Saariselkä : Reindeer Sleigh Ride with Snacks & Hot Drink

If you’re dreaming of a snowy escape in Finland’s Lapland, a reindeer sleigh ride might be just what you need. From what we’ve seen, this experience offers a gentle journey through snow-covered forests, with cozy moments around an open fire and a chance to learn about the Sámi way of life. It’s a classic Arctic activity that’s surprisingly accessible and authentic.

Two things stand out about this tour. First, the chance to meet and interact with reindeer up close is pretty special. There’s a genuine sense of connection that comes from sitting in a reindeer-drawn sleigh in the middle of a peaceful winter landscape. Second, the combination of scenic riding and cultural insight makes this more than just a fun ride—it’s an informative experience that enriches your understanding of the local indigenous people.

That said, it’s worth noting that for some, this might feel a bit short or simple—at just two hours, it’s a taste of winter in Lapland, but not a full-day adventure. Also, pregnant women are advised against participating, as the activity involves sledding and outdoor exposure in cold weather.

This tour suits travelers looking for a gentle, culturally rich, and visually stunning winter experience—perfect for those who appreciate nature’s quiet beauty and want to learn about Sámi traditions without a strenuous or overly commercialized activity.

Key Points

• Authentic Reindeer Experience: Meet reindeer up close and learn about herding.
• Scenic Nature: Glide through snowy forests and enjoy the calm of winter wilderness.
• Cultural Insights: Gain knowledge about Sámi culture from guides.
• Comfort & Convenience: Warm clothing is provided, making outdoor time more enjoyable.
• Food & Drink: Hot drinks and snacks are served around an open fire, adding to the cozy atmosphere.
• Limited Duration: Two hours means you get a taste without committing a full day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Tour

Starting at the meeting point in Saariselkä, you’ll be greeted by friendly guides who prepare you with thermal gear, woolen socks, winter boots, and gloves. This is a great touch—Lapland can be brutally cold, so having warm, quality clothing makes all the difference. Once outfitted, you’ll head to a peaceful reindeer farm, where the reindeer are usually quite calm and accustomed to visitors.

The real highlight begins with the reindeer sleigh ride. You’ll sit comfortably in a traditional sled pulled by reindeer, allowing you to appreciate the quiet beauty of the snow-blanketed forest. The scenery is often described as magical, with snow-covered trees and a peaceful silence broken only by the soft sound of reindeer hooves and the sled’s glide.

Midway through, you’ll stop for hot drinks and snacks around an open fire. This is a relaxed, social moment where you can warm up, chat with your guide, and get up close to the reindeer. Many reviews mention the authenticity and warmth of this part of the experience—it’s not just about the scenery but also about sharing stories and learning about the Sámi lifestyle.

Your guide will provide insights into reindeer herding and the culture of the Sámi people. Expect to hear stories about their lifestyle, traditions, and the importance of reindeer in their society. The experience isn’t just sightseeing—it’s a window into a way of life that has persisted for generations.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins at Honkapolku 1, where you meet your guides and get your gear. After about 15 minutes of transportation, you arrive at the reindeer farm, a peaceful spot often described as picturesque and quiet. The 1.5-hour sleigh ride takes you deep into the forest, with plenty of opportunities for photos and soaking in the winter landscape.

Halfway, the group stops for refreshments by the fire, where you can warm your hands on hot drinks and enjoy a snack—usually something simple yet satisfying, like biscuits or traditional treats. This pause isn’t rushed; it’s a chance to really take in the surroundings and connect with the reindeer and your fellow travelers.

Following the break, you return to the farm and then head back to the starting point via a short van ride. The entire experience lasts around 2 hours, making it a manageable activity even if you’re short on time or prefer a relaxed pace.

How the Experience Feels

Many reviews highlight the peacefulness and authenticity of this tour. One traveler remarked, “The silence of nature was truly special, and I loved meeting the reindeer up close.” Others appreciated the informative guides, who shared stories about Sámi traditions and herding practices.

The scenic views are often described as stunning. You’ll be surrounded by snow-covered trees, with the forest offering a quiet backdrop that feels straight out of a winter postcard. It’s a slow, gentle ride—not a high-adrenaline excursion—so it’s suitable for most people, including those who prefer a more tranquil activity.

Comfort is a big plus here. The provided thermal gear keeps you warm, even in the coldest parts of winter. The open fire and warm drinks also add a lovely contrast to the chilly air. Reviewers often mention how cozy and authentic the whole setup feels, emphasizing the rustic charm rather than overly commercialized packaging.

Meeting the Reindeer

Getting up close to the reindeer is a highlight for many. They’re used to visitors and often quite gentle. You may even get a chance to feed them or take photos with them—an experience that feels surprisingly personal. For animal lovers, this interaction adds warmth to the outing, making it memorable.

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The Value Proposition

At a typical price point, you’re paying for a well-organized, authentic experience. The fact that you get warm clothing included means you won’t need to bring your own winter gear, which is a significant convenience. The duration is just right—it’s enough to feel immersed in the surroundings without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Given the positive ratings, like the 4.7-star rating from Lapponia Tours, it’s clear that most travelers find this experience worthwhile. It’s not the cheapest activity available, but considering the authenticity, cultural insight, and scenic value, it’s generally seen as good value.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is particularly suited for those who want a gentle, scenic, and cultural experience. It’s ideal if you’re interested in learning about Sámi culture and enjoy being outside in nature, even in cold weather. Travelers who prefer high-energy activities might find it a bit slow, but if tranquility and culture appeal to you, this is a winner.

It’s also a good choice for families or couples looking for a cozy, memorable outing. However, pregnant women should avoid it due to the outdoor nature and sledding aspect.

FAQs

Is warm clothing provided? Yes, thermal gear, woolen socks, winter boots, and gloves are included to keep you comfortable during the outdoor activity.

How long is the ride? The actual sleigh ride lasts about 1.5 hours, with additional time for transportation and breaks, totaling around 2 hours.

Can I meet the reindeer up close? Absolutely. You’ll get the chance to see and interact with the reindeer, and take photos with them during the break.

Is this experience suitable for children? The tour is generally suitable for most, but very young children should be prepared for outdoor cold weather and walking/standing during the break.

What language are guides in? Guides speak English and Finnish, so language shouldn’t be a barrier.

What’s the cancellation policy? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if plans change.

Is the tour accessible for pregnant women? No, pregnant women are advised not to participate due to the outdoor and sledding components.

What’s the scenery like? Expect snow-covered forests and peaceful winter landscapes—think postcard-perfect scenes with plenty of photo opportunities.

What should I bring? Just dress warmly—layering is recommended—and have your camera ready for all the photo ops.

How much does it cost? Pricing varies, but it’s generally a good value considering the experience, cultural insight, and included gear.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxing, scenic, and culturally enriching experience in Lapland, this reindeer sleigh ride ticks many boxes. It’s not a high-adrenaline adventure, but rather a chance to slow down, appreciate the quiet beauty of winter, and connect with a unique indigenous culture. The combination of scenic riding, warm drinks, and reindeer interaction makes for a genuinely memorable outing.

For those who appreciate authenticity over spectacle, and who want a gentle introduction to Lapland’s wilderness, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially suitable for travelers seeking a peaceful, beautiful, and educational experience, without sacrificing comfort.

Ultimately, it’s a chance to see Lapland’s winter wonderland in a way that’s heartfelt and genuine—and that’s what makes it a worthwhile addition to any Arctic itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: