Rovaniemi: Husky & Reindeer Experience with Snowmobile Ride

Planning a trip to Lapland and eager to see a side of the Arctic that’s both exhilarating and authentic? This 6-hour tour from Rovaniemi offers just that — a chance to cruise through snowy forests on a snowmobile, meet reindeer and huskies, and enjoy local traditions firsthand. It’s a package that promises adventure, culture, and a fair share of fun, all wrapped into one day.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its balance — you get an adrenaline rush with the snowmobile ride, a heartfelt encounter at the reindeer and husky farms, and enough free time to absorb the scenery and atmosphere at Santa Claus Village. Plus, the supportive guides, who are both knowledgeable and friendly, make the whole day smooth and enjoyable. On the flip side, a potential snag is the length of the activities, which, while manageable, might feel short for those seeking longer rides or more in-depth farm visits.

This tour is best suited for adventure lovers, families with children (who can comfortably sit in sleds), and anyone eager to connect with Lapland’s traditions without sacrificing comfort. If you’re after a taste of Arctic life with a good dose of fun, this tour could be your highlight.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Ride snowmobiles, meet reindeer and huskies, and learn about local herding lifestyle.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for kids (not driving) and adults alike, with options for reindeer sledge and husky rides.
• Well-Organized: Includes transportation, winter clothing, and equipment, ensuring hassle-free fun.
• Good Value: Offers multiple activities in a single day, with positive reviews highlighting its worth.
• Professional Guides: Friendly, helpful, and informative team enhances the experience.
• Short but Sweet: Activities are not overly long but packed with memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour starts with your pickup from central Rovaniemi — either at the Arctic Circle Snowmobile Park in Santa Claus Village or at the city office near Valtakatu and Koskikatu. The early start at 10:00 a.m. (or depending on the schedule) ensures you make the most of daylight in winter. Once at the park, you’ll be greeted by guides who provide warm winter clothing, helmets, and snowmobile training. This prep is crucial because Finnish winters can be surprisingly cold and demanding, but the gear you receive will keep you snug.

Snowmobile Adventure

The highlight for many travelers is the 1-hour snowmobile ride through the snowy forests of the Arctic Circle. As you follow your guide along winding trails, you’ll witness the stunning silence of Lapland’s winter landscape, broken only by the roar of engines and the crunching snow. Many reviews mention how “the snowmobile drive was the best experience,” and how the scenery was “like nowhere on earth,” highlighting the visual and adrenaline appeal of this activity.

For those with a driver’s license, sharing a snowmobile with another participant is standard, but single drivers can often pay extra to have their own vehicle. If you don’t have a license, don’t worry — you can still join comfortably seated in a sled behind the guide’s snowmobile, which many find perfectly enjoyable.

Reindeer and Husky Farm Visits

After the snowmobile thrill, your adventure continues at the reindeer and husky farms. Here, you’ll get to see these incredible animals up close, learning about their role in Lapland’s culture. The farm visits are not just quick photo ops; many reviews praise the guides’ stories about reindeer herding, describing it as “educational and authentic.”

You’ll then have a 500-meter reindeer sled ride, pulling your own reindeer, which many find charming and peaceful. The opportunity to get a reindeer sledge driver’s license adds a fun, interactive element, making you feel like a real herder for a moment. Many reviewers comment on how “the reindeer and husky rides were so much fun,” and appreciate the chance to pet and interact with the animals.

Following that, a 500-meter husky sled ride introduces you to these energetic dogs in action. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge make the experience engaging — many travelers mention that “the huskies were gorgeous and well looked after.” You get a sense of the dogs’ strength and stamina, and the overall atmosphere is lively and joyful.

Local Culture and Santa Claus Village

Intertwined with all these activities is a narrative about Lapland’s herding lifestyle, shared by guides who are passionate and well-informed. It offers a window into what it’s like being a reindeer herder in the 21st century, adding depth beyond just the rides.

Your tour concludes with a visit to Santa Claus Village, where you can explore at your leisure. Many reviews mention that the village is “beautiful” and fun for the kids, with options for photos with Santa and some light shopping. Some wish there were more options for food and drinks during the wait, as a few noted that having snacks available would improve the experience.

