Rovaniemi: Walk with Reindeer

Imagine strolling through the pristine, crisp air of Lapland, surrounded by towering fir trees and the distant call of reindeer. For $116 per person, this 2 km guided walk with reindeer at Apukka Resort offers an authentic encounter with one of Lapland’s most iconic animals. Led by a friendly and well-informed herder, you’ll learn about reindeer husbandry, hear captivating stories, and enjoy the peaceful silence of Arctic nature—all while getting up close to curious, friendly reindeer. This experience is perfect for those who want a genuine, relaxed connection with nature without the fuss of long rides or crowded tours.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to actually walk alongside reindeer in their natural environment and to listen to stories that bring their fascinating lives into focus. The cozy stop at a hut with hot coffee or hot chocolate creates a charming pause in the walk. On the flip side, a consideration is that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users and requires you to bring appropriate outdoor clothing—but that’s a small price to pay for an immersive Arctic experience. If you enjoy authentic, intimate encounters with animals and value knowledgeable guides, this tour should be on your list.

If you’re visiting Rovaniemi and looking for a meaningful way to connect with Lapland’s traditions and landscape, this reindeer walk offers a perfect blend of education, outdoor adventure, and cultural insight. It suits travelers who appreciate personal stories, gentle activities, and a slower pace—ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or small groups seeking an authentic Arctic experience.

Key Points

• Authentic Reindeer Experience: Walk with friendly reindeer in a natural Arctic setting, guided by a professional herder.
• Learn About Reindeer Husbandry: Gain insights into the lives and traditions of the Sami reindeer herders.
• Relaxing and Personal: The tour emphasizes a calm, respectful approach to animals and nature, offering quality photo opportunities.
• Inclusive for Solo Travelers: No need to book with a partner; the tour accommodates solo visitors with transfers included.
• Value for Money: At $116, it combines activity, cultural learning, and scenery, with optional transfers making logistics easier.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users; outdoor clothing is a must.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Reindeer Walk Experience

Location and Duration

Set at the Apukka Resort in Lapland, this tour is designed for a relaxed, 2 km walk that takes you into the tranquil snow-dusted woods. The entire experience lasts approximately a couple of hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the walk, listen to stories, and savor the hot coffee break. The inclusion of transfers from Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village means you won’t have to worry about transportation logistics, a real plus in a remote Arctic setting.

The Walk and Reindeer Interaction

As you open the gate to a fenced reindeer area, you’ll be greeted by inquisitive, gentle animals eager to say hello. The reindeer are described as friendly and curious, making it easy to get close and take photos. Guided by a knowledgeable herder, you’ll walk along forest trails, listening to engaging stories about reindeer husbandry, a profession rooted deeply in Sami culture.

The herder will share insights like how reindeer scrape bark off trees to clear their antlers—an interesting detail that adds a tangible connection to their environment. This educational aspect provides context that transforms a simple walk into a meaningful learning experience.

The Scenic Stop and Coffee

Midway, you’ll pause at a cozy wooden hut where hot drinks like coffee or hot chocolate are served by fire. This break allows for conversations, photographs, and a chance to soak up the peaceful surroundings. The reviews highlight how this stop enhances the overall experience, giving visitors quality time with the reindeer and a taste of traditional Lapland hospitality.

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Respectful Interaction

The tour emphasizes respect for animals, requesting guests to approach calmly and avoid sudden movements that could startle reindeer. They kindly ask that no external snacks be brought, maintaining a natural environment for the animals. These guidelines ensure a safe and respectful experience for both visitors and reindeer.

Who Will Enjoy This?

Travelers who love authentic encounters, appreciate stories about local culture, or prefer a gentle outdoor activity will find this tour rewarding. It is especially suitable for those who want to avoid long rides or crowded attractions but still crave a memorable Arctic adventure.

The Value of the Experience

At $116, this tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into reindeer life, Lapland’s landscape, and Sami culture—all in a relaxed setting. Unlike more commercialized activities, this walk emphasizes personal interaction and storytelling, which many travelers find more meaningful than quick photo stops.

The inclusion of transfers means you’re free to enjoy your day without fussing over logistics—an important factor when navigating the often-chilly Arctic environment. The guide’s knowledge and friendly demeanor add significant value, providing insights that stick with you long after the walk ends.

Authentic and Informative

The reviews underscore how knowledgeable guides make a difference: “A good guide who told us all about the reindeer and their history” was a common theme. This isn’t just a walk; it’s a chance to understand the significance of reindeer to Sami culture and Lapland’s identity.

Photo Opportunities and Personal Time

Many visitors appreciated the more extended time with the reindeer compared to other tours, which often feel rushed. Rose shared how she felt that doing the walk allowed for better photo opportunities and more personal interaction. For solo travelers, the fact that the tour does not require a partner makes it especially appealing.

Comfort and Accessibility

While the experience is designed to be relaxing, it’s important to bring suitable outdoor clothing—think insulated layers and waterproof gear. This ensures you stay warm and enjoy the walk comfortably. Keep in mind that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, which could be a consideration for some.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participating

• Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.
• Prepare warm, layered outdoor clothing—think thermal base layers, waterproof jackets, and sturdy boots.
• Arrive on time for pickup; the tour does not offer refunds if you miss the transfer.
• Approach the reindeer calmly and follow the guide’s instructions to ensure an enjoyable experience.
• No external snacks are allowed for the reindeer, so plan accordingly.
• Consider the weather—it can be cold and snowy, but the experience is just as magical in winter or early spring.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Walk with Reindeer tour offers a straightforward, heartfelt experience for those who want a genuine taste of Lapland’s natural and cultural environment. It’s ideal for nature lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and solo travelers seeking an authentic connection with Arctic wildlife. The guided storytelling and calm pace make it accessible to most age groups and fitness levels, provided outdoor clothing is suitable.

If you’re after a personal, educational experience that minimizes crowds while maximizing interaction, this walk stands out. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe in the crisp air, and learn about a vital part of Lapland’s heritage directly from those who live it.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the tour is open to solo travelers and includes transfers from Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village, making it convenient to join on your own.

How long is the walk?
The walk covers about 2 km, lasting roughly a couple of hours, including the stop at the hut for coffee.

What should I wear?
Bring outdoor clothing suitable for cold weather—warm layers, waterproof jacket, and sturdy boots are recommended.

Are the reindeer friendly?
Yes, the reindeer are described as friendly and curious, making them easy to approach and photograph.

Can I bring snacks for the reindeer?
No, external snacks are not permitted to protect the animals’ health and environment.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transfers are included from designated pickup points, easing the logistics of your Arctic adventure.

What about accessibility?
This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so consider your mobility needs before booking.

In all, the Rovaniemi Walk with Reindeer provides a well-rounded, authentic experience that combines gentle outdoor activity, cultural insight, and the chance to connect with Lapland’s most iconic animal. We think it’s a highlight for anyone wanting to see the real Arctic in a relaxed, respectful way.

You can check availability for your dates here: