Snowshoe Trip for Searching Arctic Animals

A $184.22 per person tour in Rovaniemi, Finland, offers an engaging snowshoeing experience through the Arctic forest, focusing on searching for native arctic animals. This tour, operated by Lapland Welcome Oy, combines physical activity, wildlife spotting, and spectacular views from Katka Fell, all guided by knowledgeable experts. It is designed for travelers seeking an active, outdoor adventure with a chance to see wild reindeer, snowy owls, and the Pisavaara strict nature reservation nearby. With a duration of approximately 5 hours 30 minutes, including hotel pickup, this tour suits those ready for a challenging physical experience in a beautiful, remote setting. The small group size—limited to 15 participants—ensures personalized guidance, making it ideal for nature lovers who appreciate expert storytelling and scenic vistas.

While the tour has a fixed non-refundable policy, the inclusion of lunch, coffee, and adventure gear makes it a practical choice for travelers eager to explore Lapland’s wilderness in winter. The tour departs at 10:00 am from Lapland Welcome in Rovaniemi, offering a comprehensive journey into the heart of Finland’s Arctic nature.

Key Points

• Guided snowshoeing through the Lapland forest with expert knowledge on Arctic wildlife
• Search for arctic animals such as reindeer and snowy owls, with a high likelihood of sightings
• Climb to the summit of Katka Fell for breathtaking Arctic views from a viewing tower
• Includes all adventure gear, transportation, lunch, coffee, and snacks, simplifying planning
• Visit the Pisavaara strict nature reservation, one of Europe’s most protected wild areas
• Tour duration of about 5.5 hours with hotel pickup and drop-off in Rovaniemi

Starting Point and Transportation Logistics in Rovaniemi

This tour begins at Lapland Welcome, located at Rovakatu 26, with the activity starting promptly at 10:00 am. Hotel pickup and drop-off from all major hotels in Rovaniemi are included, making the logistics smooth and convenient. The transportation takes you directly to the forested areas and Katka Fell—the highlight of the experience—eliminating any need for self-driving or additional planning.

The group size is kept to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience. This small-group approach allows guides to share their expertise more freely, offering insights into the local flora, fauna, and natural history during the snowshoe trek.

Snowshoeing Through the Arctic Forest with Expert Guides

The core activity involves snowshoeing through Lapland’s snow-covered forests, guided by professionals who know the terrain intimately. You can expect to traverse beautifully preserved wilderness areas, with the guide selecting the best paths for wildlife sightings and scenic views. The snowshoeing is described as challenging, so participants should be prepared for physical activity in cold conditions.

Throughout the trek, the guide provides commentary on the local Arctic animals, their behaviors, and their habitats. The tour’s success in spotting wild reindeer—which almost always appear—is a notable highlight, along with occasional sightings of snowy owls. The outdoor setting provides a genuine wilderness experience, away from crowded tourist spots.

Reaching the Summit of Katka Fell for Arctic Views

A significant part of this tour is reaching the summit of Katka Fell, where a viewing tower offers exceptionally beautiful Arctic vistas. This vantage point allows visitors to appreciate the vast, snow-draped landscape stretching into the horizon. The ascent to the summit is part of the snowshoeing journey, adding a rewarding element of physical challenge and scenic reward.

From this height, the views encompass a pristine winter landscape, with the Pisavaara strict nature reservation nearby, emphasizing the tour’s focus on protected natural environments. This spot makes for memorable photographs and a profound appreciation of Lapland’s wilderness.

Wildlife Encounters and the Likelihood of Reindeer Sightings

A standout feature of this tour is the almost guaranteed sighting of a pack of wild reindeer. The guide’s familiarity with the area and animal behaviors increases the chances of close encounters. Reindeer are an iconic Arctic species, and observing them in their natural habitat adds a meaningful dimension to the experience.

Along With reindeer, the possibility of seeing snowy owls enriches the wildlife aspect of the tour. These sightings are often memorable, leaving participants with a deeper understanding of Arctic fauna and their adaptive ways of life.

All-Inclusive Adventure Gear, Snacks, and Warm Beverages

The tour provides all necessary adventure gear, including snowshoes and safety equipment, so participants do not need to worry about rental logistics. Snacks, coffee, and tea are included, offering comfort and energy during breaks. The inclusion of lunch ensures that visitors stay fueled, considering the physically demanding nature of snowshoeing in cold weather.

The liability insurance held by the organizer adds reassurance, and the mobile ticket format simplifies access. The tour’s comprehensive inclusion of amenities makes it a convenient and enjoyable outdoor activity, especially for those unfamiliar with winter gear or Arctic conditions.

Visiting the Pisavaara Strict Nature Reservation

Near the summit of Katka Fell, the Pisavaara strict nature reservation is located. Recognized as one of the most strictly protected natural areas in Europe, it highlights the pristine, untouched quality of the environment explored during the tour. Visitors gain insight into European conservation efforts and the importance of preserving fragile ecosystems in the Arctic.

This proximity enriches the experience, providing context about regional biodiversity and the strict regulations in place to safeguard this unique wilderness.

Practical Details: Booking, Timing, and Suitability

The tour is most often booked around 53 days in advance, indicating high demand and popularity. It starts at 10:00 am and lasts roughly 5 hours 30 minutes, including transportation and breaks. The physical challenge level is marked as challenging, making it suitable for travelers with good mobility and stamina.

Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour includes options for special dietary needs such as vegan, vegetarian, kosher, halal, gluten-free, and lactose-free meals. Travelers should note that private tours are available at an additional cost, offering a more tailored experience.

Why Choose This Arctic Wildlife Snowshoe Tour?

This tour stands out for its focus on wildlife viewing combined with scenic snowshoeing in one of Europe’s most protected Arctic environments. The expert guide enhances the experience with storytelling and knowledge about local species, making wildlife sightings more meaningful.

The spectacular views from Katka Fell are a highlight, offering a panoramic perspective of Lapland’s wilderness. The all-inclusive package, including lunch and warm beverages, makes it a practical choice for anyone prepared for a physically demanding outdoor activity.

However, the challenging physical level requires suitable fitness and outdoor experience. Also, since the tour is non-refundable, participants should confirm their plans carefully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult and are generally welcome, but the challenging nature of the activity may require careful consideration of children’s stamina and outdoor readiness.

What should I bring for this snowshoeing adventure?
Participants should wear warm, layered clothing suitable for Arctic weather. The tour provides all adventure gear, but bringing extra insulated clothing or gloves is advisable for comfort during breaks.

Can I see Arctic animals like reindeer and owls on this tour?
Yes, the tour almost always catches sight of a pack of wild reindeer and offers chances to see snowy owls in their natural habitat, thanks to the knowledgeable guides.

Is the tour customizable or private?
Private tours are available for an additional price, providing options for a more personalized experience or specific language guides.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, adventure gear, guidance, snacks, lunch, coffee/tea, and liability insurance. The tour begins at Lapland Welcome and ends back at the same meeting point.

This snowshoeing adventure in Rovaniemi combines active exploration with wildlife discovery and breathtaking Arctic views. It offers a unique way to experience Lapland’s wilderness while enjoying the comforts of well-organized logistics and included amenities.