Rovaniemi: Horse Sleigh Ride under the Night Sky

This guided horse sleigh ride in Rovaniemi offers an enchanting way to experience the Arctic night. Combining traditional Finnish culture, cozy comfort, and the hope of catching the Northern Lights, this tour provides a memorable winter adventure. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, the gentle glide through snow-covered forests with a warm blanket wrapped around you is a uniquely charming experience.

What we really love about this experience is how it balances authenticity and comfort. You get to ride in a rustic horse-drawn sleigh, listen to stories of the Northern Lights and Finnish horses, and enjoy hot drinks by a bonfire—all under the vast, star-studded sky. The only thing to bear in mind is that the tour is weather-dependent; clear skies are essential for seeing the Aurora. This tour is perfect for those wanting a peaceful, culturally rich experience with a touch of winter magic.

If you’re after a romantic outing, a family-friendly activity, or simply want to enjoy the Arctic landscape in a traditional way, this tour fits the bill. Just keep in mind it involves a short walk to the horses and is not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users. Overall, it’s a heartfelt, beautifully paced adventure that emphasizes the quiet beauty of Lapland’s winter nights.

Key Points

• Authentic Finnish experience with a cozy horse sleigh ride and storytelling
• Stunning winter scenery through frost-covered forests and snow-laden trails
• The chance to see the Northern Lights, weather permitting
• Warm blankets, hot drinks, and sausages add comfort and flavor
• Guided by knowledgeable professionals sharing legends and tales
• Suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a peaceful Arctic adventure

An Evening of Arctic Charm and Tradition

This tour, operated by Apukka Resort Oy, offers a 3-hour journey into the heart of Lapland’s winter beauty. It’s designed to be a gentle, scenic ride that emphasizes authenticity and relaxation rather than adrenaline-fueled adventures. The experience begins with a convenient pickup from two locations: the Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village, making it easy to fit into your travel plans.

The guided tour is English-speaking, with guides like Janne, who are known for their friendly approach and storytelling skills. They share legends about the Northern Lights and insights into Finnish horses, adding depth to the ride. The group size is kept manageable—each sleigh generally seats six to eight people—allowing for a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Pickup & Transfer

The tour begins with a pickup arranged 35-50 minutes before the activity starts, depending on your chosen location. The transport is comfortable, often via a vehicle that takes you directly to Apukka Resort, where the adventure continues. This seamless transfer means you don’t have to worry about logistics or navigation, especially in snowy conditions.

The Sleigh Ride

The main event, a 3 km horse-drawn sleigh ride, takes you through snowy trails and frost-covered forests. As you settle into the rustic carriage, wrapped in warm blankets, the surroundings become a winter postcard. The guides point out interesting sights and share local stories, making the ride both relaxing and informative.

Guests frequently comment on how peaceful and magical the ride feels. As one reviewer notes, “It was simply magical. Everything was perfect—the rustic carriage, the campfire, the sausages, and the Northern Lights in their most beautiful formations.” Although seeing the Auroras is not guaranteed, the chance is there, and the tranquil environment makes it worth the effort even without a sighting.

At the Forest Edge: Bonfire and Stories

Reaching the forest’s edge, you’ll find a blazing bonfire where hot drinks and sausages are served in wooden cups. Here, the guides share tales of the Northern Lights and Finnish folklore, creating a cozy, communal atmosphere. The warmth of the fire and the smell of grilled sausages make this part of the experience memorable, especially when contrasted with the cold outside.

The Return

After about two and a half hours, the sleigh ride concludes, and you’re transferred back to your pickup point. Many guests mention how the experience left them with a sense of tranquility and a new appreciation for Lapland’s winter landscape.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Authenticity & Cultural Depth

The combination of Finnish horses, traditional sleighs, and storytelling makes this more than just a scenic ride. Guests learn about the history of the horses and the myths of the Northern Lights, which enrich the experience. One reviewer highlights how understanding the stories made the adventure more meaningful, even when the Aurora was faint or absent.

Comfort & Practicality

Given the cold, warm clothing is provided—thermal overalls, boots, mittens, and balaclavas—ensuring guests stay cozy. The blankets are thick and plush, allowing you to relax and enjoy the ride without shivering. The hot drinks and sausages at the bonfire add a comforting touch, making this feel like a true Arctic feast.

Value for Money

Considering the inclusion of transfers, clothing, a 3 km sleigh ride, storytelling, and hot drinks, the price offers good value. Especially for travelers seeking a cultural and scenic experience rather than adrenaline-fueled activities like husky safaris or snowmobiling, this tour hits the right balance.

The Physical and Logistical Aspects

The tour involves a short walk to reach the horses, so it’s worth noting if you have mobility concerns. However, guides are experienced and professional, ensuring safety throughout. The group size tends to be small, fostering an intimate atmosphere, and the timing is flexible, with available start times depending on the season and weather.

While the tour is weather-dependent—clear skies are necessary for seeing the Northern Lights—the experience itself remains visually stunning, with snow-dusted landscapes and starry skies providing a spectacular backdrop, regardless of Aurora visibility.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour appeals most to those seeking a peaceful, cultural introduction to Lapland. It’s ideal for families with children, romantic couples, or solo travelers wanting a taste of Arctic tradition. If you’re after a high-energy adventure, you might find it too sedate, but if serenity and storytelling are your thing, this will be right up your alley.

This horse sleigh ride in Rovaniemi offers a quintessential Arctic experience—beautiful scenery, warm company, and a touch of magic. It’s well-suited for travelers who want to appreciate Lapland’s winter landscape without the hustle and bustle of more adrenaline-oriented activities. The included storytelling and cultural insights add a layer of meaning, making it more than just a scenic ride.

While the chance of seeing the Northern Lights isn’t guaranteed, the overall atmosphere and stunning surroundings make the journey worthwhile. The experience’s emphasis on authenticity and comfort makes it an ideal choice for those wanting a gentle, memorable taste of Lapland’s winter wonderland.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, culturally rich, and visually stunning outing, this tour offers good value and genuine magic.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transfers are included from both Rovaniemi city center and Santa Claus Village, making it easy to join without extra planning.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing, including thermal overalls, boots, mittens, and a balaclava, is provided. Still, it’s a good idea to dress in weather-appropriate layers.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
While the tour offers a good chance to see the Aurora, it depends on the weather and sky conditions. The guides share stories regardless, making the experience worthwhile whether or not the lights appear.

Is this activity suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s suitable for families and children, but not for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as a short walk to the horses is required.

How long is the ride?
The sleigh ride itself is approximately 3 km long and lasts around 2.5 hours, including stops and storytelling.

What is the best time of year for this experience?
Typically available during the winter months when snow covers the landscape, offering the best scenery and conditions for a sleigh ride.

This tour in Rovaniemi combines authentic tradition, scenic beauty, and cozy comfort, making it a wonderful way to experience Lapland’s winter nights. Whether you’re chasing the Aurora or simply seeking a peaceful escape, it’s an adventure that leaves a lasting impression.