Rovaniemi: Reindeer Sleigh Ride with Hot Drink and Cookies

Imagine gliding quietly through snow-blanketed forests, pulled by gentle reindeer, with the crisp air tingling your face. That’s what you get with this reindeer sleigh ride in Rovaniemi, Finland. Priced at around $204 per person and lasting about 2.5 hours, this tour offers a perfect mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and cozy comforts. Your experience begins at the oldest and most authentic reindeer farm in the area, where you’ll meet the animals and learn about their vital role in Lapland’s traditions.

What we love most about this tour is the leisurely 1.5 km ride through frosted forests—giving you ample time to relax and take in the spectacular snowy landscape. Plus, the opportunity to warm up inside a traditional wooden kota, sipping hot berry juice by the fire, adds a warm, personal touch that makes the cold outdoors feel special.

A few considerations: the group size can be somewhat large (up to 35-40 people), which may impact the feeling of intimacy. Also, if you’re planning to take photos, you’ll need to request the optional photography package for an extra €25, a small extra cost for those wanting keepsakes of their Arctic adventure.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy authentic cultural experiences, love animals, or simply want a relaxing, scenic outing with a friendly guide. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a gentle introduction to Lapland’s traditions will find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Authentic reindeer farm visit offers insight into traditional herding lifestyles.
• Longer sleigh ride (about 50 minutes) provides a leisurely, scenic journey.
• Guided experience with knowledgeable guides enhances understanding of reindeer life.
• Warm up with hot berry juice and cookies inside a cozy wooden kota.
• Option to rent winter gear or purchase professional photos for memorable keepsakes.
• Small group or large group sizes can affect the intimacy of the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Reindeer Sleigh Ride Experience

When you book this tour, you’re signing up for more than just a ride—you’re stepping into a slice of Lapland’s cultural fabric. Starting with pickup from your accommodation, the tour is thoughtfully structured to maximize comfort and insight. The guide, often described as knowledgeable and warm, begins by introducing you to the farm’s history and the reindeer that have been herded here for generations.

Visiting the Reindeer Farm

The visit to the oldest and most authentic reindeer farm in the Rovaniemi area sets the scene for what’s to come. You’ll likely get a chance to ask questions about reindeer behavior, their lifecycle, and the herding lifestyle. Several reviews praised the guides’ ability to share fascinating information—one reviewer called Krista “one of the best tour guides we have ever had,” emphasizing her passion and warmth.

The farm visit also includes a look at how the animals are fed and cared for, which adds depth for those curious about sustainable farming practices and reindeer health. It’s not just a tourist activity—here, you gain an understanding of a working farm that still upholds traditional practices.

The Sleigh Ride

The core of the tour is the 1.5 km reindeer sled ride through the snow-dusted forest. You’ll be divided into smaller groups, often in two sledges, which allows for a more intimate experience. The ride lasts approximately 50 minutes, which many reviews agree is ample time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Traveling behind gentle, well-cared-for reindeer, you’ll see frosted trees and quiet snow-covered paths. One reviewer mentioned that the ride “was really relaxing,” and appreciated the chance to learn more about reindeer after the ride. The slow pace ensures everyone can take photos and soak in the tranquil environment.

Inside the Kota and Warm Refreshments

After the sled ride, you’ll head inside a traditional wooden kota—a Sami-style tent—where you’re welcomed by the warmth of a fire. Here, you can enjoy hot berry juice and cookies, which many reviewers found to be a delightful touch, especially after the cold outdoor activity. This cozy setting also provides a perfect opportunity for guides to share more insights about local culture and reindeer life.

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Additional Options and Practicalities

If you’re keen on capturing the moment, you can request a photography package for €25, which many find worthwhile for high-quality souvenirs. There’s also the option to rent winter gear (overalls and snow boots for €10), which can be a smart choice if you want to stay warm without lugging your own heavy clothing.

The entire experience, including pickup and drop-off, is designed to be convenient and stress-free. Guides are available in multiple languages—including English, French, Spanish, Catalan, and Persian—and will wait no longer than 5 minutes after the scheduled pickup time.

Authenticity, Value, and Authentic Experiences

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on authenticity. Unlike some reindeer rides that are purely commercial, this experience emphasizes the animals’ welfare, farm history, and Sami culture. The longer ride (compared to many other tours) provides more value for money—over 50 minutes of riding time—according to one traveler who appreciated the “better deal” and “not just a quick ride.”

Several reviewers highlighted that the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge made the experience memorable, turning what could be a simple activity into a genuine learning opportunity. The friendly atmosphere and personalized attention from guides like Krista and Timi made the difference for many.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after an authentic Arctic experience that combines a scenic sleigh ride, cultural insights, and cozy refreshments, this tour hits the mark. It offers excellent value with an hour-plus of riding, guided commentary, and a warm break inside a traditional kota. It’s particularly well-suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who want to connect with Lapland’s traditions without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

While the group size can be larger than some might prefer, it doesn’t detract from the genuine atmosphere created by passionate guides who make you feel welcomed. The quality of the reindeer and the scenic forest backdrop ensure this is an experience you’ll remember long after leaving Rovaniemi.

For travelers seeking a meaningful, family-friendly, and visually stunning Arctic activity, this tour offers an excellent balance of education, relaxation, and culture—all with the bonus of hot drinks and cookies to keep you warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included, making it easy to relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about logistics.

How long does the sleigh ride last?
The sleigh ride lasts approximately 50 minutes, providing a relaxed pace to enjoy the scenery and interact with the reindeer.

Can I request winter gear?
Yes, winter overalls and snow boots are available for €10 per person if you want to stay warm without bringing your own gear.

Is there an option to buy photos?
Yes, you can request a photography package for €25 to have professional photos taken during the tour.

How many people are in each group?
While some reviews mention larger groups of up to 35-40, the experience generally includes dividing into smaller sledges for a more intimate ride.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off, a guided sleigh ride, hot berry juice, and cookies inside the kota.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, children often enjoy the gentle reindeer ride, and some reviews mention that kids find receiving a reindeer driving license particularly fun.

This reindeer sleigh ride in Rovaniemi offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s traditions, wrapped in scenic beauty and cozy comfort. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances authenticity, education, and relaxation—perfect for those who want to savor the Arctic’s quiet magic.

You can check availability for your dates here: