Rovaniemi: Santa Claus Village Tour Huskies & Reindeer Visit

Planning a trip to Rovaniemi and wondering if this tour is worth your time? We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on reviews and the detailed descriptions, this experience offers a solid way to tick off some classic Arctic adventures in one go. It’s a package that combines the joy of meeting Santa with encounters with iconic Lapland animals—perfect if you want a well-rounded taste of the region’s magic.

What really makes this tour stand out is the chance to visit Santa Claus Village—a must-see for anyone visiting Lapland—and the opportunity to get up close with huskies and reindeer. Plus, the natural scenery during the transfer from Rovaniemi adds to the experience, making it both scenic and immersive. One potential snag? There’s a mention of a less-than-reliable pick-up service in one review, so it’s worth keeping an eye on communication if you book.

This tour suits travelers who want a family-friendly, yet authentic taste of Lapland’s festive and wild charm in just a few hours. If you’re short on time but eager to see the highlights, this could be a good choice. Just stay aware of some small logistical hiccups that might crop up, and you’ll have a memorable Arctic experience.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines Santa Claus, huskies, and reindeer in a single half-day tour.
• Authentic encounters: Pet huskies and reindeer, and send a postcard from Santa’s official post office.
• Scenic transfer: Enjoy a trip through beautiful natural landscapes between activities.
• Small group size: Limited to 8 participants, making it more personal and less rushed.
• Price: $227 per person, which includes most activities but not food or drinks.
• Mixed reviews: Some travelers praise the carefully chosen venues and helpful guides, while others report logistical issues like missed pickups.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Santa Claus Village and Arctic Charm

This tour begins with a hotel pickup in Rovaniemi, which, depending on your hotel location, could be a real time-saver. We liked the idea of starting the day with a transfer that lets you settle in and enjoy the changing scenery—snowy forests and maybe glimpses of the Arctic wilderness. Once you arrive at Santa Claus Village, the atmosphere is unmistakably festive. You’ll meet Santa himself, which is the highlight for many, and have the chance to send postcards from his official post office—an adorable and sentimental touch.

The village is lively but manageable, especially in a small group setting, so you won’t feel lost in a crowd. The photo opportunities are plentiful, and the chance to cross the Arctic Circle adds a fun milestone to your trip. Though it’s not explicitly mentioned, this is a classic photo moment that many travelers cherish.

Meeting Santa Claus and Sending Postcards

The chance to actually meet Santa is what makes this experience special. Whether you’re traveling with kids or simply a kid at heart, seeing Santa in Lapland’s setting feels genuinely magical. We’d imagine that the kids, and the young at heart, will love telling Santa their wishes. Sending a postcard from his post office is an extra keepsake—something you can send home to friends or family.

Visiting Husky Park: Up Close with Arctic Sled Dogs

Next, the tour takes you to a husky park—a highlight for animal lovers. The description suggests you’ll have the opportunity to pet these beautiful animals and even meet puppies during the summer and fall seasons. The emphasis on the “carefully chosen” locations indicates you’re likely to get quality contact with the huskies, which is a real plus for making genuine connections.

One reviewer pointed out that the guide, Alex, was very helpful and flexible, making the visit more enjoyable. Huskies are known for their striking appearance and energetic nature, and petting them in their natural environment is a memorable experience. It’s worth noting that, depending on the season, the interaction might differ slightly (more on that in a moment).

Reindeer Encounters: Cultural Insights and Feeding

The reindeer yard offers a gentle meeting with these iconic animals. Besides the interaction—feeding or even trying a 400-meter sled ride—you’ll learn about their cultural significance, especially in Lapland where reindeer herding is deeply rooted in tradition. This gives a nice cultural dimension to the tour, connecting you beyond just the cute factor.

More Great Tours Nearby

Duration and Logistics

The entire experience lasts about 4.5 hours, which is quite reasonable for a half-day tour. The limited group size (up to 8 participants) is a thoughtful touch—it helps keep things intimate and manageable, especially when interacting with animals and Santa.

The price of $227 per person covers the main activities—Santa visit, husky park, reindeer yard, and transportation. However, food and drinks aren’t included, so plan accordingly, especially if you’re hungry after the visit.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

One review mentioned a significant hiccup: the tour operator did not arrive for pick-up, and no one in the area had heard of them. This highlights the importance of verifying your booking closer to your date and keeping communication lines open. While most aspects of the tour seem well-organized, logistical issues can happen, so be prepared for the possibility of adjustments.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the activities are seasonal. The husky park is specifically mentioned for summer and fall, so if you visit in winter, the experience might differ—perhaps more sledding or other winter activities that aren’t detailed here.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is best suited for those who want a comprehensive, family-friendly introduction to Lapland in a manageable timeframe. If you’re traveling with children, the opportunity to meet Santa, pet huskies, and feed reindeer offers a well-rounded, engaging experience. For adults, it’s a charming way to tick off key Arctic highlights without the hassle of planning multiple separate excursions.

Travelers who appreciate authentic animal encounters and enjoy scenic transfers will find this tour appealing. However, if you’re looking for a more adventurous, snowmobile, or longer husky sledding experience, this might feel a bit limited.

The Bottom Line

This tour provides a solid snapshot of what Lapland has to offer—from meeting Santa and sending postcards to getting up close with huskies and reindeer. It’s straightforward and convenient, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a small-group setting. The natural scenery during the transfer adds to the sense of entering a winter wonderland, making it a memorable outing.

While some glitches in logistics can occur, the overall experience seems to deliver genuine interactions and photo-worthy moments. It’s especially well-suited for families, couples, or anyone wanting a well-rounded, hassle-free Arctic adventure that captures the spirit of Lapland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s focus on Santa, huskies, and reindeer makes it particularly appealing for families, though all ages can enjoy the encounters.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided tour of Santa Claus Village, visits to the husky park and reindeer yard, and reindeer feeding or a sled ride.

Are food and drinks included?
No, they are not included, so plan to bring snacks or eat before/after the tour.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 4.5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak English, Finnish, and Italian, offering multiple options depending on your preference.

Is the tour available year-round?
The description suggests activities like husky visits are season-dependent, especially for summer and fall, but Santa Claus Village is open year-round.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly, especially if visiting reindeer or huskies outside—layering is key in Lapland’s cold climate.

What happens if my pickup is missed?
According to reviews, there can be logistical issues, so it’s wise to confirm arrangements and arrive a bit early.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility.

If you’re eager to enjoy a taste of Lapland’s festive spirit and Arctic animals in a well-organized, small-group setting, this tour could be a real winner—just keep an eye on the communications around your pickup. It’s a lovely way to create memories and check off some of Lapland’s most iconic sights and experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here: