Simo: Horseback Riding Tour

A horseback riding adventure in Lapland, Finland offers a unique way to explore the stunning forests and fields of Simo. This 1-hour tour from Arctic Nature Trips Ltd Oy provides a flexible experience, whether you are a beginner, an experienced rider, or have special needs. Riders can enjoy the chance to see the Northern Lights during winter evening rides or the midnight sun in summer, making this a captivating experience year-round.

The tour departs from a horse farm located at Viantienjoentie 138, Simo, with clear directions provided. The meeting point features a red cottage and red stables, and the precise coordinates are 65.7864, 24.9720. Expect a well-organized setup that includes winter wear, safety gear, and rain clothing if needed, ensuring comfort and safety during the ride.

While the tour is relatively short, its personalized nature and the stunning Finnish landscape make it a worthwhile activity. Its suitability for beginners, children, and disabled riders is a strong advantage, with a pony available for children under 50 kg and under 12 years old. The flexible timing, with options for daylight, evening, or midnight sun rides, allows for a tailored experience depending on the season.

Key Points

• Duration: 1 hour, with options for longer rides for experienced riders.
• Location: Simo, Finland, starting at Viantienjoentie 138.
• Seasonal Highlights: Northern Lights viewing in winter evenings and midnight sun rides in June and July.
• Accessibility: Suitable for beginners, children, and disabled riders; pony available for kids under 12.
• Included gear: Winter wear, safety gear, rain clothing provided.
• Meeting point: Marked by a red cottage and red stables; use Google Maps for exact directions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Simo: Horseback Riding Tour Begins at a Finnish Horse Farm

The tour kicks off at a horse farm in Simo, just a short drive from Kemi-Tornio or Haaparanta. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Rovaniemi in winter and about 2.5 hours during the colder months. The location is easy to find by following signs with a horse picture and Eräratsut signage. The precise coordinates help ensure smooth arrival, and the red cottage structure makes the starting point recognizable.

The farm setting allows for a cozy yet professional atmosphere, where safety and comfort are prioritized from the start. The guides are well-versed and ready to assist riders of all skill levels, making it a safe environment for those trying horseback riding for the first time.

Choosing the Right Horse for Your Skill Level

One of the tour’s key features is the ability to select a horse suitable for your experience level. Beginners and children are led for safety, while experienced riders can choose to trot, gallop, or canter behind the guide if they can control their horse. The pony option, available for children under 50 kg, makes this activity accessible for younger or lighter riders.

This flexibility means both novices and seasoned riders can enjoy the Finnish landscape comfortably and confidently. The safety gear and guidance ensure a smooth experience, especially for those new to horseback riding.

What to Expect During the 1-Hour Ride

The 1-hour ride provides ample time to explore the forests and fields of Simo. The tour covers forest trails and open fields, offering scenic views that showcase Lapland’s natural beauty. During winter, snow-lighted landscapes add a magical touch, with the potential to see the Northern Lights during evening rides.

The tour can be extended for those with more experience, offering options for longer rides. Beginner riders, children, and disabled riders are led at all times, with experienced riders having the freedom to trot, gallop, or canter if comfortable. The guided experience ensures everyone stays safe and enjoys the landscape.

Winter Rides and Northern Lights Sightings

In winter, the evening rides are especially captivating. The snowy scenery provides natural light, and the chance to see the Northern Lights adds an extraordinary element to the experience. The tour is scheduled to maximize visibility during the winter months, with the aurora borealis often visible during dark winter nights.

The winter gear provided helps riders stay warm despite the cold, making the experience comfortable and enjoyable. Riders should remember to dress warmly and bring rain gear if needed, since the weather can be unpredictable.

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Summer Rides and the Midnight Sun Experience

During the midnight sun season in June and July, the tour becomes a night ride under the natural glow of continuous daylight. These rides offer a completely different perspective of Lapland’s landscape, with lush greenery and warm evening light. The midnight sun rides allow riders to experience the area in a more relaxed, peaceful setting.

The long daylight hours provide an excellent opportunity for a longer ride or multiple rides, adding flexibility and variety to the experience. The same safety standards and guidance apply, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey regardless of the season.

Practical Details: Meeting, Transportation, and Group Size

The tour departs from a private group setting, ensuring a more personalized experience. The meeting point is easy to find using Google Maps, and precise instructions are shared to help visitors locate the farm without difficulty. Since the location is close to Oulu, Kemi-Tornio, and Haaparanta, it’s accessible for travelers staying in those areas.

Travelers should plan to drive slowly and carefully during winter, as the roads may be slippery. The tour provider recommends reserve and pay later, offering flexibility in planning. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before departure.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

This horseback riding experience is suitable for a range of physical abilities. It is not suitable for children under 6 years, or for individuals over 264 lbs (120 kg) or 95 years of age. The pony option makes it accessible for children under 12. The guides work to make the activity safe and enjoyable for beginners and disabled riders, with safety gear provided.

Riders should bring warm clothing, rain gear, and winter sports gear as appropriate for the season. The experience is designed to be inclusive, ensuring everyone can participate comfortably.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

The combination of seasonal options, from Northern Lights in winter to midnight sun in summer, makes this horseback riding tour particularly versatile. The personalized group setting and horse selection process add to its appeal, ensuring riders of all skill levels feel comfortable. Its proximity to several key Finnish locations makes it an attractive option for travelers exploring Lapland.

The tour’s short duration is perfect for those wanting a taste of horseback riding without committing to a longer excursion, yet the flexibility for longer rides is available for more experienced riders.

Simo: Horseback Riding Tour – Unique Finnish Wilderness Experience

This tour offers a balanced mix of adventure and accessibility in a scenic setting. The 1-hour ride provides enough time to enjoy the Finnish forests and fields, especially with the seasonal highlights like the Northern Lights or the midnight sun. The safety measures and gear provided give confidence to riders new to horses or those with physical limitations.

While the tour is relatively short, its personalized approach and seasonal magic make it a rewarding activity for families, couples, or individuals looking to connect with nature on horseback. Its easy logistics and flexible scheduling support a stress-free experience in Lapland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this horseback riding tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, beginners are welcome. They are led for safety, and the guide provides assistance throughout the ride.

Can children participate in this tour?
Yes, children under 12 and under 50 kg have the option to ride a pony. It is suitable for children over 6 years old.

What should I wear for the ride?
Participants should bring warm clothing, rain gear, and winter sports gear if needed. The tour provides winter wear and safety gear.

Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, the tour operates in both winter and summer, with seasonal highlights such as Northern Lights and midnight sun.

Are longer rides available?
Yes, while the 1-hour ride is recommended for beginners, longer rides are available for more experienced riders.

How do I find the meeting point?
Use Google Maps to locate the horse farm at Viantienjoentie 138, Simo, marked by a red cottage and red stables. Coordinates are 65.7864, 24.9720.

What is the maximum weight limit for participants?
Participants should not exceed 264 lbs (120 kg).

Can disabled riders join this experience?
Yes, the tour is suitable for disabled riders, with safety gear and guided support provided.

How do I cancel my booking?
Cancellation is free if made up to 24 hours before the scheduled ride.

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