Kemi-Tornio: Reindeer farm experience

Kemi-Tornio: Reindeer Farm Experience — A Genuine Taste of Lapland’s Wilderness

If you’re heading to Finland’s Lapland region, especially near Kemi and Tornio, a reindeer farm experience is one of those authentic adventures that truly captures the spirit of the Arctic North. For about two hours, you’ll get up close and personal with reindeer, learn traditional herding techniques, and enjoy a scenic reindeer sleigh ride—all bundled with warm drinks and local snacks. The tour is operated by Sea Lapland Safaris, and prices are reasonable considering the rich, hands-on nature of the experience.

What we love most is how intimate and genuine this encounter feels. First, the chance to feed and pet the reindeer is delightful—these gentle creatures are surprisingly calm and curious. Second, the reindeer sleigh ride offers a quiet, scenic glide through snowy landscapes that feels like stepping into a Christmas card.

One thing to consider: the tour lasts just two hours, so if you’re after a longer, more immersive Arctic adventure, this might feel a bit brief. Still, for a quick, meaningful taste of Lapland’s reindeer culture, it hits the mark. This experience suits travelers who want a family-friendly, authentic activity that blends nature, tradition, and a touch of adventure—perfect for those wanting to see a real reindeer farm without committing to a full-day tour.

Key Points

• Authentic Reindeer Encounter: Get to pet, feed, and learn about these Arctic animals directly from a herder.
• Traditional Sleigh Ride: Enjoy a 1.5 km scenic ride through snowy landscapes, with the fun of earning a reindeer-driving license.
• Warm Hospitality: Relax inside a cozy Lappish hut with hot drinks and pastries after your activities.
• Inclusive Clothing: Warm winter gear, including overall, shoes, wool socks, and gloves, is provided, making it easy to focus on the experience.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 15 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reserve now with pay later options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Genuine Look at the Reindeer Farm Experience

A visit to the Kemi-Tornio reindeer farm is much more than a tourist snapshot—it’s a step into local Sami traditions and Arctic life. The experience begins at the safari house in Kemi, where you’ll be greeted by your guide, typically someone friendly who knows their reindeer stories well. Here, you’ll dress in warm, waterproof clothing—a thoughtful touch, especially considering the cold Finnish winter.

Once dressed, you’ll hop into a minivan for a short ride to the farm. This transfer itself sets the tone; the snowy landscape whizzing past adds to the anticipation. When you arrive, the herder will introduce you to their reindeer herd, which includes some well-behaved, gentle animals eager for treats.

Feeding the reindeer is surprisingly satisfying. The reindeer moss they give you is their favorite snack, and watching their curious faces up close is a highlight. Several reviews mention how tame and friendly the reindeer are, making it an engaging activity for all ages. One visitor noted, “It was a real joy to pet and feed the reindeer, and the guide’s explanations made it feel like a family affair.”

A key part of the tour is learning how to throw the Suopunki, a traditional lasso used to catch reindeer. The herder patiently demonstrates, and you get a chance to try your hand, which adds a fun, interactive element. It’s not about perfect accuracy but about connecting with a Sami tradition that’s been practiced for generations.

The reindeer sleigh ride follows, covering about 1.5 km through the white, peaceful wilderness. The gentle clatter of reindeer hooves and the crisp winter air make for a serene experience. You’ll also receive an International Reindeer Driving License, a quirky souvenir that amusingly confirms your “reindeer handling” skills—talk about a memorable keepsake.

After your ride, it’s time to relax inside a Lappish hut, where hot drinks and pastries await. The cozy atmosphere is perfect for warming up and chatting about the morning’s adventures. Many guests appreciate this touch of hospitality, feeling it completes the authentic Arctic experience.

Throughout the tour, the small group size enhances the feeling of intimacy and allows for plenty of questions. The guide’s insights add depth to the visit, explaining the Sami way of life and the importance of reindeer herding in Lapland. The cost of around two hours is a fair exchange for such a genuine, hands-on experience, especially considering all gear and snacks are included.

Why This Tour Works Well

This experience is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a manageable, authentic introduction to reindeer culture. It’s also very accessible, thanks to the included warm clothing and the short duration, making it suitable for those with limited time or physical limitations. The relaxed pace and small groups mean you won’t feel rushed, and the friendly guide ensures you’ll leave with a good understanding of reindeer husbandry.

However, if you’re looking for an extended wilderness adventure or an overnight Sami experience, this tour might seem a bit light. It’s designed to be a charming, beginner-level encounter—perfect as a highlight or a quick culture.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In a nutshell, the Kemi-Tornio Reindeer Farm Experience offers a wonderful slice of Arctic life. For those curious about Sami traditions, animal encounters, or simply seeking a picturesque, family-friendly activity, it delivers on all counts.

The value lies in the combination of animal interaction, cultural education, and scenic beauty, all wrapped up in a manageable two-hour package. The fact that warm clothing, snacks, and a memorable sleigh ride are included makes it a practical choice for travelers wanting to maximize their time with minimal hassle.

If you’re visiting Lapland and want to see reindeer in their natural environment, this tour provides an engaging, authentic snapshot. It’s especially good for first-timers, families with children, or anyone eager to experience the quiet magic of the Arctic outdoors in a friendly setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the reindeer farm experience suitable for children?
Yes. The activity is family-friendly, and children love petting the reindeer and trying the reindeer sleigh ride.

Do I need to bring my own warm clothes?
No, warm overall, shoes, wool socks, and gloves are provided, so you only need to dress appropriately underneath if desired.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour conducted in English?
Yes, the tour is led by guides speaking English and Finnish.

How long is the reindeer sleigh ride?
The sleigh ride is approximately 1.5 km, offering a peaceful glide through the snowy landscape.

Is the tour limited in size?
Yes, it’s limited to 15 participants, ensuring a personal experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is Sea Lapland Safaris’ safari house in Kemi, and the tour ends back at the same location.

What’s included in the price?
Warm winter clothing, reindeer farm visit, reindeer sleigh ride, and hot drinks and snacks.

Can I book now and pay later?
Yes, reservations can be made with the option to pay later, offering flexibility.

Will I learn about Sami culture during this tour?
While the focus is on the reindeer and the activity, the guide will share some insights into reindeer herding traditions.

This reindeer farm experience in Lapland gives you an authentic, family-friendly taste of Arctic life—without overloading your schedule. It’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking a genuine, fun, and educational activity that’s easy to fit into your Finnish adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: