Lapland: Canoeing Trip with Reindeer and Husky Farm Tour

Looking for a unique adventure that combines the tranquility of nature with the thrill of meeting iconic Arctic animals? This Lapland canoeing and farm tour offers exactly that—a chance to glide across pristine lakes, get up close with reindeer, and enjoy the lively energy of huskies. All in a day that promises plenty of authentic Finnish wilderness experiences.

One of the big draws of this tour is the opportunity to see Huskies and reindeer in their natural environment, combined with the calming beauty of canoeing through lakes and forests. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the entire experience engaging and approachable. However, a possible consideration is the weather—some activities depend on cold temperatures, which might affect the husky carriage ride.

This tour works best for travelers who crave authentic Arctic encounters and are comfortable with a bit of outdoor activity. Families, nature lovers, and those interested in Sami culture will find it particularly rewarding. Just keep in mind that children under 12 need to be accompanied by an adult, and pregnant women or those with mobility issues might find some parts challenging.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Combines wildlife interactions with scenic canoeing.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with stories and insights.
• Seasonal Activities: Husky carriage rides depend on cold weather, adding a seasonal charm.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for children over 12 and those looking for a gentle outdoor adventure.
• Value for Money: Includes transportation, guided activities, farm visits, and a traditional snack.
• Limited Group Sizes: Small groups (up to 8) ensure a personal and relaxed experience.

What to Expect from the Tour

This 6.5-hour adventure kicks off with visits to a reindeer farm and husky farm, set in the heart of Lapland’s stunning natural landscape. The tour is designed to give you a genuine look into the everyday lives of these Arctic animals, combined with engaging stories from the young reindeer herders and guides.

Visiting the Reindeer Farm

The first stop is the reindeer farm, where you’ll meet the reindeer herders—most likely Sami locals—who will explain their daily routines and the significance of reindeer herding in Lapland culture. Expect to learn how reindeer are cared for, their role in Sami traditions, and you’ll even have the chance to feed them. Many reviewers mention the joy of watching the reindeer up close and hearing funny anecdotes about their habits. Glaucia from Brazil notes she enjoyed “feeding the reindeer and taking nice pictures while listening to funny stories.”

Husky Farm Experience

Next, you’ll visit the husky farm, where the dogs are lively and eager for interaction. Guides often describe these huskies as energetic, friendly, and beautiful, making for great photo opportunities. If temperatures are low enough, you’ll get to experience a carriage ride pulled by the huskies—a highlight that truly captures the spirit of Arctic sledding. One traveler mentioned, “the carriage ride was only available from August to May, and it was a magical moment.”

Canoeing in Lapland’s Pristine Lakes

After meeting the animals, the journey continues to a picturesque forest and lake. The canoeing segment is designed to be safe and relaxing, even for those new to paddling. You’ll glide through clear waters surrounded by snow-dusted trees and peaceful wilderness. The guides keep a close eye on safety, and the small group size means you’ll receive personalized attention. The scenery here is breathtaking and perfect for nature photography.

Tasting Local Flavors

Along with the physical activities, you’ll enjoy a reindeer sandwich and blueberry juice, which adds a taste of local cuisine to your adventure. Reviewers, like the one from August 2019, appreciated the chance to sample these traditional snacks, describing the experience as memorable and authentic.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting with hotel pickup within 10 km of Rovaniemi, the tour sets off early or mid-morning depending on the season. The guides, typically English-speaking—though other languages can be requested—share insights throughout the day, making complex cultural aspects accessible to all.

The reindeer farm visit is usually the first stop, where young herders show you around and share funny stories about reindeer life. Being able to feed the reindeer is a big plus, as it provides a personal connection to these animals. “We got to touch and feed them,” reports a satisfied traveler, adding that the reindeer looked calm and friendly.

Next, the husky farm welcomes you with energetic dogs eager for attention. If conditions are right, you’ll enjoy a wheel carriage ride, which is a highlight for many, especially those wanting a taste of traditional Arctic transportation. The review from 2019 describes a “magnificent day” with great guides who even managed language barriers, making the experience smooth.

Following the farm visits, the group heads into the forest, where the scenery begins to change into a calm, snow-dusted landscape. The canoe trip is carefully guided to ensure safety, and the peaceful waters make for a serene experience. The lakes and forests provide excellent opportunities for photos and quiet reflection.

The tour wraps up with the tasting of reindeer sandwiches and blueberry juice, a perfect way to relax and enjoy the local flavors after a busy day.

Value and Practicality

At $353 per person, this tour offers good value considering it includes transportation, farm visits, guided canoeing, and traditional snacks. The small group size (up to 8 participants) ensures personalized attention, which many travelers find enhances the overall experience.

Since the tour is flexible enough to include multilingual guides (German, French, Italian, Spanish, Chinese available on request), international travelers will find it accessible. The full-day format allows enough time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed, making it ideal for those who prefer immersive experiences.

The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off within close proximity to Rovaniemi simplifies logistics, particularly for travelers staying in the city. The cancelation policy—free up to 24 hours in advance—adds a layer of flexibility, especially if weather conditions turn unfavorable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families, especially those with children over 12, who want a hands-on introduction to Lapland’s wildlife and scenery. Nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts will also appreciate the chance to learn about the Sami way of life and see Arctic animals up close.

Those interested in outdoor activities will enjoy the canoeing, while travelers seeking authentic local flavors will value the reindeer sandwiches and blueberry juice. However, it’s important to note that pregnant women and people with mobility impairments are advised against this activity, mainly due to the physical nature and outdoor environment.

The Sum Up

This Lapland canoeing and farm tour balances adventure with cultural authenticity, offering a well-rounded look into the Arctic wilderness. The chance to feed reindeer, meet huskies, and paddle through pristine lakes creates a memorable experience that stays with you long after the trip ends.

The knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and inclusive nature of the tour make it an excellent choice for those wanting to connect deeply with Lapland’s environment and traditions. It’s especially well-suited for families and nature enthusiasts who value genuine, small-group experiences over touristy crowds.

While some activities depend on cold weather, the chance to experience traditional sled rides and lake paddling in the Lapland landscape is priceless. If you’re after an authentic, scenic, and engaging Arctic adventure, this tour deserves serious consideration.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included for locations within 10 km of Rovaniemi’s city center, making it convenient to start and end your day smoothly.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 6.5 hours, allowing ample time for each activity without feeling rushed.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
No, the tour provides guided canoeing, and all necessary equipment is included. Just bring suitable outdoor clothing, especially if it’s cold.

Can children participate?
Children over 12 are welcome when accompanied by adults. Children under 12 need to be with an adult paying full price.

What if the weather is very cold?
Certain activities, like the husky carriage ride, are weather-dependent and only available when temperatures are low enough. The guide will inform you if conditions aren’t suitable.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes a reindeer sandwich and blueberry juice, offering a taste of local cuisine.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, pregnant women are advised not to participate due to physical activity and outdoor conditions.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides primarily speak English, but other languages like German, French, Italian, Spanish, and Chinese can be requested.

How many people are in a group?
The experience is limited to small groups of up to 8 participants, fostering a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

Whether you’re craving Arctic wildlife encounters, stunning lakeside views, or a taste of Sami culture, this tour offers a comprehensive and authentic Lapland experience that will leave you with lasting memories.