Kemi-Tornio: Reindeer farm experience

If you’re planning a trip to northern Finland, the chance to visit a reindeer farm is one of those unique experiences that truly captures the spirit of Lapland. While I haven’t done this specific tour myself, from what I’ve gathered, it offers a genuine glimpse into the traditional reindeer herding lifestyle, combined with some fun and cozy moments. It’s a solid choice for anyone curious about Sami culture or just eager for a memorable outdoor activity in the Arctic landscape.

Two things stand out about this experience: First, the opportunity to feed and pet real reindeer—a shamefully underrated activity that brings you surprisingly close to these gentle animals. Second, the reindeer sleigh ride sounds like a highlight, offering a peaceful glide through snowy scenery. The only potential hiccup? Depending on weather and group size, the experience might feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re hoping for a longer interaction.

This tour fits best for those who enjoy authentic, hands-on experiences and don’t mind bundling up in warm gear. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate cultural insights and are keen to try something a bit different from typical sightseeing. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll probably love meeting the reindeer and taking the ride, but always double-check with providers for specific age recommendations.

Key Points

• Authentic Reindeer Interaction: Feed, pet, and learn about the reindeer from a knowledgeable herder.
• Traditional Sleigh Ride: Enjoy a 1.5 km reindeer-sleigh journey through scenic snowy landscapes.
• Warm Hospitality: Sip hot drinks and nibble on pastries inside a cozy Lappish hut.
• Included Gear: All necessary winter clothing (overall, shoes, wool socks, gloves) is provided, making it easy to stay warm.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and pay-later options offer peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Meeting and Dressing Up for the Cold

The adventure kicks off at Sea Lapland Safaris’ safari house, conveniently located in Kemi. Here, you’ll be greeted and provided with warm winter gear—overalls, shoes, wool socks, and gloves. This is a real plus, especially if you’re visiting during the cold months, as it means you won’t have to worry about layering or packing heavy winter clothing yourself. Expect the staff to be friendly and helpful, giving clear instructions on how to dress for the outdoor portion.

Short Drive to the Reindeer Farm

Once dressed, a quick car ride (usually just a few minutes) takes you to the reindeer farm. This part of the experience is straightforward but effective; it gets you quickly into the authentic Arctic landscape where the reindeer are kept.

Meeting the Reindeer and Learning from the Herder

Your reindeer herder guide is likely to be personable and knowledgeable, eager to share stories about traditional herding practices and Sami culture. You’ll have the chance to meet the reindeer up close, which is often surprisingly gentle and curious. Expect to feed them reindeer moss—their favorite treat—and perhaps take a few photos. Many reviews praise how approachable and friendly the reindeer are, making this a delightful interaction, especially for animal lovers.

What makes this part special is the chance to see the reindeer outside of a zoo setting—these are working animals, often used to pulling sleighs, and they’re used to human interaction. It’s both educational and fun, especially when you’re encouraged to try catching a reindeer using a Suopunki, a traditional lasso. The herder will teach you how to throw it properly, turning a simple skill into a small adventure.

More Great Tours Nearby

Reindeer Sleigh Ride

After some interaction, you’ll hop onto a 1.5 km reindeer sleigh ride. This is the heart of the experience: gliding through snow-covered wilderness, listening to the quiet sounds of winter, and soaking in the scenic vistas. The ride typically lasts around 15-20 minutes—perfect for a gentle, relaxing journey without feeling overly rushed. Expect the ride to be smooth and peaceful, with plenty of opportunities to take photos or simply enjoy the moment.

European Reindeer Driving License

A nice touch is that after the ride, you’ll receive an International Reindeer Driving License. While it’s mostly a fun souvenir, it adds an element of novelty for those who enjoy collecting unique certificates or just want a tangible memory of their Arctic adventure.

Warming Up in a Lappish Hut

Back at the safari house, you’ll enjoy warm drinks and pastries inside a cozy, traditional Lappish hut. This downtime offers a chance to relax, chat about the experience, and warm up. It’s a simple but appreciated gesture after being outside in the cold.

Is It Worth the Price?

Given that all gear, the reindeer farm visit, the sleigh ride, and refreshments are included, this tour provides a good value for those interested in a hands-on, cultural experience. The group size is limited to 15, which helps maintain quality and intimacy. The flexibility of booking with free cancellation and pay later makes it accessible without the risk of losing out if plans change.

While it’s not the longest or most elaborate activity, the combination of feeding, learning, riding, and relaxing makes it a well-rounded way to spend a couple of hours in Lapland.

Practical Tips

• Dress warmly: Even with provided gear, layered clothing helps you stay comfortable.
• Photography: Bring a camera or smartphone with a good zoom—this experience is very photogenic.
• Timing: Check availability beforehand; start times vary, and winter daylight hours can be short.
• For families: Kids generally enjoy the reindeer interaction and sleigh ride, but verify any age restrictions if you’re traveling with very young children.
• Weather considerations: If snow or wind are particularly harsh, be prepared for potential delays or cancellations—always check the weather forecast.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want an authentic, approachable introduction to reindeer herding and Sami culture without a long commitment. It suits those who enjoy outdoor activities, animals, and scenic winter landscapes. If you’re after a quick, meaningful Arctic encounter that combines tradition and fun, this is a solid pick.

It’s less suited for travelers seeking intense adventure or extensive outdoor pursuits, as the experience focuses more on gentle interaction and sightseeing. Also, if you’re looking for a pure adrenaline rush or a longer ride, you might find this tour a bit modest in scope.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own winter clothing?
No, all necessary winter clothing, including overalls, shoes, wool socks, and gloves, are provided, making it easy to stay warm without extra packing.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 2 hours, including dressing, transportation, activities, and refreshment time.

Is the group size small?
Yes, the tour is limited to 15 participants, which helps keep things personal and relaxed.

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

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak English and Finnish, so you’ll have no trouble understanding the commentary.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activities—feeding reindeer, riding a sleigh—are generally suitable for children, but always check with the tour provider for specific age restrictions.

Will I get a souvenir?
Yes, you’ll receive an International Reindeer Driving License after the sleigh ride—a fun keepsake.

What should I wear for the sleigh ride?
Dressing warmly in layers is recommended. The provided gear ensures you stay comfortable during the ride.

Is transportation included?
Self-guided travelers can meet at the safari house, but pickup from selected hotels in Tornio-Haparanda is available if booked in advance.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to connect with Lapland’s iconic reindeer culture in a friendly, manageable way, this tour delivers. It balances authentic interaction with scenic serenity, all wrapped in a warm, welcoming environment. While it’s not the longest or most adrenaline-fueled activity, it offers genuine moments that highlight the traditional Finnish Arctic lifestyle.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want a taste of local Sami traditions without a complicated itinerary. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this experience provides a memorable, hands-on slice of Lapland’s magic.

For those in search of an engaging, culturally rich Arctic adventure that’s easy to fit into a short trip, this reindeer farm visit is a strong contender—and a lovely way to enjoy the winter wonderland.

You can check availability for your dates here: