Rovaniemi: Santa’s Reindeer and Husky Safari with Aurora BBQ

Planning a winter trip to Lapland? This tour in Rovaniemi offers a blend of iconic Arctic activities — from cuddling with reindeer and huskies to chasing the elusive northern lights, topped off with a classic Lappish BBQ. It’s designed for those who want a well-rounded taste of Lapland’s wildlife and culture without overdoing it.

What really draws us to this experience are the guided nature insights from friendly, knowledgeable guides and the variety of activities packed into one day. Plus, the chance to see the aurora borealis, a natural wonder, adds that magical touch many travelers crave.

However, it’s worth noting that the northern lights aren’t guaranteed — weather and cloud cover play a big role. If your main goal is to see the aurora, this might require some flexibility or a bit of luck.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and a cozy atmosphere. It’s especially good if you want a concise but immersive taste of Lapland’s most iconic offerings, all in one day.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic experience with reindeer and husky rides
• Two northern lights viewing spots for the best chance to see auroras
• Friendly, knowledgeable guides that enhance the experience
• Includes local food and drinks like berry tea, sausages, and marshmallows around the fire
• Short rides keep the experience accessible but sometimes feel brief
• Small group size for a more personal, relaxed outing

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from This Tour

The Morning: Reindeer and Husky Encounters

Starting early, the day kicks off with a pick-up from your hotel or accommodation, which is always a relief when traveling in winter conditions. The first part of the experience is all about meeting the iconic animals of Lapland.

Husky Sledding — The “Fast & Furious” Ride

You’ll hop onto a 500-meter sled ride pulled by Siberian huskies. We loved the way guides kept it fun and engaging, sharing stories about the huskies’ lives and training. Even for those who might find the ride short, reviews agree that it’s a great introduction to the breed and a highlight for many, especially if you’re a dog lover.

One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide Alejandro was awesome. He was on time, friendly, patient and very accommodating. Our five-year-old had a great time.” It’s clear that the guides are attentive and eager to make the experience memorable.

Reindeer Experience — A Taste of Tradition

Next, you’ll meet the Lapland reindeer herd up close. The observation is intimate, with plenty of time to pet and feed these gentle animals. Then comes the short reindeer sleigh ride (around 400 meters), which adds a traditional touch and is often described as a fun, calm, and authentic activity.

Many reviews rave about these encounters, noting that the rides are short but sweet, fitting well into the full schedule. As one traveler put it, “The husky and reindeer experience is one of the best!” The guides take care of all the logistics, ensuring everyone feels comfortable.

The Afternoon: Free Time & Preparation for the Evening

By around 12:30, the morning concludes, and you’re free to either return to your hotel or explore Santa’s Village. The reviews consistently highlight the no-rush, leisurely pace that allows for photos, souvenirs, or just soaking in the snowy scenery.

The Evening: Aurora Watching & Lappish BBQ

The second part of the tour begins around 8:00 pm, with pick-up and transport to two different Aurora spots. The journey takes you to a serene location near a lake and forest, which is prime real estate for catching a glimpse of the northern lights.

Aurora Spot 1: Arctic Lake & Forest

The first stop provides a brief introduction to the aurora borealis, where guides share insights about this incredible natural display. If conditions are right, you’ll have a shot at witnessing the dancing green lights. As one guest said, “Aurora was a fantastic guide. I had my elderly parents and she was very kind about going at a slower pace,” which shows the trip’s flexibility.

Aurora BBQ: Cozy Fire & Tasty Food

Next, the journey continues to a traditional kota (Lappish hut) with a bonfire blazing away. Sitting inside, you’ll enjoy hot berry tea, sausages, and marshmallows roasted over the flames. The setup creates an inviting, authentic atmosphere, with many reviews mentioning how delicious and satisfying the food is, especially after an active day.

While not everyone gets to see the aurora (cloud cover or weather can block the view), guides do their best to maximize your chances. Travelers who did see the lights mention the “aurora dance” under starlit skies as a truly unforgettable moment.

What About the Cloudy Nights?

It’s important to remember this part of the experience is weather-dependent. Many reviewers appreciated the guides’ efforts even when the skies remained cloudy, noting that the BBQ and cozy ambiance still made it worthwhile.

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The Overall Experience: Value, Guides, and Comfort

One of the most praised aspects is the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. Multiple reviews highlight guides like Aurora and Aleksander, who go out of their way to teach, entertain, and accommodate. Their personalized approach really elevates the experience, making it less about just ticking off activities and more about enjoying the moment.

Transportation is described as high quality, with Mercedes vehicles and seamless pickup/drop-off logistics. Small group sizes (limited to 8 participants) contribute to a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.

Pricing, when considering the combination of activities, transportation, and food, offers good value for travelers looking for a comprehensive day in Lapland. While some reviews noted that rides are short, many felt the experience was worth the price, especially given the inclusions of food and expert guidance.

Food & Beverages

The Lappish BBQ sausages are consistently praised for their flavor and authenticity, served in a setting that’s warm and visually stunning. The berry tea and marshmallows add a sweet, comforting touch. Several reviews mention the atmosphere of sitting around fire as one of the highlights.

Seeing the Northern Lights

The chance to see the northern lights is often the main highlight of any Arctic tour, but it’s important to remember that nature is unpredictable. Many travelers have shared that even if the aurora doesn’t appear, the experience of being in Lapland’s winter landscape and enjoying the cozy bonfire makes it worthwhile.

Rides Duration & Overall Pace

While the rides are on the shorter side (around 400-500 meters), reviews suggest that the quality of the activity and the guides’ storytelling compensate. If you’re seeking a longer sled ride or a more intense adventure, this may feel a bit limited, but for most, it’s just enough to get a taste of Lapland’s animal-powered rides.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is well-suited for those wanting a balanced introduction to Lapland’s main attractions without overcommitting time or money. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even family members who enjoy being outdoors and are curious about Sami culture.

Travelers who appreciate friendly guides, cozy atmospheres, and a variety of activities will find this tour hits the right notes. However, if your main goal is to see the northern lights, remember that the view depends on weather, and this tour offers no guarantee.

Those with mobility issues or pregnant women should consider the short rides and outdoor conditions, which might not be suitable for everyone. Also, the short duration of rides might feel a bit limited if you’re craving more extensive sledging.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the northern lights viewing guaranteed?
No, seeing the aurora depends on the weather and cloud cover. Guides do their best to find clear spots, but nature can be unpredictable.

How long are the reindeer and husky rides?
The husky sled is about 500 meters and the reindeer sleigh around 400 meters. Many find these rides to be just the right length for a quick, enjoyable experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 12 must be accompanied by paying adults, and the rides are generally short and manageable for kids. However, check with the provider if you have very young children or specific needs.

What is included in the evening BBQ?
You’ll be served hot berry tea, Lappish sausages, and marshmallows roasted over an open fire, all in a traditional kota setting.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reserving is flexible, and you pay only when confirmed.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly with layers, including insulated shoes, as you’ll spend time outdoors in cold temperatures. It’s best to be prepared to stay comfortable for a few hours outside at night.

Is the experience suitable for those with mobility issues?
The tour is not recommended for pregnant women or wheelchair users, given the outdoor snow conditions and short rides.

Final Thoughts

This Rovaniemi tour offers a well-rounded peek into Arctic life, combining animal encounters, storytelling, and the chance to see the northern lights. Guides are consistently praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience feel personal and engaging. The inclusion of local food and the cozy atmosphere of the BBQ add a warm, inviting touch after a day of outdoor adventures.

While the rides are brief, many find that the overall value — especially with small group sizes and expert guidance — balances out the limited duration. It’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of Lapland’s iconic experiences without a heavy time commitment or a huge price tag.

This tour is perfect if you’re eager to tick off the essentials of Lapland, enjoy authentic Sami culture, and are flexible about the elusive northern lights. Just remember, the weather plays a role, so keep your expectations realistic for aurora sightings.

Happy travels, and may your Arctic adventure be filled with wonder, warmth, and those unforgettable snowy moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: