Reindeer Safari and Ice Fishing

Reindeer Safari and Ice Fishing: An Authentic Lapland Experience

If you’re dreaming of a genuine Arctic adventure, a tour combining reindeer encounters with ice fishing might just be the highlight of your trip to Lapland. We haven’t personally done this one, but from what we see, it offers a wonderful blend of outdoor activity, cultural insight, and peaceful nature—perfect for those looking to connect with the landscape beyond just snapping photos.

What really catches our eye is the opportunity to learn about reindeer farming directly from local families and enjoy a sled ride through the snowy forest, both of which bring you closer to traditional Lapland life. The quiet, almost meditative experience of ice fishing, especially after a sled ride, also feels like a great way to slow down and savor the moment.

That said, a potential consideration is the timing and weather—outdoor activities depend heavily on the cold and snow conditions, so it’s wise to prepare for the weather and be flexible with timing. This tour probably suits travelers who want an authentic, hands-on encounter with Lapland’s culture and nature, rather than a purely touristy show.

If you’re after a memorable, peaceful Arctic experience that mixes cultural learning with outdoor fun, then this tour might be exactly what you’re looking for. Just make sure you’re comfortable with being outdoors in winter, and you’ll come away with some lovely stories to tell.

Key Points

• Authentic experience with a visit to a reindeer farm and interaction with local breeders.
• Enjoy a sled ride through beautiful, snowy forests—great for nature lovers.
• Learn the art of ice fishing on a frozen lake, drilling your own hole and trying your luck.
• All activities are outdoors and weather-dependent, so dress warmly and be prepared.
• Includes hot drinks to warm up after outdoor activities.
• Transport is included from central Rovaniemi, with a small extra fee if staying outside the immediate city center.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

The tour starts with a pickup from a central location in Rovaniemi, specifically the Arctic City Hotel, making it easy for city-based travelers to join. The entire activity runs for about five hours, giving you a substantial taste of Lapland’s outdoor life without it feeling rushed.

Visiting the reindeer farm is a highlight—here, you get to see how the animals are bred and cared for by local families. You’ll also have the chance to feed the reindeer, which is a surprisingly gentle, calming activity. This kind of direct contact offers a real taste of Sami culture, and for many, it’s a chance to connect with the land and its traditional livelihood.

Following the farm visit, you’ll hop onto a reindeer sled for an hour-long ride through the Taiga forest. We love the visual of sitting snug in the sled, surrounded by quiet trees and snow, with only the sound of the reindeer’s hooves and the sled’s runners. It’s a peaceful, almost timeless experience that makes you appreciate the stillness of Arctic wilderness.

After some warming hot drinks, you move to the ice fishing segment. What makes this so engaging is the hands-on approach—you’re actually drilling your own hole in the ice, learning the secrets of successful fishing from guides. You’ll be fishing for perch and pike, species that add a bit of excitement to your quiet moment on the frozen lake. Whether you catch anything or not, the experience of trying your luck in such an iconic setting is memorable.

The tour runs smoothly, with pickup and drop-off included in Rovaniemi. If your accommodation is outside the immediate city area, there’s a small fee, but the effort to get you into the Arctic wilderness is appreciated.

What’s Worth Noting

A review from Tamara from Spain sums it up well: “Una auténtica actividad escuchando el silencio, comiendo buena comida. Recomendable ir a una granja de renos.” She also mentions that confirmation contact a day or two before would make the experience even smoother, which is good to keep in mind.

The outdoor nature of this experience means you’ll want to dress warmly—think layered winter clothing, waterproof boots, hats, gloves. The guide emphasizes dressing in warm clothing and winter boots, which is crucial since you’ll be outside for extended periods.

The group size isn’t specified but given the nature of small farm visits and outdoor activities, it’s likely intimate enough to feel personal without being crowded. The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for most travelers.

The Value and Who It’s For

Considering the price, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic slice of Lapland life—not just a quick photo stop but a deeper, more meaningful experience. You get to learn about reindeer husbandry, enjoy a sled ride, and try ice fishing—activities that are quintessentially Arctic and difficult to replicate elsewhere. Hot drinks and the picturesque setting add comfort and charm.

This experience is ideal for adventurers who enjoy being outdoors, appreciate cultural insights, and want the peace that comes from spending time in nature rather than a busy tourist hub. It’s not the best option for those with mobility issues or very young children (under 2), pregnant women, or anyone with animal allergies.

In essence, if you’re after a genuine Arctic adventure with a tranquil vibe and meaningful engagement, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to slow down and savor the silence and beauty of Lapland’s winter landscape.

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FAQs

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring comfortable, warm clothing, including a hat and winter boots, water, and layers to stay dry and warm during outdoor activities.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about five hours, including pickup, activities, and return.

Is the pickup included?
Yes, pickup from Rovaniemi city center at the Arctic City Hotel is included, with a small additional fee if your accommodation is further than 5 km.

Can I do this tour if I don’t like cold weather?
This tour is outdoors in winter, so dressing warmly is essential. If you’re sensitive to cold, consider whether you’re comfortable with outdoor winter activities.

Is there a minimum age?
Children under 2 aren’t suitable for this experience, and the tour might not be ideal for very young children due to outdoor conditions.

What animals will I see?
Primarily reindeer, which are central to local culture and farming. The activity involves feeding and sled riding with them.

What type of fish can I expect to catch?
Perch and pike are the main species you might catch during ice fishing.

What is the quality of the experience?
Based on reviews, it’s highly rated for its authenticity, peacefulness, and scenic views, with one reviewer emphasizing the “silence” as a key highlight.

Is this experience suitable for someone who’s pregnant or has allergies?
Pregnant women and those with animal allergies are advised against participating for safety and comfort reasons.

To sum it up, this Reindeer Safari and Ice Fishing tour offers a genuine glimpse into Lapland’s traditional lifestyle and natural beauty. It’s perfect for travelers seeking tranquility, cultural insight, and outdoor adventure in equal measure. Prepare well, dress warmly, and you’ll come away with memories of a peaceful, authentic Arctic day that’s hard to find elsewhere.