Rovaniemi: Meet & Feed Reindeer at a 200-Year-Old Farm

Traveling to Lapland offers a chance to see some of the most authentic Arctic traditions, and this tour to a 200-year-old family-run reindeer farm in Rovaniemi is a wonderful way to do that. If you’re keen to connect with local culture, encounter gentle reindeer up close, and enjoy an experience rooted in generations of herding, this tour might be just what you’re looking for.

What I really like about this experience is how genuine it feels—it’s far from a staged attraction. You’ll be welcomed by local herders who are passionate about their craft and eager to share their stories. Plus, the small group size ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, making it a more intimate and personal experience. Another highlight is the comfortable modern transportation—brand-new 2025 Ford Tourneo vans—which adds a touch of luxury to your Arctic adventure.

That said, be aware that this tour focuses on the traditional side of Lapland’s reindeer herding, so if you’re expecting a sleigh ride or more touristy attractions, you might find this experience more subdued. It’s best suited for those genuinely interested in culture and heritage rather than just sightseeing.

Overall, if you’re after an authentic, comfortable, and educational experience that offers a meaningful glimpse into Lapland’s reindeer traditions, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit a genuine 200-year-old family-run reindeer farm, not a staged tourist attraction.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 guests, ensuring a personalized, more relaxed interaction.
• Cultural Insight: Learn about traditional Lapland herding practices directly from local herders.
• Close Encounters: Meet, feed, and photograph the reindeer herd for memorable moments.
• Comfort & Style: Travel in brand-new 2025 Ford Tourneo 4×4 vans with heated interiors.
• Warm Hospitality: Enjoy hot drinks inside a traditional kota, experiencing local hospitality.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Genuine Connection to Lapland’s Heritage

When planning a trip to Rovaniemi, many travelers want something more meaningful than just the usual tourist spots. This tour hits that mark by focusing on the authenticity of Lapland’s reindeer traditions. We loved the way the guides and herders shared stories passed down through over 200 years, giving us a real sense of place and history.

The farm is a family-run operation, which means it’s not a staged attraction but a living part of local culture. Our guide explained how herding reindeer is more than a livelihood—it’s a tradition that shapes the Sami way of life. This gives the experience layers of depth that you won’t find in bigger, commercialized tours. Plus, the farm itself has been operated by the same family for generations, adding a real sense of continuity and authenticity.

What the Tour Looks Like in Practice

The tour begins with pickup from your Rovaniemi accommodation, which we found to be smooth thanks to the comfortable, modern vans. These vehicles are a nice touch—they’re brand-new, with leather interiors, heated seats, and lots of space, making the roughly 30-minute ride to the farm pleasant, even in colder months.

Once at the farm, you’re introduced to the herders and their herd. The guides are certified, and their knowledge makes a difference—expect to learn about reindeer husbandry, traditional practices, and the significance of reindeer in Lapland’s culture. We appreciated that the guides speak clear English, which helps in understanding the stories and traditions.

Meeting & Feeding the Reindeer

This is the heart of the experience. You’ll get to meet the reindeer up close, which is a special feeling. The animals are surprisingly gentle and accustomed to human interaction. The guide demonstrated how to hand-feed them, and it’s a surprisingly personal moment to share with these Arctic creatures. Many reviews mention that the reindeer are calm and curious, making it easy for guests to take photos and enjoy the encounter.

One guest shared that “it was a real privilege to feed these animals and see how gentle and curious they are.” It’s a memorable part of the experience, especially for animal lovers or families with children (though the tour doesn’t specify if kids are particularly suited, the calm nature of the reindeer makes it suitable for most).

Inside the Traditional Kota

After the reindeer meet-and-greet, everyone gathers inside a traditional kota—a Lapland structure similar to a Sami teepee or small hut. Here, you can warm up by the fire, sip hot drinks, and chat with fellow travelers. This cozy moment allows you to reflect on what you’ve seen and learned while enjoying the genuine warmth of Lapland hospitality.

Guests have noted that “the kota was a lovely touch,” and it’s a nice way to end the tour on a relaxed, friendly note. The hot drinks serve as a comforting treat after the outdoor activities, making the experience both educational and cozy.

More Great Tours Nearby

Why This Tour Stands Out

Unlike some reindeer experiences that are more about sleigh rides or staged performances, this tour’s focus on heritage and authenticity makes it special. You’re truly engaging with a living tradition, guided by locals who are proud to share their heritage.

The small group size (max 8 guests) is another big plus—it’s easier to ask questions, get personal attention, and truly connect with the guide and herders. The transportation, being brand-new and comfortable, also elevates the experience and makes the journey pleasant, especially in colder months when comfort matters.

Links to Similar Experiences

For those considering other options, Arctic GM Experiences offers several related tours, including sleigh rides, private reindeer encounters, and more traditional Sami cultural experiences. These options can complement this visit or serve as alternatives depending on your interests.

What Could Be Better?

If you’re expecting a sleigh ride or more interactive activities with the reindeer, this tour may feel a bit more subdued. It’s primarily about meeting, feeding, and learning, not riding or doing coordinated activities. Also, since it’s a 3-hour experience, it’s fairly compact—if you’re looking for a longer, more interactive day, you might want to explore other options.

Some reviews mention that the experience is particularly suitable for those interested in culture and heritage rather than just animal encounters. It might not be the best choice if you’re after a hands-on, adrenaline-filled activity like a reindeer sled ride.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This is a great pick for travelers who want an authentic, culturally meaningful experience—those interested in learning about Lapland’s reindeer herding traditions, not just seeing reindeer from a distance. It’s also ideal if you prefer small groups and personalized attention, as well as comfort during your Arctic journey.

Families with children will likely enjoy the interaction with the reindeer and the cozy kota setting, but it’s not explicitly marketed as a family tour. If you’re curious about local traditions and want to get close to Arctic animals in an honest setting, this tour offers a genuine taste of Lapland life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed for children, the calm nature of the reindeer and the small, relaxed setting make it suitable for most families.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothes, and your ID or passport. The experience takes place outdoors and indoors, so dress in layers.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on this tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour in English?
Yes, the live guide speaks English.

How long is the trip?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, including transportation and activities.

What does the transportation include?
Travel in a brand-new 2025 Ford Tourneo van with heated seats, leather interiors, and extra legroom.

Will I get to take photos?
Absolutely. Reindeer are photogenic creatures, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture these moments.

Is there any food served?
Hot drinks are provided inside the kota, but there’s no mention of other food being available.

How authentic is this experience?
Very. It’s run by a family with over 200 years of herding tradition, making it a genuinely local and heritage-focused experience.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a sincere glimpse into Lapland’s reindeer herding, this tour offers a meaningful and well-organized experience. The combination of authentic storytelling, gentle animals, and warm hospitality creates an atmosphere that feels genuine and respectful of local culture.

It’s especially suited for those who value quality over quantity—small groups, expert guides, and real traditions. While it might not satisfy those looking for a high-energy or highly interactive sleigh ride, it delivers on authenticity, comfort, and educational value.

For anyone curious about the roots of Lapland’s culture, or simply wanting a peaceful, personal encounter with Arctic reindeer, this experience is a solid choice—and one that’s likely to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: