Family Snowmobile Safari from Santa Claus Village

If you’re considering adding a snow adventure to your trip in Rovaniemi, the Family Snowmobile Safari from Santa Claus Village could be just what you’re looking for. This tour promises a fun, safe, and scenic way to explore the snowy landscapes around Santa’s hometown. It’s designed to cater to families or groups with children, offering a mix of adult thrills and kid-friendly activities.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances adventure with comfort—you get to ride snowmobiles through picturesque forest trails, then pause to warm up by a campfire, enjoying traditional Finnish food. Plus, the fact that everyone can join in, whether on a snowmobile or a sleigh, makes it accessible and inclusive. On the flip side, a potential concern is the cold weather, especially for younger children or sensitive travelers, so packing warm clothing is a must.

This tour suits families with kids, groups looking for a relaxed yet exhilarating winter activity, or anyone wanting a taste of local Finnish culture in the snow. If you’re after a lively, scenic, and well-organized outing that combines outdoor fun with cozy moments, this could be a good pick.

Key Points

• Family-friendly: Suitable for children up to around 11-12 years old with mini-snowmobiles.
• Includes warm gear: Thermal clothing, helmets, and boots are provided, making the cold more manageable.
• Scenic trail: Snowmobiling through forest trails offers beautiful winter landscapes.
• Cultural touch: Enjoy traditional Finnish sausages and hot berry juice around the campfire.
• Convenient pickup: Hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics.
• Booking in advance: Typically booked around 68 days ahead, showing strong interest among travelers.

What to Expect on the Tour

This adventure begins at the Wild Nordic Rovaniemi Safari Center, a straightforward meeting point near Santa Claus Village, from where your guide will pick you up for the day. The tour lasts about two hours, but that includes travel time, riding, and the warm-up stop.

You’ll start with a briefing in English (or other languages if requested) about safety and snowmobile operation. For most travelers, this is an easygoing way to experience snowmobile riding, but note that the driver must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid driving license—so make sure to bring yours along if you plan to drive.

Once everyone is ready, you’ll head out into the snowy wilderness, guided through forest trails that showcase the picturesque winter scenery. We loved the way the snow-covered trees and open landscapes create a magical backdrop. The guide will be driving the main snowmobile, with children comfortably seated on a sleigh pulled behind. One reviewer pointed out, “Le moment autour du mini barbecue avec les saucisses et les chamallow pendant que les enfants sont sur la petite moto neige est très sympa,” highlighting how the mini-snowmobile experience is a highlight for kids.

The Snowmobile Experience

The main ride is designed to be accessible, with clear instructions and a manageable pace. Because the tour is designed with families in mind, the emphasis is on safe fun, not high-speed thrills. Children are seated comfortably in a sleigh pulled by the guide’s snowmobile, so they’re not exposed to the vibrations or exhaust fumes, which makes it a more pleasant experience for little ones.

Traveling over snow-covered trails, you’ll enjoy views of the pristine Finnish landscape—think snow-laden trees, wide open plains, and possibly glimpses of wildlife. The tour’s duration allows plenty of time for photos and just soaking in the winter wonderland.

Campfire and Finnish Snacks

After the snowmobiling, the group arrives at an enclosed area where a campfire is already crackling. Here, everyone gathers to warm up, chat, and enjoy some authentic Finnish snacks. The highlight, according to reviews, is the grilled sausages and marshmallows, along with hot berry juice, which hits the spot after being out in the cold.

You’ll probably find that this part of the experience is what makes it memorable—sharing food and stories in a cozy setting while surrounded by snow and forest. One visitor noted, “Le moment autour du mini barbecue avec les saucisses et les chamallow pendant que les enfants sont sur la petite moto neige est très sympa,” emphasizing the warmth of this social aspect.

Mini-Snowmobiles for Kids

For children up to 11 or 12, the tour provides a mini-snowmobile ride in a safe, enclosed area. This is a lovely way for kids to try driving and feel included without the risks associated with full snowmobiling. The guide assists smaller children, ensuring they’re supervised and safe.

What People Say

The reviews are generally very positive, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5. One reviewer mentioned, “L’équipe est très sympa et explique bien comment conduire la motoneige,” praising the friendly staff and clear instructions. Another noted the importance of dressing warmly—”Attention au froid, bien prévoir des chaufferettes si l’on est un passager,” reminding travelers to be prepared for the cold.

A common theme is the sense of cozy camaraderie around the campfire and the enjoyable mix of outdoor fun with warm, comforting food. Some feedback points out that it’s a great activity for families, but it’s important to be aware of the weather and dress accordingly.

The Practical Side

The tour costs around $188.71 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. But considering the included gear, guides, transport, and the memorable experience, many would find it worth the price. The all-included thermal clothing ensures you stay warm without having to worry about layers.

The tour is well-organized, with pickup and drop-off from Rovaniemi city center hotels, making logistics hassle-free. It’s important to note that drivers must hold a valid EU driving license and be at least 18 years old, which is standard for snowmobile safety but worth preparing for.

Since the activity involves outdoor elements and potential safety concerns, participants should have basic English to understand instructions, and those with certain health conditions, such as pregnancy or respiratory issues, should evaluate whether they can participate safely.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This adventure is ideal if you’re traveling with family members or children who are comfortable with snow and outdoor activities. It offers a safe environment for kids to experience snowmobiling—from sitting in a sleigh to trying mini-snowmobiles—making it suitable for families with younger children.

Couples or groups of friends wanting to enjoy scenic winter views and share cozy moments around a campfire will also appreciate the relaxed pace and stunning landscape. However, if you’re after high-speed thrills or a more adrenaline-filled adventure, this might not be your best fit.

Final Thoughts

The Family Snowmobile Safari from Santa Claus Village provides a well-rounded winter experience that combines scenic beauty, cultural flavor, and family fun. It’s a thoughtful option for those who want to enjoy the outdoors in a safe, comfortable, and friendly setting.

You’ll get authentic Finnish snacks, beautiful snowy scenery, and a chance for everyone to participate, whether on a snowmobile or a sleigh. The included warm gear and organized logistics make it accessible even if you’re not a seasoned snow adventurer.

While the experience is largely positive, keep in mind the importance of dressing warmly and being aware of weather conditions—Finnish winters can be chilly. It’s a good value for the memories created and the chance to spend quality time in the snowy wilderness.

If you’re traveling with children, or simply want a scenic, safe, and fun winter activity, this tour could be a highlight of your Arctic adventure. Just remember to book in advance—these tours tend to fill up quickly!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, children up to around 11-12 years old can participate, with mini-snowmobiles in a safe enclosed area, and sit comfortably in a sleigh during the tour.

What should I wear? The tour provides thermal clothing, but you should still dress warmly with layers, including wool socks, gloves, a scarf, and possibly additional outerwear depending on the weather forecast.

Do I need a driving license? Yes, snowmobile drivers must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid EU driving license. It’s your responsibility to bring and show the license if you plan to drive.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts about two hours, including pickup, snowmobiling, and the campfire break.

Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, the tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start, giving some peace of mind if your plans change.

Is the tour weather-dependent? Yes, snow and weather conditions can affect the experience, but the tour operator will advise you accordingly and reschedule if necessary.

If you’re after a scenic, family-friendly winter adventure that combines outdoor activities with cozy Finnish traditions, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to dress properly, book ahead, and enjoy the snowy wonderland.