Rovaniemi: Reindeer Farm, Berry Picking, and Fire-Making

If you’re looking to step away from the usual tourist spots and truly connect with Lapland’s natural charm, this guided tour from Rovaniemi offers a wonderful taste of authentic Arctic life. For $199 per person, you’ll spend around three hours exploring the wilderness—visiting a reindeer farm, gathering wild berries, and learning ancient fire-making techniques. The tour is led by a friendly guide, and includes transportation, making it an easy and immersive way to experience the region’s quiet beauty.

Two things we especially appreciate about this experience: first, the opportunity to walk among reindeer, which is both peaceful and educational. Second, learning how to make fire naturally is a skill that connects you with Lapland’s indigenous traditions, adding a meaningful layer to your trip. A potential consideration is that the tour’s pickup is limited to within 10 km of Rovaniemi’s center, so if you’re staying farther out, extra transport fees apply.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love nature, enjoy hands-on activities, and want a genuine taste of Lapland’s rural lifestyle. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find it accessible and enriching.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit a private reindeer farm, feed reindeer, and learn about herding traditions.
• Nature Connection: Berry picking in the wild, including blueberries, lingonberries, and cloudberries.
• Skill Building: Learn to make fire using natural materials—an ancient skill that ties you to local traditions.
• Relaxing Atmosphere: Enjoy a cozy campfire with grilled sausages and warm drinks after your outdoor activities.
• All-Inclusive: Transportation, reindeer farm visit, berry picking, fire-making, and food are included.
• Suitable for All Ages: The tour is stroller-friendly and designed to be accessible for everyone.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Lapland’s Wilderness: A Detailed Look

Starting Out: Convenient Pickup and Transportation

Your adventure begins with a pick-up from your accommodation in Rovaniemi, simplifying logistics. If you’re staying within 10 km of the city center, the transport is included in the $199 fee, which makes this a straightforward option for most travelers. Those staying further out can still join, but with an additional fee of around $2 per kilometer, payable directly to your guide.

The journey takes you to Porovaara’s private area, where the real outdoor fun begins. The vehicle ride itself offers a glimpse of Lapland’s tranquil scenery, setting the tone for a peaceful day in nature.

Visiting the Reindeer Farm: Gentle Arctic Animals and Herder Insights

Once at the reindeer farm, you’ll step into a quiet, natural setting where reindeer wander freely within their enclosures. Walking among these gentle Arctic animals, you’ll have the chance to feed them—a surprisingly calming activity that underscores their docile nature.

Your guide, likely a local with deep knowledge of reindeer herding, will explain how reindeer are vital to Lapland’s culture and economy. We loved the way the guide explained herding traditions, offering insights into reindeer management that few travelers get to see. It’s a chance to understand the importance of these animals beyond just tourism, recognizing their role in Sami culture and everyday life.

Wild Berry Picking: Taste of Lapland’s Natural Bounty

Next, you’ll head into the surrounding forests for berry picking—a seasonal activity that’s both fun and flavorful. Depending on the time of year, you might gather blueberries, lingonberries, or cloudberries. The experience is more than just gathering; it’s about forest therapy, a calming activity that allows you to slow down and appreciate the pristine Lapland landscape.

Reviews mention how “picking berries in the wild felt like a real connection to nature” and that the freshness of the berries makes for a memorable tasting experience. Plus, learning about the different berries and their uses adds an educational touch to the outing.

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Fire-Making: An Ancient Skill in a Modern World

Perhaps the most unique element of this tour is learning how to make fire using natural materials—a skill that’s been part of human history for thousands of years. Your guide will demonstrate techniques, and you’ll get a chance to try it yourself. It’s a hands-on activity that combines patience and resourcefulness, making it both practical and symbolic.

This part of the tour has received warm reviews, with participants noting how “making fire felt empowering” and how it connected them with Lapland’s indigenous traditions. Afterward, you’ll relax around the campfire, where grilled sausages and a warm drink await—perfect for sharing stories and taking in the peaceful surroundings.

Wrap-up: Relaxation and Reflection

The final moments of the tour are spent enjoying the campfire, with the sounds of the forest around you and the warmth from the fire in your hands. It offers a nice balance between activity and relaxation, allowing you to absorb the day’s experiences fully. Then, you’ll be transported back to your accommodation, tired but enriched.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Unlike many tourist-oriented activities, this experience emphasizes authenticity and connection. It’s not just about sightseeing but engaging with Lapland’s natural environment and cultural traditions. The small group size (implied by the personalized nature of the experience) fosters a more intimate atmosphere, where questions are encouraged, and you can truly soak in the surroundings.

On top of that, the all-inclusive nature—including transportation, food, and activities—offers excellent value for the price. The $199 fee covers a lot of meaningful experiences, making it a cost-effective way to spend a half-day exploring Lapland.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the pickup limitation—if your accommodation is outside the 10 km radius, extra fees apply. Also, since the tour lasts about three hours, it’s a relatively short glimpse into Lapland’s wilderness, but enough to leave a memorable impression.

Who Would Love It?

This tour suits nature lovers, families, and adventurers eager to learn traditional skills. It’s ideal if you want an authentic, hands-on experience rather than just taking photos from a distance. Perfect for those visiting Rovaniemi who prefer a small-group, relaxed outdoor activity that connects them with the environment and local culture.

Final Thoughts

This Rovaniemi tour offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s natural and cultural riches—reindeer, berries, and fire, all wrapped in a cozy, manageable package. It’s a wonderful way to slow down, breathe in the fresh Arctic air, and learn skills that tie you to centuries of local tradition. Whether you’re traveling with family or seeking a meaningful escape, it’s an experience that balances fun, education, and tranquility.

You’ll come away with stories of feeding reindeer, gathering berries, and making fire—experiences that make your Arctic adventure truly memorable. The combination of scenic outdoor activity, cultural insight, and simple pleasures make this tour a solid choice for anyone hoping for an authentic Lapland moment.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, transportation to and from Porovaara’s private area is included within 10 km of Rovaniemi city center. For locations further out, an extra fee applies.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, including transport time, activities, and relaxation.

Can I join if I don’t have much outdoor experience? Absolutely. The activities are suitable for all ages and abilities; just wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes.

Is it suitable for children? Yes, the tour is stroller-friendly and designed to be accessible for all ages, making it family-friendly.

What should I bring? Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and clothing suitable for the weather. Layers are recommended, especially for sitting around the campfire.

What is included in the price? The fee covers transportation, the reindeer farm visit, berry picking, fire-making instruction, and a campfire with grilled sausages and a warm drink.

Are drinks and food included? Yes, you get a warm drink and grilled sausages at the campfire.

Can I book and pay later? Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this activity available in languages other than English? The tour is conducted in English and Finnish.

What if I want to join with a group larger than two people? The minimum is two paying guests, but there’s no specified maximum—check with the provider for larger groups.

This tour blends adventure, culture, and serenity—a true highlight for anyone wanting an authentic slice of Lapland. It’s ideal for those who crave genuine experiences, are curious about Sami traditions, or simply want to enjoy the calm of the forest in a meaningful way.

You can check availability for your dates here: