If you’re dreaming of a truly Finnish winter adventure, the Reindeer Sleigh Ride and Farm Visit in Kuusamo offers a taste of the authentic Arctic lifestyle. While I haven’t personally ticked this off my bucket list, I’ve read plenty of reviews and gathered all the details to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your trip.
What makes this experience stand out are the beautiful winter landscapes you’ll glide through on a traditional reindeer sleigh and the chance to meet hundreds of reindeer up close. Plus, the farm’s welcoming guides bring a personal touch that makes you feel part of something special.
One thing to keep in mind: this tour lasts about 1.5 hours, and the price is around $94 per person. It’s a reasonably good value for such an immersive experience, especially considering the personal stories you’ll hear and the opportunity to shop authentic reindeer crafts.
This experience is perfect if you’re after a cultural connection, love nature, or simply want a memorable winter highlight in Finland. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and animal encounters will find plenty to love here.
Key Points
- Authentic reindeer encounter in a traditional farm setting
- Relaxing 1.5 km sleigh ride through stunning winter scenery
- Learn about reindeer herding directly from knowledgeable guides
- Opportunity to feed reindeer with lichen in an ancient corral
- Shop for reindeer products and handicrafts at the farm shop
- Ideal for those seeking cultural and outdoor experiences in Finland
An Inside Look at the Kuusamo Reindeer Experience
This tour combines two core elements: the scenic reindeer sleigh ride and a deep dive into reindeer farming life. It’s designed to give you an authentic glimpse into the traditions that have shaped this part of Finland for generations.
Planning more time in Kuusamo? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Sleigh Ride – A Winter Wonderland Journey
The highlight, without a doubt, is the 1.5 km reindeer sleigh ride. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable staff, you’ll settle into a cozy sleigh covered with reindeer hides—perfect for staying warm as you glide along a riverside trail leading into the old farm forest.
This ride offers a gentle, peaceful experience, allowing you to soak in the crisp winter air and absorb the natural beauty of Kuusamo’s snowy landscape. Many reviews mention how calming and almost magical this moment is, with one guest describing it as “just magical.”
The ride’s length is just right—not too long to tire out young kids or get boring, but enough to feel like a proper winter adventure. And you might find that the relaxing pace makes it suitable for all ages, including those who prefer a gentle experience over adrenaline.
Visiting the Reindeer and Learning from Guides
After the sleigh ride, you’ll visit the ancient corral, where hundreds of reindeer roam freely. This part of the tour is especially appreciated by visitors, as it offers a chance to up close and personal with these fascinating animals.
Guests often rave about how friendly and well-cared-for the reindeer are. Feeding them with lichen feels like a special privilege, and it’s a chance to get some great photos—many reviewers mention how Photogenic the reindeer are, with one even saying “Eric the reindeer” was a highlight.
The guides are praised repeatedly for their knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer notes, “the staff were so friendly and helpful and had excellent knowledge of the reindeers,” which adds a much richer context to the experience. They share stories about reindeer herding that deepen your appreciation for this traditional livelihood.
The Farm and Shopping
Before or after the tour, you can browse the farm shop, which sells a variety of reindeer products and handicrafts. This is a good opportunity to pick up authentic souvenirs, from reindeer pelts to local crafts. Given the reviews, the shop offers good value, especially since many visitors find the products unique and representative of their Arctic experience.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details and Value
The tour runs about 1.5 hours and costs approximately $94 per person. Considering that includes the sleigh ride, guided tour, reindeer interaction, and shopping, it’s quite a reasonable price point for what you get—an immersive, authentic experience that is well-organized and friendly.
You’ll want to bring your camera, as the scenery and reindeer make for fantastic photos. The tour is available in Finnish and English, making it accessible to most travelers.
What to Expect and Who It’s For
This experience is quite well-rounded. It’s suitable for anyone interested in Finnish culture, wildlife, or winter scenery. Families with children will appreciate how gentle and engaging the reindeer are, plus the scenic ride feels safe and comforting.
Keep in mind that the tour takes place outdoors in cold weather, so dress warmly—layers, hat, gloves, and sturdy winter boots are recommended. The guides are attentive and will make sure everyone is comfortable, but you’ll need to prepare for the chilly conditions.
Real Travelers’ Impressions
Looking at reviews, the overwhelmingly positive feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery. One reviewer called it “an incredible experience worth every penny,” emphasizing the friendly staff and the “magical” atmosphere. Others mentioned how easy it was to find and how fantastic the facilities are, which adds to the overall smooth experience.
Many mention how close and friendly the reindeer are, and how the stories about herding add depth to the visit. One noted that they would have loved to bring home the reindeer Repa—highlighting how memorable these animals are.
The Bottom Line
This tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic outdoor fun, cultural insight, and interactive animal encounters. It’s a solid choice for those wanting to experience the Arctic in a genuine way without over-commercialization. The guides and staff clearly care about visitors, making it not just a sightseeing trip but a meaningful experience.
While the price might seem slightly high for some, the value lies in the authenticity and the personal stories you’ll gather. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy nature, animals, and traditional ways of life.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re looking for a relaxing, authentic experience of Finnish winter culture, this tour will fit the bill. It’s great for anyone interested in reindeer, snowy landscapes, or learning about Sami traditions. Families will find it particularly engaging, thanks to friendly reindeer and a gentle pace.
If you’re a solo traveler or couple wanting a peaceful outdoor activity with genuine storytelling, this will appeal to you as well. Just remember to dress warmly and come prepared to enjoy the stunning scenery at a leisurely pace.
Kuusamo: Reindeer Sleigh Ride and Farm Visit
“very beautiful experience and staff was so kind. I would have brought home reeinder Repa, he was so sweet”
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for children? Many reviews mention how friendly and approachable the reindeer are, making it appealing for families. The tour’s gentle pace and outdoor setting are suitable for kids, but always check with the provider if you have very young children.
What do I need to bring? Just a camera and warm clothing. Since the tour takes place outdoors, layers, hats, gloves, and sturdy boots are recommended to stay comfortable.
How long is the tour? The experience lasts about 1.5 hours, including the sleigh ride, farm visit, and shopping.
What is included in the price? The sleigh ride, visit to the reindeer, guided tour, and access to the farm shop are all part of the package.
Are there options to cancel? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.
What languages are the guides? The tour is conducted in Finnish and English, making it accessible to most travelers.
How do I find the farm? The farm is easy to locate in Kuusamo, and the facilities are well-regarded for their ease of access and friendly staff.
If you’re after a memorable, authentic connection with Finland’s reindeer herding culture wrapped in a scenic winter setting, this tour offers a great way to do just that. It’s a laid-back, engaging experience that leaves many visitors with stories to tell—and photos to treasure.
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