Rovaniemi: Snowmobile Safari to a Reindeer Farm

If you’re dreaming of snowy forests, reindeer, and a taste of Arctic culture, this snowmobile safari in Rovaniemi might catch your eye. It’s a popular choice for those wanting to dive into Lapland’s authentic traditions, combining adrenaline, nature, and a sprinkle of holiday magic.

What makes this tour special are two things we really appreciate: first, the opportunity to drive a snowmobile, which, let’s face it, is a thrill no matter your experience level. And second, the visit to a reindeer farm, where you get a glimpse into the crucial role these animals play in local life.

However, it’s worth mentioning that this experience requires punctuality—you need to be at the meeting point 25 minutes before departure, and missing the start means missing out with no refund. That’s a small caveat, but it’s important to keep in mind for a smooth trip.

This tour is ideal if you’re after an active, culturally enriching adventure that showcases the true spirit of Lapland. It’s also suited for travelers who feel comfortable driving a snowmobile and want a comprehensive peek into reindeer life.

Key Points

• Authentic Reindeer Experience: Learn about reindeer herding and enjoy a short sleigh ride.
• Active Snowmobiling: Drive a snowmobile for about 1 to 1.5 hours through stunning Arctic scenery.
• Cultural Insight: Discover the importance of reindeer in Lapland’s culture and livelihood.
• All-Inclusive Gear: Warm winter clothing and instructions are provided, making it easier to focus on the fun.
• Memorable Souvenir: Receive your own Reindeer Driving License as a keepsake.
• Great for Photographers: Expect beautiful snowy landscapes and unique animal encounters.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This adventure kicks off at the Safartica Office in Rovaniemi, where you’ll meet your guide and gear up in winter clothing. Once suited up, it’s time to hop onto the snowmobile, which is shared between two people—so communication and teamwork are part of the fun. The drive lasts around 1 to 1.5 hours, covering roughly 15-25 km, depending on weather and safety conditions.

The scenery along the route is what you’d hope for—snow-covered trees, quiet wilderness, and maybe a glimpse of the northern sky if you’re lucky. The guide will steer you through the basics of snowmobile operation, ensuring everyone feels comfortable before heading out.

You’ll stop at a local reindeer farm, an essential part of Lapland’s rural identity. Here, you’ll get to enjoy a short reindeer sleigh ride, which offers a charming, old-fashioned way to experience these gentle animals. Many reviews highlight how surprisingly fun and engaging this part of the tour is—Christine mentions that her guide was “fun and funny,” adding personal warmth to the experience.

After the rides, you’ll receive your Reindeer Driving License—a little certificate to remind you of your Arctic adventure. You’ll also learn about the reindeer’s role in the local culture, their care, and their importance to Lapland’s herders.

Before heading back, you’ll enjoy a warm drink, a small but appreciated gesture after the cold outdoor activities. The snowmobile ride back to Rovaniemi wraps up a well-rounded experience that balances thrill and education.

The Experience on the Ground

One of the biggest strengths of this tour is the expertise of the guides. From reviews, you’ll find that guides like Vasileia and Georges are lively, experienced, and attentive. They make sure everyone is safe and comfortable, and they’re eager to share their knowledge.

The snowmobiling itself is a highlight. Many guests, like Adriana, express surprise at how much joy it brought them, describing it as “beautiful” and “a lot of fun.” The scenery is stunning, and driving through snowy forests under a winter sky makes for a memorable photo op.

The reindeer farm visit is more than just sightseeing. It’s an intimate look at animals that are deeply woven into Lapland’s identity. Maria Victoria notes that her guide “drove for hours to find clear skies,” which shows how dedicated they are to providing the best possible viewing conditions—especially if you’re after the Northern Lights.

For the children aged 4-14, the reindeer sleigh ride behind the snowmobile is a gentle, family-friendly activity. However, the actual snowmobile driving requires participants to be over 18 and hold a valid license. Pregnant women and those with musculoskeletal issues are advised against this strenuous activity, which is fair considering safety.

The Practical Bits

This tour lasts 3 to 4 hours, with two main parts: the snowmobile drive and the reindeer farm experience. It’s priced at $215 per person, which includes winter clothing, instructions, hot drinks, and the unique opportunity to drive a snowmobile.

While $215 might seem steep at first glance, remember that it covers a comprehensive half-day activity—transport, gear, guides, and the farm visit—and offers a memorable Arctic experience. The inclusion of a reindeer driving license is a cute touch, and the hot drinks are a well-needed warm-up after outdoor fun.

Booking is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later—and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Just be aware of the meeting time: arriving 25 minutes early at the Safartica Office is crucial, or you risk missing out.

What You Need to Know Before Booking

• Bring your driver’s license, and wear warm, thermal clothing suitable for cold outdoor activities.
• You must be 18 or older to drive the snowmobile and hold a valid driving license.
• Children 4-14 are seated in a sledge behind the snowmobile—they won’t drive but can enjoy the ride.
• The driver is liable for damages up to approximately $990 per accident, but you can buy insurance on-site for a small extra fee.
• The activity is not suitable for infants or pregnant women, given the physical nature and safety considerations.

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How We See It

This tour strikes a good balance for those wanting a taste of Arctic adventure with a cultural twist. The guided snowmobile drive offers a thrilling way to explore Lapland’s wintry landscapes, and the visit to the reindeer farm adds depth and authenticity to the experience.

Many guests praised the knowledgeable and friendly guides who made the experience both fun and educational. If you’re lucky, the clear skies and snow-covered trees make the scenery downright magical. But keep in mind that the success of the outdoor parts depends heavily on weather conditions—if the weather’s tricky, your guide will do their best to find the best spots, as Maria Victoria’s review highlights.

While the activity isn’t cheap, the inclusion of gear, instruction, and the farm visit makes it a reasonable value for an in-depth Arctic experience. It’s perfect if you want to combine adventure with cultural insight, and if you’re comfortable driving a snowmobile.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventure seekers who are comfortable on snowmobiles and eager to learn about reindeer culture. It’s a good pick for travelers who enjoy active outings and want a mix of thrilling rides and meaningful cultural moments.

It’s also suitable for families with children over 4, though younger kids won’t be able to drive or participate in the rides. If you’re after a relaxing day without much physical activity, this might not be the right fit. And, of course, punctuality and safety are key—be sure to meet the guide on time and follow instructions carefully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need my driver’s license for this tour? Yes, participants must hold a valid driver’s license to drive the snowmobile, and drivers must be 18 or older.

Is the tour suitable for children? Children aged 4-14 can sit in a sledge behind the guide’s snowmobile during the ride, but they won’t drive the snowmobile themselves.

How long is the snowmobile drive? Expect approximately 1 to 1.5 hours of driving, covering around 15-25 km, depending on weather and safety.

What should I wear? Warm, thermal clothing is recommended, and winter gear is provided by the tour to keep you comfortable outdoors.

Can I cancel or reschedule? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

Is the activity safe? Safety protocols are in place, and guides are experienced. However, drivers are liable for damages up to about $990 unless insurance is purchased.

What’s included in the price? Winter clothing, snowmobile instructions, a guided drive, visit to a reindeer farm, sleigh ride, hot drinks, and a guide.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a genuine Arctic adventure that combines the rush of snowmobiling with a meaningful cultural experience, this tour in Rovaniemi offers solid value. The guides are knowledgeable, the scenery is striking, and the chance to learn about reindeer herding adds a special touch to your trip.

It’s a tour best suited for active travelers who don’t mind the cold and are eager to get a little off the beaten path. The mix of adrenaline, animal encounters, and cultural insights makes it a memorable addition to any Lapland itinerary.

For those who want a safe, guided, and authentic way to experience the winter wilderness—this safari is worth considering. Just remember to be punctual, dress warmly, and enjoy the adventure at your own pace.

You can check availability for your dates here: