Meet Santa Claus & Santa’s Reindeer Ride & Greet Huskies

A Friendly Look at the Meet Santa Claus & Santa’s Reindeer Ride & Greet Huskies Tour in Rovaniemi

If you’re dreaming of visiting Santa in the Arctic, this tour promises a festive adventure that captures the spirit of Christmas year-round. While I haven’t done this exact tour myself, I’ve gathered enough insights to give you a clear picture of what to expect. It’s a popular choice among travelers, thanks to its mix of classic holiday magic and Arctic wilderness.

What really attracts us to this experience are the chance to meet Santa himself—an essential for many Christmas lovers—and the opportunity to enjoy reindeer and husky rides that bring the snowy landscape to life. Plus, it’s great that you can do this anytime during the year, not just winter, which makes it practical for varied travel schedules.

However, one thing to consider is the cost—at around $228 per person, it’s not exactly a bargain, especially if you’re comparing it to doing some activities independently. The tour includes transportation and guided insights, which do add value, but some travelers might find it pricey compared to organizing similar activities on their own.

This tour suits anyone who’s after a family-friendly, immersive Arctic experience with a bit of festive cheer thrown in. Couples, solo travelers, or families with children who love animals and stories of Santa will probably find it very rewarding.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience: Combines Santa visits, postcard mailing, reindeer and husky rides all in one half-day tour.
• Year-round magic: Available across all seasons, not just winter.
• Well-reviewed guides: Many reviews praise knowledgeable and accommodating guides who enhance the experience.
• Transportation included: Comfortably transported in luxury European sedans or vans.
• Group size: Small groups (up to 20) ensure a personalized, less rushed experience.
• Value for money: Includes multiple activities and logistics, justifying the price for most travelers.

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour offers an easy, organized way to experience Rovaniemi’s most iconic Arctic attractions without the hassle of planning each detail yourself. Starting at Rovakatu 25, the trip begins with a warm welcome and a quick transfer that gets you into the Christmas spirit from the outset.

Crossing the Arctic Circle

One of the first exciting moments is crossing the Arctic Circle—an essential photo op and a symbolic milestone in your Arctic adventure. This line marks the boundary where polar bears and the Aurora borealis are often spotted, so you’re stepping into a world quite different from the rest of the globe. Many reviews highlight this as a fun, memorable part of the trip, with guides often sharing interesting facts about the region.

Greeting Santa and Visiting His Office

Of course, the main event is meeting Santa Claus himself. Guests have described this encounter as a highlight, with guides taking time to ensure everyone gets a chance for a chat and photos. While some reviews mention that the experience is more about the atmosphere and fun than a prolonged visit, most find it enchanting enough to satisfy their Christmas fantasies.

Sending Postcards from Santa’s Post Office

One quirky touch that stands out is the chance to send postcards to friends and family from Santa’s official post office. This small detail adds a personal flair and a fun souvenir for travelers, especially kids or those young at heart.

Reindeer and Husky Rides

The tour’s heart for animal lovers is the reindeer ride—a brief 400-meter trek that offers close-up interaction with Santa’s reindeer, often praised as a delightful, authentic Arctic experience. Plus, the husky ride in the Arctic forest is a real adrenaline kick, approximately 500 meters of snowy, fast-paced fun.

Many guests, including families, find these rides to be the most memorable parts. One reviewer mentioned that the husky ride was “real fast & furious,” adding a sense of adventure to the trip. Kids tend to love meeting the animals, and adults enjoy the scenic rides through the snow-covered forest.

Transportation and Timing

The entire experience lasts around five hours, with most of that time spent traveling and enjoying activities. The tour offers luxury pickups and drop-offs, making the logistics easier and more comfortable—valuable, especially in chilly weather. The guide usually drops you off either back at the hotel or in the village, depending on arrangements.

Keep in mind, most travelers book this about 73 days in advance, which shows how popular it is. Groups are kept small (up to 20), ensuring a more intimate experience and often better interaction with guides.

Price and Value

At approximately $228, the tour covers quite a bit—transport, a dedicated guide, visits to Santa’s village, postcards, and animal rides. Many reviews consider the price justified, citing the well-organized nature and the variety of experiences included. Some reviewers, like one who said it “was an unforgettable experience,” suggest that the overall value compares favorably to organizing individual activities, especially considering the convenience and the guided service.

Downsides to Consider

A negative review pointed out the transportation logistics, noting that pickups from hotels outside Rovaniemi’s city center aren’t included, which could mean an extra trip to meet the group. Also, the price may seem steep if you prefer to DIY your Arctic activities, as some find self-organizing could be cheaper if you skip guided tours.

Authenticity and Guide Experience

Guides like Allen and Jason seem to make a real difference, with reviews praising their friendliness, knowledge, and willingness to help capture photos. Guests often mention how guides go beyond just guiding—they make sure everyone has a relaxed, enjoyable time. One review even called Allen the “best guide,” highlighting personalized attention.

From the reviews, it’s clear that having someone knowledgeable to explain the sights and assist with photos elevates the experience, especially when dealing with the cold or language barriers.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a solid, family-friendly way to experience Santa’s Village and the Arctic environment without the stress of planning each element yourself. If you’re looking for a reliable, well-organized experience that includes the iconic Santa visit, reindeer, and husky rides, it’s a good pick. The fact that it’s available year-round makes it flexible, and the small group size ensures you won’t feel rushed or overlooked.

The value depends on your interest in multiple activities bundled together and if you prefer guided comfort over DIY exploration. For those who want to check “meet Santa” off their bucket list in style, this tour delivers a memorable, festive day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour?
Pickup is offered, but only within Rovaniemi city center. If your hotel is outside the center, you’ll need to meet at the designated point, which is Rovakatu 25. Some reviews mention this might be a slight inconvenience for guests staying farther out.

What activities are included?
You’ll meet Santa Claus, send postcards from his official post office, enjoy a short reindeer ride of about 400 meters, and experience a husky sled ride of approximately 500 meters. These activities are designed to give you a taste of Arctic life and Christmas magic.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about five hours, making it a manageable half-day trip that fits well into a day of exploring Rovaniemi.

What is the price for?
The $228.13 per person covers transportation, guiding services, Santa visits, postcard mailing, and the animal rides. Many reviews feel the activities and convenience justify the cost, especially when booked well in advance.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as a family-specific tour, the activities—especially meeting Santa, reindeer, and huskies—are generally great for children and family groups. Always check age restrictions or specific needs with the provider.

What should I wear?
In colder months, dress warmly—layered, waterproof clothing, and sturdy shoes are recommended, particularly for the outdoor rides and sightseeing.

To sum it up, if you’re after a straightforward, reliable way to enjoy Santa’s village and Arctic animal rides with a knowledgeable guide, this tour ticks many boxes. It balances festive cheer with Arctic adventure, making it an appealing choice for travelers seeking both comfort and authentic experiences in Rovaniemi.