A day with reindeer herders in the wilderness

Experience a Day with Reindeer Herders in the Finnish Wilderness

A 4-hour tour in Lapland, Finland, offers an authentic peek into the life of reindeer herders and their herds. Operated by Ivalo Experiences, this highly-rated activity (5-star) invites you to walk in the footsteps of traditional Sami livelihoods, starting with a pickup from your accommodation. The tour costs a set rate, includes a small group experience, and is designed to fit into a busy travel schedule.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on immersive learning, allowing participants to feed reindeer, learn about reindeer herding, and experience Finnish winter culture firsthand. While the activity is quite accessible, it requires warm clothing and shoes, and is best suited for those over 5 years old who are comfortable in winter conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• 4-hour guided experience in Lapland with small groups limited to 8 participants
• Includes pickup from your hotel or address in Saariselkä or Inari (extra fee applies)
• Led by local reindeer herders, providing authentic insights into traditional livelihoods
• Feed hundreds of reindeer and take memorable photos of the herd
• Enjoy a forest fire to grill sausages and learn about local culture
• Weather-dependent activity, suitable for conditions down to -20°C

Starting Point and Transportation in the Arctic Wilderness

This tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation in the Saariselkä or Inari area, with a small additional fee of €45 per person. From there, a half-hour drive takes you into the heart of the wilderness, where the real adventure begins. The journey uses snowmobiles pulled sleighs, offering a fun and scenic ride through the snow-covered forest.

This method of transportation adds a traditional touch and enhances the feeling of venturing into true Lapland nature. The small group size ensures a personal experience, avoiding crowds and allowing more direct interaction with the guides.

Meeting Reindeer in Their Natural Environment

The core of this experience is the chance to meet and feed hundreds of reindeer in a natural forest setting. The reindeer herders lead the activity, sharing their knowledge about the animals’ habits, care, and the significance of reindeer herding in Sami culture.

Participants can take photos of the herd, which is kept in the forest environment, providing a genuine connection to the animals. This close-up interaction highlights the importance of tradition and sustainable practices in reindeer management.

Traditional Reindeer Herding Lifestyle Demonstrated

During the visit, the reindeer herders explain details of their traditional livelihood, giving insight into the daily routines, seasonal movements, and the cultural importance of reindeer. This information deepens understanding of the Sami lifestyle, which remains closely tied to the herds and the forest landscape.

The tour emphasizes authentic experiences, avoiding artificial attractions. Visitors gain a genuine perspective on how reindeer herding continues to be a vital part of Lapland’s identity.

More Great Tours Nearby

Forest Fire and Sausage Grill Experience

After the reindeer interaction, the group gathers around a fire built in the forest. Here, participants can grill sausages, enjoying a simple yet hearty meal in the wilderness. The guides share local insights and stories while everyone warms up by the fire.

This part of the tour provides a relaxed setting to connect with Sami culture, and the social atmosphere makes it easier to appreciate the traditions and ways of life in Lapland.

Practical Details: Booking, Cancellation, and Preparation

Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later, offering convenience and adaptability. The tour operates with English-speaking guides and is subject to weather conditions, with a temperature limit of -20°C for safety and comfort.

Participants are advised to wear warm clothing, thermal layers, and warm shoes. The activity is not suitable for children under 5 years or wheelchair users, reflecting the outdoor, wintery nature of the tour.

Additional Options and Customizations

Vegetarian options are available upon request, accommodating dietary preferences. The tour includes free cancellation if canceled more than 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for travelers planning flexible schedules.

If desired, pickup from your hotel can be arranged for an additional €45 per person, making the experience more convenient, especially in remote locations.

The Authentic Lapland Forest Experience

This tour is designed to immerse participants in genuine Lapland nature, away from commercialized attractions. The wilderness setting and small group size foster an intimate environment, perfect for those seeking authentic cultural insights and close animal interactions.

The guided storytelling and hands-on reindeer feeding make this experience educational as well as entertaining. It’s an ideal choice for travelers interested in Sami culture, nature, and outdoor winter activities.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience is best suited for adventurous families, nature lovers, and cultural enthusiasts. It suits those who are comfortable in cold weather, appreciate outdoor activities, and want to learn about the traditional way of life from local Sami herders.

While not designed for wheelchair users or very young children, the activity’s educational component offers valuable insights into reindeer herding that appeal to curious minds of all ages.

Final Thoughts on a Reindeer Day in the Wilderness

This tour from Ivalo Experiences offers a genuine, hands-on look at reindeer herding in Lapland. The combination of scenic transportation, animal interaction, and cultural storytelling creates a well-rounded experience for those wanting to connect with nature and Sami traditions.

While weather conditions need to be considered, the tour’s small group size and authentic focus make it a memorable highlight for anyone exploring Finnish Lapland. It is especially suitable for those interested in outdoor winter adventures and cultural exchange.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts 4 hours.

How do I book this experience?
Reservations can be made with the option to reserve now and pay later, and full cancellation is available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

What do I need to bring?
Participants should wear warm clothing, thermal layers, and warm shoes suitable for winter conditions.

Is pickup included?
Pickup is available from Saariselkä or Inari for an additional €45 per person.

What is the maximum group size?
The activity is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a small-group experience.

Are children allowed?
Children under 5 years are not suitable for this activity.

What is the weather limit for participation?
The activity is suitable down to -20°C.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian options are available upon request, and you should inform the organizers of any food allergies or vegan preferences.

Is the activity suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users due to outdoor winter conditions.

What makes this tour unique?
The opportunity to feed reindeer, learn about Sami culture from local herders, and experience the wilderness with a cozy forest fire makes this tour stand out.

This day with reindeer herders perfectly blends cultural insight, nature, and adventure, making it a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Lapland.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby