Rovaniemi: 2km Reindeer Sled Ride Through the Forest

If you’re dreaming of a serene winter adventure in Lapland, this reindeer sled ride might just land on your list. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, based on the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it’s clear that this experience offers a quiet, authentic taste of Arctic life. Think snow-dusted forests, majestic reindeer pulling your sleigh, and the chance to connect with these gentle creatures in their natural environment.

What really catches my eye about this tour? First, the private reindeer farm setting, which promises a more intimate and authentic experience. Second, the guided insights that add depth and context to the trip—especially since reviewers praise guides for their knowledge and friendliness. On the flip side, a consideration worth mentioning is that the experience might be a bit on the shorter side, around 40 minutes of actual sled time, which might feel brief if you’re expecting a lengthy ride.

This tour appears best suited for those wanting a relaxed, scenic encounter with reindeer, combined with meaningful interactions and cozy moments. If you’re after a peaceful Arctic experience rather than high-adrenaline activities, this could be exactly what you seek.

Key Points

• Authentic setting at a private reindeer farm ensures a more personal experience
• Gentle 2-2.5 km sled ride suitable for all levels of comfort
• Knowledgeable guides sharing stories and answering questions enhance the experience
• Opportunity to meet, feed, and photograph reindeer in a friendly environment
• Warm drinks and treats around a campfire bring comfort after the ride
• Not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

This tour offers a well-rounded peek into traditional Lapland reindeer culture, combined with the chance to enjoy nature in its winter glory. The tour begins with pick-up from one of three convenient locations in Rovaniemi—Santasport, Santa’s Hotel Santa Claus, or Santa Claus Holiday Village. The transportation is smooth, and the journey to the private reindeer farm takes about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to settle in and get excited for the experience ahead.

The Reindeer Sled Ride

Once at the farm, the highlight is the reindeer sled ride. The ride itself is approximately 2 km, lasting about 40 minutes, depending on weather and trail conditions. The sleds are pulled by majestic reindeer, which exude a calm, noble presence. As you glide along, you’ll feel the crisp Arctic air in your face, yet stay warm and cozy thanks to provided blankets and reindeer hides. The sound of snow crunching beneath hooves and the silence of the forest create a peaceful backdrop—it’s quite unlike any other winter activity.

Reviewers consistently mention how relaxing and peaceful the ride is. One even notes, “We loved the way the guides led us through the snow-covered forest, making it a perfect balance of adventure and tranquility.” It’s not a high-energy or adrenaline-pumping ride, but rather a gentle glide through a landscape that looks like it’s straight out of a snow globe.

Meeting and Feeding the Reindeer

After the sled ride, you’ll have time to interact more closely with the reindeer. This is where the experience becomes more personal. The guides share insights about reindeer life cycles, behaviors, and their importance to Lapland culture—something glimpsed as a highlight in reviews, with one traveler saying, “The guide was great and clearly knew a lot about the reindeer, making everything feel very real and interesting.”

You’ll also get to feed the reindeer and even cuddle the babies, which adds a warm, memorable element. Multiple travelers rave about this part, describing how adorable and friendly these animals are. It’s a chance to snap some photos and really connect with nature, away from crowds.

Cozy Finish and Refreshments

What better way to end a winter outing than gathering around a warm fireplace with a hot drink and some sweet treats? The included hot beverages and snacks help round off the experience, especially after the chilly ride. Several reviews mention how nice it was to relax by the fire, enjoying glögg (hot mulled wine or similar) and pie—small comforts that make the whole outing feel even more special.

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The Guides and the Setting

Reviews consistently praise the guides for their friendliness and knowledge. One reviewer states, “The tour guide was great and made everything feel very real and interesting,” adding that their explanations about the reindeer’s lives and traditions contributed significantly to the value of the tour.

The location of the farm, set in a rural, snow-covered forest, enhances the authenticity. You’re not just on a staged tourist site—you’re truly immersed in a quiet, natural environment that’s typical of the Arctic.

Practicalities and Considerations

The tour lasts about three hours, including transportation, the sled ride, interaction, and refreshments. It’s structured to be manageable, and the small group size or private farm setting offers an intimate experience. The pickup timing is flexible, with options depending on your hotel, making it easy to incorporate into your itinerary.

However, this tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, which is worth considering if you or traveling companions have mobility concerns. Also, keep in mind, the actual sled ride is about 40 minutes—if you’re craving a longer adventure or a more intense ride, this might feel a little brief.

Pricing is not explicitly mentioned here, but based on reviews, many find the experience valuable, especially when considering the exclusive setting and personal interactions. The inclusion of hot drinks and treats adds to the overall value, making it a cozy, memorable outing rather than just a quick activity.

Authenticity, Value, and Overall Impression

What makes this tour stand out is its authentic approach—visiting a private farm, engaging directly with reindeer, and learning from guides who truly seem passionate about their work. The reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides and the beautiful scenery elevate the experience well beyond a simple sleigh ride.

While some might find the ride duration on the shorter side, many consider it perfect for a relaxed, scenic outing. The option to feed and pet the reindeer makes it feel more genuine and personal than some busier tourist attractions.

In terms of value, the experience offers a good balance between quality and price—especially for those who want a peaceful, authentic Arctic activity that captures the spirit of Lapland.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to slow down and enjoy nature, appreciate local culture, and are comfortable with a gentle, scenic ride. It’s a great pick for those interested in reindeer traditions and seeking a calm, immersive outing rather than adrenaline-packed adventures.

If you’re traveling with someone who loves animals or wants a genuine interaction with Lapland’s iconic reindeer, this tour hits the right notes. But if you’re pregnant or require wheelchair accessibility, you might need to look for alternatives, as this experience isn’t suitable.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for adventure seekers craving authenticity and families or couples wanting to experience the quiet magic of Arctic winter in a meaningful way.

How long is the sled ride?
The sled ride is approximately 2 km, taking around 40 minutes depending on weather and trail conditions. It’s a peaceful, scenic journey rather than a lengthy trek.

Where does the tour start?
Pick-up options include Santa’s Hotel Santa Claus, SantaSport Hotel, or Santa Claus Holiday Village. The transfer to the farm takes about 30 minutes.

Is it suitable for children?
While the activity is gentle and scenic, the tour is generally geared toward older children and adults. The reviews don’t specify if it’s family-friendly, but the calm nature suggests it could be suitable for children comfortable with cold weather and sitting still for a bit.

Can I feed the reindeer?
Yes, part of the experience involves feeding and petting the reindeer, which many travelers find adorable and memorable.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly! The guide provides blankets and reindeer hides, but layering is recommended to stay comfortable during the outdoor parts of the tour.

Is there any downtime after the ride?
Yes, after the sledding, you’ll gather around a cozy fire to enjoy hot drinks and treats, creating a relaxed, warm atmosphere.

Is the experience suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users?
No, this tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, due to its outdoor, rural setting and the nature of the sled ride.

This reindeer sled experience offers a peaceful, authentic slice of Arctic life in Lapland. If you’re after a calm, scenic ride with opportunities for genuine interaction, it’s worth considering as part of your winter adventures.

You can check availability for your dates here: