winter shoes are recommended, as temperatures can be quite cold, especially during winter evenings.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible, and you can reserve now and pay later.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for various guests.

Are the guides fluent in English?
Yes, the guides speak both English and Finnish, ensuring clear communication.

What’s the cultural significance of the activities?
The reindeer sleigh and husky sledding are traditional Arctic modes of transportation, offering insight into Lapland’s indigenous and contemporary lifestyle.

Will I have time for photos?
There are designated photo stops, and guides are friendly about helping you capture the moment.

Choosing the Levi Polar Lights Tours’ Reindeer and Husky Taster offers a straightforward, genuine peek into Arctic traditions, perfect for first-timers or visitors short on time. With friendly guides, scenic rides, and cozy refreshments, it provides a memorable slice of Lapland that highlights the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage—all at a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here: