Rovaniemi: Reindeer Safari at 200-Year-Old Farm & Sled Ride

Key Points

• Authentic reindeer farm: Visit a genuine 200-year-old farm with a family tradition of herding reindeer since the 1600s.
• Traditional sled ride: Glide 2.5 km through snow-covered forests on a classic wooden reindeer sled.
• Expert guides: Small groups of up to 8 guests ensure personalized attention and storytelling from knowledgeable guides.
• Comfortable transport: Travel to the farm in brand-new 2025 Ford Tourneo 4×4 vans with heated interiors.
• Memorable souvenirs: Receive an official Reindeer Driving License as a playful keepsake.
• Warm relaxation: Warm up inside a traditional kota with hot drinks and stories after the ride.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Rovaniemi Reindeer Safari at a 200-Year-Old Farm and Sled Ride

The Reindeer Safari in Rovaniemi offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s tradition, with a 3-hour experience that balances adventure and cultural connection. You start by being picked up from your accommodation in brand-new 2025 Ford Tourneo 4×4 vans, which provide a cozy, heated ride through snowy landscapes. The small group size ensures personalized interaction, making the experience more intimate and engaging.

At the heart of the tour is a visit to an authentic 200-year-old reindeer farm, a place where herding has been a family tradition for over 20 generations. This is not a staged attraction but a real working farm, where you meet herders and their gentle reindeer. The tour emphasizes heritage, with explanations rooted in centuries-old practices. After the farm visit, you’ll step into a traditional wooden sled and glide 2.5 km through the peaceful, snow-blanketed forests, a journey that echoes the transportation methods used by locals for generations.

The Historical Reindeer Farm Experience in Lapland

The reindeer farm is a living part of Lapland’s history, offering an authentic glimpse into the daily life of herders. Since the farm is family-run and has operated for over 200 years, it provides a rare opportunity to learn about traditional herding practices directly from those who have preserved them. The farm has served over 50,000 guests, solidifying its reputation as a trusted and respectful venue for experiencing the Arctic’s heritage.

Guests have the chance to feed reindeer, a highlight that allows for close encounters with these calm, Arctic animals. The setting is authentic, with rustic wooden buildings and a welcoming atmosphere that feels far from commercialized tourist spots. The guides are well-versed, ready to answer questions and share stories about life on the farm and the importance of reindeer herding in Lapland.

Glide Through Snowy Forests on a Traditional Wooden Sled

The 2.5 km sled ride offers a peaceful journey through the silent snow-covered woods. The wooden sled, pulled by a reindeer, provides a traditional transportation experience that has persisted for centuries. The ride is suitable for all ages, and during snowy conditions, decks and blankets are provided to keep riders comfortable despite the cold.

The snow-swept scenery provides a perfect backdrop for photos, and the slow pace allows for moments of quiet reflection and connection with nature. The experience captures the essence of Lapland’s winter landscape, making it a highlight for those seeking an authentic Arctic adventure.

Cozy Up Inside a Traditional Kota with Hot Drinks

After the sled ride, guests gather inside a traditional kota, a Sami-style tent or hut, to warm up around a fire. Inside, hot drinks are served—often tea or coffee—creating a cozy setting to relax and listen to stories from the herders. This part of the experience emphasizes connection, storytelling, and cultural sharing, enriching the overall tour.

You’ll also receive your official Reindeer Driving License, a playful souvenir that commemorates your time in Lapland. This keepsake offers a fun reminder of the adventure, especially for those who enjoy collecting unique certificates from their travels.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details: Transport, Group Size, and Accessibility

The tour begins with pickup at your Rovaniemi accommodation, ensuring a smooth start to the experience. The 2025 Ford Tourneo vans provide heated, leather-seated comfort with ample legroom, making the journey pleasant regardless of winter weather. The small group size—limited to 8 guests—ensures a personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and interact with guides.

Participants need to bring passport or ID, warm shoes, and warm clothing. The tour does not accommodate pets, large luggage, mobility scooters, smoking, alcohol, littering, baby carriages, or fireworks. The activity is suitable for those prepared for outdoor winter conditions and willing to dress appropriately.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out in Rovaniemi

This safari’s focus on the heritage of reindeer herding sets it apart from more staged or commercialized experiences. The family-run farm and the expert guides bring a level of authenticity that is rare to find elsewhere. The inclusion of hot drinks and storytelling inside a traditional kota enhances the cultural richness, making it more than just a simple sled ride.

On top of that, the small group size and private transport in new vehicles contribute to a comfortable and intimate atmosphere. The official Reindeer Driving License adds a playful, memorable touch that appeals to visitors seeking a genuine connection with Lapland’s traditions.

Considerations and Limitations of the Reindeer Safari

While the tour offers an authentic experience, some reviews mention the cost as being relatively high for what is included. The 2.5 km sled ride is a brief journey, which might not satisfy those expecting a longer or more extensive tour. Plus, transportation times can involve some waiting, especially if the driver is new or if there are delays in pickup.

Weather conditions, such as snow or cold, can affect the comfort of the experience, but the provided decks and blankets help mitigate this. The activity requires warm clothing and some physical readiness for outdoor activities, but no strenuous effort is involved.

Authentic Lapland Culture and Lasting Memories

This tour provides a genuine connection to Lapland’s reindeer herding traditions, backed by a proud family history dating back over 200 years. The small group size creates an intimate environment where stories and questions are encouraged. The hot drinks and storytelling inside the kota foster cultural exchange and relaxation after the outdoor activities.

The reindeer feeding session offers additional interaction with these gentle animals, making this experience suitable for travelers who appreciate close encounters with wildlife. The opportunity to receive an official Reindeer Driving License adds a fun, tangible memory of the Arctic adventure.

Final Thoughts on the Rovaniemi Reindeer Safari

The 3-hour reindeer safari delivers a balanced mix of tradition, scenery, and comfort. It appeals especially to those interested in authentic Lapland heritage and seeking an intimate experience with a small group. The heritage farm, peaceful sled ride, and cozy kota create memorable moments, while the professional guides and comfortable transport enhance the overall quality.

However, the experience’s brevity and the price point might be considerations for some. Still, for travelers wanting a sincere glimpse into the world of reindeer herding, this tour offers a meaningful and well-organized option that respects local traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is included in the tour price?
  The tour includes pickup from Rovaniemi, a 2.5 km reindeer sled ride, visit to a 200-year-old farm, hot drinks inside a traditional kota, and an official Reindeer Driving License.

• How long does the experience last?
  The entire activity lasts approximately 3 hours.

• What should I bring?
  Bring passport or ID, warm shoes, and warm clothing suitable for winter outdoor activities.

• Is the tour suitable for children?
  Yes, the experience is family-friendly, especially with the gentle reindeer and the short sled ride.

• Can I feed the reindeer?
  Yes, there is an opportunity to feed the reindeer after the sled ride.

• What transport is used for pickup?
  Pickup is in brand-new 2025 Ford Tourneo 4×4 vans with heated interiors and leather seats.

• Are small groups guaranteed?
  Yes, the tour group size is limited to 8 guests.

• Is there any cultural storytelling involved?
  Yes, guides share stories about the farm, reindeer herding, and Sami traditions inside the kota.

• What is the main highlight of the tour?
  The authentic 200-year-old farm and the peaceful reindeer sled ride through snow-covered forests.

• What are the main negatives?
  The cost may seem high for the brief sled ride, and transport delays can occur if the driver is new or due to weather conditions.

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