Riding Tour with Finnhorses at Santa Claus Village

Imagine trotting through snow-dusted forests or vibrant autumn foliage on a calm, friendly Finnish Finnhorse. For about an hour, you’ll be guided by knowledgeable staff at Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Finland, in a relaxed, slow-paced horseback riding tour that’s accessible even if you’ve never ridden before. Priced at roughly $125 per person, this tour offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s natural beauty — all in a setting that’s both welcoming and authentic.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines gentle riding with the chance to connect with Finnhorses, a breed celebrated for their reliability and friendly nature. Plus, the post-ride treat of warm drinks, gingerbread cookies, and marshmallows around a campfire adds a cozy finishing touch. On the flip side, a potential downside could be the weather dependency, as the tour’s charm is partly rooted in the snow or seasonal scenery, and poor weather may lead to cancellations.

This tour is best suited for families, beginners, or anyone seeking a peaceful outdoor activity that’s both scenic and safe. Since it’s designed for participants over age 7 and under 120 kg (265 pounds), it’s accessible for most. If you enjoy the idea of gentle outdoor adventures with a focus on nature and animals, this could easily become a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

Gentle, slow-paced riding ideal for beginners and families
Beautiful seasonal scenery — snow-covered trees or autumn foliage
Authentic interaction with calm, friendly Finnhorses
Post-ride warming by the fire with cookies and drinks
Safety first with comprehensive instructions and gear provided
Limited group size (max 5 travelers) for a personalized experience

Planning more time in Rovaniemi? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

A Closer Look at the Riding Tour Experience

Where and When

This tour begins at Aurora Horses, Joulumaantie, Rovaniemi, and the activity ends back at the same point. The experience runs year-round, adapting the scenery to the season: winter’s snow, autumn’s leaves, or spring’s blossoming. The timing is flexible, but most travelers book around 36 days in advance, indicating it’s a popular choice.

What to Expect During the Tour

Your day starts with a concise safety briefing, where guides explain basic riding principles and introduce the horses. This is particularly helpful for newcomers, as the calm demeanor of the Finnhorses helps ease any first-time jitters.

Following safety instructions, you’ll mount your horse, and the ride lasts approximately 30-40 minutes depending on weather conditions, trail terrain, and group pace. The riding is intentionally slow, making it suitable for those with little or no riding experience. The guides set the pace based on the least experienced rider, ensuring everyone feels comfortable.

The route usually takes you through Lapland’s natural landscapes: in winter, snow-covered trees arch overhead, while in autumn, the forest bursts with color. During the spring and summer, you might see lush greenery or even the first migratory birds. The sound of snow crunching beneath hooves or leaves rustling in the breeze adds to the sensory richness.

Post-Ride Comforts

After the ride, everyone gathers around a fire in a cozy hut, where warm drinks like tea or coffee are served alongside gingerbread cookies and marshmallows. Many reviews mention this as a lovely way to unwind, chat about the experience, and absorb the peaceful surroundings. One guest enthusiastically shared, “Riding a finnhorse through the snow is an incredible experience in itself, and the kindness of the instructor just adds to it.”

While you're exploring Rovaniemi, here are other experiences we've looked into

The Horses and Guides

The Finnhorses are celebrated for their calm, friendly nature. Several reviews highlight how relaxed and adorable these horses are, making them perfect partners for leisurely rides. The guides, including Anna and others, are praised for their supportive attitude, safety focus, and local knowledge. They make the experience supportive and personal, which leaves many guests feeling well cared for.

What You Need to Bring

To fully enjoy the ride, you’ll need warm clothes suitable for riding—think layers, gloves, and sturdy shoes. Helmets are provided and mandatory—a safety feature that riders appreciate. Weather can vary, so packing appropriately is key, especially in winter when temperatures can be quite cold.

Cost and Value

At roughly $125 per person, this tour offers good value for an hour of authentic outdoor fun. It’s a chance to enjoy the spectacular scenery of Lapland in a relaxed setting, with the added bonus of post-ride treats. Compared to other winter activities in Santa Claus Village, horseback riding provides a unique, slower-paced experience that emphasizes nature and animal companionship.

What the Reviews Say

The majority of reviews are glowing. One guest, Aayza_K, loved it so much she booked a second ride, describing “breathtaking views” and “calm, adorable horses”. Jenny_D appreciated the friendly staff and support, mentioning that even in very cold weather, the forest remained beautiful. Meanwhile, HuseyinYavuz_Y noted that the horses were “very smooth” and the staff “knowledgeable”, making the experience enjoyable for all.

A particularly touching review from Katja_K described the ride as “incredible”, emphasizing the gentle connection with the horses and the safety provided by the instructor. On the other hand, a less positive review in a different language pointed out that sometime snow conditions made the ride less engaging, reminding us that weather can influence the experience.

Additional Details: Booking, Cancellation, and Accessibility

You’ll need to book about a month in advance due to popularity. The activity is offered with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility if weather or plans change. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with groups limited to five participants, ensuring a relaxed, personalized atmosphere.

While the activity is near public transportation, it’s best to confirm how you’ll get to Joulumaantie, especially in winter. Since the tour isn’t strenuous, most people over 7 years old and under 120 kg (265 pounds) can participate comfortably.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for a peaceful outdoor experience that offers a genuine connection with Lapland’s terrain and Finnhorses, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for beginners, families, or anyone wanting a slow-paced, scenic ride with a friendly guide. The post-ride warm drink and cookies bring a warm, local touch to the adventure, making it a memorable way to end your ride.

Keep in mind, the experience’s magic hinges on good weather and the scenic season, so it’s worth planning for a clear day or be prepared for the winter chill. If you’re seeking a relaxing, authentic activity in Santa Claus Village that blends nature, animals, and gentle adventure, this horseback riding tour will likely be a wonderful highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is prior riding experience necessary?
No, this tour is designed for all skill levels, including complete beginners. The ride is slow and guided, focused on enjoyment and scenery.

What should I wear?
Bring warm clothes suitable for riding, including gloves and sturdy shoes. Helmets are provided and required for safety.

How long does the ride last?
The riding itself lasts about 30-40 minutes, depending on conditions. The entire experience, including safety briefing and post-ride refreshments, lasts roughly an hour.

Can children join?
Yes, children over 7 years old can participate, provided they meet weight restrictions under 120 kg (265 pounds).

What season is best for this tour?
All seasons have their charm—winter features snow-covered forests, autumn offers vivid foliage, spring and summer showcase greenery and bird songs.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the riding helmet, helmet cap, and a post-ride hot drink and cookies. You’ll need to bring your own warm riding clothes.

What if the weather is bad?
Bad weather may lead to cancellation for safety reasons. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if that occurs.

In the end, this horseback riding experience at Santa Claus Village offers a peaceful, scenic, and authentic taste of Lapland’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a first-timer or simply love spending time outdoors with animals, it’s a gentle adventure worth considering.