Saariselkä: Reindeer Farm Experience with Snack and Drinks

If you’re considering a reindeer encounter in Lapland, this tour from Kuukkeli offers a simple, authentic taste of the Arctic wildlife and Sami culture. While it’s not a lengthy or high-adrenaline adventure, it’s a gentle, family-friendly option that appeals to those wanting a taste of Lapland’s iconic animals without too much fuss.

What we like about this experience is how close you get to the reindeer—they’re friendly, curious, and well-treated—and the coziness of the post-visit fire-side snack, which really adds a warm, authentic touch. That said, one potential downside to keep in mind is that the total experience lasts just about an hour, which might feel brief to some travelers, especially considering the cost.

This tour suits visitors looking for a laid-back, culturally immersive activity that’s easy to fit into their day. If you’re after a quick but memorable introduction to Lapland’s most famous animal and are OK with sharing the experience with other guests, this could be a good choice.

Key Points

• Authentic reindeer interaction: Feed, pet, and learn about reindeer in a natural setting.
• Cozy atmosphere: Warm up with sausages and drinks in a traditional Aurora Hut.
• Cultural insights: Learn about the significance of reindeer in Lapland’s traditions.
• Short but sweet: The experience runs about 1 hour, including transportation.
• Shared experience: It’s a public tour, so expect to share facilities with others.
• Suitable for most travelers: Easy walking and outdoor conditions make it accessible, but dress warmly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What Is This Tour All About?

This reindeer farm experience is based at Kuukkeli Aurora Resort, just 4 km from Saariselkä. It’s designed to give visitors a close-up look at Lapland’s most iconic animal—the reindeer—and to introduce a bit of local culture. The tour begins with a pick-up from Saariselkä’s main shopping center, making it convenient even if you’re not staying right next door.

Once you arrive at the farm, you’ll find a large group of friendly reindeer behind a fence. The setting is peaceful, surrounded by the pure, white Arctic landscape. This is really about connecting with the animals, so expect to spend time feeding them lichen by hand and maybe even petting them if they’re feeling gentle.

What’s Included and How Does It Work?

After about 45 minutes of interacting with the reindeer, you’ll be invited into the Aurora Hut. This cozy wooden building is designed for up to 20 people, making it a nice spot to warm up by the fire. Here, you can enjoy sausages grilled over an open flame and sip on hot drinks like tea, coffee, or berry juice.

The experience is quite laid-back. It’s not a full reindeer sled ride, but rather a hands-on, cultural encounter with a bit of local flavor. The fire and warm drinks really help you soak in the Arctic atmosphere, especially if you’re lucky enough to catch some northern lights overhead.

The Itinerary: What Happens During the Tour?

The tour begins with a convenient pickup at K-Market Saariselkä. From there, it’s a quick 7-minute drive to the reindeer farm. Once there, a guided walk around the enclosure kicks off, where you’ll meet the reindeer, learn about their role in Sami traditions, and have the chance to feed and pet the animals.

The guidance is available in English and Finnish, and reviews suggest the guides are knowledgeable and friendly—”knowledge of the guide” was appreciated by some. The 45-minute guided tour is leisurely, allowing plenty of time for questions and photos.

Afterward, you’ll head back to the Aurora Hut for your snack and drinks. The entire process, including transportation, typically takes about an hour. The return transfer is straightforward, with pickups and drop-offs at the same location.

What’s the Experience Like in Practice?

Most reviews highlight the friendly nature of the reindeer and the knowledgeable guide. Several guests mention that the reindeer are well-treated and the farm maintains an ethical stance, which is reassuring for animal lovers. One traveler noted, “the reindeer are well treated, the farm was very ethical,” which adds to the authenticity of the experience.

The snack by the fire adds a cozy, communal element. You’ll sit around the fire, warm your hands with a hot drink, and enjoy traditional sausages—a simple but effective way to experience local flavor and Arctic hospitality.

However, some reviews are more critical. One guest called it “overpriced” for what they felt was a brief interaction and snack, suggesting that for €65 per person, it might not feel like exceptional value. If you’re expecting an extensive reindeer safari or sled ride, this might fall short, as it’s primarily an educational and casual visit.

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The Pros and Cons

Pros

• Authentic and close-up contact with reindeer
• Relaxed, friendly environment
• Cultural insights into Lapland’s traditions
• Warm, inviting atmosphere in the Aurora Hut
• Short, easy activity perfect for all ages

Cons

• Brief experience—about 1 hour total
• Public, shared setting with other guests
• Cost might seem high for some, considering the length
• No sledding or more active elements included

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you’re looking for a gentle, authentic introduction to Lapland’s reindeer culture without a big time commitment. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy relaxed outdoor activities and cultural stories. It’s also a good choice if you simply want a taste of the Arctic environment with some cozy, social moments.

However, if you’re after a longer, more interactive reindeer activity, or a thrilling sled ride, you might want to explore other options. This tour leans toward the educational and atmospheric side, focusing on connection and tradition rather than adventure.

Final Thoughts

This Reindeer Farm Experience from Kuukkeli offers a simple but meaningful glimpse into Lapland’s iconic animal and Sami traditions. The friendly reindeer, the cozy fire, and the insightful guide make it a solid choice for those wanting a relaxed Arctic outing.

While it might not be the most adrenaline-filled or lengthy adventure, it provides a gentle, authentic connection with nature and culture that many travelers find memorable. The experience’s value depends on your expectations: if you’re content with an hour of close contact and local flavor, you’ll likely enjoy it.

For travelers who are curious about reindeer and Sami traditions but prefer a less strenuous activity, this tour hits the right notes. Just keep in mind the price point, and consider whether a brief, shared experience with some cozy food fits your expectations of a Lapland outing.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, the activity involves outdoor walking and being around animals, so it could be suitable for children who are comfortable in such settings. The relaxed pace makes it generally kid-friendly.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience, including transportation, typically lasts around one hour—about 45 minutes of reindeer interaction and 15 minutes for the snack and return transfer.

What should I bring?
You’ll want to wear warm outdoor clothing suitable for winter weather. A camera is recommended for photos, and comfortable shoes are a good idea.

Is the tour shared with other guests?
Yes, this is a public experience, so you’ll be sharing the facilities with other visitors. It’s a social, communal setting.

What kind of snacks are served?
You’ll enjoy grilled sausages cooked over a fire, accompanied by warm drinks like tea, coffee, or berry juice. The focus is on simple, local flavors.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off at K-Market Saariselkä, making logistics easy.

This tour isn’t for everyone, but if you’re after a relaxed, authentic introduction to reindeer culture in Lapland, it’s worth considering. Just weigh the brief duration and cost against what you’re hoping to get out of your Arctic experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: