A day with reindeer herders in the wilderness

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Lapland’s authentic reindeer culture, this tour offers a unique peek into the daily life of reindeer herders. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, we’ve seen plenty of reviews and details that give us a clear picture of what to expect. It’s a chance to get close to reindeer, learn about traditional livelihoods, and enjoy the quiet beauty of Finnish wilderness—all in a manageable four-hour window.

What really draws us in are the opportunities to feed the reindeer and see them in their natural forest environment, rather than just observing them at a zoo or on a farm. We also love the chance to meet local herders, who share insights into their way of life, which adds an authentic, personal touch to the experience. One potential consideration? The activity is weather-dependent, with a limit of -20°C, so dressing appropriately is essential.

This tour suits travelers who want a genuine, intimate experience with Lapland’s reindeer herding traditions—whether you’re curious about Sami culture, love nature, or just want a different kind of Arctic adventure. If you’re comfortable with outdoor winter conditions and looking for something off the typical tourist path, this trip might be just right.

Key Points

• Authentic interaction with reindeer herders and their daily work
• Opportunity to feed and photograph the herd in natural surroundings
• Includes traditional activities like winter fishing and fire-building
• Small group sizes ensure a personalized experience
• Weather-conscious activity with temperature limits of -20°C
• Flexible cancellation and booking options for peace of mind

You can check availability for your dates here:

What is this tour all about?

This experience is designed to connect you directly with reindeer herders in Lapland, providing a glimpse into their everyday routines. It’s not just a tourist show, but a chance to learn about a traditional livelihood that’s been part of the region for generations. You’ll get to witness part of their work, such as feeding hundreds of reindeer, which is more engaging than just observing from a distance.

The journey begins early, with a pickup from your accommodation, followed by a short drive to a wilderness starting point. From there, a snowmobile-drawn sleigh whisks you through the snowy forest, setting the scene for a peaceful, immersive experience. Upon arrival at the herd, you’ll be invited to feed the reindeer, which is a highlight for almost everyone—many reviews mention how special it is to get so close to these gentle animals.

The reindeer herding experience

Once at the herd, you’ll get to participate in feeding the reindeer, which offers both fun and insight into their role in local culture. Many reviewers mention how “we loved the way we could interact with the reindeer,” and how it felt authentic rather than commercialized. You’ll be able to take some memorable photos—reindeer in the snow make for truly picturesque scenes.

The herders also share stories about their daily work and the history of reindeer herding, which deepens the connection to Lapland’s Sami traditions. This isn’t just about feeding animals; it’s about understanding a way of life that’s closely tied to the land and seasons.

Building a fire and sharing local culture

After the reindeer feeding, the tour moves into a cozy, forested area where a fire is built. Here, you can grill sausages, which many find satisfying after a chilly morning. It’s also a relaxed time to chat with your guides about local culture, reindeer husbandry, and how the Sami people have preserved their traditions over time.

An added bonus for some is the chance to learn about Finnish winter fishing, which is usually included in the experience. This gives you a taste of how locals sustainably gather food in the harsh winter months, adding another layer of authenticity to the trip.

Logistics and practicalities

This tour lasts four hours, which strikes a good balance between seeing the wilderness and not feeling exhausted. The small group size—limited to 8 participants—means you’ll get more personalized attention and the chance to ask plenty of questions.

Transportation is included from designated pickup points, such as Saariselkä and Inari, with an extra fee if your hotel is outside these areas. To make the most of the outdoor activities, dress warmly with thermal clothing, warm shoes, and layered winter attire. The activity is weather-dependent, with a temperature limit of -20°C, but in Lapland, that’s common winter gear anyway.

Please note children under 5 aren’t suited for this experience, and wheelchair users might find it challenging due to the outdoor terrain. Assistance dogs are allowed, but pets in general are not.

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The value of this experience

At first glance, the price might seem a bit high, but consider what’s included: a genuine culture, interaction with local herders, and a chance to see reindeer in their natural habitat. Compared to more commercialized experiences, this one offers a more intimate, meaningful connection to Lapland’s Sami traditions, which many travelers find worth the cost.

Reviewers highlight the friendly guides and the authentic atmosphere, noting that it feels like a special, personalized day rather than a scripted tour. Plus, the flexibility of free cancellation and pay later options makes it easier to plan with confidence.

Final thoughts

If you’re after a memorable, genuine encounter with Lapland’s reindeer herders, this tour delivers exactly that. It’s especially suited for those who want to step slightly off the beaten path and experience Sami culture firsthand. It’s not a high-energy adventure, but rather a peaceful, insightful look into a traditional way of life that’s still very much alive today.

That said, be prepared for outdoor winter conditions, and keep expectations aligned with the fact that you’ll be part of a small, intimate group rather than a big tourist bus. For those who love animals, authentic cultural experiences, or simply want a quiet moment in snow-covered forests, this could be a highlight of your trip to Lapland.

FAQ

Is the activity suitable for children?
Children over age 5 are generally suitable, but younger kids and wheelchair users may face challenges due to outdoor terrain and weather conditions.

What should I wear?
Dressing warmly is essential. Bring thermal clothing, warm shoes, and layers to stay comfortable during the outdoor activities.

Is the experience weather-dependent?
Yes, it is. The activity has a temperature limit of -20°C. In very harsh weather, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled for safety.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, a vegetarian option can be requested when booking.

What’s included in the tour?
You’ll get transportation, reindeer feeding, time with the herd, a fire with grilled sausages, and insights into local culture.

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

In essence, this tour offers a genuine slice of Lapland life, perfect for travelers craving a meaningful, outdoor experience with reindeer and Sami culture. If you’re prepared for the cold and eager to learn, it’s an activity that’s likely to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: