Planning a trip to Lapland and looking for a truly authentic Arctic experience? This tour offers just that—bringing you into the heart of reindeer herding culture with a dash of adventure and cozy comfort. It’s designed for travelers who love nature, unique traditions, and a bit of adrenaline, all wrapped into a four-hour window.
We’re especially drawn to the chance to glide behind a snowmobile on a traditional sleigh ride, and the opportunity to meet real reindeer at a farm that’s home to over 700 of these gentle animals. Plus, the mix of outdoor activity with a warm lakeside lunch makes this a well-rounded experience.
One thing to consider? The tour isn’t suitable for children under 14, so families with younger kids might need to look elsewhere. And while the price of $362 may seem high at first glance, the included transportation, gear, and authentic cultural encounters make it a good value for those eager to see the real Lapland.
This tour suits anyone craving a taste of Lapland’s traditional life, especially those interested in reindeer culture, outdoor winter fun, and peaceful wilderness settings. If you’re after a meaningful, visually stunning experience that balances activity with relaxation, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.
Key Points
- Authentic Reindeer Experience: Visit a local farm with over 700 reindeer, feed them, and learn about their role in Sami culture.
- Snowmobile Sleigh Ride: Enjoy a thrilling 20-minute ride through snowy landscapes behind a motorized sleigh.
- Cultural Insight: Guides share fascinating stories about reindeer life, enriching your understanding of local traditions.
- Cozy Wilderness Lunch: Warm up in a lakeside cabin with grilled sausages, hot drinks, and a hearty soup.
- Relaxing Sauna & Lake Dip: Conclude with a peaceful lakeside sauna and perhaps an icy swim, for the adventurous.
- Small Group: Limited to seven participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.
What to Expect: A Genuine Arctic Adventure
This tour whisks you away from the tourist crowds and deep into the Lapland wilderness, where reindeer herding remains a vital part of local Sami culture. The journey begins with a convenient pickup in a Mercedes-Benz, delivering you comfortably from your designated location to the snow-covered landscape.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kittila.
The Snowmobile Sleigh Ride
Your adventure kicks off with a 20-minute snowmobile ride, where you’ll sit comfortably behind a snowmobile pulling a traditional sleigh. The sensation of gliding over snow and ice is invigorating, offering a real sense of connection to the Arctic environment. The views are often breathtaking, with snow-laden trees and distant frozen lakes creating a postcard-perfect backdrop. The ride is smooth and manageable for most, but be sure to dress warmly.
Visiting a Local Reindeer Farm
Next, you’ll arrive at a reindeer farm home to over 700 reindeer. Here, you’ll meet reindeer that are accustomed to human interaction, and the guide will share stories about their role in Sami life. This part of the tour is about more than just photos—it’s about understanding the symbiotic relationship between reindeer and the people who care for them.
Guests often praise the opportunity to feed the reindeer, which provides a tangible connection to these gentle creatures. One reviewer mentioned, “It was a delight to get so close to the reindeer and see how they’re raised and cared for.” The guides’ storytelling adds depth, revealing how reindeer herding is both a livelihood and a tradition.
Lunch in a Wilderness Cabin
After your farm visit, it’s time to relax in an authentic Finnish wilderness cabin, a cozy spot with a roaring fire. Here, you’ll enjoy grilled sausages, hot drinks, and a hearty soup—a perfect way to warm up and refuel after outdoor activities. Many travelers find the cabin’s rustic charm and peaceful lakeside setting a highlight, creating a true sense of being in Lapland’s untouched nature.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Lakeside Sauna and Optional Swim
Lastly, the tour concludes with a visit to a traditional lakeside sauna, a quintessential Finnish experience. For the brave, a quick dip in the icy lake provides an exhilarating finish to your day, often praised by guests as “a refreshing and oddly soothing way to end the tour.” The sauna’s peaceful ambiance, combined with the winter scenery, offers a moment of tranquil reflection.
Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
The tour begins with pickup in the morning or afternoon (depending on the schedule), transporting you comfortably in a Mercedes-Benz. The initial snowmobile ride, lasting about 20 minutes, sets the tone—combining excitement with solitude as you traverse snowy forests and open fields.
Next, you’ll visit the reindeer farm for approximately an hour. This is a real highlight, giving you the chance to interact directly with reindeer, feed them, and listen to stories that make the culture come alive. The farm’s extensive herd means plenty of photo opportunities, and guides are eager to share insights into reindeer husbandry and Sami traditions.
The second snowmobile ride mirrors the first, offering more scenic views and a different perspective of the landscape. Then, you’ll gather in the wilderness cabin for an hour-long lunch, which combines hearty local fare with the warmth of a crackling fire.
The final part of the experience involves visiting the lakeside sauna—an essential Finnish ritual—and optional icy lake swimming, a memorable way to cap off your day.
Authenticity and Value
While $362 might seem steep, it includes transportation, thermal jackets, a snowmobile sleigh ride, farm visit, reindeer feeding, storytelling, lunch, sauna, and even a visit to a glass-roof kota—making it a well-rounded, authentic experience. The small group size ensures personalized attention and more meaningful interactions.
Guests consistently appreciate the balance of outdoor adventure and culture. The reviews mention how “the views were stunning” and how the reindeer farm visit felt genuine and uncommercialized, emphasizing the tour’s focus on authentic Sami culture.
Practicalities and Tips
- Dress warmly in layers, as even with thermal jackets provided, outdoor activities can be cold.
- Comfortable shoes are essential for walking around the farm and in the snow.
- Photography is encouraged, but be respectful of the animals’ space.
- The tour isn’t suitable for children under 14, making it less ideal for families with young kids.
- Remember, the tour is 4 hours long, so plan accordingly with your day’s schedule.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for those who crave authentic Arctic adventures—think snow, reindeer, and Sami culture. It’s ideal for couples, solo travelers, or small groups eager for a mix of outdoor fun and cultural insight. If you’re interested in learning about reindeer husbandry directly from locals and want a taste of traditional life in Lapland, this tour hits the mark.
However, if you prefer a more leisurely, less active sightseeing day, or are traveling with very young children, you might want to explore other options. It’s also a good choice for anyone who enjoys stunning winter scenery and doesn’t mind a bit of cold in exchange for memorable experiences.
The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?
For travelers seeking a genuinely Finnish experience, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. You’ll love the breathtaking snow-covered landscapes, the chance to interact with reindeer, and the cozy warmth of the lakeside cabin. It’s a chance to step outside typical sightseeing and connect more deeply with Lapland’s traditions.
While the cost might seem high, the value lies in the authentic encounters, the scenic beauty, and the memorable activities included. The small group size enhances the experience, making it more personal and engaging. If you’re after a meaningful Arctic adventure that’s more than just a photo opportunity, this tour will deliver.
This experience suits travelers who want to understand and appreciate Lapland’s reindeer culture, enjoy outdoor winter sports, and unwind in peaceful, stunning surroundings. Whether you’re celebrating an Arctic getaway or simply seeking a unique story to tell, this tour has the potential to be a highlight of your trip.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included in a Mercedes-Benz, making travel comfortable and hassle-free.
What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, including comfortable shoes, as outdoor activities are in cold, snowy conditions. Thermal jackets are provided.
How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 4 hours, with specific starting times depending on availability.
Can children join?
No, this tour is not suitable for children under 14 years old.
What activities are included?
Snowmobile sleigh rides, visiting a reindeer farm, feeding reindeer, storytelling, a lakeside lunch, sauna, and optional icy lake dip.
Is there any free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What’s the maximum group size?
Limited to 7 participants, ensuring a small, personalized experience.
Are there any extras available for purchase?
Yes, antlers or hides are available, but they are not included in the tour price.
Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
Most outdoor activities proceed unless conditions are extremely severe, so check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
What language is the guide speaking?
The tour is conducted in English, with lively storytelling and cultural insights.
In all, this tour offers a genuine peek into Lapland’s reindeer culture, balanced with outdoor adventure and cozy comfort. If you’re eager to experience the true spirit of Arctic life, it’s hard to go wrong.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Lunch Experiences in Kittila
More Tour Reviews in Kittila
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Kittila we have reviewed
- Creative Lapland: make your own souvenir DIY
- Levi: Easy Snowshoeing
- Kittilä / Levi: Husky Farm Guided Tour
- Levi: Pallas Panoramic Hike
- Levi: Midnight Sun E-Fatbike ride
- Levi: Fell Summit Tour with Mindfulness and Gondola Ride
- Levi: Fell Summit Tour and Samiland visit
- Levi Wilderness Twilight Adventure
- Lapland: traditional pancake dinner with local delights
- Reindeer Husbandry with Snowmobile Sleigh Ride and Lunch
- Finland Levi: Arctic Cocooning Experience in HaliPuu Forest
- Chase the Northern Lights with Your Private Group