Visit a Lappish Reindeer Farm in the Summer

Our review of this summer reindeer farm experience in Rovaniemi highlights a journey into the heart of Lapland’s traditional lifestyle. From feeding adorable reindeer to hearing fascinating stories about their care and lifecycle, this tour offers a glimpse into a unique way of life. It’s perfect for travelers seeking cultural authenticity, nature lovers, or families wanting a hands-on, memorable activity during their Arctic trip.

What stands out most is how accessible and engaging this experience is—offering not only a chance to interact with reindeer but also to learn about Sami traditions in a relaxed setting. One thing to keep in mind is that this tour requires advance booking (typically booked about 138 days ahead), and it’s self-guided in terms of transportation, as your meeting point is in the city center of Rovaniemi.

This experience is ideal for those who value genuine interactions over scripted shows. However, it’s worth considering that the tour begins at 9:00 am, so early risers or late sleepers might need to adjust their plans. Overall, it’s a wonderful, authentic activity for anyone curious about Lapland’s native culture and its iconic reindeer.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Learn about the Sami way of life and reindeer care through guided commentary.
• Interactive Element: Feeding the reindeer adds a fun, memorable touch.
• Convenient Location: Starts in Rovaniemi city center, making it easy to access.
• Limited Group Size: Max 16 travelers, creating a friendly, intimate atmosphere.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for children over 12, with adult supervision required.
• Free Cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What to Expect from the Tour

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, with the start point at the Nordic Unique Travels office in Rovaniemi’s city center. You won’t need to worry about transportation, as logistics are straightforward—you meet at the meeting point, and the tour begins. The guide speaks English as standard, but other languages like French, German, and Spanish can be arranged on request, making it accessible for diverse travelers.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Nordic Unique Travels Office
Your experience kicks off in the heart of Rovaniemi at Maakuntakatu 29. Here, you’ll meet your guide and get briefed on what’s ahead. The meeting point’s central location means you can easily combine this activity with other sightseeing plans.

Reindeer Farm Visit
The core of the experience is the visit to a local reindeer farm. This is where the magic happens—you’re led through the farm, learning about their daily care and the animals’ lifecycle. As one reviewer, Edson, noted, “Les rennes sont des goinfres et c’est rigolo de les voir s’approcher de nous quand on vient les nourrir.” The reindeer are surprisingly curious and not shy about coming close when food is involved, which makes for playful photos and memorable interactions.

Feeding the Reindeer
Feeding the reindeer is the highlight for many. It’s a chance to get up close and see these majestic animals in a relaxed, summer setting. The farm owner explains how reindeer are traditionally cared for and about their role in Sami culture. This tactile experience is especially appreciated as it adds a layer of authenticity that goes beyond typical tourist shows.

Snacks and Hot Drinks
To round off the visit, snacks and hot drinks are provided, adding warmth and comfort after the outdoor activity. It’s a simple but thoughtful touch, giving you a moment to relax and chat with fellow travelers or your guide.

The Value of This Experience

The tour is offered free of charge, which is quite rare for such authentic cultural activities. While there’s no cost per person, the value lies in the quality of the interaction and the educational insights. Expect a small group setting, which enhances the intimacy and allows for personalized attention from your guide.

Insights from Travelers

Reviewers like Hugo appreciated the depth of information provided, mentioning that the farm owner was “very cool,” and the guide, Sonia, was “top,” especially because she spoke French. Such personalized attention makes a big difference when learning about Sami traditions and reindeer care.

Edson also highlighted the unexpected joy of seeing the reindeer approach him during feeding, describing it as a genuinely fun and engaging experience. These practical, real-life impressions show how well the tour balances education with enjoyment.

Considerations and Practical Details

While the tour is highly rated, it’s important to note that pick-up and drop-off are not included—you’ll need to meet at the city center location. The tour operates between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm, with the exact departure time varying based on the season and availability, so checking your booking confirmation is essential.

Participants need to be prepared for a group of up to 16 travelers, which strikes a good balance between intimacy and social atmosphere. Children under 12 require adult supervision and must be accompanied by someone paying the full price, ensuring safety and a respectful environment for the animals.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with specific dietary needs should advise at booking. Since snacks are included, this is also a relaxing, casual activity—no strenuous hikes or cold weather gear needed in summer.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This activity is perfect for anyone interested in Lapland’s cultural traditions, outdoor wildlife encounters, or families looking for a hands-on, educational experience. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see reindeer in a natural setting, even during the summer months when the landscape is lush and green. It’s also a wonderful choice for those who want a cost-effective, authentic experience without the crowds often associated with more commercial activities.

Travelers seeking a relaxed, meaningful activity that offers insight into Sami culture and lifestyle will find this tour both enjoyable and educational. Plus, the opportunity to feed reindeer and interact with them closely makes it a memorable highlight for all ages.

The Sum Up

In sum, visiting a Lappish reindeer farm in summer provides a genuine taste of Arctic life, far removed from typical sightseeing. With knowledgeable guides, intimate group sizes, and the chance to get hands-on with reindeer, it offers real value for those curious about Sami traditions and Arctic wildlife.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy cultural learning, outdoor interactions, and family-friendly activities. Its free price tag enhances its appeal, making it an accessible and rewarding addition to your Rovaniemi itinerary.

If you’re looking for an authentic, educational activity that combines nature, culture, and fun, this tour presents a fantastic opportunity. Just remember to check the booking details and be ready for a cozy, engaging outing that leaves you with lasting memories of Lapland’s unique way of life.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, transportation is not provided. You will need to meet at the specified meeting point in Rovaniemi city center.

What time does the tour start?
The tour starts at 9:00 am, but the exact departure time may vary depending on the season and availability. Always check your confirmation email.

Can children participate?
Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult paying the full price. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but always consider your child’s comfort with outdoor activities.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Is there a limit to group size?
Yes, the maximum group size is 16 travelers, which allows for a more personal experience.

Do I need to prepare anything?
It’s advisable to wear comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for summer weather. Since snacks are provided, there’s no need to bring much else unless you want to take photos.

What languages are available for guides?
The standard guide speaks English. Other languages such as Dutch, German, French, Italian, Spanish, and Chinese can be arranged on request.

This reindeer farm visit in summer offers an authentic window into Lapland’s traditions and wildlife. It’s a laid-back, genuine activity that enriches your understanding of the region. Whether you’re a family, a culture buff, or simply a nature lover, this experience promises a warm, memorable connection to the Arctic’s most iconic animals.