Levi Reindeer Safari – Long or Quick – with Sledge Ride
Rating: 3.5/5
Review Count: 21
Location: Levi, Finland
Price: $112.23 per person
Supplier: Easy Travel
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
A Quick Glance at the Experience
If you’re visiting Levi in winter and craving an authentic taste of Lapland, this reindeer safari offers a charming peek into Lappish culture and nature. For about two hours, you’ll be nestled in snowy forests, riding a reindeer-drawn sled that’s driven by a guide — meaning you can relax and enjoy the scenery without the physical effort. Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, plus a warm hot drink, making the whole outing convenient and cozy.
Two aspects immediately stand out. First, the personalized attention in small groups (max 15) ensures you’re not just a number — your experience feels intimate. Second, the scenic setting is genuinely breathtaking: imagine snow-laden trees, quiet forests, and the shimmering ice of a frozen lake. That’s what makes this tour special.
However, some travelers mention that the ride duration can feel a bit short or less engaging depending on weather conditions and your expectations. And if you’re after a longer or more vigorous adventure, you might find the short 1-kilometer ride less satisfying. This tour is best suited for those who cherish authentic cultural encounters and beautiful winter landscapes over adrenaline-pumping rides.
Key Points
- Authentic Reindeer Experience: Visit a traditional farm and learn about reindeer husbandry from local guides.
- Scenic Snowy Landscapes: Expect stunning views of forests, lakes, and winter scenery typical of Lapland.
- Small Group Comfort: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring more personalized interaction.
- Included Amenities: Hotel transfers and a hot drink help make the outing comfortable.
- Short Ride, Sweet Experience: The sled ride is about 1 km, which some find too brief but others find perfect for a quick taste of reindeer sledding.
- Weather Dependence: Warm weather can affect reindeer behavior and the length of the ride.
Planning more time in Levi? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
A Complete Review: What You Can Expect from the Tour
The Itinerary Breakdown
Start at Levi: The tour begins with a reindeer farm visit. Here, you’ll get a glimpse into traditional reindeer husbandry — learning how these animals are raised, cared for, and integrated into Sami culture. Some reviews mention that the farm has been owned by the same family for decades, adding a layer of authenticity to your visit. You’ll get to feed the reindeer, which is both charming and a good photo opportunity.
The Reindeer Safari: Next, you’ll hop into a sled pulled by a reindeer. The sled ride lasts around 1 kilometer — enough to give you a sense of how Sami people historically traveled through these snow-blanketed forests. The ride is driven by your guide, such as Mikko or Jari in some reviews, who keep the pace steady and provide commentary along the way. The ride’s duration can feel short, but the peaceful environment makes it a memorable experience. As one visitor put it, “The sleigh only takes 2 people and there’s only one reindeer pulling, which I thought was a tad cruel,” reflecting some travelers’ concerns about reindeer welfare.
Feeding and Warmth: After your ride, you’ll have a chance to warm up around a fire and feed the reindeer. It’s a relaxed, authentic interaction that many reviews describe as delightful — especially for children or animal lovers. The hot drink included adds a cozy touch, perfect after being out in the snow.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
The Scenic Setting: Many reviews highlight just how breathtaking the landscape is. Wael_M called it “out of this world, like a fairytale,” which sums up Levi’s winter scenery perfectly. Expect snow-covered trees, frozen lakes, and vast, silent forests — scenery that naturally elevates your experience.
Personalized Attention: With a maximum of 15 travelers, guides can share personalized stories about reindeer and Sami culture. Several reviews praise the guides for sharing their passion — “The tour guide shared his passion with the reindeer and nature,” and “He was very nice and took care of us,” are common sentiments.
Value for Money: For $112.23, you get hotel transfers, an authentic farm visit, a sled ride, and a warm drink. Some might find the short ride less satisfying, but many say that the authenticity, scenic beauty, and cultural insight make it worthwhile.
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
One of the more frequent critiques concerns the short length of the sled ride. At around 1 km, it can feel a bit brief, especially for those expecting a longer or more vigorous ride. Several reviewers suggest that a 3 km or longer ride might be more fulfilling if you’re seeking more adventure.
Weather also plays a role. If the temperature is above -5°C, reindeer may be less willing to pull the sled, and the experience might feel different. Some guests noted that the reindeer were less active, which could affect the overall feel of the ride.
Another point to consider: animal welfare. While every effort is made to train and care for the reindeer, some travelers expressed concern about the short duration and the reindeer’s treatment. Guides confirm that reindeer prefer cold weather and may not perform as well in warmer conditions.
Finally, timing and availability are worth noting. The tour is most popular when booked about a month in advance and is only fully operational with snow. Until mid-November, only the farm visit is possible.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This safari resonates best with animal lovers, families, and those seeking an authentic cultural experience. It’s especially suitable if you want to learn about traditional Sami practices and enjoy scenic winter landscapes without the need for high-speed or adrenaline-pumping rides.
If you’re a traveler who appreciates small-group experiences and personal interaction, this tour offers that intimacy. However, if you’re after a longer or more intense ride, or have specific expectations about reindeer welfare, you might want to explore other options in Levi.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
In brief, the Levi Reindeer Safari is a charming introduction to Lapland’s winter wonderland. Its scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and personalized approach make it a worthwhile experience — especially for first-timers or those seeking a family-friendly activity.
While the short ride may disappoint some thrill-seekers, the overall atmosphere, the chance to feed reindeer, and the tranquil snow-covered landscape provide a genuine connection to the Arctic environment. The inclusion of hotel transfers and hot drinks adds value and comfort, making this tour accessible and cozy.
If you’re dreaming of a peaceful, scenic, and culturally meaningful outing, this safari will likely meet your expectations. Just be sure to dress warmly, manage expectations about ride length, and embrace the quiet beauty of Levi’s winter scenery.
FAQs
What is included in the tour?
Hotel pickup and drop-off, guide service, the reindeer safari (if not just farm visit), and a hot drink are included.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours, including farm visit, sled ride, and feeding.
Is the sled ride long enough?
The sled ride is about 1 kilometer, which some travelers find a bit short. Longer rides are available if you book additional kilometers.
Can children participate?
Yes, children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Dress warmly and prepare for cold weather.
What happens if the weather is warm?
Warm temperatures (above -5°C) might reduce reindeer activity and could shorten or alter the experience.
Is this a good experience for animal lovers?
Absolutely. Many reviews praise guides for sharing their passion and the chance to feed reindeer.
Are there any animal welfare concerns?
Some reviews express concern over the short ride and reindeer treatment, but guides emphasize that reindeer prefer cold weather and are treated well.
What should I wear?
Dress in warm, layered clothing suitable for snow and cold temperatures.
When is the best time to book this tour?
Typically, travelers book about 36 days in advance. The tour operates best when there’s enough snow for the sled ride.
In essence, this Levi Reindeer Safari offers an authentic, scenic, and culturally rich experience. If you’re in Levi seeking a peaceful glimpse into Sami traditions and nature, it’s a solid choice — especially if you temper expectations about ride length and animal handling. For many, the magic of snow, reindeer, and quiet forests makes this a memorable part of a Lapland trip.