Aurora Hunting by Reindeer Sleigh

Aurora Hunting by Reindeer Sleigh: A Fairly Authentic Arctic Adventure in Rovaniemi

If you’re dreaming of witnessing the Northern Lights from the heart of Lapland, the Aurora Hunting by Reindeer Sleigh offers a cozy, traditional experience that combines reindeer interaction with a quest for the Aurora Borealis. Priced at around $213 per person, this tour packs in a lot: a visit to a reindeer farm, a forest sleigh ride, and an evening spent chasing the elusive auroras, all with added comfort of hotel pickup and drop-off.

What we like most about this experience is the way it blends culture—feeding and hearing stories about reindeer, which are central to Lapland’s heritage—with the thrill of being out in the wild, away from city lights. It’s a great option for those who want a taste of authentic Arctic life without sacrificing convenience or comfort.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that, like most Northern Lights tours, it can’t guarantee seeing the aurora. The weather and solar activity are outside anyone’s control, so patience and a bit of luck are needed.

This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate guided experiences, enjoy fairy-tale scenery, and are okay with some unpredictability when it comes to the auroras. If you’re traveling with children or looking for a family-friendly option, the gentle reindeer ride and relaxed pace make it a good fit—just note that children under 12 need to be accompanied by paying adults.

• Authentic Reindeer Interaction: Feed reindeer and hear stories about their role in Lapland culture.
• Forest Sleigh Ride: Experience a peaceful ride pulled by reindeer, away from city lights.
• Northern Lights Search: Benefit from guided efforts to find the Aurora, with expert tips.
• Convenient Transfers: Round-trip transportation from central Rovaniemi simplifies logistics.
• Duration & Timing: About 3.5 hours, starting early evening, with flexible departure times.
• Group Size & Cost: Up to 36 travelers to keep the experience intimate, at a reasonable price point.

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour departs from Maakuntakatu 29 in Rovaniemi at approximately 5:20 pm, with the exact time varying based on the season and weather. Most travelers book about a month in advance—an indication of good planning for a popular activity. The most convenient part? The round-trip transfer from your hotel or central meeting point eliminates the stress of arranging transport in winter conditions.

The Reindeer Farm Visit

Once onboard, you’ll be collected and driven to a traditional Lapland reindeer farm. Here, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, offering the chance to feed real reindeer. According to reviews, guides like Daniel, Max, Julian, and Davide are friendly and knowledgeable, eager to share folklore and insights about reindeer herding. One reviewer appreciated the “patience and the birthday cake,” highlighting the warm interactions with staff even when the aurora didn’t appear.

Expect to learn about daily reindeer life—what they eat, how they are managed, and their significance to Sami culture. This part of the experience is laid-back but rich in cultural value, making it suitable for those curious about the indigenous Sami traditions.

Reindeer Sleigh Ride

Next comes the highlight: a reindeer-pulled sleigh into the forest. This gentle ride offers peaceful views of the snow-blanketed woods, perfect for nature lovers. The sleighs are typically open or semi-enclosed, allowing for spectacular starry skies if the weather permits.

Travelers have commented on the calm and authentic experience—one reviewer noted that even when the Northern Lights were elusive, the bonfire and company made the evening special. The ride is slow-paced, accessible for most ages, and offers ample opportunity for photos and quiet reflection.

Searching for the Northern Lights

After the sleigh ride, the group moves into the forest, where guides actively search for the Aurora Borealis. As one reviewer pointed out, “Malcolm was a fabulous guide providing a lot of information on the area, Northern Lights, and other trips.” The guides do their best to maximize viewing chances, but there’s no guarantee—this is nature after all.

The reviews reflect a diverse range of experiences: some saw stunning displays, while others appreciated the effort and the atmosphere, even if the lights didn’t make an appearance. Be prepared for patience, warm clothing, and a bit of hot chocolate or mulled wine to accompany the wait.

Ending and Return

The tour concludes back at the initial meeting point, usually around 9 pm or so, depending on the sunset or aurora activity. The seamless transfer means you can relax knowing your transportation is handled, which is especially valuable after a cold night outdoors.

• Guides Matter: Several reviews praise the guides for their friendliness and knowledge, which greatly enhances the experience.
• Views & Atmosphere: Even without guaranteed aurora sightings, many appreciate the stunning starry skies and the cozy bonfire atmosphere.
• Mixed Aurora Results: Some guests felt the experience was worth the price even when the lights didn’t show up, citing the cultural elements and peaceful forest setting as highlights.
• Weather Dependence: A common theme is that Northern Lights are unpredictable, so patience is key, and you might find the experience more about the journey than the destination.

This tour, at just over $210, offers a solid balance of authentic cultural experience, scenic beauty, and expert guidance. The reindeer interaction is a genuine touch that many tours overlook, making this stand out for those interested in Sami traditions. The forest sleigh ride is both relaxing and scenic, providing a peaceful escape from the city.

While the chance to see the Aurora is the main draw, the tour’s value also lies in its well-organized nature and small group size—up to 36 travelers—ensuring a friendly, personalized feel. The included transfer reduces hassle, especially in winter conditions, and the evening timing means you can enjoy the dark skies without too much daytime rush.

That said, it’s important to remember the uncertainty of the Northern Lights. Some reviews mention that the experience can be “messy” at times, with delays or logistical hiccups, but overall, the staff seems dedicated to making the best of the conditions.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy culture, natural beauty, and are comfortable with the possibility that they may not see the Northern Lights. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who want an authentic, guided Arctic adventure in a relaxed setting. If you’re after a more guaranteed aurora view, you might want to compare other tours with unlimited mileage or longer durations.

Aurora Hunting by Reindeer Sleigh provides a thoughtful, culturally rich way to explore Lapland’s natural and indigenous heritage. The combination of feeding reindeer, a scenic forest sleigh ride, and guided aurora searches makes for a memorable Arctic evening.

While the unpredictability of the Northern Lights means certainty is impossible, the knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and warm, friendly atmosphere ensure this tour delivers genuine value for those seeking an authentic Lapland experience. It’s particularly well-suited for families, culture seekers, and anyone wanting a relaxing, picturesque night under the stars.

If you’re prepared for some patience and want to enjoy the essence of Lapland, this tour offers a respectful, charming snapshot of Arctic life that’s worth considering in your northern Finland itinerary.

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, round-trip transfer from central Rovaniemi is offered, making it easier to enjoy the experience without worrying about transportation.

What’s the starting time?
The tour begins between 5:20 pm and 8:00 pm, depending on the season and availability. It’s recommended to check your booking email for the exact pickup time.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, giving enough time for the reindeer farm visit, sleigh ride, and aurora searching.

Can children participate?
Yes, most travelers can participate. Children under 12 must be accompanied by adults who pay the full price, and the relaxed pace makes it suitable for families.

What if the Northern Lights don’t appear?
The tour doesn’t guarantee sightings—it’s dependent on weather and solar activity. Many reviews mention that even without visible auroras, the experience remains enjoyable with the cultural and scenic elements.

Is this experience suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour involves a gentle sleigh ride into the forest, which may not be accessible for all mobility levels. It’s best to check with the provider if you have specific needs.

How many people are in each group?
Up to 36 travelers can join, offering an intimate experience without being a large crowd.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, as you’ll be outdoors for several hours in cold weather. The tour providers usually supply winter gear, but layering is essential.

Will I see the Northern Lights?
While guides do their best to find the aurora, sightings depend entirely on natural conditions. Many guests find the overall experience worthwhile, even if the lights are shy.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the reindeer farm visit, sleigh ride, guided aurora search, and round-trip transportation.

Embark on this gentle journey into Lapland’s wilderness and Sami culture. Whether the Northern Lights put on a show or not, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of the Arctic’s quiet beauty and traditions.