In Pursuit of Reindeer – Snowmobile safari to reindeer farm in Rovaniemi

In Pursuit of Reindeer – Snowmobile Safari to Reindeer Farm in Rovaniemi: A Detailed Review

If you’re dreaming of a true Arctic adventure, the In Pursuit of Reindeer tour offers a balanced mix of excitement, culture, and authentic Lapland charm. This 3-hour experience takes you on a snowmobile ride across frozen plains, introduces you to gentle reindeer, and ends with a cozy sleigh ride — all perfect for families or anyone eager to embrace the snowy wilderness. With a price tag of around $230, it’s an investment in one of the most memorable winter escapades Rovaniemi has to offer.

One aspect we particularly appreciate is how smoothly this tour combines high-speed snowmobiling with gentle, traditional reindeer encounters. It’s a perfect blend of adrenaline and calm, giving you a genuine peek into Sami culture. However, potential guests should consider the clothing logistics — although winter gear is provided, some reviewers mention they were surprised by the clothing arrangements, so packing appropriately or clarifying details beforehand could improve the experience.

Ultimately, this tour suits travelers seeking an engaging, family-friendly Arctic adventure that offers both action and authentic cultural insights. Whether you’re after stunning winter scenery, the chance to drive a snowmobile, or simply want to enjoy the magic of reindeer and snow-covered forests, this safari provides a well-rounded introduction to Lapland’s winter wonderland.

Key Points

• Multi-faceted Experience: Combines snowmobiling, reindeer interaction, and sleigh riding for a comprehensive Arctic adventure
• Authentic Cultural Touch: Learn about reindeer care from friendly herders and participate in the Arctic Circle Crossing Ceremony
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, with options for children accompanied by adults
• Good Value: The included winter gear, hot drinks, and a reindeer-driving license enhance the experience
• Authentic Scenery: Expect sweeping views of snowy plains, forests, and the reindeer farm environment
• Potential Clothing Confusion: Clarify clothing arrangements beforehand to avoid surprises

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Booking and Practicalities

Booking this tour roughly 25 days in advance is recommended, reflecting its popularity. The tour begins promptly at 1:00 pm from Safartica’s office on Koskikatu 9, which is conveniently located near public transportation. The price of $230.46 per person might seem steep at first glance, but it includes everything from winter gear to the reindeer driving license, making it a reasonably comprehensive package for an Arctic experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes winter clothing, snowmobile instructions, and approximately 1.5 to 2 hours of driving. Participants get to visit a reindeer farm, enjoy a short reindeer sleigh ride, and earn a reindeer driver license as a keepsake. Hot drinks are also provided, which come in handy after the cold ride. Food and drinks beyond the hot beverages are not included, so bringing a snack or planning to eat before or after might be advisable.

The Snowmobile Ride

The heart of this adventure is the snowmobile safari. You’ll be paired with a partner and guided through the Arctic landscape. Reviews suggest the ride offers stunning views of the plains and forests, making it an exciting way to cover ground and soak in the scenery. The guided instructions ensure novices feel confident behind the controls, but it’s worth noting that the ride lasts approximately 1.5-2 hours, so a bit of physical stamina is helpful.

Some reviewers, like Claire H, mention the experience is “not even too cold,” which speaks to the quality of the provided gear. However, she also notes that clearer communication about clothing arrangements could improve the experience—she and her partner specifically bought ski suits, only to find they were given gear at the start. Clarifying this detail beforehand might prevent surprises.

Visiting the Reindeer Farm

The reindeer farm is the tour’s cultural highlight. Here, you meet the gentle reindeer and learn about their care from friendly herders. Paula D praises this part as “incredible,” highlighting how the hosts explained everything well, allowing her to enjoy feeding the reindeer and appreciating their calm nature. This interaction isn’t just touristy; it’s a genuine glimpse into traditional Sami reindeer herding.

The Reindeer Sleigh Ride

Following the farm visit, a cozy reindeer-pulled sleigh ride takes you through snow-laden forests. This slower-paced activity balances the adrenaline of snowmobiling with tranquil, scenic moments. Several reviews mention how enjoyable and authentic this part is, especially as it offers an immersive view of the winter landscape.

The Arctic Circle Crossing Ceremony

A fun and somewhat festive addition is the Arctic Circle Crossing Ceremony. Participants receive a souvenir certificate to mark the occasion, adding a memorable touch to your Arctic adventure. It’s a lighthearted way to conclude the tour, especially for those who enjoy a bit of tradition and celebration in their travel experiences.

The Balance of Value and Experience

While the price might seem high, the tour offers a well-rounded package that combines adventure, culture, and scenic beauty. The inclusion of winter clothing and a reindeer license adds tangible value, especially since these souvenirs serve as long-term memories of your trip.

However, it’s important to set expectations about the brief duration of some activities, like the reindeer sleigh ride, which some may find shorter than anticipated. Nonetheless, reviewers like Paula D mention they managed to maximize their time and thoroughly enjoyed every moment, including feeding the reindeer and participating in the crossing ceremony.

Group Size and Logistics

This activity caps at 20 travelers, creating a relatively intimate setting that allows for personalized guidance. The group size also means you’re likely to get good interaction with guides and herders, enhancing the overall experience.

Weather Considerations

Since this is a winter outdoor activity, weather can impact your experience. The tour is contingent on good weather, and if conditions are poor, it may be canceled or rescheduled, with full refunds offered. Clear communication from the provider about weather policies is essential to avoid surprises.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari is ideal for families and adventurers who want a balanced mix of adrenaline and cultural insight. It’s suitable for most travelers, including children (with adult supervision), though the physical aspect of snowmobiling might be better suited to those comfortable with an outdoor activity. The scenic, peaceful moments of the sleigh ride and the chance to interact with reindeer make it particularly attractive to those looking for an authentic Arctic experience.

Travelers who appreciate good organization, clear instructions, and authentic Sami culture will find this tour hits the right notes. The inclusion of hot drinks and souvenirs means you leave with both memories and tangible keepsakes.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a dynamic, family-friendly Arctic tour that combines speed, tradition, and scenic beauty, In Pursuit of Reindeer offers a well-crafted experience. It provides ample opportunity to learn about reindeer husbandry, enjoy exhilarating snowmobiling, and relax in the tranquil woods—ideal for those eager to explore Lapland’s winter landscape.

The tour’s strength lies in its authenticity and variety, though travelers should clarify clothing arrangements and be prepared for brief activities. The reasonable group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a personal touch, making it a worthwhile addition to any Lapland itinerary.

For adventure lovers, culture seekers, or families with kids, this safari delivers a memorable taste of Arctic life in a relatively compact, well-organized package.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
Your ticket covers winter clothing, snowmobile instructions, about 1.5-2 hours of snowmobiling, visit to the reindeer farm, a short reindeer sleigh ride, your reindeer driving license, hot drinks, and guiding.

Are food and additional drinks included?
No, food and drinks beyond the provided hot beverages are not included, so plan accordingly if you want a meal afterward.

What should I wear on the tour?
Winter clothing is provided, but reviewing the clothing arrangements beforehand is recommended. Some guests have mentioned they brought their own ski suits, but the tour supplies gear at the start.

How long does the snowmobile ride last?
The guided snowmobile safari lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the landscape and learn about snowmobiling.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome when accompanied by adults. However, the activity involves outdoor winter driving, so discretion regarding age and stamina is advised.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 20 travelers, ensuring a relatively personal experience with guided attention.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent; if conditions are unsuitable, it may be canceled or rescheduled with a full refund offered.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

In Pursuit of Reindeer offers a compelling mix of speed, culture, and scenic beauty—all within a manageable three hours. It’s a fantastic way to dive into Lapland’s winter life, especially if you’re eager for an active yet authentic Arctic adventure.