Reindeer sleigh ride across the night in Apukka Resort Rovaniemi

Reindeer Sleigh Ride Across the Night in Apukka Resort Rovaniemi: A Heartwarming Arctic Adventure

If you’re heading to Rovaniemi and want to feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook, a reindeer sleigh ride at Apukka Resort might just be the experience to add to your list. This tour promises a blend of tradition, tranquil scenery, and the chance to chase the elusive Northern Lights—all wrapped up in about three hours of snowy magic.

What really drew us in are two standout features: the chance to learn about reindeer husbandry from knowledgeable guides and the stunning, starry backdrop of the Arctic forest that makes the whole experience feel timeless. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the cold, especially during stops for hot snacks or when waiting outside, which could be tough for less hardy travelers or young kids.

This tour is ideal if you’re after a peaceful, culturally rich experience with a strong chance of seeing the Aurora borealis. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate the more traditional ways of travel—reindeer sleds rather than modern snowmobiles—and want to fully embrace Lapland’s winter charm.

Key Points

• Authentic reindeer experience with insightful guides sharing local Sami traditions
• Opportunity to see the Northern Lights during a quiet, dark forest ride
• Comfort is key with thermal wear, blankets, and hot drinks provided
• Ideal for those seeking a peaceful, cultural Arctic adventure rather than high-adrenaline activities
• Group size is manageable, with a maximum of 40 travelers, ensuring a cozy atmosphere
• Good for all travelers who can handle the cold, but be prepared for the outdoor elements

What Is the Reindeer Sleigh Ride Like?

This tour takes you on a gentle, traditional reindeer sleigh ride through the snowy forests outside Rovaniemi. The ride lasts roughly three hours from start to finish, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the peaceful silence of the Arctic night and the beauty of the snow-blanketed landscape.

The trip begins at the Apukka Resort, where your pickup is arranged—although some reviews mention communication hiccups here, so be sure to clarify your pickup details in advance. Once you arrive at the reindeer farm, you’ll get a warm welcome from guides who are clearly passionate about their culture and animals.

As you settle into your sleigh, you’ll be wrapped in blankets and thermal gear provided to keep you warm. The pace is slow and relaxing, perfect for taking in the scenery or simply enjoying the quiet companionship of reindeer. The focus is more on the experience than on pushing for fast thrills, which makes it ideal if you’re craving a peaceful connection with nature.

Learning About Reindeer and Sami Culture

One of the tour’s real highlights is the informative guides who happily share stories about reindeer husbandry—a vital part of Lapland’s culture—and Sami traditions. Louise_P, one reviewer, mentions, “Our host was very knowledgeable and shared lots of information about local ways of life for reindeer herders,” which gives you a sense of the authentic insight you’ll gain.

This educational element adds depth to the ride, transforming it from a simple sled trip into a window into Lapland’s enduring way of life. When you stop for reindeer sausages and hot drinks, you can chat more with guides, learn about the significance of reindeer herding, and perhaps even feed and pet the animals.

The Experience of the Forest at Night

Once underway, the scenery is nothing short of enchanting. The dark, snow-covered forest stretches around you, illuminated only by the stars and the faint possibility of seeing the Northern Lights. Several reviewers, like Tistouetz, describe it as a “chilled sled ride through the night forest,” emphasizing the calm and serenity of this Arctic journey.

The quiet, almost meditative pace allows you to truly appreciate the stillness of the Arctic environment. NgaMan_C mentions that, despite rainy and cold weather that prevented Aurora sightings, the “reindeer gave us a very comfy and silent walk along the forest,” highlighting how the environment alone offers a unique sense of peace.

The Hot Snacks and Warmth

A cozy stop at a traditional Lappish hut, called a kota, is part of the experience. Here, you’ll find hot drinks and snacks, like sausages over an open fire—both warmth for the body and a taste of local culture. As Louise_P points out, “It is extremely cold on the part where you stop for reindeer sausages and hot juice,” so dressing in layers is essential.

The blankets and thermal wear provided are a thoughtful touch, making the outdoor segments more comfortable. Still, it’s worth noting that, for some, especially children, the outdoor cold might be challenging, particularly if the weather is rainy or very windy.

Expectation vs. Reality Based on Reviews

Most travelers walk away feeling they’ve experienced something genuinely special. Reviewers like Marion_A describe their trip as an “Expérience unique,” and mention having the rare opportunity to be alone during their excursion, which added to its intimacy. Others, like Fiona_n, remark that the experience is “cold but fabulous,” underscoring that warmth and clothing are critical.

However, not everything is perfect. The communication about pickup points has been flagged as a bit inconsistent, with Thomas_B noting, “Poor communication about pickup point. Lovely experience once there,” reminding future travelers to double-check their details.

Weather is another variable; since this activity hinges on clear skies for Northern Lights, cloudy or rainy nights might diminish that part of the experience, though the overall ride remains peaceful and scenic regardless.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This is best suited for travelers who want a cultural, scenic, and peaceful Arctic experience without the adrenaline rush of snowmobiling or other high-intensity activities. It’s perfect if you enjoy peaceful outdoor adventures, are curious about Sami traditions, and are prepared for cold weather.

While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the relaxed pace and gentle nature of the ride can work for older children or teens comfortable with the cold. But younger kids or those sensitive to chilly conditions might find it less enjoyable unless well-prepared.

Practical Details

The tour’s price is listed as $0.00, which suggests it might be included in a larger package or possibly free if booked through certain channels—something to double-check because the actual value lies in the experience itself, not its cost. The activity lasts about three hours, including transportation, the ride, and the stop for snacks.

Transportation is round-trip from Rovaniemi to the reindeer farm, making it convenient. The group size is limited to a maximum of 40 travelers, ensuring a relatively intimate experience without feeling crowded.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a genuine, peaceful encounter with Lapland’s winter landscape, this reindeer sleigh ride offers a well-rounded experience. The combination of authentic reindeer herding stories, scenic forest scenery, and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights makes it a memorable addition to your Arctic itinerary.

While the cold can be a challenge and communication hiccups are worth noting, most reviews highlight the guides’ warmth and knowledge, which add real value. It’s ideal for travelers craving a slow, meaningful outdoor adventure that connects you with local traditions and nature’s quiet beauty.

This is not a high-adrenaline tour but rather an opportunity to pause, reflect, and enjoy the stillness of Lapland under the stars. Perfect for those who appreciate cultural authenticity and are ready to embrace the cold in exchange for a true Arctic escape.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Rovaniemi to the reindeer farm and trail is included, which makes logistics much easier for travelers.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing, including thermal layers, is essential. The tour provides blankets and thermal wear, but dressing in layers ensures you stay comfortable during outdoor stops and waiting times.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
While the tour is timed to increase your chances by taking place at night in dark forest areas, Aurora sightings depend on weather conditions and solar activity. No guarantees, but the setting gives you a good shot.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately three hours, including transportation, the sleigh ride, and the break for hot drinks and snacks.

Is this suitable for children?
It can be, especially for older kids comfortable with cold weather and outdoor activities. Younger children may find it chilly or less engaging, so plan accordingly.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 40 travelers, which offers a good balance between intimacy and social atmosphere.

If you’re looking for a calm, culturally rich, and scenic Arctic experience, this reindeer sleigh ride at Apukka Resort might just be the slow-paced adventure that captures your heart—and maybe even your chance to see the Northern Lights.