Rovaniemi: Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride with Snacks and Transfer

If you’re heading to Rovaniemi and want to add a touch of authentic Arctic charm to your trip, a horse-drawn sleigh ride might just be the experience you’re looking for. We’ve been exploring this tour from Kotatuli Experience, and it’s a gentle, scenic excursion that offers a break from the more adrenaline-fueled winter activities. It’s a cozy, peaceful way to enjoy the winter landscape, especially if you’re after something relaxed and authentic.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines the tranquility of the snowy forest with a warm, welcoming atmosphere at the end. Plus, the fact that you’re helping out with harnessing the horses and meeting farm animals adds a nice personal touch. On the flip side, it’s not the most adrenaline-packed or high-energy activity, so if you’re craving intense adventure, this might feel a bit tame. However, it’s ideal for anyone wanting a genuine taste of Arctic countryside life—families, couples, or solo travelers alike.

This tour suits those looking for a relaxing, scenic, and culturally rich Arctic adventure. It’s particularly good for visitors who want to see the Finns’ traditional way of enjoying winter, away from the crowds. If you’re after a memorable, peaceful ride in the snow, this could definitely be a highlight of your trip.

This experience made our article of You’ll Love These 10 Private Driver Services In Rovaniemi.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: A peaceful horse-drawn sleigh ride through snowy forests.
• Cultural Touch: Meet farm animals and learn about traditional Finnish farm life.
• Comfort & Warmth: Warm up in a traditional kota with hot drinks and snacks.
• Small Group: Limited to 5 participants, making it more intimate.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for travelers who enjoy gentle outdoor activities.
• Ideal for Relaxation: A slower-paced experience perfect for unwinding in nature.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Sleigh Ride

This tour begins in the quiet setting of Marrasjärvi village, about 60 km from Rovaniemi. Far from the noise of the city, the farm’s remote location ensures a peaceful atmosphere. The approach along a narrow forest road guarantees privacy and an immersion into Arctic countryside life. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by guides who will introduce you to the farm’s friendly animals—particularly the horses you’ll help harness before your ride.

Meeting the Kotatuli Animals

We loved the way the guides took time to introduce us to the horse herd, explaining their personalities and roles. You might find that helping with harnessing adds an extra layer of connection—seeing the effort involved in preparing the horses for the ride makes the experience feel more meaningful. Several reviews note the warmth and friendliness of the guides, which enhances the overall enjoyment.

The Sleigh Ride Itself

The sleigh ride lasts between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on weather conditions and your personal preference. The steady rhythm of hooves on snow creates a calming ambiance; it’s more about savoring the scenery than racing through the woods. The route winds through a winter wonderland of snow-laden trees, untouched and silent, offering plenty of great photo opportunities.

Expect to feel a sense of peace and quiet, with occasional glimpses of the Arctic wilderness. The ride is smooth, and the horses are calm, making it suitable even for those with little experience in winter activities. Some guests mention that the ride helps them reconnect with nature, away from the typical tourist spots.

Ending in the Kota

After the ride, your journey concludes back at the farm, where a traditional kota awaits. This warm, wooden hut, complete with an open fire, is the perfect spot to relax and thaw out. You’re served hot drinks and snacks, which are simple but satisfying—think hot chocolate, coffee, and some local treats. Many reviews highlight how cozy and welcoming this part of the tour feels, especially after a chilly ride.

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Feeding the Horses

Once inside, you have the opportunity to feed the horses some well-earned treats. This interactive element is often praised—it’s a sweet way to end the experience and deepen your connection with these gentle giants.

The Value of the Experience

At $171 per person, this tour offers a mix of scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and relaxation. It’s not the cheapest activity in Rovaniemi, but considering the inclusion of transportation from Rovaniemi, the guided encounter with farm animals, the sleigh ride, and the warm refreshments, it’s fairly priced for what you get. Plus, smaller groups—limited to just five participants—mean you won’t be part of a noisy crowd, which adds to the intimate, peaceful vibe.

This experience is well-suited for travelers who want to enjoy a genuine Arctic outing without the exertion or risk associated with more intense activities like snowmobiling or husky sledding. It’s particularly good for those who appreciate authentic, slow-paced encounters with nature and are comfortable in winter gear.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Clothing: Proper winter gear is a must. Temperatures can drop well below freezing, and staying warm makes all the difference in enjoying the ride. Think thermal layers, waterproof outerwear, warm gloves, and sturdy boots.

Duration: The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, including transfer, farm visit, the sleigh ride, and warm refreshments. Starting times vary, so check availability to find what suits your schedule.

Group Size: Limited to 5 people, making your experience more personalized and less crowded.

Language: Tours are guided in English, so communication is straightforward.

Cancellation Policy: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds some peace of mind when planning your trip.

How It Compares to Other Arctic Experiences

Compared to activities like snowmobiling or Aurora tours, this experience is quieter and more intimate. Some reviews mention that the pace and scenery make it a lovely, restorative option, especially for those who might not want the high-energy thrill but still crave a taste of Arctic life. It’s a great way to slow down and appreciate the winter landscape in a relaxed setting.

Who Will Love This Tour

If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic, and culturally immersive winter experience, this sleigh ride ticks all the boxes. It’s perfect for couples wanting a romantic outing, families with children (who are comfortable in winter gear), or solo travelers seeking a calming retreat. It’s not ideal if you’re after high-speed adventure or intense physical activity but excels as a family-friendly, authentic Finnish countryside experience.

The Sum Up

This horse-drawn sleigh ride offers more than just a scenic journey—it’s a chance to connect with the peaceful beauty of Finnish Lapland at a relaxed pace. The combination of meeting friendly farm animals, gliding through snow-covered woods, and warming up by a crackling fire makes it a genuine Arctic highlight without feeling overwhelming.

While it might not satisfy thrill-seekers, it provides an authentic, memorable taste of Finnish winter life. The small group size, the personal touch of helping harness the horses, and the cozy finish in the kota make this a tour that feels both special and down-to-earth.

If you’re after a gentle, scenic, and culturally rich Arctic experience, this tour is a calm balm for your winter wanderlust. It’s particularly suited to those who value authenticity and quiet beauty over adrenaline, making it a fitting way to slow down and savor Lapland’s winter magic.

FAQ

Is warm winter clothing necessary?
Yes. Temperatures can go well below freezing, so dressing warmly in thermal layers, waterproof outerwear, gloves, and boots is essential for comfort and safety.

How long does the sleigh ride last?
The ride itself lasts between 30 minutes and an hour, depending on weather conditions and your preferences.

What does the experience include?
It includes a scenic sleigh ride, a visit to Kotatuli farm, introduction to the animals, and hot drinks and snacks in a traditional kota.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically mentioned as family-focused, the gentle nature of the ride suggests it could be suitable for children used to cold weather and outdoor activities.

How many people are in a group?
Tours are limited to 5 participants, making it a small, more personal experience.

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

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot, especially during peak times, and you can choose to pay later to keep plans flexible.

What kind of scenery will I see?
Expect snow-covered forests, tranquil winter landscapes, and a peaceful rural environment, far from urban noise.

This sleigh ride offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s quiet winter beauty. It’s a gentle, authentic experience that balances scenic serenity with cultural charm—just what many travelers crave when visiting Finland’s Arctic north.

You can check availability for your dates here: