Reindeer Safari and Ice Fishing

Reindeer Safari and Ice Fishing in Lapland: An Authentic Arctic Experience

This reindeer safari combined with ice fishing offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s winter wonders. It’s a well-rounded tour that balances interactive animal encounters, scenic sled rides, and tranquil fishing—all wrapped up within a 4.5-hour window. We love how it captures the essence of Lapland’s peaceful wilderness, providing a quiet escape from busy tourist spots.

One thing to consider is that this tour doesn’t include meals, so you’ll want to plan for some snacks or a meal afterward. Also, while the experience is generally accessible, pregnant women, young children under 2, or those with allergies to animals might find some activities less suitable. Overall, it’s ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, hands-on Arctic adventure that combines nature, culture, and a touch of local lifestyle.

If you’re after a peaceful, immersive experience that highlights traditional Sami culture and offers a chance to connect with nature, this tour hits the right notes. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic encounters and scenic tranquility rather than high-speed adrenaline.

Key Points

• Authentic Reindeer Experience: Learn about reindeer breeding and feed the animals at a genuine farm.
• Scenic Sled Ride: Enjoy a one-hour sled ride through the stunning forest, perfect for photography and soaking in the winter landscape.
• Peaceful Ice Fishing: Try your hand at ice fishing on a lake behind the farm, with guidance on drilling holes and fishing strategies.
• Local Culture & Hot Drinks: Discover Sami traditions with a lecture, complemented by hot drinks and local treats.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and reserve now with pay later options.
• Ideal for Nature Lovers: Best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, quiet scenery, and cultural insights.

In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting in Rovaniemi, the tour begins with pick-up at convenient locations like the Arctic City Hotel. From there, it’s about a 5-hour journey filled with authentic Arctic activities. The first stop is a visit to a reindeer farm near Sieri Lake, where you’ll get close-up with reindeer—the iconic animals of Lapland. Here, you’ll learn about their life and the family who breeds them, gaining insights into traditional Sami livelihoods.

Feeding the reindeer is often highlighted as a favorite part—one guest from Spain, Tamara, described it as an activity full of silence and authenticity, noting that it was a real treat to be so close to the animals in their natural environment. The farm visit also includes a lecture about reindeer breeding, giving travelers context about the importance of these animals in Sami culture.

Next, you’ll hop on a sled ride through the forest, an experience that truly captures the magic of Lapland’s winter landscape. The sleds glide smoothly over the snow, offering panoramic views of the Taiga forest, which is often described as stunning and peaceful. It’s a gentle ride, making it suitable for most ages and physical conditions, although it’s worth dressing very warmly.

After the ride, a hot drink and local delicacies are served—an appreciated moment of warmth and comfort in the cold outdoors. This is also a good time to reflect on the serene snow-covered scenery and enjoy a moment of quiet before moving on to the next activity.

The highlight for many is the ice fishing experience. Located on a lake just behind the farm, this activity involves drilling your own hole in the ice—an activity that transforms a simple task into a fun skill. The guide explains the secrets of successful fishing, and artificial worms are used as bait. Fish varieties like perch and pike can be caught, and the activity is designed to be both educational and relaxing.

According to a review by Tamara, the experience of listening to the silence and enjoying good food makes this a highly recommended activity. She also mentioned that contact with the provider could be improved with more timely communication, but overall, the experience itself was memorable.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This experience offers a blend of culture and outdoor adventure. The chance to feed reindeer and learn about Sami traditions adds depth to the visit, moving beyond just sightseeing. The sled ride through the forest provides some of the most memorable views of the Arctic wilderness—crisp air, snow-laden trees, and a peaceful silence that’s hard to match.

The ice fishing component is particularly special: it’s not just about catching fish but also about learning a traditional skill in a scenic winter setting. You get to drill your own hole, which adds an active element, and use artificial bait—so it’s accessible even for those new to fishing.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour costs $271 per person, which covers transportation, a guided tour, reindeer farm visit, sled ride, ice fishing gear, hot drinks, and local snacks. While there’s no meal included, the hot drinks and local treats help make up for it. The tour’s duration is just under five hours, fitting well into a day of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Transportation is included with pick-up and drop-off from Rovaniemi’s city center, which is very convenient. The small-group feel ensures that everyone gets attention, and the guides speak English, making explanations clear and friendly.

What to bring? Dress warmly—layers, winter boots, hat, and water are essentials. Since overalls and boots aren’t included, bringing your own winter clothing ensures comfort and safety. The outdoor activities happen early in the day, starting around 9:40 a.m., so preparing for cold weather is key.

The Authenticity and Value of the Tour

At its core, this tour stands out for its authenticity. Unlike packaged, high-speed tours, it emphasizes genuine interaction—feeding reindeer, listening to Sami stories, and practicing ice fishing. The price reflects the inclusion of transportation, equipment, and the chance to experience multiple facets of Arctic life.

While it may not be as adrenaline-pumping as snowmobiling or Northern Lights chases, it offers a peaceful, immersive day that feels true to Lapland’s spirit. The focus on silence, tradition, and scenery makes it perfect for travelers who want quiet moments and cultural insights.

The review from Tamara sums it up well: “Una auténtica actividad escuchando el silencio, comiendo buena comida.” She also suggested that more communication from the provider, such as a reminder 48 hours before, could improve the overall experience—but even without this, the activity delivered on its promises.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a peaceful Arctic escape. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to connect with Sami traditions and enjoy scenic winter landscapes without the rush of high-speed activities. Families with children over 2 years old, couples, or solo travelers looking for a meaningful outdoor adventure will find plenty to enjoy here.

It’s a great choice for those who appreciate authenticity and quiet beauty, rather than adrenaline or luxury. Keep in mind that it’s outdoors for most of the time, so dressing warmly is non-negotiable.

Final Thoughts

The Reindeer Safari and Ice Fishing tour offers a well-rounded, genuine experience of Lapland’s winter life. From feeding reindeer and learning about Sami culture to sled riding through snow-laden forests and trying your hand at ice fishing, it’s a thoughtful blend of activities that highlight the region’s natural beauty and traditions.

While it’s a relatively short tour, it leaves a lasting impression of tranquility and authenticity. For travelers who want to step into the Arctic landscape, connect with nature, and gain insight into local Sami life, this is a fantastic choice.

It provides excellent value given the variety of activities, cultural insights, and scenic views packed into just under five hours. Just remember to dress warmly, bring a sense of curiosity, and prepare for a day of peaceful, memorable Arctic adventures.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from Rovaniemi, with specific locations like the Arctic City Hotel.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 4.5 hours, starting around 9:40 a.m., making it a manageable half-day activity.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly with comfortable shoes, layered clothing, a hat, and water. Winter boots are recommended since overalls and boots are not provided.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. However, hot drinks and local treats are part of the experience, providing warmth and nourishment.

Can children participate?
While not explicitly stated, children over 2 years old can typically join. Pregnant women and those with animal allergies are advised to consider suitability carefully.

What animals will I see?
You’ll see and interact with reindeer, learning about their role in Sami culture and breeding.

Is this experience suitable for people with allergies?
People with animal allergies should exercise caution, as the activity involves close contact with reindeer.

What fish can I expect to catch?
Perch and pike are the fish most likely to be caught during the ice fishing activity.

To sum it up, this tour offers a balanced, authentic slice of Arctic life in Lapland—perfect for those seeking tranquility, cultural insights, and scenic beauty. It’s not just a sightseeing trip but a chance to connect with the land and its traditions in a meaningful way.