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Included and Not Included

Your fee covers transportation, all necessary winter gear, snowmobile equipment, and the activities — the snowmobile ride, reindeer sledge, and husky sled rides. You’ll also enjoy hot juice and biscuits to warm up. Alcoholic beverages and additional food are not included, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry or craving something specific.

The Experience in Context

With a rating of 4.6 out of 5 from over 800 reviews, most travelers find this tour offers great value. They particularly mention the professionalism of guides, the “spectacular scenery,” and the variety of activities packed into a six-hour window. The tours are well-organized, with transportation often described as smooth and punctual.

The shorter activity durations seem to suit most guests well — many reviews describe the rides as “short but fun,” which makes sense given the packed schedule. Some might wish for longer rides or more time with the animals, but overall, the consensus is that the experience is worth the price.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring your driver’s license if you want to drive a snowmobile; it’s required and cannot be substituted with a photo or provisional license.
• Dress warmly — the tour provides overalls, boots, and gloves, but layering underneath is advisable.
• Arrive on time at your meeting point — missing the pickup means missing out, as refunds are not given for no-shows.
• Consider purchasing extra insurance for damages if you plan to drive, though many reviews note that the guides are careful and safety-conscious.
• If you’re traveling with children or non-drivers, they can still enjoy the rides comfortably seated in sleds.
• Bring your own snacks if you’re hungry and prefer more sustenance during the day, especially since the Santa Village options are limited.

This experience is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who love outdoor activities and want an authentic taste of Lapland’s Arctic life. It’s especially good if you’re seeking a balanced mix of adventure and cultural insight without an overly long or exhausting schedule. The guides’ friendliness and the picturesque scenery make it suitable for those new to snow activities, as well as seasoned winter explorers.

If you’re after longer rides or more in-depth farm visits, you might want to look for extended options. But for a well-rounded introduction to Lapland’s traditions, wildlife, and snowy landscapes in a single day, this tour hits the mark.

This Rovaniemi tour offers a compelling blend of thrills, culture, and natural beauty, all delivered with professionalism and warmth. The snowmobile ride is the centerpiece, providing a true Arctic thrill, while the reindeer and husky experiences deepen your connection to Lapland’s unique way of life. The inclusion of transportation, gear, and snacks makes it a convenient choice for travelers, and the numerous positive reviews attest to its value and authenticity.

It’s a perfect fit for those who want to tick off key Arctic activities in one go — especially families, adventure enthusiasts, and culture-curious travelers. If you’re looking to see Lapland’s snowy wilderness with a knowledgeable guide by your side, this tour promises one of the most memorable days you’ll spend in the far north.

Do I need a driver’s license to participate?
Yes, a valid driver’s license (class B) is required if you want to drive the snowmobile. If not, you can sit in the sled behind the guide’s snowmobile.

Are the activities suitable for children?
Yes, children and adults without licenses can join comfortably seated in sleds behind the snowmobile. Kids will especially love the husky and reindeer rides.

What should I wear?
The tour provides winter clothes, overalls, boots, and gloves. However, layering your own thermal undergarments is recommended to stay warm.

How long is each activity?
The snowmobile ride lasts about 1 hour, and the reindeer and husky rides are 500 meters each. Many reviews mention these durations feel just right, offering enough fun without fatigue.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pick-up from central Rovaniemi, either at Santa Claus Village or the city office, is included. Make sure to be punctual.

Can I buy additional insurance?
Yes, on-site insurance can be purchased to reduce personal liability in case of damages to the snowmobile.

What is the tour’s duration?
The entire experience lasts around 6 hours, including all activities, transportation, and free time.

Is there a dress code or restrictions?
No pets or alcohol are allowed on the tour. Pregnant women and those with mobility issues are advised against participating.

Are meals included?
No, food is not included apart from hot juice and biscuits. Pack snacks if you’re hungry during the day.

What’s the best time to do this tour?
Check availability for your preferred dates; winter daylight hours are limited, so early morning starts help maximize daylight hours.

Whether you’re craving a true Arctic adventure or simply want to experience Lapland’s charming reindeer and huskies, this tour offers a lively, well-organized, and memorable day out in the snowy wilderness.

You can check availability for your dates here: