Lapland: Canoeing Trip with Reindeer and Husky Farm Tour

When it comes to Arctic adventures, Finland’s Lapland often steals the spotlight. This particular tour—a half-day journey combining canoeing, reindeer feeding, and husky farm visits—offers a well-rounded taste of the region’s unique charm. While it’s not a full-blown wilderness expedition, it covers a lot of ground and gives you a genuine peek at traditional Lapland life.

What we really like about this experience is how it effortlessly blends hands-on interactions with the animals—feeding reindeer, petting huskies—and the serene beauty of paddling through calm lakes. Plus, the small group size means a more personalized feel, with guides who seem genuinely invested in sharing their knowledge.

That said, a possible consideration is the seasonal availability of the husky ride, which depends on temperature. If it’s too warm, you might miss out on the carriage ride pulled by huskies, which is only available when it’s cold enough. Still, the canoeing and farm visits are reliably scheduled, making this a flexible choice for the curious traveler.

In short, this tour is a great pick for nature lovers and those interested in authentic Arctic farm life, especially if you appreciate a mix of activity and relaxation without the need for strenuous trekking or long hours outdoors.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines canoeing, reindeer feeding, and husky farm visits for a well-rounded Arctic day.
• Authentic Encounters: Get close to reindeer and huskies, learning about their daily lives directly from the owners.
• Scenic Settings: Paddling through calm lakes and forested areas provides some of the best views Lapland offers.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, which helps with personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Seasonal Element: Husky carriage rides depend on cold weather, so timing matters.
• Value for Money: At $353, it offers a lot packed into 6.5 hours, especially with included meals and transfers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The day kicks off with hotel pickup within a 10 km radius of Rovaniemi, so you don’t have to worry about transportation logistics. From there, things move at a relaxed but engaging pace, perfect for travelers who like a mix of activities without feeling rushed.

Reindeer Farm Visit

First stop is the reindeer farm, where young reindeer herders will introduce you to the animals. You’ll get a chance to feed the reindeer—a highlight that many reviewers find particularly charming. It’s not just about the petting; the guides share stories that give life to these animals, explaining their role in Lapland’s culture and daily life.

One traveler from Brazil noted, “The owners explained everything about reindeer, and we loved feeding them. It was a special moment.” These hands-on experiences help you connect with the region’s traditional livelihood.

Husky Farm Experience

Next, you’ll visit the husky farm. The energetic dogs are eager to meet new faces, and guides often share interesting facts about their work. When the temperature drops sufficiently, you get to hop into a wheel carriage pulled by huskies, which is undeniably a highlight for most visitors.

An attendee from 2019 shared, “We enjoyed the carriage ride, and the guides were very attentive, making sure we had a great time.” If the ride isn’t available due to the weather, don’t worry—the farm visit alone is still worth it for the close-up encounters with these beautiful animals.

Canoeing Adventure

After the farm visits, it’s time to slow down with a guided canoe trip through picturesque lakes and forests. The guide emphasizes safety and relaxation, making it accessible even for those with minimal paddling experience. Expect calm waters and peaceful scenery—ideal for unwinding and absorbing the pristine Arctic environment.

One review mentioned, “The canoeing was very relaxing, and the scenery was spectacular. It’s a perfect way to see the forest and lakes of Lapland.” Keep in mind, the canoe trip is the only activity that’s guaranteed regardless of weather conditions, making it a reliable highlight.

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Refreshments & Wrap-up

The day wraps up with reindeer sandwiches and blueberry juice, home-cooked-style offerings that give you a taste of local flavors. Many travelers find this part of the experience a warm and satisfying conclusion, fostering camaraderie among small groups.

The Value of This Tour

At $353 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive look into Lapland’s outdoor life in just over six hours. The price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guides in English (with other language options), all activities, and refreshments. When you compare what’s packed into the day—animal encounters, scenic paddling, cultural insights—it’s a fair deal, especially given the small group setting.

The inclusion of meals and transfers enhances convenience, so you won’t be left scrambling for extra arrangements. However, keep in mind that the husky carriage ride is season-dependent; if it’s too warm, you might miss this feature but still enjoy the farm visits and canoeing.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want a gentle, authentic introduction to Lapland’s farm life and natural beauty without requiring intense physical activity. It’s especially good for those interested in animal encounters, scenic paddling, and cultural insights. Families with older children might enjoy it, but kids under 12 need to be supervised, and the activities are generally relaxed enough for most ages.

Those who love the idea of learning about traditional reindeer herding and interacting closely with huskies will find this tour rewarding. If you’re seeking a full-day adventure or something more adrenaline-fueled, you might want to look elsewhere. But for a balanced, memorable taste of Lapland’s outdoor life, this trip hits the right notes.

Practical Tips

• Timing is key: Husky rides depend on cold weather, so check the forecast or ask the operator beforehand.
• Bring layers: Even if it’s summer, mornings and evenings can be cool, especially near lakes.
• Book in advance: The small group size means spots fill up quickly, especially in peak seasons.
• Children over 12 may enjoy the experience, but younger kids might find it less engaging or need supervision.
• Be prepared for some walking and paddling: The canoeing is relaxing but still involves movement, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children over 12 can participate comfortably, especially if they enjoy outdoor activities. Younger children need supervision, and the activities might be less engaging for very small kids.

What happens if the weather is too warm for the husky carriage ride?
The carriage ride depends on temperature; if it’s too warm, it won’t be available. However, the farm visits and canoeing still go ahead, so you won’t miss out entirely.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes a reindeer sandwich and blueberry juice, giving you a taste of local flavors to enjoy after the activities.

How long is the canoeing part?
The canoeing takes place in a scenic lake setting and is designed to be safe and relaxing, suitable for most participants. The exact duration isn’t specified but is part of the overall 6.5 hours.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included within 10 km of Rovaniemi, making logistics simple.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, with other languages available on request, including German, French, Italian, Spanish, and Chinese.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility.

Is the tour physically demanding?
Not particularly. It involves some walking, paddling, and animal interactions, but nothing overly strenuous.

Final Thoughts

This Lapland canoeing and farm tour offers a genuinely charming slice of Arctic life. It’s a well-constructed experience that balances wildlife encounters, scenic paddling, and cultural insights, all within a cozy small-group setting. While the weather-dependent husky ride might be a gamble, the farm visits and canoeing are reliable highlights that most travelers will enjoy.

If you’re looking for a low-key, authentic, family-friendly introduction to Lapland’s natural beauty and traditional livelihoods, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially ideal for those who want to stretch their legs outdoors, learn about reindeer herding and husky life, and soak in some of the most peaceful scenery Finland has to offer.

Whether you’re visiting with friends, family, or on your own, this experience captures a genuine piece of Lapland’s spirit—one of simplicity, animal companionship, and stunning natural views. For a balanced and memorable Arctic day, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: