Northern Lights & Reindeer Experience

A Cozy 2-Hour Night in Lapland with Reindeer and the Aurora

The Northern Lights & Reindeer Experience offers a captivating look at Arctic life over two hours in Lapland, Finland. Priced competitively and rated 5 stars, this tour stands out for its intimate small group size—limited to 8 participants—and focus on authentic Sami traditions. It begins at a reindeer fence near Ivalo Airport, making it accessible and convenient for travelers staying in the region.

What makes this experience especially appealing is the combination of aurora hunting, reindeer encounters, and traditional Finnish snacks. While the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed, the tour ensures that participants get close to reindeer and gain insight into local reindeer herding culture. The inclusion of hot berry juice and reindeer sausages adds a warm, flavorful touch to the outdoor Arctic adventure.

This tour is perfect for those seeking a short, meaningful Arctic experience that combines cultural learning with the thrill of spotting the aurora borealis. It’s suited for travelers who enjoy small group settings, authentic local activities, and are prepared with warm clothing for outdoor winter conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Duration: 2 hours, ideal for a relaxed but meaningful Arctic experience
• Location: Near Ivalo Airport in Lapland, Finland
• Includes: Reindeer interaction, traditional Sámi hut, sausages over open fire, hot berry juice
• Highlights: Aurora hunting, learning about reindeer herding, suopunki (lasso) throwing
• Group size: Limited to 8 participants for a personalized experience
• Weather conditions: Activity available up to -25°C, with clothing rental options

Visiting the Reindeer Fence Near Ivalo Airport

This tour starts at a reindeer fence close to Ivalo Airport, making it an easy addition to any Finland itinerary. The outdoor setting provides a true Arctic backdrop for the experience, with guides explaining the reindeer’s yearly cycle and the local herding traditions. The close proximity to the airport means minimal travel time and maximum immersion.

Participants have the opportunity to meet reindeer directly, which adds a personal touch to the evening. The guides are well-versed in Sami culture and share stories about reindeer herding, contributing to a deeper understanding of Arctic livelihood. The outdoor location is designed for comfort, with fires and heated traditional Sámi huts to warm up after the outdoor activities.

Traditional Sámi Hut and Reindeer Interaction

After the reindeer fence visit, the tour moves into a traditional Sámi hut, where the group gathers around a cozy fire. Here, homemade reindeer sausages are roasted over an open fire, offering a taste of local cuisine. These sausages are served alongside hot berry juice, providing warmth and comfort in the chilly Arctic air.

The reindeer themselves are the focus of the interaction, allowing participants to meet and feed these gentle animals. The experience also includes suopunki throwing, a traditional Sami technique of using a lasso to catch reindeer, giving participants a hands-on understanding of herding skills.

Aurora Hunting Amidst Arctic Darkness

While the Northern Lights cannot be guaranteed**, the experience is designed to maximize the chances of witnessing this natural wonder. The tour takes place outdoors in the Arctic night, away from city lights, providing an excellent viewing environment. Guides keep an eye on the sky, and if the aurora appears, it often happens during the evening, offering a magical display.

The outdoor activity is suitable for those prepared with warm clothing and thermal shoes, as the temperature can drop to -25°C. The experience emphasizes safety and comfort, with options to rent additional clothing if needed.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and Group Atmosphere

This small group experience ensures a personalized, relaxed atmosphere. The guides speak English, and the entire activity can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for travelers. The check availability option allows booking without immediate payment, making planning easier.

Participants are advised to bring warm clothing and shoes, as the activity is outdoors. Pets are not allowed, but assistance dogs are welcome. The experience is not suitable for children under 4 years, wheelchair users, or those with animal allergies.

Overall Experience and Suitability

The Northern Lights & Reindeer Experience offers a compact but authentic introduction to Arctic Sami culture and the natural beauty of Lapland. Its inclusive focus on reindeer, combined with the chance to spot the Aurora Borealis, makes it a well-rounded option for adventure seekers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

While the short duration might not satisfy those seeking a longer or more intense Aurora tour, it provides a meaningful glimpse into local traditions and Arctic wilderness. The warm fires, homemade food, and reindeer interactions foster a genuine atmosphere that highlights the region’s unique lifestyle.

Final Thoughts on the Northern Lights & Reindeer Experience

This tour is most suitable for travelers looking for a cultural highlight in a small group setting, with a focus on authentic Sami traditions and reindeer interactions. The price, combined with the quality of the experience and high provider rating, offers good value for a short Arctic outing.

While aurora sightings depend on weather and natural conditions, the tour’s outdoor setting maximizes the chances of catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights. The warmth of the traditional hut and delicious local foods make the evening both comfortable and memorable.

The Northern Lights & Reindeer Experience presents a genuine, compact Arctic adventure that balances cultural insight, wildlife encounter, and aurora chasing into two enriching hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The experience is not suitable for children under 4 years old due to outdoor winter conditions and activity nature.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring warm clothing, thermal layers, and warm shoes. Clothing rental options are available if contacted in advance.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
While the tour aims to maximize aurora viewing, sightings depend on weather and natural conditions; therefore, sightings cannot be guaranteed.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a small, personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
The experience includes reindeer interactions, roasting sausages over fire, hot berry juice, and time in a traditional Sámi hut.

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