Snowshoeing at Rautuskylä Levi Arctic Shaman Adventures

Traveling through the snowy landscapes of Lapland is one of those experiences that sticks with you — quiet, vast, and breathtakingly beautiful. If you’re like us, you’re probably always on the lookout for authentic ways to connect with nature while soaking in local culture. This Snowshoeing at Rautuskylä Levi tour by Arctic Shaman Adventures promises exactly that: a gentle, intimate excursion into the Arctic wilderness, combined with meaningful storytelling and a cozy finish by the fire.

What really caught our attention about this tour is how small-group intimacy (max 8 people) elevates the experience, making it feel personal and peaceful. We also love how it balances a walk through pristine forests and frozen lakes with insightful guides sharing local wildlife and folklore. On the flip side, it’s not explicitly designed for kids under 6, so if you’re traveling with very young children, you’ll want to keep that in mind.

This tour seems perfect for nature lovers, first-time snowshoers, or anyone craving a tranquil escape into Lapland’s quiet beauty. It’s less about adrenaline and more about soaking in the Arctic’s serenity, culture, and stories — a real gem for those who prefer a gentle, authentic adventure.

Key Points

• Intimate group size ensures a peaceful, personal experience
• Guided walk through snowy forests and over a frozen lake offers stunning visuals
• Learn about wildlife tracks, local traditions, and folklore from a knowledgeable guide
• Break at a cozy kota with hot berry juice and a hearty sandwich provides warmth and comfort
• Spot reindeer and possibly see a Lapland shaman, adding cultural depth
• Suitable for first-time snowshoers and all nature lovers; not recommended for children under 6

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Snowshoe Adventure in Lapland

We love the idea of exploring Lapland in the quiet of winter, and this tour hits the right notes. It’s designed as a gentle walk, rather than a strenuous trek, which makes it accessible for most people. Snowshoes, after all, are about making the snowy terrain walkable without sinking — a simple yet effective way to enjoy the winter landscape.

The tour kicks off from the Levi Tourist Office, a central starting point that’s easy to find. From there, you hop into a van for about 15 minutes to reach the trailhead near Rautuskylä, which is embedded in the Arctic wilderness. The journey itself sets the tone — a scenic drive that gets you away from town noise and into the snow-blanketed forest.

Once you arrive, the guide leads a roughly 1.5-hour hike through pristine Arctic forests and across a frozen lake. Here, you’ll get to experience the stillness of Lapland, with every step revealing snow-covered trees, animal tracks, and the crisp, invigorating air. The guides share stories about local wildlife and traditions, which helps turn a simple walk into a meaningful cultural experience. One review mentions how the guide’s stories about nature and folklore add depth, making the journey more than just physical.

The highlight for many is the stop at a wilderness shelter or kota — traditional Lapland huts that are cozy and inviting. Around the fire, you’ll enjoy hot berry juice and a filled sandwich, perfect for warming up after a brisk walk. The fire creates a warm, communal atmosphere, which adds a layer of comfort and connection to the experience. Several reviews note the peacefulness of this moment and how it really captures the essence of Lapland’s hospitality and simplicity.

After the break, the group continues a short walk back to the starting point. It’s a relaxed pace, ideal for those who want to take their time and absorb the landscape. The entire trip, including transportation, lasts around three hours, making it a manageable half-day activity that fits well into a broader Arctic itinerary.

What Sets This Tour Apart

One of the things we appreciated from reviews is how small group sizes (max 8) foster a more personal and peaceful atmosphere. Larger tours can feel rushed or crowded, but this one keeps things intimate, allowing everyone to enjoy the silence and beauty without feeling hurried.

The guides’ storytelling also get high marks. They share insights about wildlife, winter traditions, and even local folklore, which makes the experience richer. For example, hearing about Lapland’s winter customs or spotting reindeer in the yard adds cultural value often missing from other outdoor activities.

Another plus is the authenticity — this isn’t just a sightseeing trip, but a genuine interaction with Lapland’s nature and traditions. The possibility of seeing a real Lapland shaman or reindeer in the yard makes it feel special and tied to local life, rather than a commercialized experience.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour lasts about 3 hours, starting from the Levi Tourist Office, making it suitable for most travelers with limited time. The transportation is included and straightforward — a 15-minute van ride each way. You’ll be walking for about 1.5 hours in total, covered with snowshoes, which are easy to learn and don’t require prior experience.

The group size is limited to 8, ensuring a calm, unrushed pace and personal interaction. The tour is available in English and Finnish, with a live guide leading the way. The experience is wheelchair accessible, which is thoughtful for those with mobility needs.

In terms of cost and value, the price covers transportation, the guide, the snowshoes, and the cozy fire break. Considering the intimate nature, storytelling, and cultural insights, many find it worthwhile, especially for first-time visitors wanting a genuine Arctic experience.

A key aspect to note is that children under 6 are not suitable, likely because of the walking length or safety considerations around snow and fire. For families with older kids, it’s an engaging way to introduce them to Lapland’s wilderness.

What the Experience Feels Like

Imagine walking through a snow-laden forest, each step crunching softly beneath your snowshoes, with the sky a pale blue or grey depending on the day. The air is crisp, and the silence is profound — broken only by the occasional bird call or the crunch of snow.

Your guide points out animal tracks, helping you identify who’s been wandering through the forest before you. It’s a kind of living puzzle, connecting you with the wilderness in a very real way. When you reach the frozen lake, the vast, open expanse makes for stunning photos and a real sense of space.

The stop at the kota is a highlight — a warm, welcoming space where you gather around a fire, sip hot berry juice, and enjoy a filling sandwich. It’s simple, but effective, adding a cozy, communal feeling to the activity. Some reviews mention how peaceful and restorative this moment is, especially after the brisk walk.

The entire experience feels like a gentle immersion into Lapland’s authentic winter life — without the rush or touristy veneer. It’s about appreciating the landscape, traditions, and stories that make this region unique.

More Great Tours Nearby

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This snowshoeing adventure is particularly well-suited for those seeking a calm, authentic experience rather than adrenaline-pumping activities. It’s perfect if you want to slow down and really soak in Lapland’s winter beauty, with the added bonus of local stories and culture.

It’s also an excellent choice for first-timers or those less interested in strenuous activity, thanks to its gentle pace and straightforward nature. The small group setting ensures you’ll feel relaxed and well-attended, ideal for travelers who prefer a more personal touch.

While it’s not designed for kids under 6, older children or teenagers who want to experience the Arctic in a peaceful, meaningful way will likely enjoy it too. If you’re after a simple, honest, and immersive winter outing, this tour offers a genuine slice of Lapland life.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with no snowshoeing experience?
Yes, snowshoes are easy to learn, and the walk is gentle. No prior experience is needed, making it accessible for beginners.

How long is the snowshoeing part of the tour?
The snowshoeing walk lasts approximately 1.5 hours, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation from Levi Tourist Office, snowshoes, a local guide, and the cozy fire break with hot berry juice and a filled sandwich.

Can I see reindeer during the tour?
Yes, reindeer might be spotted in the yard at the end of the experience, adding an extra touch of Lapland’s traditional life.

Is this experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, which is considerate for travelers with mobility needs.

What’s the size of the group?
The group is limited to a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring an intimate and peaceful atmosphere.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility for your trip planning.

All in all, if you’re craving a peaceful escape into Lapland’s winter landscape, coupled with cultural insights and a warm fire, this snowshoeing tour could be just what you’re looking for. It’s simple, genuine, and beautifully paced — a lovely way to connect with the Arctic’s quiet magic.

You can check availability for your dates here: