Reindeer Safari in Rovaniemi - Find the Best Reindeer Experience

Experience one of Lapland's oldest traditions and discover why a reindeer safari is much more than a sleigh ride. Compare different experiences, learn what to expect and choose the best reindeer tour for your family, couple or group.


  • Authentic reindeer farms
  • Family-friendly experiences
  • Northern Lights tours
  • Easy online booking

    Not sure which reindeer experience to choose?


    Reindeer experiences in Rovaniemi can be surprisingly different. Some are designed for families with young children, others focus on authentic Lapland culture, while some combine reindeer with unique Lapland activities such as ice fishing or e-fat biking.


    The guide below will help you quickly find the experience that best matches your interests, travel style and the time you have available.

    What are you looking for?
    Best choice
    Why it's a good fit
    Learn about reindeer and Lapland traditions
    Visit a Real Reindeer Farm →
    Ideal if you'd like to meet the reindeer, learn about traditional reindeer herding and Lapland culture without taking a sleigh ride. A great choice for animal lovers, photographers and pregnant travellers.
    A short introduction to reindeer
    Reindeer Farm & 400 m Safari →
    Perfect for families with young children, visitors with limited time or very cold winter days. Combines a farm visit with a short and relaxing sleigh ride.
    A magical evening under the Arctic sky
    Aurora Hunting on a Reindeer Safari →
    One of the most peaceful experiences in Lapland. Glide silently through snowy forests beneath a star-filled sky while searching for the Northern Lights. All you hear is the soft sound of the reindeer's footsteps and snow beneath the sleigh.
    Our Top Pick
    Snowy Forest Reindeer Ride →
    Our favourite recommendation for travellers looking for an authentic Lapland experience. Visit a traditional family-run reindeer farm set on a peaceful hilltop with panoramic views over snowy forests, far from the crowds of Rovaniemi.
    Something completely different
    Electric Fat Biking at a Reindeer Farm →
    A unique combination of Arctic cycling and a reindeer farm visit. Best suited for adults and active travellers looking for something beyond the traditional winter safari.
    Experience two Lapland traditions in one day
    Reindeer Safari & Ice Fishing →
    Combine a peaceful reindeer sleigh ride with traditional Finnish ice fishing on a frozen lake. An excellent choice for travellers who want to experience two authentic Lapland traditions during one excursion.

    What Most Visitors Don't Expect


    Many travellers book a reindeer safari expecting an exciting sled ride similar to a husky safari.

    In reality, the experience is completely different and that's exactly why so many visitors remember it as one of the most authentic moments of their trip to Lapland.

    It's not about speed


    Reindeer walk slowly through the forest. The ride is peaceful, quiet and relaxing rather than adventurous.

    A short ride is often enough


    Families with young children are often happiest with shorter experiences, especially when combined with Santa Claus Village or other winter activities.

    Meeting the reindeer is often the highlight


    Many travellers say feeding the reindeer, taking photos and talking with the herders became more memorable than the ride itself.

    Longer safaris are about atmosphere


    If you want silence, snowy forests and traditional Lapland culture, a longer safari outside the city is worth considering.

    Our Reindeer Experiences in rovaniemi

    What Happens During a reindeer Safari?


    A typical reindeer safari lasts between 1.5 and 3 hours, although the sleigh ride itself is usually only part of the experience.


    Most tours begin with a transfer from Rovaniemi to a traditional reindeer farm, where you'll meet the animals, learn about centuries-old reindeer herding traditions and enjoy a peaceful sleigh ride through snowy forests. Depending on the tour, you may also feed the reindeer, visit the farm, warm up with hot berry juice or coffee and hear stories about everyday life in Lapland before returning to the city.


    A reindeer safari isn't about speed, it's about slowing down. Wrapped in warm blankets, you'll glide quietly through snow-covered forests while your reindeer walks at its natural pace. There are no engines, no crowds and no noise, just the gentle sound of hooves in the snow and the peaceful atmosphere of the wilderness.

    01
    Hotel Pickup

    Begin your tour with a comfortable transfer from your accommodation or a central meeting point in Rovaniemi

    02
    Farm Arrival

    Arrive at a traditional reindeer farm surrounded by peaceful nature, where you'll be welcomed by your local hosts.

    03
    Meet the Reindeer

    Get up close to these gentle animals and discover what makes them such an important part of Lapland's culture.

    04
    Learn About Reindeer Herding

    Hear fascinating stories about reindeer herding, Sámi traditions and everyday life in Lapland from your guide or local herder.

    05
    Reindeer Sleigh Ride

    Wrap yourself in warm blankets and enjoy a quiet sleigh ride through snowy forests at the reindeer's natural pace.

    06
    Feed the Reindeer

    Many tours include the opportunity to feed the reindeer and take memorable photos after the ride.

    07
    Warm Drinks

    Warm up with hot berry juice, coffee or tea while relaxing in a cosy hut and sharing your experience.

    08
    Return Transfer

    Comfortable transfer back to your accommodation in Rovaniemi.

    How Long Should Your Reindeer Ride Be?


    • 400-500 m - Best for Families with children
    • 15-20 min - Best for First experience
    • 30-45 min - Most travellers' choice
    • 60+ min - for Lapland enthusiasts

    Tips From Real Travellers


    • Don't expect speed, reindeer move slowly by nature. That's exactly what makes the experience relaxing.
    • If your itinerary is busy, a short ride in Santa Claus Village is often enough.
    • If you're interested in Sami culture and traditional reindeer herding, choose a farm experience outside the city.'
    • Dress warmly. Sitting still in the sled feels colder than walking.
    • Don't leave immediately after the ride. Many visitors say meeting and feeding the reindeer became their favourite memory.

    Did You Know?


    • Both male and female reindeer grow antlers.
    • Reindeer can hear food beneath deep snow.
    • Their noses warm freezing Arctic air before it reaches the lungs.
    • Reindeer have been part of Lapland's culture for centuries.
    • Every reindeer has its own personality and responds differently to people.

    Ready to meet Lapland's Most Iconic Animal?

    Browse our carefully selected reindeer tours and find the perfect adventure for your trip.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    • What’s Included in Reindeer Safari

      • Pickup/drop-off from meeting points in Rovaniemi
      • English-speaking local guide
      • Warm winter clothing (overalls, boots, gloves) on longer tours
      • Sleigh ride at walking pace pulled by trained reindeer
      • Hot berry juice and homemade cookies
      • Option to feed reindeer and try handling the sled
      • Small group size for personal experience

    • Can I ride with young children?

      Yes, children can ride in the reindeer sleigh with an adult companion. Short options are very family-friendly.

    • Is advance booking required?

      All reindeer safaris in Rovaniemi should be booked in advance. In December - January we are usually fully booked well in advance.

    • Do we meet Sami herders?

      Guides and hosts are local, often with Sami ties, and share cultural backgrounds and lore about reindeer herding.

    • How long does a reindeer sleigh ride last?

      Sleigh rides range from 5 minutes (short rides in Santa Claus Village) to up to 60 minutes or more on longer safaris. Most popular rides are 1–3 km and last 20–30 minutes.

    • Do I need any special clothing for the ride?

      Yes, it’s important to dress warmly. On longer tours, thermal overalls, boots, and gloves are often provided. For short rides, wear proper winter gear: thick layers, hat, scarf, insulated boots, and gloves.

    • Are reindeer sleigh rides safe for children and seniors?

      Yes. Reindeer sleigh rides are very calm and quiet. Children can ride with an adult, and the pace is slow and steady. Seniors with limited mobility may prefer short rides with easier access.

    • Can I drive the sleigh myself?

      No. Reindeer sleighs are always controlled by the herder. Guests sit in the sleigh and enjoy the ride while the reindeer follows a trained route.

    • Will I get to feed or pet the reindeer?

      Yes, most tours include time for feeding the reindeer and taking photos. Reindeer are generally gentle and used to people but remain semi-wild animals.

    • Are the reindeer treated ethically?

      Yes. In Rovaniemi, reindeer are owned and cared for by local herding families. They receive daily care, rest periods, and work only limited hours. Their welfare is regulated and prioritized.

    • Is there a weight or group size limit?

      While there’s no strict weight limit, sleighs are usually sized for 1–2 adults or 1 adult + 1–2 children. Group sizes vary per tour -private options are available if preferred.

    • Can I take photos during the ride?

      Yes, but it's best to secure your camera or phone and use a strap. The ride is gentle, but movement and cold temperatures can make it tricky. There are also opportunities to take photos before or after the ride.

    • Are reindeer safaris available outside of winter?

      No, sleigh rides require snow and are available from approximately late November to early April, depending on the weather. Some farms offer off-season visits without sleigh rides.

    • What's the difference between a short ride and a full reindeer safari?

      Short rides (typically in Santa Claus Village) are around 5–10 minutes and mainly for a quick experience and photo opportunity. A full safari includes a longer trail ride, time at the farm, warm drinks, cultural info, and interaction with herders.