Rovaniemi: Snowmobile Safari into the Wilderness

If you’re eyeing a winter adventure in Lapland, a snowmobile safari might just be the highlight of your trip. We’ve looked into this popular experience offered by Apukka Resort and, based on plenty of glowing reviews, it seems to deliver a genuine taste of Arctic wilderness. Whether you’re craving a rush of adrenaline or just want to see snow-blanketed forests in a new way, this tour fits the bill.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the combination of excitement and tranquility—driving through pine forests and across frozen marshlands offers both thrills and moments of peaceful silence. Plus, the guides are praised for their knowledgeable and friendly approach, making the whole ride smooth and enjoyable.

One thing to consider, though, is that the ride can be icy and bumpy, which might not feel relaxing for everyone. Participants should be comfortable with light off-road conditions and dress warmly. This tour is ideally suited for those who want a memorable Arctic adventure without a long commitment, perfect for a couple of hours of pure winter fun.

If you’re comfortable on a snowmobile and eager to explore Lapland’s winter beauty, this safari could be just what you need. It’s especially appealing for travelers who appreciate guided experiences, stunning scenery, and a chance to try snowmobiling in a safe, well-organized setting.

Key Points

• Short but exhilarating: The 2-hour duration offers a quick yet memorable taste of Arctic wilderness.
• Expert guides: Highly praised for their instructions and safety awareness.
• Beautiful scenery: Expect to see pine forests, frozen marshlands, and open snowfields.
• Family-friendly options: Children can ride on heated sleds, but must be old enough and comfortable with the cold.
• Flexibility & cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and pay later options add peace of mind.
• Practical gear provided: Warm snow suits, mittens, helmets, and woolen socks help combat the cold.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

When you sign up for the Rovaniemi snowmobile safari, you’ll start your journey from a central meeting point, either in Rovaniemi city center or at Santa Claus Village. From there, transportation will take you to the outdoor starting point, where you’ll meet your guides and get a thorough safety briefing and instructions on how to operate the snowmobiles.

The guides are known for their friendly and knowledgeable manner, which immediately puts you at ease, especially if it’s your first time on a snowmobile. The safety gear — including helmets and overalls — is provided, and the guides ensure everyone is comfortable before heading out into the wintry landscape.

Once you’re on your snowmobile, you’ll have a chance to drive through pine forests and across frozen lakes and marshlands. The terrain is varied, with icy patches and bumps, so a sense of adventure is part of the package. As one reviewer noted, it can be “icy and bumpy,” but that only adds to the excitement for most.

The scenery is genuinely stunning. We loved the way the snow covers everything, creating a quiet, pristine environment. During the ride, you’ll make a stop in an area of complete silence and serenity—a moment to breathe in the pure Arctic air and simply enjoy the stillness of the wilderness. Many reviews mention how peaceful and beautiful this part of the journey is, making it more than just a thrill ride.

Children can join in as passengers on heated sleds, which keeps the experience accessible for families. It’s recommended that at least one parent sits with small children for their comfort and safety. If a child over 140 cm wishes to sit as a passenger on the snowmobile, they’ll need to book as an adult, which means they can experience the ride firsthand.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

Departure & Meeting Point

The tour begins with a pickup from either Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village. The transportation is well-organized, with pickup times confirmed via email, and reviews reflect that this process is generally smooth and punctual.

Safety & Instructions

Before setting off, you’ll receive a comprehensive safety briefing and basic driving instructions. The guides are often praised for their patience and clarity, making sure even newbies feel confident. The safety gear, including warm suits, mittens, helmets, and wool socks, is included, which is essential for staying comfortable in the cold.

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The Snowmobile Ride

You will take turns driving or riding as a passenger—two adults share one snowmobile, which most reviews find to be a good balance of companionship and adventure. For those wanting to take the wheel alone, a single driving supplement is available.

The ride itself lasts about an hour, with a mix of controlled driving and free exploration through the wilderness. Expect to see frozen lakes, snow-tipped pine trees, and marshlands, each offering a different perspective on Lapland’s winter landscape. Several reviewers mention how stunning and peaceful these views are, especially when the group pauses to soak in the scenery.

The Break & Serenity

One of the most praised aspects is the break in a silent, pristine spot. Many describe this as a moment of quiet awe—standing there, surrounded by untouched snow, hearing only the crunch of snow beneath your boots, is a highlight. It’s rare to find such unspoiled tranquility, and many reviewers say it’s worth the ride alone.

Return & Post-ride

After the scenic drive, you’ll head back to the starting point, often taking a slightly different route for extra variation. The guides typically offer some interesting insights about Arctic nature and local surroundings.

Additional Perks

• Tea break: Many reviews mention enjoying a warm beverage and cookies during the stop, which adds a cozy touch to the experience.
• Flexibility: The tour can be booked for different starting times, and the flexibility of cancellation (up to 24 hours) makes it easier to plan.
• Family-friendly: The option for children to ride on heated sleds makes this accessible for families with young kids, provided they’re comfortable with the cold.

What Travelers Say

The reviews consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides who make the journey safe and fun. One reviewer from Belgium called the guides “impressive” and praised their guidance, while another from the UK said their guide “looked after us so well.” This emphasis on safety and friendly service is reassuring, especially if it’s your first snowmobile experience.

Many guests talk about stunning scenery—they love the way the snow transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland. One traveler from Germany mentioned how much they enjoyed driving through the forest and on open snowy plains, appreciating the opportunity to add a bit of speed.

The value for money also comes across strongly. Most agree that for the price, they received a well-organized, scenic, and exciting experience that delivered more than just a quick ride. The inclusion of warm gear, safety instructions, and the scenic stop all contribute to this perception.

A few reviewers, like Jurga from Belgium, pointed out that the ride can be bumpy and icy, meaning it might not be the best option if you’re seeking a slow, relaxing nature walk. But for most, that adds to the fun and sense of adventure.

Practical Considerations

Dress warmly: Even with provided gear, layers are key. Participants often mention that their hands got cold despite the heated handles, so packing hand warmers is a good idea.

Children’s participation: Children over 140 cm can sit as passengers, but it’s advised to have a parent with small children on a heated sled for their comfort and security.

Driving license needed: The snowmobile driver must be at least 18 and possess a valid license—this is standard for safety and liability reasons.

Insurance: Self-liability insurance is recommended and can reduce potential costs in case of damage or accidents, making it a sensible add-on.

Not suitable for: Those with mobility issues, pregnant women, children under 4, or wheelchair users should consider alternative Arctic experiences, as this tour requires physical mobility and comfort outdoors.

Final Thoughts

This snowmobile safari in Rovaniemi offers a robust mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and expert guidance. It’s ideal for travelers who want a shorter, action-packed Arctic experience, with enough time to enjoy the landscape without committing to a full-day outing.

The stunning scenery combined with friendly guides and the chance to experience Lapland from a snowmobile makes for a memorable trip. Although the ride can be bumpy and cold, most reviews suggest that the overall value and excitement more than make up for those minor discomforts.

If you’re after a taste of Arctic adventure that’s accessible and well-organized, this safari will likely meet your expectations. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy guided outdoor activities, don’t mind a bit of winter chill, and are eager to explore Lapland’s snowy expanse.

FAQ

Do I need a driver’s license to participate?
Yes, the driver of the snowmobile must be at least 18 years old and have a valid license in Finland.

Can children join this tour?
Children over 140 cm can sit as passengers on the snowmobile if booked as adults. Small children can ride on a heated sled, which is recommended for their comfort and safety.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing is essential. The tour provides snow suits, mittens, helmets, and woolen socks, but layering your own clothes underneath is advised for extra warmth.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides give an introductory lesson on how to operate the snowmobile, making it accessible even for first-timers.

How long is the ride?
The snowmobile ride lasts about 1 hour, with the total tour being approximately 2 hours including stops and safety briefing.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers transportation, safety gear, a guided tour, and a break with a hot drink and cookies.

Can I drive alone?
Yes, you can purchase a single driving supplement if you wish to drive solo on your snowmobile.

Is the experience family-friendly?
Yes, with the caveat that small children will ride on sleds, not snowmobiles, and must be comfortable in cold conditions.

What if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

How do I book and get my pickup details?
You reserve online with the “reserve now & pay later” option, then wait for the email from Apukka Resort with pickup times and points.

This snowmobile safari into Lapland’s wilderness offers a fantastic way to see the Arctic in winter. It’s a great choice for thrill-seekers, nature lovers, or anyone wanting a genuine winter adventure with professional guides leading the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: