In Pursuit of Reindeer – Snowmobile safari to reindeer farm in Rovaniemi

Exploring the “In Pursuit of Reindeer” Snowmobile Safari in Rovaniemi

If you’re dreaming of snowy landscapes, reindeer encounters, and a taste of Arctic life, this “In Pursuit of Reindeer” snowmobile safari might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed reviews, official info, and feedback give a solid picture of what to expect. It’s a well-rated experience, averaging 4 out of 5 stars from travelers who have done it, and it’s designed to be family-friendly, fun, and memorable.

What we appreciate most about this tour are the exciting snowmobile ride through stunning frozen scenery and the chance to meet and interact with reindeer in their natural environment. Plus, the inclusion of a cozy sleigh ride and an Arctic Circle crossing ceremony adds a bit of local magic to the day. That said, it’s worth noting that some travelers mention the clothing provided might differ from what you expect, so managing those expectations ahead of time can make your experience even smoother.

A potential consideration is the weather dependency — if snow or cold conditions aren’t ideal, the tour could be canceled or altered. This experience suits those looking for a mix of adventure, cultural insight, and a taste of the Arctic wilderness. Whether you’re traveling with kids or just want a fun, authentic winter activity, this safari ticks a lot of boxes.

Key Points

• Family-friendly adventure with snowmobiling, reindeer interaction, and sleigh rides.
• Includes practical souvenirs like a reindeer-driving license and an Arctic Circle crossing ceremony.
• Duration of around 3 hours, with approximately 1.5–2 hours of actual snowmobiling.
• Clothing and gear are provided, but travelers should clarify what’s included beforehand.
• Group size capped at 20, making it manageable and personalized.
• Weather-dependent, so check the forecast and be prepared for possible cancellations or rescheduling.

The Itinerary: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Starting at Safartica’s meeting point in Rovaniemi, the tour kicks off in the early afternoon, with a warm welcome and instructions on operating the snowmobiles. We loved the way the guides made everyone feel comfortable, even if you’re a first-timer on a snowmobile. The approximately 1.5–2-hour ride takes you across the pristine, frozen plains outside the town, offering views that are hard to beat. If you’re lucky with the weather, you’ll see vast snowy landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the silence of the winter wilderness.

The highlight is definitely arriving at the reindeer farm — a calm, authentic spot where gentle reindeer roam around. You’ll get to see them in their natural setting and learn about their care from friendly herders who are happy to share stories about their lives and animals. Several travelers mention the joy of feeding the reindeer and enjoying a short sleigh ride pulled by these hardy animals. One review specifically notes that although the reindeer ride was shorter than expected, it was still a maximum enjoyment experience, especially for animal lovers.

The tour also includes the chance to receive an international reindeer driving license, a fun keepsake that adds a quirky touch to your Arctic adventure. Plus, there’s the Arctic Circle crossing ceremony—an occasion some reviews describe as memorable, complete with a certificate to commemorate your crossing into this unique part of the world. Expect hot drinks served during the trip, which are especially welcome after being out in the cold.

Snowmobiling: Speed and Scenic Views

The snowmobile segment is where adrenaline meets scenery. With instructions provided beforehand, even newbies will feel confident behind the handlebars. The ride itself is about 1.5–2 hours, giving you decent time to enjoy the crisp air and sweeping vistas. Travelers enjoyed the adventure, describing it as “really enjoyable” and not too cold overall. It’s a great way to cover more ground and get a real feel for the snowy landscape — perfect for those who crave a bit of speed and outdoor exploration.

Some reviewers, like Claire H, mentioned that she was surprised by the clothing arrangements, having bought ski suits only to find suitable gear provided upon arrival. This highlights the importance of clarifying what is included before your trip — a good move to avoid any surprises.

Reindeer Farm and the Cultural Connection

The visit to the reindeer farm is what makes this tour truly special. Here, you get an authentic glimpse into the life of reindeer herders, which is central to Sámi culture and Arctic livelihood. The reindeer are gentle and well cared for, and the herders are eager to share their knowledge, making it more than just a tourist stop.

Paula_D called it an “incredible experience,” praising the guides and how well the farm owners treated them. Feeding the reindeer and enjoying a short sleigh ride gave a more personal connection to the animals. Keep in mind that the reindeer ride is pretty short, but in the grand scheme, it’s enough to satisfy curiosity and create lasting memories.

Arctic Circle Crossing and Souvenirs

One of the tour’s standout moments is the Arctic Circle crossing ceremony. It’s a fun, symbolic event where travelers often take photos and receive a certificate, marking their Arctic adventure. It adds a festive, almost ceremonial feel to what might otherwise be a straightforward outdoor activity.

The reindeer-driving license is another quirky souvenir — a tangible reminder of your winter escapade. These little keepsakes make the experience more memorable, especially for those who enjoy collecting travel mementos.

Practical Details and Value

At a cost of roughly $230.46 per person, this tour offers a lot for adventure seekers and culture lovers alike. The price covers winter clothing, snowmobile instructions, guided safari, visit to the reindeer farm, sleigh ride, reindeer driving license, hot drinks, and all guiding services. Considering the inclusion of equipment and personalized guidance, it’s fairly priced, especially when you factor in the unique experiences involved.

It’s worth noting that the tour is booked about 25 days in advance on average, indicating good popularity and early planning helps secure a spot. The small group size (max 20 travelers) ensures a more relaxed and personalized experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits a variety of travelers: adventure lovers who want a dash of speed, those interested in learning about Sámi culture, families with older children comfortable in cold weather, or anyone looking for a memorable Arctic activity. While children are accepted, they should be prepared for winter conditions and a potentially short ride.

If you’re after a quick, authentic taste of Lapland’s outdoor life, this tour hits the mark. However, if you’re expecting a long reindeer ride or gourmet dining, you might find this experience more modest in scope.

Final Thoughts

Overall, “In Pursuit of Reindeer” offers a well-rounded introduction to Arctic life that balances adventure with cultural insight. The snowmobiling through stunning landscapes, combined with the chance to meet reindeer and experience the Arctic Circle crossing, makes for a memorable day. It’s priced fairly for what’s included and has garnered positive reviews for its friendly guides and beautiful scenery.

If you’re looking for an experience that combines speed, wildlife, and a slice of local culture, this safari could be right up your alley. Just remember to clarify clothing arrangements beforehand and check the weather forecast to avoid disappointment.

For those who want a genuine, manageable adventure in Lapland, this tour is a solid pick. It’s engaging without being overly intense, and it offers enough authentic moments to make your visit to Rovaniemi truly special.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered as part of the tour, and it starts at Safartica’s meeting point in Rovaniemi. The tour itself ends back at the same location.

How long is the snowmobile ride?
The snowmobiling segment lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the ride and scenery without feeling rushed.

What clothing is provided?
The tour includes winter clothing, but some travelers note that it’s good to confirm exactly what gear is supplied before arrival to ensure you’re comfortable.

Can children participate?
Children are welcome if accompanied by adults. They must be prepared for cold weather, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, though children should be comfortable in winter conditions.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers snowmobile instructions, the safari, visit to the reindeer farm, sleigh ride, a reindeer-driving license, hot drinks, and guiding.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If poor weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Exploring Arctic Lapland with this snowmobile safari offers a nice mix of outdoor adventure and cultural engagement. Whether you’re craving speed on snow or a peaceful encounter with reindeer, this experience seems to deliver. Just remember to communicate with the tour provider about clothing and weather expectations, and you’ll likely come away with a memorable story from the snowy north.