Kuusamo: Reindeer Sleigh Ride and Farm Visit

If you’re dreaming of experiencing the true essence of Finnish winter, a visit to Kujala Reindeer Farm in Kuusamo offers just that. This tour combines a 1.5 km reindeer sleigh ride with a close-up encounter with hundreds of reindeer, giving you a real taste of traditional reindeer herding life. The experience is cozy, authentic, and perfect for those who want to see how life on an old-fashioned reindeer farm looks—without the hassle of organizing it all yourself.

What we love about this experience is how personal and informative it feels, thanks to passionate guides and the chance to feed and interact with the reindeer up close. That said, if you’re expecting a high-energy adventure, be prepared for a relaxed pace that focuses on genuine farm life and scenic beauty. This tour is especially suited for families, nature lovers, and anyone interested in learning about the unique Arctic culture in a laid-back setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Reindeer Experience: Enjoy a traditional 1.5 km sleigh ride through a winter wonderland.
• Close Encounters: Meet hundreds of reindeer, feed them with lichen, and capture memorable photos.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Arthur and Andru bring stories of reindeer herding to life, adding depth to the experience.
• Great Value: At $94 per person, it offers a well-rounded mix of scenic beauty, culture, and interaction.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with opportunities for children and adults to connect with reindeer.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty.

An In-Depth Look at the Kuusamo Reindeer Experience

The Itinerary and What Makes It Special

Your journey begins with a sleigh ride that takes you along a 1.5 km route through Kuusamo’s scenic winter landscape. The ride, led by friendly guides like Arthur, is designed to be relaxing but memorable, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the crisp air and snowy scenery. The warmth of the reindeer hides adds a cozy touch, making it perfect even in the coldest months. Reviewers like Ezgi described the ride as “magical,” emphasizing how the experience felt both serene and enchanting.

After the ride, you’ll be taken to the old, traditional farm where hundreds of reindeer congregate in the ancient corral. Guides share fascinating insights about reindeer herding, a livelihood that’s been part of the region for generations. You’ll hear stories from guides like Andru, who, according to visitors, are knowledgeable and friendly, making the farm visit engaging and educational.

Meeting and Feeding the Reindeer

This part of the tour is where many guests find their highlight. You can feed the reindeer with lichen, which is not only fun but also deeply meaningful—feeding these animals connects you directly with their daily life. Reviewers like Matteo shared how Reindeer Repa was “so sweet,” and others mentioned that the reindeer were “very friendly” and looked well cared for. The chance to get close enough for photos, and sometimes even petting, makes this a memorable experience.

The farm’s layout allows guests to walk among the reindeer, providing a sense of being immersed in their natural environment while still in a controlled, safe setting. Guests appreciated the opportunity to see hundreds of reindeer in a natural but manageable setting, which highlights the farm’s commitment to authentic reindeer husbandry.

Exploring the Farm Shop

A visit to the farm’s shop is the perfect ending, especially if you want to take home a piece of Arctic culture. The shop offers reindeer products and handicrafts, providing souvenirs and gifts that are both authentic and high-quality. Many visitors, including Steven, noted that the facilities and staff make shopping a pleasant experience, with friendly staff and well-organized displays.

The Guides and Their Stories

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides are a standout feature. Arthur and Andru, in particular, are praised for their knowledgeability and friendly approach. They turn what could be a simple farm visit into an immersive storytelling session, sharing insights into reindeer herding, farm life, and the Sami culture that surrounds these animals.

Guests have commented on how guides like Andru walk and talk with visitors, making the experience more personal and engaging. Hearing stories about the reindeers’ personalities or about the herding lifestyle adds layers of connection that elevate the tour beyond just a scenic ride.

Practical Details and What to Expect

This tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, a perfect length for those wanting a meaningful glimpse into reindeer life without taking up an entire day. The price of $94 per person is quite reasonable, considering the combination of riding, farm visit, feeding, and shopping.

The tour is offered in Finnish and English, making it accessible to international visitors. You’ll want to bring your camera to capture the stunning winter scenery and the adorable reindeer.

Most guests find it easy to reserve, with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund. This flexibility is especially helpful if your plans are subject to change.

What Do Guests Say?

Reviewers like Matteo and David highlight how friendly and knowledgeable the staff are, making the experience educational and fun. One guest loved that they could “met and fed the reindeers after a 1.5 km ride,” and appreciated the excellent views and well-cared-for animals.

Others mention how easy it was to find the farm and how impressive the facilities are, which is reassuring for travelers unfamiliar with Kuusamo. The overall sentiment is one of authenticity, with many guest comments emphasizing the genuine farm atmosphere and the personal touch guides bring.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a relaxing, educational, and scenic encounter with Arctic traditions. It’s also perfect for nature lovers who appreciate animals and authentic farm life. If your goal is to learn about reindeer herding, enjoy scenic sled rides, and take home unique souvenirs, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

The Kuusamo Reindeer Sleigh Ride and Farm Visit offers a well-balanced combination of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and personal interaction. The authentic farm setting, friendly guides like Arthur and Andru, and the chance to meet hundreds of reindeer make it a genuinely special experience. While it’s a relaxed tour, it packs enough charm and authentic touches to satisfy both casual travelers and those with a keen interest in Sami culture and Arctic traditions.

At $94 per person, it provides a valuable immersion into the world of reindeer herding, especially given the personal stories, beautiful scenery, and the opportunity to feed and photograph reindeer up close. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and friendly animals, making this a highlight of any Kuusamo trip.

If you’re after an authentic, family-friendly, and scenic adventure that captures the spirit of Finnish Lapland, this tour is a smart choice. It offers a taste of traditional life and the chance to create lasting memories in a quiet, snowy landscape. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful winter experience, this reindeer farm visit delivers on both charm and authenticity.

FAQs about the Kuusamo Reindeer Sleigh Ride and Farm Visit

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, it’s family-friendly and suitable for all ages. Children especially enjoy feeding the reindeer and the gentle ride.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience runs about 1.5 hours, including the sleigh ride, farm visit, and shopping.

What should I bring? Bring your camera to capture the scenery and animals. Dress warmly, especially in winter, to stay comfortable during the outdoor parts.

Are guides available in English? Yes, guides speak both Finnish and English, ensuring clear explanations and stories.

Can I cancel my reservation? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the price of $94 worth it? Considering the scenic ride, close-up reindeer encounters, and the educational aspect, many guests find the price to be good value.

Is the farm accessible? The tour is designed to be accessible but check with the provider if you have specific mobility concerns.

What’s the best time of year for this tour? The experience is designed for winter, with snow and cold weather enhancing the scenery. It’s best enjoyed during the snowy season.

Can I buy souvenirs? Yes, the farm shop offers reindeer products and handicrafts, perfect for souvenirs.

Do guides tell stories about reindeer herding? Absolutely. Guides share fascinating insights into the reindeers’ lives and the farm’s history, making the experience richer.

This tour in Kuusamo offers a genuine look into the Arctic reindeer culture, blending scenic rides with authentic farm life—an experience you’ll remember long after the snow melts.