Rovaniemi: Late Night Ride with Finnhorses

Imagine exploring the darkened forests of Lapland on a gentle Finnhorse, the air crisp and alive with the sounds of night creatures. This tour, offered by Aurora Horses, promises an evening of quiet beauty, wildlife sightings, and warm stories around a campfire. It’s a unique way to experience the Arctic’s tranquility and natural charm, especially if you’re keen on outdoor activities that go beyond snowmobiles and reindeer sleigh rides.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the personalized atmosphere — thanks to a small group size, you won’t feel lost in a crowd — and the wealth of knowledge your guide brings about the Finnish horses and local life. A potential consideration is the timing and weather, as this activity is weather-dependent and takes place during the dark hours, which may not suit everyone’s schedule or preferences.

This experience suits travelers who love animals, enjoy quiet, scenic rides, and are eager to learn about local traditions. It’s especially appealing for those wanting an authentic, intimate glimpse into Lapland’s wilderness at night. While it’s not suitable for children under 7 or pregnant women, it’s perfect for anyone seeking a peaceful, nature-focused outing.

Contents hide

1 A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

2 Who Should Consider This Tour?

3 The Sum Up

4 FAQ

Key Points

Intimate Experience: Small groups of up to 5 participants ensure personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
Wildlife Encounters: The tour offers chances to see moose, foxes, hares, and maybe even Santa’s reindeer in their natural habitat.
Cultural Insights: Guides share stories about the Finnish national horse breed and everyday life in Lapland.
Comfort and Safety: Helmets and safety instructions are provided, making it accessible for beginners and experienced riders alike.
Evening Comforts: Post-ride, you’ll enjoy warm juice, snacks, and stories around a campfire, adding a cozy finish to your adventure.
Timing Flexibility & Accessibility: Tours last about 1.5 hours, with checkable start times, and are wheelchair accessible.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Rovaniemi.

Meeting Point and Location

The adventure begins at Aurora Horses on Joulumaantie’s northern end. The directions are straightforward: follow the signs past Husky Park and the yellow Forest Mansion to reach the stables. The meeting point is well-marked, ensuring you don’t get lost amid Lapland’s snowy or wooded surroundings. Allow a few minutes for arrival and check-in—punctuality is recommended as the tour starts promptly.

The Ride Itself: What to Expect

Once you’re greeted by your guide and introduced to your Finnhorse, the real fun begins. Expect a 40-60 minute ride through the forest, where the darkness amplifies the sense of adventure. The terrain varies with the season: in summer, you’ll ride under the midnight sun; in winter, across snowy fields; and in autumn, through colorful, wet woods.

The Finnhorse breed, native to Finland, is renowned for its calm demeanor and strength—perfect for a relaxed, scenic ride. As you move through the woods, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife: moose, foxes, and hares are common sights, especially at night when they’re most active. Some visitors even report the possibility of encountering Santa’s reindeer, adding a sprinkle of Christmas magic.

The Campfire and Stories

After your ride, everyone gathers around a campfire. This is where the tour’s cozy side shines. You’ll sip warm juice and nibble on a small snack—sausages, salmon sandwiches, gingerbread cookies, or marshmallows—crafted to warm you from the inside out. The guide shares stories about the national horse breed and life in Lapland, enriching the experience with local color and tradition. One reviewer emphasized the enjoyment of these stories and the convivial atmosphere, calling it “absolutely fantastic.”

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The Value of Guided Knowledge

Our sources highlight the importance of the knowledgeable guides. They don’t just lead the ride—they tell stories, answer questions, and make sure everyone feels comfortable and informed. This personal touch elevates the experience from a simple ride to a cultural and natural immersion.

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Practical Details and Considerations

Duration & Timing: The 1.5-hour length is ideal for a relaxed yet fulfilling experience, with flexible start times depending on availability.
Group Size: Limited to 5 participants, fostering a sense of intimacy — you’re more than just a number.
Price & Value: At $153 per person, it’s not the cheapest activity, but the personalized service, authentic setting, and unique experience justify the cost. You’re paying for more than a ride—you’re paying for the memories.
Weather & Clothing: Dress warmly in comfortable clothes, especially in winter. Snow boots or sturdy shoes are advisable. The weather can be cold, so prepare accordingly.
Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for travelers with mobility needs, provided they can manage the riding experience.
Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, or those with animal allergies—important safety and health considerations.

Reviews and Authentic Feedback

From the 15 reviews, a common theme emerges: guides are fantastic, and the storytelling adds a layer of authenticity that visitors truly appreciate. One reviewer called the experience “absolutely fantastic,” highlighting the enjoyment of the food and stories by the fire, which brings a warm, communal feeling to the cold night.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ride is ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful, nature-oriented adventure that combines scenic beauty with cultural insights. It’s perfect for animal lovers, those interested in local traditions, and anyone wanting a quiet, memorable evening in Lapland’s wilderness. Since it’s small-group and guided, it suits travelers who prefer a personal, intimate experience over large, commercial excursions.

It’s less suitable for families with young children or anyone with limited mobility or animal allergies. Also, it’s best if you’re prepared for the dark, often chilly conditions or if you’re sensitive to cold weather.

The Sum Up

For travelers who cherish authentic, slow-paced adventures, the Late Night Ride with Finnhorses offers a memorable taste of Lapland’s wilderness and culture. The gentle ride through forested trails, the chance to see nocturnal wildlife, and the cozy campfire stories combine into an experience that feels both special and genuine.

The small group setting and knowledgeable guides ensure you get a personalized and enriching experience, making it more than just a ride—it’s a moment to connect with nature and local traditions in a tranquil, authentic way. While the price may seem high compared to other activities, the intimacy, cultural insights, and natural beauty make it worth considering for your Arctic itinerary.

Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a curious beginner, this tour promises a peaceful, enriching evening that will stay with you long after the snow melts or the midnight sun sets.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes safety instructions and provides helmets, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced riders. The calm Finnhorse is known for its gentle nature.

What should I wear for the ride?
Dress warmly in comfortable clothes, especially in winter. Warm shoes are recommended, and layering is advised to stay comfortable in the chilly air.

Can I participate if I have mobility challenges?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check with the provider about specific needs to ensure a smooth experience.

Are children under 7 allowed?
No, this activity is not suitable for children under 7 years old.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers safety instructions, the horseback ride, riding helmet, warm juice, water, snacks, campfire stories, and guide services.

Can family members who aren’t riding join the campfire?
Yes, they can, for an additional fee of around $20 per person, which covers food and drinks.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended. You can reserve now and pay later, which offers flexibility in planning.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

This tour offers a rare, authentic glimpse into Lapland’s nighttime wilderness, wrapped in the warmth of stories and shared experiences. Ideal for those seeking a peaceful, memorable Arctic night.