Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, isn’t just about Christmas cheer—it’s a fantastic place for ATV and quad bike adventures that showcase the raw beauty of Lapland. With its snow-blanketed forests, shimmering lakes, and northern skies, Rovaniemi offers terrain that’s perfect for both seasoned riders and curious beginners. Whether you’re chasing the elusive Northern Lights or want to experience the midnight sun, there’s a tour that matches your sense of adventure. We particularly love the Northern Lights Quad Bike Tour for its magical combination of outdoor thrill and celestial spectacle, and the Wilderness Safari for exploring Lapland’s untamed landscape.
If you’re after a more immersive experience, some tours blend ATV riding with visits to reindeer and husky farms, offering a taste of local culture along with adrenaline. Others focus on unique natural phenomena like the midnight sun, providing golden hour rides with panoramic views. Whatever your preference, these tours promise an unforgettable way to see the Arctic scenery up close and personal.
Quick Overview
In this list, we cover 11 top ATV & quad bike tours in Rovaniemi, each with its own special appeal:
– Some focus on Northern Lights hunting with night rides.
– Others emphasize winter exploration through snow-covered forests and frozen lakes.
– Many combine ATV rides with local culture, like reindeer and husky farm visits.
– Several tours are designed for daylight adventures during the midnight sun, with golden hour rides creating perfect photo moments.
– Prices vary from around $112 to $294, and durations range from 3 to 6 hours, catering to both quick escapes and full-day excursions.
Now, let’s explore each tour in detail to help you pick the perfect adventure.
1. Rovaniemi: Northern Lights Quad Bike Tour
At number one, the Northern Lights Quad Bike Tour offers an unforgettable Arctic experience. Over approximately 3 hours, you’ll ride a quad bike across the Lappish landscape while searching for the dancing auroras overhead. This tour is perfect for those who want the thrill of off-road riding combined with the magic of the northern night sky. The guide’s expertise is a highlight—helping you with photography, ensuring safety, and sharing local stories. After your ride, you’ll enjoy a traditional grilled salmon by the campfire, making it a well-rounded excursion.
Guests rave about the friendly guides and highlight how the Northern Lights made this tour a dream come true. The fact that it operates in the Arctic Circle adds to its appeal, giving you a chance to see one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena in a truly wild setting. The combination of adventure, culture, and natural beauty makes this tour a top choice.
Bottom Line: Best for those eager to combine nighttime aurora hunting with the thrill of quad biking and a cozy meal in the wilderness.
2. Winter Quad Bike Ride in the Arctic Circle from Rovaniemi
Number two on our list is the Winter Quad Bike Ride, which offers a 3-hour adventure exploring snowy Lapland just outside Rovaniemi. This tour includes thermal wear and protective gear, making it accessible even if you’re new to ATV riding. You’ll learn the basics quickly and then follow your guide through scenic forests, spotting local wildlife and enjoying magnificent winter views.
A highlight is the stop for hot blueberry juice and gingerbread, a perfect way to warm up and enjoy the peaceful silence of the Arctic environment. The small group size and expert guidance make this a safe, fun, and authentic Arctic experience. Guests especially appreciate the convenience of hotel pickup and the beautiful scenery along scenic overlooks.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a comfortable, scenic, winter ride with cultural insights and a focus on nature.
3. Rovaniemi: Quad Bike Ride and Ice Fishing
This combo tour, Quad Bike Ride and Ice Fishing, is perfect for those wanting a full day of adventure and tranquility. Over about 6 hours, you’ll ride an ATV through panoramic wilderness views and then learn how to ice fish in frozen lakes. The tour includes panoramic views of Lapland, with the chance to see the wilderness from a unique perspective.
The grilled salmon at lunch, praised as “the best I’ve ever eaten,” caps off this experience. The guide’s storytelling and photography skills receive praise, making this tour a favorite for travelers who want a deep dive into nature combined with local cuisine. The longer duration allows ample time to soak in the serenity and beauty of Lapland.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a longer, varied day of outdoor activities with a focus on traditional food and scenery.
4. Midnight Sun ATV Ride During the Golden Hour from Rovaniemi
In summer, the Midnight Sun ATV Ride offers a 4-hour excursion during the “white nights” when the sun barely sets. Riding an ATV from a hilltop, you’ll enjoy golden hour views and the warm glow illuminating the Arctic landscape. This tour is great if you want to experience 24-hour daylight while exploring Lapland’s forests and lakes.
The tour provides full instruction for beginners, making it accessible for first-timers. Round-trip transfers simplify logistics, and the photos taken during the ride are stunning. Guests mention that the gorgeous scenery and relaxed pace make this a memorable summer experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for summer travelers eager to experience the midnight sun from a scenic vantage point.
5. Rovaniemi: Quad Bike Safari, Reindeer & Husky Farm Visit
This tour combines ATV riding with visits to reindeer and husky farms, offering a hands-on cultural experience. Over 4.5 hours, you’ll get up close with adorable reindeers and huskies, then hop on an ATV to explore the Lappish wilderness. The opportunity to see local animals and learn about Sami traditions** makes this a well-rounded adventure.
Guests praise the friendly guides and mention how the sleigh rides (including summer sleighs) add extra charm. The tour’s value shines through the included farm visits and ATV ride, making it a comprehensive introduction to Lapland’s nature and culture.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a blend of outdoor adventure and culture.
6. Rovaniemi: Delightful Quad Bike Ride in the Arctic Circle
Number six on our list is the Delightful Quad Bike Ride, a 3-hour excursion perfect for sunny days. You’ll ride through Arctic Circle Forests and lakes, experiencing panoramic views of Rovaniemi’s surrounding countryside.
The guide shares local history and insights, enriching your understanding of the landscape. This tour is especially suited for those looking to combine scenic rides with some cultural context in a shorter timeframe, making it a good choice for a quick outdoor escape.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a short, scenic ride with educational commentary.
7. ATV Quad Bike Experience
The ATV Quad Bike Experience offers a short trial perfect for beginners or those wanting a quick taste of ATV riding. After a safety briefing, you’ll head into the pine forests, possibly spotting reindeer and other wildlife. The effective driving time is about an hour, making it ideal for travelers with limited time.
Guests enjoy the wild forest atmosphere and the chance to listen to the peaceful silence of Lapland. The tour’s focus on learning driving techniques makes it accessible for first-timers and children as passengers.
Bottom Line: Best for first-time riders or those looking for a quick, nature-focused ATV experience.
8. Rovaniemi: Midnight Sun, ATV Ride During the Golden Hour
Number eight is another summer favorite, Midnight Sun ATV Ride During the Golden Hour. It offers a 4-hour adventure with hotel pickup and drop-off from Rovaniemi. You’ll climb to high points to capture spectacular photos and enjoy the warm glow of the midnight sun.
The guide, Christ, is praised for his extensive knowledge and attentiveness. This tour combines scenic riding with the convenience of a guided experience, making it suitable for travelers wanting a relaxed yet scenic outing during the days when the sun never fully sets.
Bottom Line: Perfect for summer visitors wanting a comfortable, scenic ride with professional guidance.
9. ATV Safari on Ice and Snow
This Ice and Snow ATV Safari takes you on a 20 km journey across frozen lakes, ponds, and forests. Over roughly 6 hours, you’ll pass reindeer herding sites and nature reserves, with good chances to see wild animals. The safari includes a barbeque lunch cooked over the fire, adding a tasty touch to the adventure.
Guests mention that even on -27°C days, the experience remains enjoyable thanks to the warm clothing and attentive guides. The chance to reach remote nature spots by ATV makes this tour stand out.
Bottom Line: Best for adventurers who want a full-day, winter-based safari with a hearty lunch.
10. Quad Bike Safari in the Wilderness (ATV)
Number ten, the Wilderness ATV Safari, offers a 6-hour ride through Lapland’s remote landscapes. Covering 20 km, you’ll explore lakes, rivers, and forests that are off-limits to most vehicles. The tour includes a light barbecue lunch and uses high-quality ATVs like Polaris and Can Am.
The guide’s knowledge about the wilderness enhances the trip, and the wilderness setting is perfect for those wanting to escape crowds and see Lapland’s natural beauty firsthand. It’s a more intense experience suited to adventure-minded travelers.
Bottom Line: Great for longer, in-depth exploration of Lapland’s wilderness on rugged terrain.
11. Rovaniemi: Quad Bike Wilderness Safari
Finally, the Quad Bike Wilderness Safari is a 4-hour journey through lakes, forests, and rock formations. This ride focuses on untamed nature, allowing you to experience Lapland’s ecological and cultural heritage. The tour features Polaris, Arctic Cat, and Can Am vehicles designed for rough terrain.
Guests love how the tour captures Lapland’s rugged beauty in an accessible way, with a good balance between adventure and scenery. It’s suitable for those wanting a more secluded, nature-focused ride.
Bottom Line: Ideal for nature lovers seeking a robust, in-depth ATV adventure.
$260 per person
How to Choose the Right ATV & Quad Bike Tour in Rovaniemi
When selecting your tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. For a romantic night under the Northern Lights, the Northern Lights Quad Bike Tour is hard to beat. If you’re after longer and more intense wilderness exploration, the Wilderness Safari offers a deeper dive into remote landscapes. For summer visits, the Golden Hour ATV Ride provides stunning views with a relaxed pace.
Budget-wise, tours range from about $112 to $294, with shorter rides typically costing less. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot. Think about whether you want a cultural experience with farm visits, or a pure adventure ride—each tour offers a distinct flavor.
Final Thoughts
Rovaniemi’s ATV and quad bike tours offer a versatile way to experience Lapland’s spectacular natural scenery. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, exploring snowy forests, or enjoying summer daylight, there’s a ride suited for your style. For those seeking an intensive wilderness experience, the Quad Bike Safari in the Wilderness stands out for its remote landscapes. If you prefer a more relaxed, scenic ride, the Midnight Sun ATV Ride provides stunning views with comfort.
Bottom line: don’t wait too long to book—these tours fill up quickly during peak seasons. Whichever adventure you choose, your ATV journey in Rovaniemi will surely be a highlight of your Arctic trip.