Rovaniemi: Apukka Reindeer Journey

The Rovaniemi: Apukka Reindeer Journey offers a classic Arctic adventure that captures the heart of Lapland’s natural beauty and cultural traditions. For $203 per person, this 2-hour experience takes travelers on a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride covering 2-3 km through serene snowy forests. The tour departs from Apukka Resort, with convenient pickup options from Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village. It includes warm winter clothing, a hot drink, and engaging stories about reindeer husbandry—making it an ideal choice for those seeking an authentic, family-friendly activity in Lapland.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on Lappish traditions and the chance to meet beautiful reindeer up close. The experience is designed to be relaxing and educational, offering insight into the long-standing relationship between locals and reindeer. While the activity is enjoyed at a gentle pace to suit all ages, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with cold weather, as proper winter clothing is provided, but the outdoor conditions are chilly. This tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users, but it remains a highly-rated, authentic way to experience Lapland’s winter landscape.

Key Points

• Authentic reindeer sleigh ride through snowy forests covering 2-3 km.
• Includes warm winter clothing and a hot drink to stay cozy.
• Guides share stories about reindeer husbandry and local traditions.
• Flexible pickup options from Rovaniemi city center and Santa Claus Village.
• Average rating of 4.6/5 from 894 reviews, highlighting consistent satisfaction.
• Ideal for families and culture enthusiasts wanting an immersive Arctic experience.

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Meeting Point at Apukka Resort and Transport Options

The tour starts at Apukka Resort, where you’ll find a walkable reindeer farm nearby. Transfer options are included if needed, with pickups from Rovaniemi city center at Korkalonkatu 32, approximately 50 minutes before the activity. Alternatively, Santa Claus Village offers a pickup at the Napapiiri I bus stop, about 35 minutes before the start. This makes the experience accessible for travelers staying in different parts of Rovaniemi.

The transportation is arranged to ensure a smooth start, but it’s essential to be punctual—missed pickups mean no refunds. Once at the resort, guests are provided with thermal overall, boots, woolen socks, mittens, and a balaclava to handle the outdoor cold comfortably.

The Reindeer Sleigh Ride Experience

The main highlight is the gentle, peaceful ride led by well-cared-for reindeer. This 2-3 km trek through snow-covered woods offers a calm, quiet atmosphere, allowing visitors to truly appreciate Lapland’s winter silence. The sleds are guided by professional drivers, and seating is allocated to balance the load for reindeer comfort.

The ride duration typically lasts around 45 minutes, with reviews praising the length for providing enough time to enjoy the scenery and connect with the animals. The reindeer are described as healthy and friendly, with some even showing a close bond with guides. The sleighs are often tied together in groups, which some find more like an amusement ride, but most enjoy the shared experience.

Meeting and Interacting with Reindeer

After the ride, guests can feed the reindeer and learn about their care and significance in Lapland. The guides share stories about reindeer husbandry, making the visit both informative and personal. The reindeer farm is only a few minutes’ walk from the main resort area, providing easy access to the animals.

Some reviews mention that reindeers might not look exactly like in photos, being smaller or without antlers, but the overall impression is positive. The guides typically explain the animals’ characteristics and encourage interaction. Visitors leave with a deeper understanding of Lappish culture and the importance of reindeer in local life.

The Cozy Experience with Hot Drinks and Stories

One of the tour’s warmest moments comes after the sleigh ride, when guests settle in for a hot drink—often a traditional reindeer coffee—and listen to stories about reindeer herding. This part of the experience adds a completely relaxing and informative touch, making it ideal for those wanting more than just scenery.

The guide-led storytelling is appreciated for its depth and friendly tone, providing insights into local traditions and reindeer care. The warm beverage helps make the outdoor experience comfortable, even in Arctic cold, and completes a memorable Arctic activity.

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Practical Details and What to Wear

The tour includes winter clothing, such as thermal overalls, boots, woolen socks, mittens, and a balaclava, so guests are prepared for cold temperatures. Still, travelers are advised to bring additional warm clothing, especially for the waiting periods or post-ride activities.

The activity duration is around 2 hours, making it a manageable addition to a day in Lapland. It’s suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a gentle outdoor adventure. However, the experience is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the outdoor nature and terrain.

The Unique Appeal of Apukka’s Reindeer Journey

What sets this experience apart is its authentic focus on reindeer tradition combined with professional guidance. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides like Ms. Emily, who share detailed insights and engage warmly with participants. The scenery—snowy forests, frozen lakes, and peaceful woods—provides a magical backdrop for this activity.

While some reviewers note that having multiple sleighs tied together can feel more like an amusement ride rather than intimate, the overall quiet, scenic environment still shines through. The length of the ride—around 45 minutes—is praised for being long enough to soak in the landscape without feeling rushed.

The Overall Value and Suitability

For $203, this tour offers a good mix of cultural insight, outdoor activity, and relaxation. It’s particularly suited for families with children, couples, or solo travelers interested in Lapland’s traditions and winter landscapes. The hot drink, warm clothing, and stories add a personal touch that enhances the experience.

While it might be considered pricey compared to some other activities, the quality, authenticity, and positive reviews suggest it’s a worthwhile choice. Travelers who appreciate calm, scenic outdoor experiences and animal encounters will especially enjoy this tour.

Final Thoughts on the Apukka Reindeer Journey

The Apukka Reindeer Journey provides a peaceful, authentic way to experience Lapland’s snowy wilderness. The reindeer sleigh ride is well-paced, with guides sharing knowledge and stories that deepen understanding of local culture. The inclusion of warm clothing and hot drinks ensures comfort in the cold, making it suitable for most visitors.

Most reviews praise the friendly guides, beautiful scenery, and generous ride length. It’s a highly-rated activity that captures the essence of Lapland’s winter traditions, perfect for those seeking a relaxing, educational outdoor adventure with a touch of magic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included with the tour?
Yes, transfers from Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village are included, with pickup times confirmed via email.

What should I wear on this tour?
The tour provides thermal overall, boots, socks, mittens, and a balaclava, but it’s recommended to bring additional warm clothing for outdoor comfort.

How long is the sleigh ride?
The reindeer sleigh ride lasts around 45 minutes, covering 2-3 km through snowy forests.

Can children participate in this activity?
Yes, the tour is suitable for families with children, provided they can handle cold weather and outdoor environments.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, this activity is not suitable for wheelchair users due to outdoor terrain and logistics.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the activity, allowing flexibility in planning.

The Rovaniemi: Apukka Reindeer Journey offers an enriching taste of Lapland’s traditions, scenic beauty, and peaceful winter atmosphere—perfect for a memorable Arctic escape.

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