Rovaniemi: Arctic Circle Family-Friendly Snowmobile Tour

Rovaniemi: Arctic Circle Family-Friendly Snowmobile Tour
Location: Lapland, Finland
Price: $283 per person
Duration: About 3.5 hours (check availability for exact times)
Supplier: NordicUnique Travels

Quick Overview
This snowmobile tour offers a fantastic mix of adventure and authentic Arctic charm, perfect for families visiting Rovaniemi. For around three and a half hours, you and your children can enjoy a snowy ride through the scenic forests of Lapland, just a stone’s throw from Santa Claus Village. What sets this experience apart is the opportunity for children to drive their own mini snowmobiles, supervised closely by guides, allowing for a fun, safe, and immersive experience in the Arctic wilderness.

Two things we really like about this tour are how well it balances adrenaline with comfort—kids are kept safe but still get the thrill of driving—and the warm, traditional Lappish BBQ that offers a cozy break from the winter outdoors. Plus, the guides are attentive and friendly, making the whole adventure feel personal rather than just a generic tour.

A potential consideration is that the tour requires pre-arranged pickup within 10 km of Rovaniemi; if you’re staying outside that zone, you’ll need to organize transport separately. Also, the tour has some minimum participant requirements, which might mean you need to coordinate your plans with others if traveling solo or in smaller groups.

This experience works best for families who are comfortable with outdoor winter activities and want a combination of excitement and culture. Kids with a sense of adventure will find this a highlight, especially since it includes driving, forest scenery, and a traditional Finnish barbecue.

Key Points

• Family-Friendly: Kids get their own mini snowmobiles while parents can enjoy a full-sized ride.
• Authentic Arctic Experience: Snow-covered forests, guided tours, and a cozy campfire BBQ.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Includes winter clothes, transportation, guides, and a hearty Lappish meal.
• Flexible Payment: Reserve now, pay later—great for planning trips with uncertain dates.
• Limited Availability: Requires a minimum number of participants for certain days, so book early.
• Suitable for most kids over 3 years, with some restrictions for very young children and mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Adventure in Rovaniemi: What to Expect from the Snowmobile Tour

This tour begins with convenient hotel pickups within 10 km of Rovaniemi’s center, making it effortless to start your Arctic day. Once you’re picked up, you’ll be fitted with all necessary winter gear—overalls, boots, gloves, helmets, and balaclavas, ensuring you stay warm and safe even as temperatures plummet.

The main event is the snowmobile ride, which lasts about an hour. You’ll have the opportunity to drive a full-sized snowmobile through the snowy trails with your guide leading the way. If you’re traveling with children, younger kids will sit in a sled pulled behind the snowmobile, as the guides ensure safety and comfort for all.

Children’s snowmobiles are a major highlight—kids get to drive their own mini snowmobiles under supervision, which often becomes a memorable part of the day. For kids taller than 150 cm, they can sit on the adult snowmobile, paying the adult price; younger or shorter children will be comfortably seated in the sled, which the guide will pull through the pristine forest trails.

The forests surrounding Santa Claus Village transform into a winter wonderland, with snow-laden trees, crisp air, and the occasional glimpse of local wildlife if you’re lucky. Our guides are experienced and friendly, often sharing stories about Lapland’s nature and culture, making the ride both fun and educational.

Authentic Lappish Campfire and Cuisine

After the exhilarating ride, the group gathers around a bonfire to warm up and enjoy some traditional Finnish barbecue. Here, you’ll grill pork sausages (makkara) — a Finnish staple — and toast marshmallows for a sweet treat. The guides typically light the fire themselves or teach you how to do it, adding a hands-on element to the experience.

While the kids are busy with marshmallows, everyone is served hot blueberry juice, a comforting drink that captures the essence of Finnish winter traditions. Vegetarian and vegan options are available upon request, making the meal accessible for different dietary preferences.

This break isn’t just about calories; it’s a chance to share stories and relax amid the snowy landscape, giving parents and kids a wholesome Finnish experience beyond just the rides.

Practical Details That Matter

The tour’s price of $283 per person reflects a comprehensive package: gear, transportation, guidance, the snowmobile ride, and the BBQ. When you consider the inclusivity—winter clothing, guide service in multiple languages, and the authentic experience—it offers good value for a family adventure in Lapland.

Guides speak English primarily, but other languages like German, French, Italian, Spanish, and Chinese can be requested, making it accessible for international travelers. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility issues, which is important to keep in mind.

To participate, you need a driver’s license if you plan to drive a snowmobile, and children must meet certain height requirements to sit on the snowmobile versus in a sled.

Booking is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later—a nice feature if your plans are still uncertain. Just remember to confirm pickup times and details after booking, as they vary with the season.

How the Tour Fits Into Your Rovaniemi Trip

This snowmobile tour is perfect for families looking to blend adventure with cultural authenticity. It suits those who want a memorable outdoor activity that’s safe for children while still offering the thrill of driving in the snow. The experience of exploring Lapland’s snowy forests and sharing a traditional meal makes it more than just a ride—it’s a chance to feel connected to the Arctic environment.

While it’s pricier than some other activities, the all-inclusive nature and chance for children to drive their own mini snowmobiles make it a compelling value on a family holiday. Plus, the stunning forest scenery and the chance to toast marshmallows over an open fire are what truly make this experience special.

This tour is particularly well-suited for families wanting a fun, safe, and authentic Arctic adventure with a touch of Finnish tradition. It’s ideal if you’re eager for a mix of outdoor activity, culture, and quality time in the snow.

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The Sum Up

In short, the Rovaniemi Arctic Circle Family-Friendly Snowmobile Tour offers an engaging way to experience Lapland’s winter wonderland. It combines adventure, culture, and family-friendly fun, making it a solid choice for travelers with children. The opportunity for kids to drive their own snowmobiles makes it stand out, creating lifelong memories of their Arctic adventure.

The included BBQ and hot drinks add a cozy, communal feel that enhances the outdoor fun, while the guides’ friendly professionalism ensures a safe and enjoyable experience. The tour’s flexible booking and all-in-one package provide good value and peace of mind.

This experience is a great fit for families seeking a balanced mix of excitement and authentic Lapland charm. It’s a chance to see the snowy forest, enjoy a traditional meal, and create stories to tell long after you’ve left the Arctic behind.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for young children?
Yes, children over 3 years old can participate, especially if they are seated in the sled pulled by the guide. Kids taller than 150 cm can sit on the snowmobile with an adult.

What should I wear on the tour?
The tour includes winter clothes such as overalls, boots, gloves, helmets, and a balaclava. These are provided to keep you warm and dry during the snowmobile ride.

Can I drive the snowmobile if I don’t have a license?
You need a driver’s license to drive a snowmobile. Children will be supervised when driving their mini snowmobiles.

What is included in the price?
The package includes pickup and drop-off within 10 km of Rovaniemi, guides speaking multiple languages, winter gear, approximately 1 hour of snowmobile riding, and a traditional Lappish BBQ with pork sausage, marshmallows, and hot blueberry juice.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan BBQ options can be requested when booking.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s winter magic, perfectly suited for families eager to combine adventure and culture in the Arctic. Whether you’re looking for a thrill, a taste of traditional Finnish life, or simply a memorable outdoor activity, this snowmobile experience delivers on all fronts.

You can check availability for your dates here: