Rovaniemi: Meet and Feed Reindeer

If you’re dreaming of a genuine Arctic adventure, a tour to meet and feed reindeer in Rovaniemi offers a wonderful glimpse into the traditional life of Lapland. This experience combines the charm of these gentle animals with storytelling and cultural insight—perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to connect with nature.

What we love about this experience is the chance to get up close and personal with reindeer, animals that are central to Lapland’s way of life. The storytelling about reindeer husbandry adds depth that turns a simple animal encounter into a meaningful cultural lesson. A possible consideration is the weather—since it’s held outdoors in winter, dressing warmly is essential.

This tour suits those looking for an authentic, family-friendly Arctic activity that balances fun and education. If you’re curious about reindeer, interested in local traditions, or simply want a memorable photo opportunity, this is a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Authentic Reindeer Encounters: Get close enough to pet and feed these iconic animals.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about reindeer husbandry directly from knowledgeable guides.
• Photo Opportunities: Capture memorable images with reindeer in a snowy setting.
• Practical Comfort: Warm winter clothing and a hot drink are provided.
• Accessible from Rovaniemi: Transfers included make logistics simple.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with clear guidelines to ensure animal safety.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Reindeer Tour

This tour in Rovaniemi offers a rare opportunity to meet the star of countless Christmas tales: the reindeer. While the name might evoke Santa and his sleigh, these animals are much more than festive symbols—they are a vital part of Lapland’s cultural identity and livelihood. The experience is organized by Apukka Resort, a respected operator with a 4.6-star rating, making it a trusted choice for visitors.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on authentic interaction. You’re not just watching reindeer from afar but actually petting and feeding them, which adds a layer of connection that photos alone can’t capture. Plus, the narratives about reindeer husbandry deepen your understanding of the challenges and traditions faced by local herders.

A key consideration is clothing—since this activity is outdoors in winter, the tour provides thermal overalls, boots, and woolen socks to keep you warm. However, dress appropriately for the weather, especially if you plan to spend extra time in the snow or take photos.

Ideal for those interested in culture or seeking a family-friendly Arctic activity, this tour offers a taste of Lapland’s natural and cultural landscape, making it a memorable part of any winter itinerary.

What You Can Expect

Meeting Point and Transport

The tour begins with a prompt pickup from either Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village, both conveniently accessible. Transport is included and arranged to fit your schedule, with pickups about 30 to 40 minutes before the activity starts. The reindeer farm is just a few minutes walk from the resort, so you’ll be transported comfortably and efficiently.

The Reindeer Experience

Once at the farm, you’ll have the chance to pet these gentle creatures—something many visitors find surprisingly calming. The reindeer are accustomed to humans, which makes the interaction safe and enjoyable. Feeding them lichen is a highlight, and guides will share stories about what reindeer eat, their behavior, and how they are cared for.

Many reviews mention how “friendly” and “calm” the reindeer are, reinforcing that this isn’t a wild animal experience but a controlled, respectful encounter. One traveler said, “The reindeer are used to visitors, but I appreciated the way the guide explained how to approach them gently.”

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Stories and Cultural Context

The guide will also talk about reindeer husbandry, explaining how this tradition is woven into Lapland’s history and present. You’ll learn about the daily routines of herders, the significance of reindeer for local communities, and how these animals are vital to the region’s cultural fabric.

Photo Opportunities and Atmosphere

Expect to capture some lovely images—reindeer against a snowy backdrop make for memorable photos. The friendly animals often pose naturally, and guides usually assist with picture-taking if requested. Many reviewers have shared how their photos turned out “magical,” especially with the winter light and snow.

Refreshments and Comfort

After the interaction, a warming hot drink is offered, providing a cozy finish to your outdoor experience. The provided thermal clothing ensures you stay warm, but it’s wise to wear your own layered winter gear underneath for extra comfort.

Duration and Flexibility

The tour lasts about one hour, which strikes a good balance—enough time to enjoy the activities without feeling rushed. You can check availability for specific start times, but typical tours run during daylight hours, making for the best lighting and scenery.

The Practicalities and Value

The price of this tour includes feeding the reindeer, storytelling, transfers, and warm clothing—a package that offers convenience and value. Considering the cost of a similar experience in other regions, this represents a good deal, especially since it’s designed to be accessible and family-friendly.

The transfer service is particularly helpful, saving you the hassle of navigating public transport or arranging private transport in snow conditions. Plus, the small group size ensures a more personal, less rushed experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that the farm is not wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility issues might need to consider other options. Also, bringing outside snacks for reindeer isn’t permitted, so plan accordingly.

Authenticity and Respect for Animals

Guests are kindly asked to approach the reindeer slowly and peacefully to avoid startling them. This respectful approach enhances your connection and ensures the animals remain calm. The guide emphasizes that the animals are accustomed to humans but still require gentle handling.

Overall Value and Who It’s Best For

This tour offers a heartfelt chance to see reindeer up close in a naturalistic setting, learn about their role in Lapland’s culture, and enjoy a cozy moment with a hot drink. It’s an excellent introduction to the region’s traditions, especially suitable for families, nature lovers, or anyone curious about reindeer husbandry beyond the fairy-tale image.

While the outdoor winter environment might be cold, the warmth provided, along with the friendly animals and engaging storytelling, makes it a rewarding experience. For travelers seeking authentic cultural encounters that are accessible and fun, this tour hits the mark.

If you’re after a unique photo opportunity, a gentle introduction to Sami culture, or simply want to spend an hour immersed in snowy tranquility, you’ll find this tour a worthwhile addition to your Rovaniemi itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transfers are included if needed, with pickup points at Rovaniemi city center and Santa Claus Village. The service is coordinated to ensure timely arrival at the reindeer farm.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about one hour, providing enough time to pet, feed, listen to stories, and take photos without feeling rushed.

What should I wear?
Warm outdoor clothing is essential. The tour provides thermal overalls, boots, woolen socks, mittens, and a balaclava. Still, layering your own thermal underwear underneath is advisable.

Can children participate?
Yes, the activity is family-friendly. Children tend to love interacting with the reindeer and listening to the stories. Just be mindful to approach the animals gently.

Are the reindeer wild?
No, the reindeer are part of a managed farm. They are used to humans and friendly, but always approached with respect.

Is this experience suitable for wheelchair users?
No, unfortunately, the farm is not wheelchair accessible. Visitors with mobility challenges should consider other options.

This Meet and Feed Reindeer tour in Rovaniemi offers a straightforward yet meaningful way to connect with Lapland’s iconic animals and culture. It’s perfect for travelers who want a genuine, family-friendly activity that’s easy to fit into a busy Arctic itinerary. The combination of gentle animals, storytelling, and cozy refreshments makes it a memorable slice of Lapland life, especially if you’re looking to add an authentic touch to your winter adventure.

For those wanting a taste of traditional reindeer husbandry, a chance to see reindeer in a natural setting, and to learn about local culture firsthand, this tour offers all that in a friendly, manageable package. It’s a genuine experience that’s as much about understanding the region’s way of life as it is about having fun in the snow.

You can check availability for your dates here: