Reindeer Safari at a 200-Year-Old Farm & Long Sled Ride

A Genuine Lapland Reindeer Experience: Sled Rides, Reindeer Meet-and-Greet, and a Custom Reindeer License

If you’re planning a trip to Rovaniemi, Finland, and want an experience that offers more than just chasing the Northern Lights, a Reindeer Safari at a 200-year-old farm is a fantastic choice. While I haven’t personally been on this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of a true Arctic adventure. It’s a carefully curated blend of engaging activities, cultural insight, and stunning scenery.

What I really like about this experience is its emphasis on authenticity—visiting a family-run farm with roots back to the 1600s, and engaging with gentle reindeer in a landscape that looks like a postcard. Also, the 2.5 km sled ride sounds exhilarating yet accessible, especially for families and seniors who want to enjoy the Arctic landscape at a relaxed pace.

One consideration worth noting: the tour lasts about three hours, which might feel quite cold if you’re unprepared, especially in winter temperatures as low as -31°C. Warm clothing, sturdy shoes, and a good attitude are essentials.

This trip is best suited for travelers seeking a hands-on, culturally immersive activity that offers a taste of traditional reindeer herding, rather than just sightseeing. It’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone curious about the real life of Lapland’s iconic reindeer herders.

Key Points

• Authentic Location: Visit a 200-year-old family reindeer farm, rooted in Lapland’s history.
• Exciting Sled Ride: Experience a 2.5 km traditional reindeer sled ride through pristine Arctic scenery.
• Close Encounters: Meet and learn about gentle reindeer, capturing plenty of photo opportunities.
• Unique Certification: Receive a “Reindeer Driving License,” a fun souvenir and badge of honor.
• Cultural Insight: Gain understanding of the long-standing tradition of reindeer herding from knowledgeable guides.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Hotel pickup, winter overall, hot tea, and blankets included for a cozy, hassle-free adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Transport

The tour begins with a hotel pickup, simplifying the logistics—no need to worry about how to find your way or rent transportation. The guide, speaking English, ensures that participants are well-informed about what’s to come. The small group size—limited to 8 participants—means a more intimate experience, allowing for personal questions and relaxed interaction.

Visiting the Reindeer Farm

Once there, we step into a family-run farm that’s been around since the 1800s. This is where the story gets personal. The owners are part of a lineage stretching back to the 1600s, making this more than just a tourist stop. They’re eager to share their knowledge, stories, and the everyday life of reindeer herders.

The farm’s atmosphere is peaceful, with reindeer freely wandering around, curious and gentle. Travelers often comment on how up close and personal they get with these animals, which are used to human interaction. As one reviewer notes, “You get to meet and learn about our gentle reindeer companions,” making it clear that this isn’t just a quick photo op—there’s real interaction and storytelling involved.

The Sled Ride

The highlight for many is the 2.5 km reindeer sled ride. This isn’t a high-speed thrill, but a steady glide through untouched snow-covered landscapes, feeling the cold wind and enjoying the quiet beauty of Lapland. The ride typically lasts about 40 minutes, according to reviews, and is described as “very slow,” making it ideal for all ages and comfort levels.

Travelers love the visual feast of snow-laden trees and wide-open Arctic skies. We loved the way this activity allows you to feel the Arctic wind, giving a sense of genuine connection to the landscape. Since the ride is gentle and slow, it’s perfect for those with mobility concerns or families with young children.

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Reindeer Driving License

A fun and memorable touch is the “Reindeer Driving License” you receive afterward. It’s a playful badge of honor—think of it as a souvenir that says, “Yes, I’ve officially spent time driving a reindeer!” Many visitors find this a charming and unusual keepsake, adding a layer of personal achievement to the experience.

Cultural and Traditional Elements

Guides, who are often locals or long-standing family members, share stories about reindeer herding’s importance in Lapland. This isn’t just about riding; it’s about appreciating a time-honored tradition that has sustained locals for centuries. The experience offers a meaningful glimpse into how reindeer herding is woven into the fabric of Sami culture.

Additional Comforts and Practicalities

Given the outdoor nature of the tour, dress appropriately. The included winter overall keeps you warm during the ride, but travelers are advised to bring warm shoes and layers. It’s advisable to prepare for the cold, especially considering some reviews mentioning temperatures as low as -31°C.

The tour also provides hot tea and cookies, a much-appreciated treat in the Arctic cold. Blankets are available to keep you cozy during the sled ride.

Cost and Value

While the price might seem high—considering the three-hour duration, transportation, gear, and guided experience—the value is clear when you consider the authenticity and cultural insight you gain. The small group size enhances the experience, making it more personal and memorable.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This reindeer safari is particularly suited to those looking for an authentic, educational, and gentle Arctic experience. It’s excellent for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a taste of Lapland’s cultural roots. If you’re interested in traditional ways of life and enjoy close encounters with animals, this tour will likely resonate with you.

The inclusion of a reindeer sled ride and the chance to get a reindeer driving license adds a playful, memorable element to this adventure. Plus, the small group format ensures you’re not just a number but part of an intimate journey into Lapland’s traditions.

The Sum Up

This Reindeer Safari at a centuries-old farm offers a rare look into the heart of Lapland’s cultural heritage. You’ll enjoy a peaceful, scenic sled ride through pristine winter landscapes, meet gentle reindeer, and learn from guides who are passionate about their traditions. The experience combines outdoor adventure with personal storytelling, making it suitable for families, couples, or anyone eager to connect with Arctic life.

While the experience is more relaxed and educational than adrenaline-pumping, it provides authentic moments that stand out from more commercialized attractions. The inclusion of warm gear, hot drinks, and a fun “reindeer driving license” makes it feel like a well-rounded, value-for-money excursion.

If you’re craving a genuine, culturally rich Arctic activity that emphasizes tradition and natural beauty, this tour delivers with sincerity and charm. Just come prepared for the cold, and you’ll leave with stories to tell and memories to cherish.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 3 hours, including transportation, farm visit, sled ride, and interactions.

Is the sled ride suitable for children or seniors?
Yes. The 2.5 km sled ride is described as very slow and suitable for families and seniors, making it a relaxed way to enjoy Lapland’s scenery.

What should I wear?
Bring warm shoes and layered clothing. The tour provides a winter overall, but dressing warmly ensures comfort in the Arctic cold.

Are blankets and hot drinks included?
Yes, blankets are provided, and hot tea and cookies are offered during the visit.

Do I get to drive the reindeer?
You receive a “Reindeer Driving License,” which is a fun badge of honor, though actual reindeer driving is part of the guided experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes. It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is the experience suitable for everyone?
Mostly yes. The slow pace and outdoor setting suit most travelers, but be prepared for cold weather. It’s not recommended for those with mobility issues due to outdoor terrain.

This tour combines the magic of Lapland’s wilderness with the warmth of centuries-old traditions. Whether you’re a history buff, animal lover, or simply seeking a memorable Arctic adventure, it’s a worthwhile addition to your Finnish journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: