Rovaniemi: Apukka Reindeer Journey

If you’re heading to Lapland and want to connect with the region’s iconic reindeer culture, the Apukka Reindeer Journey offers a charming two-hour adventure just outside Rovaniemi. For $203 per person, you’ll be transported into a winter wonderland, riding a reindeer sleigh through snow-covered forests, learning about Lappish traditions, and soaking in serene Arctic landscapes.

What we love about this experience is how gently it introduces you to reindeer husbandry—it’s not just a ride, but an educational journey led by knowledgeable guides. Plus, the chance to enjoy a hot drink while listening to stories around a campfire is a warming touch that makes this outing both cozy and authentic. The only thing to consider is that the group size can vary, and some reviews mention that riding multiple sleighs tied together can feel a little more like a carnival than a solitary forest trek. Still, if you’re after a peaceful, family-friendly Lapland experience, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This tour is perfect for travelers eager to learn about and interact with reindeer, those who appreciate scenic winter landscapes, and families wanting a memorable Arctic adventure. If you’re looking for a gentle, well-organized activity that combines cultural insight with stunning views, this might just be your top choice in Rovaniemi.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic Reindeer Experience: Learn about reindeer husbandry directly from guides while enjoying a peaceful sleigh ride.
Scenic Winter Landscape: Traverse 2-3 km of snow-laden forests, lakes, and wilderness—perfect for photography and tranquility.
Inclusive Clothing & Comfort: Thermal overall, boots, socks, mittens, and a balaclava are provided, making the cold manageable.
Educational & Entertaining Guides: Guides share stories and insights, enhancing your understanding of Sami culture and reindeer life.
Family Friendly: Suitable for children and adults, with a relaxed pace and plenty of opportunities to feed and pet reindeer.
Value & Convenience: Transfers included from Rovaniemi or Santa Claus Village make logistics easier, and flexible booking options add peace of mind.

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

The Experience in Detail

Getting There & What’s Included

The Apukka Reindeer Journey begins with convenient pick-up points either in Rovaniemi city center or at Santa Claus Village. The tour lasts about two hours, which includes transportation, the sleigh ride, storytelling, and hot drinks. The transfers ensure you don’t need to worry about logistics, especially in the winter chill.

Once at the Apukka Resort, you’ll be fitted with warm, thoughtfully prepared winter clothing—thermal overalls, boots, wool socks, mittens, and a balaclava. This gear is crucial since the Arctic winter can be intense, and staying warm is key to fully enjoying the outing.

The Reindeer Sled Ride

The core of the experience is a 2-3 km reindeer sleigh ride through Finnish forests. The sleds are pulled by beautiful, healthy reindeer, and you’ll get to sit comfortably as the guide steers and shares stories about reindeer husbandry. The ride’s pace is gentle, allowing you to take in the silence of the woods—a quiet that’s rarely found elsewhere in the world.

Several reviews praise the length of the ride. Darya mentions it’s “long enough to enjoy,” and Mihaela highlights that “the ride is about 45 minutes,” which is notably longer than many similar tours. This gives you a real taste of the landscape and a feeling of being truly immersed in the snowy wilderness.

More Great Tours Nearby

Learning About Lappish Traditions

Throughout the journey, the guides—often named in reviews—share stories and insights into Sami culture, reindeer herding practices, and the relationship between locals and their animals. This education adds depth, transforming a simple ride into a meaningful cultural exchange.

One reviewer, Marissa, notes how guides are knowledgeable and friendly, sharing details about the animals and the traditions behind reindeer herding. Another appreciated the chance to feed the reindeer, which brings a warm, interactive element to the tour.

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

The Cozy Finish

After the ride, you’ll be invited to sit around a campfire and enjoy a hot drink—a welcome treat after being outdoors in the cold. This moment of warmth, combined with storytelling, fosters a sense of connection both to the land and the Sami way of life.

Group Size & Atmosphere

Some reviews express a preference for smaller groups or private tours, noting that tying multiple sleighs together can feel more like a guided amusement ride rather than a serene forest trek. However, most travelers agree that the guides’ professionalism and the beauty of the surroundings compensate for this minor drawback.

The Value of the Tour

At $203, this experience offers a well-rounded mix of cultural insight, scenic pleasure, and family-friendly fun. The inclusion of warm clothing, transfers, and a hot drink makes it easy to see the value—especially considering how much more memorable and authentic it feels compared to simply watching reindeer from a distance.

The length of the ride—around 45 minutes to an hour—also stands out. Many similar tours are shorter, making this a good choice if you’re seeking a substantial experience rather than a quick snapshot.

In terms of reviews, many mention that the guides make a difference—being friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive adds warmth to the cold day. For those traveling with children, the interactive element of feeding reindeer and listening to stories is a big plus.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity suits travelers who want a relaxing, educational experience immersed in Lapland’s natural beauty. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to connect with reindeer culture while enjoying scenic winter landscapes. If you’re looking for an activity that balances authenticity, comfort, and gentle adventure, this tour is a dependable choice.

However, if you’re after a more vigorous snowmobile ride or a more private experience, you might find this tour a little soft—though that’s part of its charm. The group setting and the shared sleighs might not satisfy those seeking complete solitude, but they do foster a sense of community and shared wonder.

The Sum Up

The Rovaniemi Apukka Reindeer Journey offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s unique culture and landscape. With its well-organized logistics, friendly guides, and scenic tranquility, it stands out as a memorable introduction to reindeer husbandry and Arctic scenery. The inclusive gear and warm drinks make it accessible even in the coldest weather, and the roughly 45-minute ride provides a satisfying immersion into the snowy forest.

Most travelers find that the combination of education, gentle adventure, and cultural stories makes for a meaningful experience—especially when shared with family or friends. It’s a tour that’s more than just a fun ride; it’s an authentic encounter with the wild, wintery heart of Lapland that will leave you with stories and photos to cherish.

If you value learning about local traditions, enjoy peaceful natural scenery, and want an activity that’s relaxed yet memorable, this reindeer journey is hard to beat.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transfers from Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village are included, making it easy to join the tour without extra hassle.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing is provided, including thermal overalls, boots, socks, mittens, and a balaclava. However, it’s wise to wear additional layers underneath for maximum comfort.

How long is the sleigh ride?
The ride itself spans approximately 2-3 km, lasting about 45 minutes, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery and interact with the reindeer.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, especially since the pace is gentle and kids can feed the reindeer and listen to stories. Some reviews highlight happy children and memorable moments.

What if the weather is very cold?
The provided thermal clothing is designed to keep you warm, but be prepared for the cold with good boots and socks. The hot drink afterward is a warming bonus.

Are the reindeer well cared for?
Based on reviews, the reindeer are healthy and well cared for, and guides share insights that highlight their importance in local culture.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts

The Apukka Reindeer Journey in Rovaniemi offers a genuine, scenic, and educational Arctic experience. It’s perfect for those seeking a peaceful connection with nature and local culture amid Lapland’s snow-covered forests. With friendly guides, authentic traditions, and a cozy finish, this tour provides a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s special way of life.

Whether you’re traveling with family, alone, or as part of a couple, this activity promises a gentle, memorable adventure that captures the quiet magic of Lapland winter. For anyone wanting to understand the significance of reindeer in Sami culture while enjoying spectacular winter vistas, this is a worthwhile addition to your Arctic itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: