Apukka Reindeer Journey

If you’re traveling to Rovaniemi and craving an authentic taste of Lapland, the Apukka Reindeer Journey promises a traditional experience that’s both scenic and culturally resonant. While some travelers have found it charming and memorable, others have raised questions about the experience’s consistency and handling. This tour offers a gentle, family-friendly way to connect with Sami culture, but it’s worth knowing what to expect before booking.

What we genuinely like about this trip is its beautiful setting—a peaceful ride through snow-blanketed forests that captures the essence of Arctic life—and the chance to pet and photograph reindeer, which makes it more interactive than just a scenic drive. Plus, the included hot drinks and warm outerwear help make the chill of winter manageable, especially for those who prefer comfort while exploring outdoors.

One potential caveat? Some reviews hint at issues like last-minute cancellations or concerns about animal welfare, so it’s smart to approach this experience with an open mind. If you’re interested in learning about Sami traditions and enjoy serene, nature-filled outings, this tour could be quite rewarding. However, if you’re looking for a more exclusive or intimate experience, it might not fully meet those expectations.

This adventure suits travelers who want a family-friendly, straightforward Arctic activity with an authentic feel, especially if you’re curious about reindeer and Sami culture but aren’t seeking high-adrenaline thrills or luxury.

Key Points

• Authentic Sami Culture: Experience a traditional reindeer-drawn sleigh, a deep-rooted part of Arctic life.
• Scenic Winter Landscape: Travel through snow-covered forests and enjoy peaceful, natural views.
• Comfort Provided: Winter outerwear, lap blankets, and hot drinks are included to keep you cozy.
• Transportation Included: Round-trip pickup from central Rovaniemi makes logistics easier.
• Animal Interaction: Opportunities to pet and photograph reindeer enhance the personal connection.
• Mixed Reviews: Some guests report issues like being late or concerns about animal welfare; read reviews carefully.

The Apukka Reindeer Journey is designed as a gentle introduction to Sami traditions, perfect for those who want to experience something authentic but not overly strenuous. The core of the tour is a reindeer-pulled sleigh ride that takes you through the snowy wilderness outside Rovaniemi. It’s a chance to see the Arctic landscape from the comfort of a traditional sleigh, wrapped in warm blankets, which is especially appealing if you prefer relaxing outdoor activities.

The entire experience lasts about 2 hours, which makes it manageable for most travelers. The tour begins with pickup from Apukka Resort Adventures, situated at Tutkijantie 28. From there, you’ll head to the trailhead, where you’ll meet the reindeer herders and learn about this Arctic way of travel. The actual sleigh ride usually lasts a significant stretch, giving you plenty of time to soak in the scenery and enjoy the peaceful silence of the forest.

One of the highlights, as highlighted by many past guests, is the opportunity to pet and photograph the reindeer before and after the ride. If you’re a fan of animals or looking to get some memorable photos, this interactive component adds a lot of value. Many also appreciate the hot drinks served during the stop, which help fight off the cold and create a cozy, social atmosphere.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The tour kicks off at the meeting point at Apukka Resort. After a brief safety and introduction briefing, you’ll be provided with winter outerwear—think insulated jackets and gloves—so you don’t have to worry about packing extra layers. Then, you’ll be led into the snowy woods, where reindeer await. The sleds are traditional and pulled by reindeer, giving you the chance to experience this historic mode of transportation.

The sleigh ride itself is typically quiet and slow, allowing you to truly take in the stillness of the snow-covered forest. Many reviews mention how serene and almost magical the ride feels, especially when it’s snowing gently. As you glide through the wilderness, you’ll notice the Arctic’s pure silence, broken only by the soft sound of reindeer hooves and your own breath in the cold air.

After the ride, there’s usually a stop at a forest hut, where you can sit down to enjoy hot drinks and a warm-up. This is also where you get the chance to pet the reindeer and perhaps take some photos—an experience that’s often a highlight for guests. The entire round-trip includes transport back to the starting point, so you won’t need to worry about arranging your own transfer.

What Travelers Say: The Good and the Not-So-Good

The reviews reflect a mixed bag, which is worth considering. Many travelers have loved the experience. For instance, one guest called it a “magical sleigh ride” through the forest, noting how much they enjoyed the silence and the beauty of the snow-covered landscape. Another appreciated the chance to pet and feed the reindeer, making the experience feel personal and memorable.

However, not all feedback is glowing. One reviewer was very disappointed when they arrived late and couldn’t participate—a reminder that punctuality matters here, especially since the tour is limited in capacity. Plus, there’s a concerning review questioning the treatment of reindeer, which highlights the importance of choosing operators you feel ethically comfortable with; always ask about animal welfare if that’s a priority.

Is It Worth the Price?

Since the tour is listed at $0.00, it’s likely either a promotional offer or included as part of a larger package. This means you’re really paying for transportation, the experience, and the interactions rather than the activity itself. In terms of value, if it’s free or included, it’s a nice addition to your Arctic itinerary—especially if you enjoy gentle outdoor activities and cultural insights. But if you’re paying extra, it’s worth comparing with other options to see if the experience matches the price.

This journey is best suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, culturally immersive outdoor experience. It’s particularly suitable for those who appreciate scenic, tranquil environments and want to explore Sami traditions without a strenuous activity. It’s also family-friendly, with the gentle ride and warm facilities making it accessible for children and older guests alike.

If you’re curious about reindeer and want a peaceful, authentic Arctic experience, this tour might fit the bill. But if you’re after a more exclusive, in-depth, or adrenaline-pumping activity, you might want to explore other options like snowmobiling or visiting a reindeer farm with more interactive features.

The Apukka Reindeer Journey delivers a taste of traditional Lapland and the Arctic wilderness in a way that’s approachable and scenic. The combination of a peaceful sleigh ride, reindeer interaction, and warm drinks makes it a cozy, memorable outing. It’s a good fit for those who value authenticity, calmness, and cultural connection, especially if you’re traveling with family or prefer low-key adventures.

That said, stay aware of the mixed reviews. If you’re sensitive to issues surrounding animal welfare or prefer tightly organized, small-scale experiences, do some extra research or ask questions beforehand. It’s a tour that can turn into a special memory if the conditions match your expectations, but it’s not without its caveats.

This trip offers a gentle way to dip into Sami culture and enjoy the winter landscape, as long as you’re prepared for the practicalities and potential inconsistencies.

• What is included in the tour?
  The experience includes a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride, winter outerwear, lap blankets, hot drinks, and a round-trip transportation service from central Rovaniemi.

• How long does the tour last?
  The duration is approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable and relaxed outing.

• Is the tour suitable for children?
  While not explicitly stated, the gentle nature of the ride and family-friendly facilities suggest it’s suitable for children, though it’s always good to check if specific age restrictions apply.

• What should I wear?
  The tour provides winter outerwear, but bringing warm layers, gloves, and a hat is recommended, especially if you tend to get cold easily.

• Can I pet the reindeer?
  Yes, guests typically have the opportunity to pet and photograph the reindeer before and after the sleigh ride.

• What happens if the weather is poor?
  The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

• Is there a maximum group size?
  The tour can accommodate up to 40 travelers, so it’s relatively small but not exclusive.

• Can I cancel my booking?
  Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Cancelations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

• Are there any concerns about animal welfare?
  Some reviews question the treatment of reindeer; if this concerns you, consider researching the operator’s practices before booking.

• Is the experience culturally authentic?
  Yes, the sleigh ride reflects traditional Sami transportation methods, offering a genuine cultural glimpse of Arctic life.

If you’re after a relaxing, scenic trip that combines cultural insight with calm outdoor enjoyment, this reindeer sleigh ride could be a memorable part of your Arctic adventure. Just keep in mind the mixed reviews and ensure your expectations align with what’s offered.