Saariselkä: Reindeer Farm Experience with Snack and Drinks

Key Points

• Engaging reindeer encounter just 4 km from Saariselkä, including feeding and petting friendly Lapland reindeer
• Includes cozy outdoor experience with grilled sausages and hot drinks in the Aurora Hut
• Guided tour in English or Finnish lasts approximately 45 minutes with transportation provided
• Shared experience, suitable for those open to group activities and outdoor conditions
• Clear cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance

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Meeting Point and Transportation in Saariselkä

The tour departs from K-Market Saariselkä inside the Kuukkeli Shopping Center, located at coordinates 68.41989135742188, 27.4095458984375. Guests are advised to arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time for check-in.

Transportation is provided via a 7-minute transfer in a van from the meeting point to the reindeer farm. After the experience, the transfer takes you back to the same location. The convenience of this arrangement means no need to worry about parking or navigation in Arctic conditions.

Location and Layout of the Reindeer Farm in Laanila

The reindeer enclosure is located 4 km from Saariselkä, at the Kuukkeli Aurora Resort in Laanila. This area offers a peaceful setting surrounded by Arctic nature, making it an ideal backdrop for a traditional reindeer encounter.

The farm features a large group of friendly reindeer that are used to human interaction. Visitors have the chance to observe these animals up close, learn about their role in Lapland’s culture, and participate in feeding them lichen by hand. The farm environment emphasizes ethical treatment of the animals, which is appreciated by visitors.

The Reindeer Encounter: Feeding, Petting, and Education

The core of this experience is a 45-minute guided tour where guests meet, feed, and pet the reindeer. The guides are knowledgeable about reindeer and their significance in Lapland, offering insights into their traditional uses and cultural importance.

Participants are encouraged to feed the reindeer lichen directly from their hand, fostering a personal connection with these Arctic animals. The gentle reindeer are accustomed to human interaction, making the experience suitable even for families or those new to outdoor wildlife encounters.

The Aurora Hut: Warmth and Local Flavors

Following the reindeer visit, guests gather in the Aurora Hut, a cozy wooden shelter designed for up to 20 people. The hut provides a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for relaxing after time outdoors.

Inside, visitors enjoy grilled sausages cooked over the fire, paired with warm drinks such as tea, coffee, or hot berry juice. The fireplace adds to the ambiance, creating a relaxed setting to unwind and share stories in the Arctic evening. The shelter’s design emphasizes comfort and the chance to savor local flavors in a genuine Lapland setting.

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Aurora Hunting and Arctic Serenity Post-Visit

While the primary focus is on the reindeer farm, the experience also offers potential for aurora viewing if weather conditions permit. The remote Laanila location and clear night skies are ideal for catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights, adding an extra element of magic to the evening.

After the visit, guests are transferred back to Saariselkä, leaving with memories of both close encounters with reindeer and the peaceful Arctic environment. The calmness of the surroundings enhances the overall sense of Arctic serenity, making this tour a quiet, authentic experience.

Practicalities: Duration, Clothing, and Booking

This 1-hour tour includes transportation, the guided reindeer encounter, and time in the Aurora Hut. It operates with live guides speaking English and Finnish, ensuring clear communication throughout.

Guests are advised to bring warm outdoor clothing and a camera to capture the moment. Since the experience is shared, it is suitable for those comfortable with group activities and outdoor conditions.

Booking is flexible, with options to reserve now and pay later. Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind for spontaneous plans.

The Experience’s Strengths and Limitations

A notable strength of this tour is the chance to get hands-on with friendly reindeer in a setting that emphasizes ethical treatment. The inclusion of fire-side sausages and warm drinks adds a cozy, authentic touch, making it more than just an animal encounter.

However, the overall duration of 1 hour and the group sharing nature mean it might feel brief for some visitors. Reviews highlight that the experience is simple and relaxed, perfect for those seeking an introduction to Lapland’s reindeer culture.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour

This experience suits visitors interested in Lapland’s cultural traditions, wildlife, and outdoor activities. It’s especially appealing to families or individuals seeking a short, meaningful Arctic encounter.

It works well for those who value ethical treatment of animals and enjoy relaxing around a fire with local flavors. Since it’s a shared activity, it’s best for travelers comfortable with small group settings and outdoor weather conditions.

Final Thoughts on the Reindeer Farm Experience

The Saariselkä Reindeer Farm Experience offers a warm, authentic connection with Lapland’s most iconic animals. The combination of reindeer interaction, local sausages, and hot drinks in a cozy hut creates a memorable Arctic moment.

While the experience lasts only about an hour and is shared among guests, it provides a genuine insight into reindeer culture and traditional Finnish hospitality. For those looking for a short, well-organized outdoor activity in Lapland that emphasizes ethical interaction and relaxation, this tour is a solid choice.

Travelers should consider the brief duration and outdoor nature of the experience, but overall, it offers a charming and low-pressure way to enjoy Lapland’s wildlife. It’s especially suited for visitors wanting an accessible, family-friendly Arctic adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided to the reindeer farm?
Yes, transportation in a van is included, with a 7-minute transfer from K-Market Saariselkä to the farm and back.

What should I bring for this tour?
Guests should bring warm outdoor clothing and a camera to capture moments with the reindeer.

How long does the reindeer encounter last?
The guided tour lasts approximately 45 minutes within the total 1-hour experience.

Can I cancel this activity?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the gentle nature of the reindeer and outdoor setting make it suitable for families and children.

What language are guides speaking?
Guides are available in English and Finnish.

Does the experience include aurora viewing?
Aurora viewing is possible if weather conditions permit, but it is not guaranteed as part of the experience.

Is the experience private or shared?
This is a public experience, so guests will share facilities with other participants.

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