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Levi: Meet Reindeer and Visit Husky Kennel — A Genuine Arctic Encounter
If you’re heading to Levi in Lapland and looking for a straightforward, authentic chance to meet some of the region’s most iconic animals, this tour offers just that. Priced at around $30 per person for a one-day experience, it combines the joy of observing reindeer and Siberian huskies in their natural environment, all in a relaxed, no-pressure setting.
What we particularly like about this experience is its simplicity and focus. It’s an ideal way to introduce yourself to the wilderness and wildlife of Lapland without the need for long sled rides or intense adventures. Yet, a possible downside is that some visitors felt the husky kennel was smaller and less accessible than expected, which might be disappointing if your main goal is petting and interacting closely with the huskies.
This experience suits travelers who want an authentic, family-friendly, and budget-conscious introduction to Lapland’s animals. It’s especially good for those traveling with children or anyone eager to capture beautiful photos of reindeer and huskies while soaking in the peaceful Arctic scenery.
Key Points
- Authentic Animal Encounters: Meet friendly Siberian huskies and reindeer in a relaxed setting.
- Affordable Price: At around $30, it offers good value for a genuine wildlife experience.
- Photo Opportunities: Plenty of chances to snap memorable moments with animals and scenic backgrounds.
- Limited Sledding: No sled rides are included, making it more of an observation and photo tour.
- Informative Guides: Reviewers highlight knowledgeable staff, especially the reindeer handler.
- Nature & Comfort: The experience combines outdoor viewing with access to indoor warmth, hot drinks, and cookies.
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An In-Depth Look: What to Expect from the Tour
This tour is designed as a calm, introductory visit to the animals that embody Lapland’s wilderness. It’s ideal if you’re seeking a low-pressure, authentic chance to see reindeer and huskies without the physical effort of sledding or longer excursions.
Starting Point and Logistics
The tour begins at a location on Piekkarinniementie 35, near Levi. Since the experience takes place mostly outdoors, you’ll want to dress warmly—think layers, waterproofs, and sturdy footwear, especially since some parts involve walking through natural terrain or bushes. The group sizes tend to be small, allowing for personal interaction and better photo opportunities.
Visit to the Husky Kennel
You’ll visit a cozy husky kennel located not far from Levi. The setting is intimate, and you’ll meet the Siberian huskies—friendly, energetic, and eager to interact. Visitors often describe the huskies as being well-cared-for and happy to be around people, with the chance to take some memorable photos.
However, some reviewers, like Nicole from the Netherlands, mention that the kennel was smaller than expected and involved walking through bushes to see the huskies in their cages. The number of huskies you can pet is limited; in her case, only one husky was available for petting, and the kennel housed just three reindeer overall.
Reindeer Viewing and Feeding
The highlight for most is the reindeer encounter. You’ll visit a spacious, fenced-in area where the reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) roam freely. It’s a relaxed environment where you can observe them up close, take photos, and, if you buy food on-site, feed them—an activity especially popular with children.
Guide insights, like those from the reindeer handler, add depth—talking about reindeer behavior, their importance to Sami culture, and tips for safe interaction. The reindeer viewing is quiet and contemplative, providing a genuine sense of connection to Lapland’s traditional livelihood.
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Warm Indoor Space and Refreshments
A major plus is the availability of a cozy indoor area where you can warm up, sip hot drinks, and enjoy cookies. This little comfort is appreciated after spending time outdoors in the cold, making the experience accessible for all ages.
Additional Options and Flexibility
While the tour is limited to viewing and photography, it’s easy to see that many participants leave inspired to explore further. If desired, you can book a more extensive reindeer or husky tour directly on-site, including sled rides or guided safaris.
The Experience in Action: What Reviewers Have Said
The reviews highlight a mix of impressions, but overall, many found this tour touching and worthwhile. For example, a traveler from Japan shared that their experience was “truly dreamlike and heavenly,” praising the warmth of the hospitality and the cuteness of the animals. They appreciated the kindness of the guides and the opportunity to see reindeer and huskies in a natural setting.
Conversely, some visitors, like Nicole, felt the experience was somewhat limited. She mentioned that the kennel was small, hard to access comfortably, and lacked the interactive element she expected—particularly for the huskies. This points to an important consideration: if your goal is to pet and play with huskies, this may not fully meet that desire.
Other reviewers emphasize the knowledgeable guides, especially the reindeer handler, who shared interesting facts about the animals, making the visit both educational and enjoyable. The views of the snowy landscape and the peaceful atmosphere also receive high praise, with some describing the short sleigh ride to the kennel as very beautiful.
Price vs. Value: Is It Worth It?
At $30, this experience offers a budget-friendly way to connect with Lapland’s iconic animals. The price covers the visit, photo opportunities, and warm indoor comforts. While it doesn’t include sled rides or extensive guided tours, it provides enough for a meaningful introduction to reindeer and huskies, especially if you’re short on time or traveling with children.
For those expecting a hands-on, petting-intensive experience, the value might feel limited, but for genuine animal viewing and scenic photo moments, it’s a solid option. Many travelers found it worth the price, especially given the friendly guides and the peaceful environment.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This activity is perfect if you want a relaxed, authentic glance at Lapland’s wildlife without the physical exertion of rides or long tours. It’s well-suited for families, first-time visitors, or anyone looking for a budget-friendly introduction. Since it includes indoor warmth and refreshments, it’s also practical for colder days.
However, those seeking a more interactive or extensive husky or reindeer experience—such as sledding or longer rides—may want to look at other, more comprehensive tours available nearby. Also, travelers with allergies to animals or those who dislike walking outdoors in cold weather might want to consider their comfort level.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
This tour provides a genuine, peaceful peek into Lapland’s animal world at a reasonable price. You’ll love the chance to photograph and observe reindeer and huskies in a natural setting, guided by friendly, knowledgeable staff. It’s a straightforward, family-friendly activity that offers a taste of Lapland’s wilderness without the need for lengthy commitments or strenuous activity.
It’s best for travelers who value authenticity, simplicity, and scenic tranquility. If your goal is to meet the animals at a relaxed pace and enjoy a few warm drinks in the Arctic cold, this is a good choice. Just keep your expectations aligned with what’s offered—mainly viewing, feeding, and photos, rather than interactive sled rides or petting sessions.
FAQ
Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, this tour is family-friendly and particularly popular with children, especially since they can feed and take photos with the animals.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons. The tour can be canceled free of charge if done 24 hours in advance.
Are there any physical requirements or restrictions?
The tour involves walking outdoors in cold weather, so dress warmly. It’s not suitable for people with motion sickness or allergies to animals.
Can I feed the reindeer?
Yes, food is available for purchase on-site, and feeding the reindeer is an optional but recommended activity, especially enjoyed by kids.
Will I get to pet the huskies?
You can pet the huskies, but some reviews indicate limited access or small kennel sizes, so don’t expect extensive interaction.
Is sledding or riding included?
No, this is a viewing and photo tour only. If you want sled rides, you’ll need to book a different tour.
What’s included in the price?
The visit to the husky kennel, reindeer viewing, feeding options, indoor warmth, hot drinks, and cookies are included.
To sum it up, this Levi Reindeer and Husky Visit is a great choice for travelers wanting an authentic, laid-back introduction to Lapland’s beloved animals. It’s especially suited for those with a limited schedule or budget, families, and anyone eager for scenic, peaceful wildlife moments. Just keep in mind the modest size of the kennel and the focus on observation rather than hands-on interaction. Overall, a charming, affordable way to make some Arctic memories.
