Aurora Hunting by Reindeer Sleigh

If you’re considering joining a reindeer sleigh ride combined with a Northern Lights hunt in Rovaniemi, Finland, you’ve come to the right place. We haven’t done this specific tour ourselves, but after carefully reviewing the details and feedback from travelers, we’re here to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

This kind of tour offers a cozy glimpse into Lapland’s traditions — feeding reindeer, riding in a sleigh, and hoping to catch that elusive Aurora Borealis. The two things we especially like are the chance to get close to reindeer and the professional guidance that maximizes your odds of seeing the Northern Lights. On the flip side, a potential drawback is the unpredictability of the Aurora itself, which is something every Aurora tour faces.

If you’re someone who loves authentic, cultural experiences and is prepared for a bit of nature’s unpredictability, this might suit you well. It’s particularly appealing if you’re after a manageable, half-evening adventure that combines wildlife with the possibility of a stunning celestial display.

Key Points

• Authentic Reindeer Experience: Feed reindeer and learn about their lifestyle directly from locals.
• Guided Aurora Search: Benefit from professional guidance that helps you spot the Northern Lights.
• Convenient Transfers: Round-trip transport from central Rovaniemi simplifies logistics.
• Variable Aurora Chances: Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity, not guaranteed.
• Group Size and Timing: Tours are small (up to 36 people), with flexible start times depending on the season.
• Age Restrictions: Children under 12 need to be accompanied by full-paying adults, making it family-friendly but not necessarily tailored for very young children.

What the Tour Includes and How It Works

This 3.5-hour experience kicks off in the early evening, with pick-up from central Rovaniemi. The exact departure time varies between 5:20 pm and 8 pm, depending on the season and provider’s schedule, so it’s good to double-check your booking details. Once you’re picked up, the adventure begins with a visit to a traditional reindeer farm.

Visiting the Reindeer Farm

This first stop is quite authentic — you’ll meet real Lapland reindeer and learn about their everyday lives. It’s a nice touch that the experience involves more than just a sleigh ride; it’s an educational peek into local Sami culture and reindeer husbandry. Many reviews highlight the value of this part, with one traveler mentioning they appreciated being able to feed the reindeer and hear traditional folklore.

Reindeer Sleigh Ride

The highlight of this segment is riding a sleigh pulled by reindeer into the forest. The ride is typically relaxed and scenic, giving you a chance to enjoy the quiet beauty of the Arctic woods. The experience is often described as peaceful and charming, especially if the weather cooperates.

Aurora Hunting

After the sleigh ride, the focus shifts to spotting the Northern Lights. The guide will take you to a remote location away from city lights, boosting your chances of seeing the Aurora. Travelers generally find the guides to be knowledgeable, providing insight about the lights and the best viewing spots. One review highlights that Malcolm, a guide, was great at sharing information about the area and other local trips.

Return Journey

The tour wraps up with a comfortable, round-trip transfer back to your hotel or the meeting point in Rovaniemi. This seamless transport is a big plus, especially if you’re tired after a cold evening of outdoor activity.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

While the majority of reviews paint a positive picture, it’s worth noting some mixed impressions. Several travelers praised the professional guides, stunning natural scenery, and authentic cultural touchpoints. For instance, one review mentioned the staff’s friendliness and the opportunity to enjoy a cozy bonfire, even if the Northern Lights remained elusive.

On the other hand, a few reviews point out some organizational hiccups. One traveler described a somewhat messy start, with delays and confusion over group merging. Others mentioned that suit distribution was unfriendly, though these are often isolated incidents rather than an overall pattern.

Most importantly, the chance of seeing the Aurora varies with weather and solar activity. Some guests were lucky, catching a beautiful display, while others left disappointed after a clear night stayed dark. This is typical with Aurora tours, and the guides do their best to keep spirits high regardless.

Price and Value

At roughly $213 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option available in Rovaniemi, but it does include transport, a reindeer sleigh ride, and guided Aurora hunting — components that would be more expensive if booked separately. For many travelers, the convenience of having everything arranged and the chance to experience reindeer culture makes it worth it.

However, it’s worth noting that, based on reviews, the experience’s success heavily depends on weather conditions and possibly luck with the Aurora. If your main goal is to see the Northern Lights, consider that even with guide assistance, no tour can guarantee a sighting.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for travelers who want a taste of Lapland’s traditions and enjoy outdoor winter activities. It’s especially fitting if you’re interested in reindeer culture and want a relaxed, family-friendly activity that isn’t overly intense. Keep in mind that children under 12 need to be accompanied by paying adults, so it’s not ideal for very young children unless they’re comfortable outdoors in cold weather.

If your primary goal is guaranteed Northern Lights viewing, you might prefer more specialized or longer tours with higher Aurora guarantees. But if you’re after a warm, cultural evening combined with the hope of Aurora, this is a solid choice.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking an authentic Lapland experience that combines wildlife, culture, and a sprinkle of celestial magic, the Aurora Hunting by Reindeer Sleigh offers a memorable, if sometimes unpredictable, outing. The tour’s greatest strengths are its authentic reindeer connection and knowledgeable guides, who truly want to help you enjoy your Arctic night.

However, travelers should go into this with realistic expectations about Aurora sightings — nature can’t be forced, even with expert help. The experience might be slightly disorganized at times, but the warmth of the staff and the scenic beauty often shine through.

If you’re after a cozy, cultural experience with the chance of Aurora magic, and you’re okay with some uncertainty, this tour could be a lovely addition to your Rovaniemi trip. Just remember to dress warmly and keep your expectations flexible. Sometimes, it’s the stories and the quiet beauty of the forest that make this night unforgettable, even if the sky stays dark.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transfer from central Rovaniemi is offered, making logistics easier for you.

What is the duration of this tour?
It lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes, starting in the early evening, with flexible departure times depending on the season.

What’s the best time to join?
The tour start time varies between 5:20 pm and 8 pm. Check your booking confirmation for the exact time.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children under 12 must be accompanied by paying adults, but the experience is generally suitable for families with older kids.

How good are the chances of seeing the Northern Lights?
It depends on weather and solar activity, so sightings are not guaranteed. Guides will do their best to find the best viewing spots.

Is the experience suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since it involves a sleigh ride into the forest, it might not be ideal for those with mobility challenges.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, including waterproof gear, as you’ll be outdoors in cold conditions.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, for a full refund.

How much does it cost?
The tour costs approximately $212.71 per person. It offers convenience and cultural insights but remember the Aurora is weather-dependent.

In the end, this tour provides a cozy, culturally-rich Arctic evening with a fair shot at catching the Northern Lights. It’s best suited for those who enjoy wildlife encounters, storytelling, and aren’t solely fixated on Aurora sightings. Keep expectations realistic, dress well, and savor the quiet magic of Lapland’s winter night.