Lapland Reindeer Safari From Saariselkä

This Lapland Reindeer Safari from Saariselkä offers a charming glimpse into traditional Sami life with a 2-hour adventure that combines reindeer sleigh rides, farm visits, and cultural stories. Priced at $188.55 per person, this tour is ideal for families and those looking for a peaceful, authentic experience in the snowy Finnish wilderness. The tour departs from Saariselkä and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a convenient choice amid winter activities.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its focus on reindeer herding tradition, with guided insights from knowledgeable Sami herders. While it lasts roughly 2 hours, the experience packs in a sleigh ride through snowy forests, a visit to a reindeer farm, and a cozy storytelling session, making it a well-rounded cultural outing. The inclusion of warm thermal clothing and a reindeer driving license adds value and practicality for participants.

However, lunch is not included, and the group size is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience. Based on high praise from past participants, the tour consistently earns a 4.7/5 rating, with many emphasizing its friendly guides, stunning scenery, and engaging stories. This tour suits those interested in Sami culture, nature, and family-friendly activities in a relaxed setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Sami culture and reindeer herding experiences in Saariselkä
• 2-hour tour featuring reindeer sleigh rides, farm visits, and storytelling
• Includes warm thermal clothing, hot drinks, and a reindeer driving license
• Hotel pickup and drop-off make the trip easy to access
• Group size limited to 15 for a more personalized experience
• No lunch included, so plan accordingly

Experience a Traditional Sami Reindeer Farm Near Saariselkä

This tour starts with pickup from your accommodation or the central meeting point at Saariselkä Ski & Sport Resort. The journey heads towards Urho Kekkonen National Park, where the reindeer farm is set in the wooded fells. The farm is a family-owned Sami operation, and the visit offers a close look at reindeer care and herding practices.

Once at the farm, reindeer herders introduce visitors to their animals, sharing stories about their care routines and cultural significance. The farm’s well-cared-for reindeer impress with their gentle nature, and the setting provides a quintessential winter landscape for photos. Past guests highlight that the staff are friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable, making the visit both informative and warm.

The farm visit concludes with a ride on a reindeer sleigh. The sleigh glides through frozen forests and plains, with bells jingling and a tranquil ambiance. The guide encourages participants to try driving the reindeer, offering tips and guidance. This hands-on element is often praised for its fun and authenticity.

The Reindeer Sleigh Ride Through Snowy Forests

The main highlight of the tour is the hour-long reindeer sleigh ride. As the sled moves across the snow-covered landscape, you get to observe the winter scenery in a quiet, almost meditative state. Travelers often mention how magical and peaceful this part of the experience feels, especially when surrounded by snow-laden trees.

The sleigh ride is not overly strenuous, making it suitable for most ages and physical abilities. The sound of reindeer bells enhances the feeling of being transported into a winter fairy tale. The guide helps make the experience engaging by sharing stories and insights about reindeer habits and Sami traditions.

Participants have the chance to feed the reindeer after the ride, adding a touch of interaction. The beautiful scenery and serene silence of the forest stand out as memorable moments, according to reviews. The overall pacing of the ride allows for a relaxed, unhurried experience.

Inside the Sami Herders Cottage or ‘Kota’ Tent

After the sleigh ride, visitors step into a cozy Sami ‘kota’ or herders’ cottage. Inside, the warmth and friendly atmosphere make for a perfect setting to listen to stories about reindeer herding. The guide or herder shares interesting insights into Sami culture and lifestyle.

Guests are treated to hot drinks, such as tea or coffee, served in the warm interior, creating a comfortable environment to chat and relax. The storytelling session is often highlighted as informative and engaging, especially for those curious about Sami traditions and reindeer care practices.

As a souvenir, participants receive a reindeer driver license, which adds a fun, tangible memory of the experience. Many reviews mention the authenticity and warmth of this part of the tour, making it a meaningful cultural highlight.

Practical Details: Logistics and What’s Included

The tour begins at 12:00 pm with hotel pickup offered within Saariselkä. The group size is capped at 15 travelers, helping ensure a more personal experience. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so adequate winter clothing is essential—though thermal clothing is provided.

Included in the price are guide services, thermal clothing, reindeer safari, hot drinks, and the reindeer driving license. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, providing a compact yet comprehensive cultural experience.

Additional costs include lunch, which is not part of the package, so travelers should plan to eat before or after the tour. The tour is well-organized, with timely pickup and drop-off, according to positive feedback.

The Experience in Context: High Praise and Unique Features

Guests consistently comment on the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, with some guides sharing personal stories and Sami insights. The reindeer care standards are also highly appreciated, with many affirming that the animals look well cared for.

The sleigh ride, especially when combined with the farm visit and storytelling, offers a genuine insight into Sami culture. The small group size and personalized service contribute to a relaxed and engaging atmosphere. Past reviews also highlight the peaceful scenery and magical ambiance, particularly during the winter months.

While some note a desire for more time with the reindeer or closer contact, overall, the balance of activities makes this tour a meaningful introduction to Lapland’s traditions.

Best Suited For

This tour is perfect for families and individuals seeking an authentic Sami experience in a relaxed setting. It caters well to those interested in cultural stories, nature, and gentle outdoor activities. The moderate physical demand and small group size make it accessible to most travelers, including children aged 4 and above.

It’s a great choice for a half-day activity, especially if you want to combine cultural insight with scenic, peaceful moments in the Finnish winter. Since lunch is not included, travelers can plan their meals separately, making the tour flexible for different schedules.

Lapland Reindeer Safari from Saariselkä: Final Thoughts

The Lapland Reindeer Safari provides a rich, authentic glimpse into Sami culture with a beautifully paced 2-hour experience. The reindeer sleigh ride, farm visit, and storytelling combine to create a warm, memorable outing suited for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to connect with nature and traditions.

While the lack of included lunch might be a minor inconvenience, the overall value, friendly guides, and stunning scenery make this tour a worthwhile addition to any winter itinerary in Saariselkä. With consistently high reviews, it’s clear this experience leaves many visitors with lasting memories of Lapland’s peaceful beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off within Saariselkä for added convenience.

How long does the reindeer sleigh ride last?
The sleigh ride itself lasts about 1 hour as part of the 2-hour total tour.

What should I wear for the tour?
Thermal clothing is included, but it’s advisable to wear warm winter layers and appropriate footwear for outdoor snow activities.

Can children participate in the sleigh ride?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most ages, including children from 4 years old, according to reviews.

Is food included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. Participants can enjoy hot drinks and a storytelling session at the cottage or ‘kota’.

What are the group size limits?
The tour limits group size to 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

What is the cost of the tour?
The price is $188.55 per person.

What safety measures are in place?
Participants are provided with thermal clothing and guidance from experienced herders, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience in winter conditions.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is recommended.

How do I get my reindeer driving license?
The license is given as a souvenir at the end of the tour, after the sleigh ride and storytelling session.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for your plans.

This Lapland Reindeer Safari from Saariselkä stands out as a highly-rated, culturally rich outdoor experience, perfect for those wanting to see Lapland through Sami traditions and enjoy peaceful winter scenery with a touch of adventure.