Rovaniemi: Apukka Reindeer Journey

If you’re dreaming of experiencing the timeless charm of Lapland, the Apukka Reindeer Journey offers a serene glimpse into the region’s deep-rooted traditions. This is one of those activities that promises more than just a ride — it’s an opportunity to slow down, connect with nature, and learn about reindeer husbandry in a peaceful winter setting. Whether you’re a first-timer in the Arctic or a seasoned traveler, this experience can be a memorable highlight of your visit.

What we especially like about this tour is how it balances authenticity with comfort. You’ll get close to the reindeer, learn about their vital role in Lapland’s culture, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of snowy forests. Plus, everything is well-organized, with warm winter gear provided, making it accessible even for those who don’t want to worry about layering up too much.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour is not suited for wheelchair users, and the group size can affect the intimacy of the experience — some reviews mention feeling like it’s more of a group amusement ride rather than a personal encounter. Still, if you’re looking for a genuine, relaxed adventure set in stunning winter scenery, this could be just right.

This tour tends to appeal to those who appreciate slow, scenic experiences and want to learn about Lapland’s traditional way of life. It’s particularly great for travelers who enjoy nature, animals, and cultural stories, offering a calm, immersive slice of Arctic life.

Key Points

• Authentic Reindeer Experience: You’ll meet real reindeer and learn about their importance to local culture.
• Peaceful Scenery: The ride glides through snowy forests, offering tranquil views and a quiet atmosphere.
• Inclusive Gear Provided: Thermal overalls, boots, mittens, and more keep you warm in Arctic conditions.
• Informative Guides: Knowledgeable guides share stories about reindeer husbandry and Lapland traditions.
• Group Size & Ride Duration: Rides are about 2-3 km, lasting roughly 45-50 minutes, with a total activity time of around 2 hours.
• Value for Money: At $203, the tour offers a good balance of cultural insight, scenic beauty, and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Reindeer Journey Experience

When you sign up for the Apukka Reindeer Journey, the first thing to expect is a warm welcome and a quick briefing before you get into the cozy, thermal clothing provided. The experience typically begins with pickup from Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village — both convenient options, especially if you’re staying nearby. The transportation is straightforward, with pickup times confirmed via email, so be sure to check your inbox.

The actual ride is about 2-3 km long, which is enough to enjoy the peaceful glide through snowy forests and across frozen lakes. The sleighs are pulled by gentle, healthy-looking reindeer, guided by professionals who ensure safety and provide interesting insights along the way. With seat allocation carefully managed, the reindeer are not overloaded, and the guides make sure everyone gets a good view and a comfortable ride.

What makes this tour stand out is how it balances relaxation and education. During the ride, guides share stories about reindeer husbandry, a livelihood deeply woven into Lapland’s history. As one reviewer pointed out, “The guides shared stories about reindeer husbandry and life in Lapland, adding depth and context to the experience.” These stories help you appreciate the animals more than simply watching them from afar.

The scenery during the ride is what you’d expect in a winter wonderland: snow-covered trees, frozen lakes, and a silent, still forest atmosphere. Many reviews mention how calming and beautiful the landscape is — “the silence of the woods and the still atmosphere all around” makes the ride feel almost meditative.

After the sleigh ride, you’ll be invited to relax with a hot drink, often served in a cozy tipi as you chat about what you’ve seen and learned. This is a lovely opportunity to warm up, share impressions, and hear even more stories about reindeer life and local traditions.

What Travelers Say About the Ride

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the authentic experience. One shared, “The guides’ explanations made the trip so much richer, and feeding the reindeer was a highlight.” Others emphasize the beautiful scenery and peaceful pace. A visitor noted, “The ride through the snowy forest was the perfect way to enjoy Lapland’s quiet, pristine nature.”

Some reviews comment on the group setup, mentioning that being tied to multiple sleighs felt more like an amusement ride than a personal experience. If you prefer a more intimate adventure, it’s worth considering that the group size can affect the feeling of connection.

Practical Considerations

At $203 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest activity in Rovaniemi, but it offers a good value for the experience provided. You’re getting transportation, warm clothing, a scenic ride, storytelling, and a hot drink — all bundled into a well-organized two-hour experience.

The duration is about 2 hours, with the sleigh ride itself lasting roughly 45-50 minutes. This allows enough time to enjoy the ride without feeling rushed. However, be prepared for cold weather — the guides recommend you wear warm clothing, and they supply thermal overalls and accessories to keep you comfortable.

An important note from reviews is that the reindeer farm is a short walk from the resort, so you should plan accordingly. Also, alcohol is not permitted on the vehicle, and the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, which is important if you have mobility considerations.

What We Loved

We appreciated the authenticity of the reindeer encounter and how the guides clearly cared for the animals’ well-being. The scenic, quiet forest ride really captures the essence of Lapland’s peaceful winter environment, providing a break from the more commercial Santa attractions. The hot drink at the end is a perfect touch, giving you time to reflect and absorb the experience while staying warm.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Could Be Better

While most reviews praise the experience, some mention that being tied to multiple sleighs can feel a bit like a group amusement ride. If your priority is a more personal, immersive journey in the forest, you might find this setup less ideal. Also, those expecting to take photos freely may be disappointed — some reviews noted restrictions on photographing the reindeer, which can be a downside for capturing memories.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a genuine, slow-paced adventure that offers insight into traditional Lapland life, this tour fits perfectly. It appeals to those who love nature and animals and want to experience the Arctic in a calm, respectful way. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate cultural storytelling and want to learn more about the significance of reindeer in Finnish life.

However, if you’re seeking a high-adrenaline activity or are in need of a wheelchair-accessible experience, this might not be the best fit. It’s best suited for those comfortable with cold weather, and who enjoy a relaxed, scenic ride rather than fast-paced rides or photo-intensive moments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, this activity is family-friendly and enjoyed by children, especially those who love animals and scenic rides. However, very young children should be able to sit comfortably on the sleigh.

How long is the reindeer sleigh ride?
The actual ride covers about 2-3 km and lasts roughly 45-50 minutes, fitting comfortably into the total 2-hour activity time.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the reindeer sleigh ride, guiding, reindeer husbandry stories, hot drink, winter clothing (thermal overall, boots, socks, mittens, balaclava), and transfers if needed.

Is the experience cold?
Yes, expect cold weather. Warm clothing is essential, but the provided thermal gear helps keep you comfortable during the ride.

Can I book this tour with flexible payment options?
Absolutely, you can reserve now and pay later, allowing you some flexibility in planning your trip.

Are there pickup points?
Yes, pickup is included from Rovaniemi city center and Santa Claus Village, with times confirmed via email.

Is there a maximum group size?
While specific group sizes aren’t mentioned, some reviews suggest that larger groups tie multiple sleighs together, which can affect the feeling of intimacy.

Are photographs allowed during the ride?
The tour restricts photo opportunities during the sleigh ride itself, mainly for safety reasons, so don’t expect to take photos while moving.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing is a must — think thermal layers, hats, gloves, and warm socks. The provided gear helps, but layering is key.

What about accessibility?
This activity isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so check alternative options if needed.

The Apukka Reindeer Journey offers a quiet, authentic taste of Lapland’s rich traditions. It’s a wonderful choice for those who value culture, scenic beauty, and animal encounters without the rush of more commercial options. The guides’ stories and the peaceful forest ride make it a relaxing highlight in the Arctic landscape.

While it may not satisfy adrenaline junkies or photo enthusiasts seeking unrestricted freedom to capture every moment, it delivers an honest, meaningful experience of reindeer life that many travelers find deeply memorable. If you’re looking for a genuine, laid-back Arctic adventure, this tour is worth considering.

For anyone eager to step into the calm, snowy world of Lapland and connect with its most iconic animals, the Apukka Reindeer Journey promises to be a quiet, heartfelt experience—one that will likely stay with you long after the snow melts.

You can check availability for your dates here: