Levi: Lappish Reindeer Sled Ride 3 km

If you’re dreaming of a true winter adventure in Lapland, a reindeer sled ride is often at the top of the list. This tour, offered by Polar Star Travel and based in Levi, promises an authentic peek into Sami culture and the peaceful beauty of the snowy landscape. While it’s not the longest or most adrenaline-fueled experience, it’s a charming way to connect with nature and learn about one of Lapland’s most iconic animals.

What we really appreciate about this experience are the personal stories from guides and the opportunity to feed reindeer—it’s these little touches that make the trip memorable. Plus, the setting, at a genuine family-owned farm, amplifies the feeling of being part of something real and rooted in tradition. One potential consideration is the short duration—if you’re craving a longer or more vigorous ride, this might feel a bit light—but for many, that’s its charm.

This tour is a lovely fit for those who want a calm, immersive experience that combines scenery, culture, and a chance to interact with reindeer up close. It’s especially suited for visitors who appreciate authentic local encounters rather than commercialized attractions. Whether you’re traveling with family, a couple, or a solo explorer eager to learn about Sami traditions, this ride offers a gentle but meaningful taste of the Arctic.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: You visit a family-owned reindeer farm, not a large commercial operation.
• Cultural Insight: Guides share stories about reindeer herders and Sami culture.
• Scenic Ride: The 3 km sled takes you through stunning winter scenery, perfect for photos.
• Interactive: Feeding reindeer adds a personal touch and makes the experience engaging.
• Comfort & Convenience: Roundtrip transportation from Levi, hot drinks, and pastries included.
• Family Friendly: Warming blankets and opportunities for children to feed reindeer make it suitable for families.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Lapland’s Reindeer Heritage

We love how this tour captures the essence of Lapland’s tranquil winter atmosphere. Starting with the pickup in Levi, you’re whisked away to a cozy, family-run reindeer farm. The drive itself sets the tone—quiet, snow-covered landscapes whizz past, promising a peaceful escape from everyday life.

Once there, the reindeer sled ride begins. You’ll get to sit comfortably on a traditional sleigh pulled by a reindeer—imagine the gentle, rhythmic patter of hooves on snow, and the crisp winter air invigorating your senses. The pace varies depending on the reindeer, with some younger ones eager to race, while the more seasoned leaders take a steady, calming route. It’s a delightful experience whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking to soak in the scenery.

What the Reindeer Sled Ride Feels Like

The ride itself is about 3 km long, which is a cozy length for a casual adventure. The guide’s stories about reindeer herding and Sami traditions enrich the experience, making it more than just a scenic ride. We loved hearing about the daily life of Sami reindeer herders—these stories bring the landscape and animals to life in a way that feels genuine.

The setting is picture-perfect: snow-laden trees, silent expanses, and the distant sounds of nature. Many reviews comment on how authentic and beautiful the farm and scenery are, with one noting, “super authentic, beautiful place.” It’s the kind of environment that makes you pause and appreciate the quiet majesty of Lapland.

Feeding and Interacting with Reindeer

After the ride, you’re invited to feed the reindeer. The reindeer food is included**, and this is where the experience feels personal and warm. Feeding the animals, especially in such a picturesque environment, is surprisingly engaging and often a highlight for visitors—kids and adults alike.

One traveler noted, “Great to be able to feed the reindeer,” which underscores how meaningful this interaction can be. You’ll also have plenty of opportunities for photos—both of the reindeer and yourself in the snowy landscape.

Comfort, Food, and Additional Details

The tour includes hot drinks and homemade pastries at the farm’s cozy café, a perfect way to warm up after the ride. This touches on the Finnish hospitality that makes outdoor experiences feel even sweeter. Warming blankets are provided, which is a thoughtful touch—especially if you’re visiting with infants or sensitive friends.

Transportation is smooth and straightforward. The roundtrip transfer from Levi is included, with pickups from front of Design Hotel Levi or Hotel Hullu Poro (20 minutes prior). This makes logistics easier for travelers, saving you from figuring out transport on your own.

The duration is around 2 hours, with the actual sled ride about 30-40 minutes. This makes it a manageable outing, especially if you’re balancing other activities or simply want a gentle introduction to Lapland’s winter life.

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The Value of This Experience

The cost covers quite a bit—transport, a genuine reindeer ride, feeding, guide, and refreshments—which many find quite reasonable considering the intimacy and authenticity of the experience. The reviews highlight well-organized logistics and engaging guides, which greatly enhance the overall value.

Price-wise, it’s a good way to tick off a cultural bucket list item without breaking the bank. It’s not a high-adrenaline tour, but the personal touches, storytelling, and scenery make it a worthwhile addition to your Lapland itinerary.

Real Visitor Experiences

Feedback from visitors consistently points out how knowledgeable and enthusiastic the guides are. One review raves about Ari’s storytelling, making the experience both fun and educational. Another mentions the beautiful location—the Sammuntupa Reindeer Farm—as an authentic and spacious setting where feeding and interacting with reindeer feels natural and unhurried.

Many travelers, including those with children, say this tour is “an awesome experience” and “highly recommended”. The inclusion of warming blankets and opportunities for all ages to participate makes it accessible and comfortable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those seeking a gentle, authentic encounter with Lapland’s natural and cultural heritage. It suits travelers who enjoy scenery, wildlife, and stories rather than high-energy activities. Families with children will find it particularly suitable due to the feeding opportunities and cozy environment.

If you’re looking for a quick, meaningful taste of Sami culture combined with stunning winter views, this tour ticks those boxes. However, if your priority is a longer or more intense adventure, you might want to explore other options like husky safaris or snowmobiling.

FAQ

• How long does the reindeer sled ride last? The actual ride is around 30-40 minutes, with the entire tour including transportation and refreshments lasting about 2 hours.
• Is transportation included? Yes, roundtrip transportation from Levi is included, with pickups at designated hotels.
• Can children participate? Yes, children can enjoy this experience, especially since warming blankets and feeding opportunities are provided.
• What should I wear? Dress warmly in layers, including waterproof outerwear, as you’ll be outdoors in the snow.
• Are food and drinks included? Yes, hot drinks and homemade pastries are part of the experience.
• Is this experience suitable for solo travelers? Absolutely, it’s a relaxed group activity that works well for solos too.
• How authentic is the reindeer farm? Very. It is a family-owned farm, not a commercialized attraction, providing a genuine setting.
• What’s the scenery like? Expect snow-covered trees, open fields, and serene winter landscapes.
• Is there any cultural component? Yes, guides share stories about Sami reindeer herding, giving cultural context.
• Can I feed the reindeer? Yes, feeding the reindeer is part of the experience, with food provided.

This Levi reindeer sled ride balances authenticity, simplicity, and scenic beauty. It’s a lovely way to slow down and enjoy Lapland’s winter magic, especially if you love animals, culture, and peaceful landscapes. While it’s not a high-octane activity, it offers a genuine connection to the region’s traditions and natural environment.

Whether you’re traveling with family, seeking a cultural outing, or just want a serene moment in the Arctic, this tour offers a cozy, memorable experience. The friendly guides, beautiful setting, and personal interactions make it stand out as a genuine slice of Lapland life. Just remember to bundle up and bring your camera—this is one winter adventure you’ll want to remember.

You can check availability for your dates here: