Rovaniemi: Reindeer, Huskies, Santa’s Pets & Aurora Hunt

Rovaniemi: Reindeer, Huskies, Santa’s Pets & Aurora Hunt offers a balanced blend of Arctic adventures, cultural encounters, and natural wonders. For around $271 per person, you’ll spend roughly 7 hours immersed in the snowy Lapland landscape, with stops at Santa Claus Village, reindeer and husky sleigh rides, and two prime Northern Lights viewing spots. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable local guides, this tour promises a comprehensive taste of the Arctic’s magic.

What we particularly appreciate is how this experience combines quintessential Lapland activities—such as feeding reindeers and riding huskies—with the thrill of searching for the Northern Lights. The fact that it’s a small group tour, limited to just 8 participants, helps ensure a more personal, relaxed experience, far from the crowded tourist spots. The price reflects the quality of transportation, guides, and inclusions like hot berry tea and chocolate, making it a good value for those looking to make the most of a single day.

One thing to keep in mind is that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so there’s no guarantee you’ll see them. Also, some rides, like the reindeer and husky sleighs, are relatively short—around 400-500 meters—but reviews suggest that length is typical across providers. If you’re after longer rides or more extensive activities, this might not be the best fit. Still, for those eager to sample multiple aspects of Arctic life in one day, this tour hits many highlights.

This experience suits travelers who want a well-rounded taste of Lapland’s outdoor life, especially families, first-time visitors, or those who appreciate guided comfort and local insights. If you’re curious about Sami culture, love animals, or hope to photograph the Northern Lights, this tour offers a solid, authentic option.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Combines Santa Village, reindeer and husky rides, and Aurora hunting for a full Arctic experience.
• Small group size: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Authentic activities: Feeding reindeer, short sleigh rides, and expert guidance optimize your chance to absorb Lapland culture.
• Flexible timing: Pickup times vary seasonally, and you can choose to spend free time at Santa Village.
• Northern Lights: Two different Aurora viewing locations increase your chances, though sightings depend on the weather.
• Value: Includes transportation, warm clothing rental suggestions, hot drinks, and multiple activities, making it a comprehensive day out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Arctic Day from Rovaniemi

Starting the Day: Santa Claus Village and Early Encounters

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup, either at 9:00 am during high season or 10:00 am in low season. Your guide, often highlighted in reviews for their friendliness and knowledge, will transport you in a comfortable, private vehicle—small groups mean fewer crowds and more personal service.

Once at Santa Claus Village, you’ll have time to explore, take photos of the Arctic Circle, and experience the festive atmosphere. According to reviews, this is one of the tour’s highlights, especially the chance to visit Santa himself and try on traditional Finnish Lappish costumes. Many visitors find the Santa Village a magical step into childhood wonder, especially when you get to feed reindeer, an activity praised for its authenticity and charm.

Reindeer and Husky Rides: Short but Sweet

After the Santa visit, the tour offers a 400-meter reindeer sleigh ride, and a 500-meter husky sled ride—both described by travelers as “short,” but the length seems standard across providers. Despite their brevity, reviews emphasize that the rides are high-quality, fun, and immersive. The reindeer ride, in particular, is a peaceful, scenic glide, perfect for photos and gentle contact with Arctic animals.

The husky ride is often noted as the “best part” by those who love dogs or outdoor adventure. Guides like Aurora (mentioned in reviews) make sure everyone is comfortable, even catering to elderly participants by adjusting the pace. Feeding the reindeer afterward is also a favorite for families, giving kids a chance to connect with the animals in a relaxed setting.

Afternoon: Free Time & Local Insights

By around 12:30 pm, the morning activities conclude, and you’re free to stay at Santa Village or be dropped off at your hotel. Many travelers appreciate the flexibility here, allowing them to explore at their own pace or relax before the evening Aurora hunt.

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Evening: Aurora Hunting in Remote Arctic Spots

The second part of the tour runs from about 8 pm to 11:30 pm, taking you to two different Aurora viewing spots—remote, dark lakeside areas surrounded by forest. These places are chosen for their minimal light pollution, increasing chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

Guides like Aurora enhance the experience with their knowledge of the phenomenon—explaining the science and sharing tips on how to photograph the lights using smartphones. As one reviewer put it, “Aurora really made the experience better,” especially when waiting in the cold for the dancing green lights. The guide also brings hot berry or fruit tea, helping you stay warm as you watch the skies.

While many reviews report no guarantee of seeing the Aurora—due to cloud cover or weather—the atmosphere is described as peaceful and magical, whether or not the lights appear. Even if cloudy, travelers mention enjoying the serenity of Finnish Lapland, the silence broken only by the crackling fire or distant calls of Arctic wildlife.

What’s Included & Practical Details

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in a small group, Fazer chocolates, and warm beverages. You’ll also get the chance to feed reindeer, ride sleds, and visit Santa Claus Village, making it a value-packed experience.

The small group setting ensures more personal interactions and better chances to ask questions, while the limited capacity often results in a more relaxed pace. Travelers mention guides like William, Aurora, and Allen for their friendliness and knowledge, which clearly enhances the overall experience.

Be sure to bring warm clothing and shoes, as you’ll be outside in sub-zero temperatures, especially during Aurora viewing. The tour suggests renting snowsuits if needed, which travelers say is reasonably priced and worth considering given the cold.

Potential Drawbacks

While many are thrilled, some reviews point out that the rides are relatively short, which might feel rushed if you’re expecting longer sleigh rides. Also, the chance to see the Northern Lights depends on weather—cloudy skies or overcast conditions can prevent sightings altogether. If Aurora hunting is your main goal, be prepared for the possibility of disappointment but also for the chance of a stunning display.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Travelers seeking a comprehensive, family-friendly Arctic experience will find this tour ideal. It’s especially suited for first-timers, those interested in Sami culture, and anyone wanting a well-organized, friendly guide to navigate the Lapland wilderness. If you’re after longer rides or a more secluded adventure, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This Rovaniemi tour offers a rich blend of activities packed into one day, with a focus on authentic Arctic encounters. The mix of Santa Claus, reindeer and husky rides, and Aurora hunting makes it an appealing choice for those who want a balanced overview of Lapland in a manageable, small-group setting.

The value lies not just in the activities but in the quality of guides, the scenic locations, and the chance to connect with Arctic wildlife and culture. While the rides are short, reviews suggest they are high-quality and memorable, especially when guided by someone as attentive as Aurora or William.

For travelers who want a hassle-free introduction to Lapland’s outdoor life and are happy with the natural variability of Aurora sightings, this tour provides a memorable, well-organized experience. It’s perfect if you’re short on time yet eager to pack in a true taste of Arctic Finland.

FAQ

• What is the duration of the tour?
  The tour lasts around 7 hours, with the morning part ending around 12:30 pm and the Aurora hunt from 8 pm to 11:30 pm.

• Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
  Yes. Pickup is in Rovaniemi, and the guide will drop you back at your hotel or accommodation.

• Are the reindeer and husky rides long?
  The rides are approximately 400 meters for reindeer and 500 meters for huskies. These shorter rides are typical and praised for their quality.

• What should I bring?
  Warm clothing and shoes are essential due to the cold temperatures, especially in the evening. Renting snowsuits is recommended if you don’t have appropriate gear.

• Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
  While the tour maximizes your chances by visiting two dark, open locations, sightings depend on weather conditions, and there’s no guarantee.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  Yes, but children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult paying full price. The activities are family-friendly and engaging.

• What is included in the price?
  Hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, feeding reindeer, husky ride, visits to Santa Village, hot drinks, chocolates, and guided commentary.

• How many participants are in a group?
  Limited to 8 people, ensuring a more intimate experience.

• Is this a good value for the cost?
  Considering the inclusions, small group size, and range of activities, it offers good value, especially for first-time visitors seeking variety.

• What if I don’t want to participate in some activities?
  The itinerary is flexible—you can opt to spend more time at Santa Village or relax during the Aurora hunt.

In sum, this tour from Rovaniemi delivers an authentic, well-rounded Arctic experience, blending cultural highlights with natural wonders. It’s especially suited for those wanting a manageable, guided introduction to Lapland’s outdoor life, animals, and potentially magical night skies. A wonderful way to experience the best of Finnish Lapland in just one day.

You can check availability for your dates here: