Rovaniemi: Reindeer Sleigh Ride with Hot Drink and Cookies

If you’re heading to Lapland and are after a genuinely cozy, authentic experience, this reindeer sleigh ride near Rovaniemi might be just what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally tried this tour, the feedback from travelers suggests it’s a well-rounded, enjoyable journey into the Arctic wilderness, offering a mix of scenic views, heartfelt stories, and a good dose of Lapland charm.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the reindeer sled ride lasts about 30 to 45 minutes, giving you plenty of time to relax and soak in the snowy forest surroundings. Second, the knowledgeable guides really seem to elevate the experience—sharing insights about reindeer life and the local lifestyle in a warm, engaging way. The only point to consider is that the group size can go up to 35-40 people, which might affect the feeling of intimacy, though many reviews mention the guides’ efforts to keep everyone comfortable and informed.

This tour is perfect for anyone who loves nature, animals, and a touch of tradition, especially if you’re traveling as a couple or small group. Families with children also seem to enjoy it, thanks to the friendly reindeer and the interactive aspects like learning to drive a reindeer sled. If you’re after a quick, well-organized Arctic adventure with a warm finish, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Authentic Reindeer Experience: Visit the oldest and most genuine reindeer farm in Rovaniemi.
• Relaxing Ride: Enjoy a 1.5 km sled ride through the snowy forest—longer than many other options.
• Informative Guides: Led by passionate guides who share stories about reindeer and farm life.
• Comfort and Convenience: Includes pickup and drop-off at your accommodation.
• Warm Finish: Relax in a traditional wooden kota with hot berry juice and cookies.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with the option to reserve and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Out: Pickup and Arrival

The tour begins with a pickup service, which is a nice touch, especially in colder climates where walking in snow can be more challenging. The guide will meet you in front of your accommodation, and they’re punctual, waiting no longer than five minutes after the scheduled time. This makes planning your day easier and keeps the experience feeling smooth.

Visiting the Reindeer Farm

Once at the farm, you’ll step into a slice of Lapland’s rural life. This isn’t just a quick tourist stop—it’s the oldest and most authentic reindeer farm in the area, emphasizing a genuine connection to reindeer herding traditions. The farm staff seem very knowledgeable, eager to share insights about reindeers’ lifecycle, their care, and the lifestyle of reindeer herders. It’s a rare chance to get close to these gentle animals, which are surprisingly well looked after, as many reviews point out.

The Reindeer Sled Ride

The highlight of the tour is the 1.5 km reindeer sled ride through the snowy forest. Travelers report that the ride lasts around 30 to 45 minutes, much longer than typical short tourist rides, offering a real sense of tranquility and connection with nature. “It was such a relaxing experience,” one reviewer said, describing the ride as peaceful, scenic, and well-paced. The sleds are easy to handle and safe, with guides often dividing groups for ease and comfort.

More Great Tours Nearby

Forest Landscape and Views

During the ride, you’ll enjoy sweeping vistas of snow-covered trees and frozen landscapes. Many mention the breathtaking scenery, which makes this a memorable visual experience. The forest is quiet, with only the crunch of snow and the soft jingle of reindeer bells to break the silence. If you’re lucky, the weather might be clear enough to see the Northern Lights, but even if not, the winter scenery is stunning on its own.

Warming Up: Inside the Kota

After the ride, everyone heads into a traditional wooden kota— a cozy, rustic hut that’s perfect for warming up. You can expect to sit by a fire while sipping hot berry juice and nibbling on cookies. This part of the experience is much appreciated, according to reviews, as it provides a warm, social atmosphere after being outdoors.

Learning and Interaction

While inside, it’s common to ask questions about reindeer herding and farm life, and guides are usually happy to share stories or clarify any curiosities. Some passengers even receive a “reindeer driving license” as a fun souvenir, which kids especially seem to love. A few reviews mention that they also got a chance to see how animals are fed and cared for, adding a layer of authenticity to the experience.

Return and Drop-Off

After a relaxed session of hot drinks and stories, the tour concludes with a drop-off back at your hotel or accommodation. The overall flow is smooth, making this a stress-free option for travelers.

Value for Money

Priced at around $204 per person, this experience offers a longer sled ride than many others, combined with a farm visit, warm refreshments, and knowledgeable guides. Based on reviews, many feel it’s good value, especially considering the included pickup/drop-off and the personalized stories. For those wanting a genuine, well-organized reindeer experience—without the crowds or rushed feeling—this tour seems to fit the bill.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, families, and those interested in learning about traditional reindeer herding. If you love scenic outdoor activities combined with cultural insights, you’ll find this engaging. It’s also suitable for travelers who value comfort and convenience, thanks to the pickup service and warm shelter at the end.

While it’s not explicitly marketed as a family-only activity, many reviews mention children enjoying the experience—especially the chance to learn to drive a reindeer sled and see the animals up close. If you’re traveling with young kids or anyone with limited mobility, the outdoor nature and group size are worth considering, but overall, it’s quite accessible.

The Bottom Line

This reindeer sleigh ride offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s winter traditions. The scenic forest views, coupled with warm hospitality and engaging stories, make it a memorable outing. You’ll come away with a better understanding of reindeer life and a new appreciation for the quiet beauty of the Arctic landscape.

While it’s not a private experience, the knowledgeable guides and longer ride duration provide good value for the price. If you’re after an authentic, laid-back adventure that combines scenic beauty with cultural insight, this tour is worth considering.

For those wanting a cozy, immersive activity that’s more than just a quick ride—and who enjoy a relaxed pace and engaging guide—this tour checks many boxes. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate smaller details like hot drinks in a wooden kota after a peaceful forest ride.

FAQ

Is pickup and drop-off included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your accommodation, making logistics simple and hassle-free.

How long does the reindeer sled ride last?
The sled ride lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery and relax on the snow.

Can I request winter clothing or snow boots?
Yes, you can request winter overalls and snow boots in advance for an additional 10 euros per person, which is helpful if you’re not bringing your own.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Many reviews suggest children enjoy the experience, especially the chance to see and interact with reindeer. The activity is family-friendly, but check if the group size is a concern if traveling with very young or mobility-challenged kids.

How early should I book?
Since availability can vary, especially in peak winter months, it’s wise to reserve in advance. You can cancel up to 24 hours before if your plans change.

What’s included in the experience?
The package includes the reindeer sleigh ride, hot drinks, cookies, and the guide. Additional options like photography packages are available at extra cost.

Is the experience weather-dependent?
While it’s best enjoyed in clear, cold weather, the tour likely proceeds in most winter conditions. Heavy snow or storms could impact the experience, so check ahead if weather is a concern.

If you’re after a memorable, culturally rich activity that highlights Lapland’s traditions and natural beauty, this reindeer sleigh ride includes many elements that travelers find rewarding. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe in the crisp winter air, and connect with the iconic reindeer in their snowy habitat.

You can check availability for your dates here: