Lapland Reindeer Sleigh Ride: Local Guide & Hot Drinks

Summary

Reindeer sleigh ride with local stories & cozy forest stop

You’ll glide through snowy forests on a reindeer sleigh with a local guide sharing stories of Lapland life. Warm up in a cozy hut with hot drinks and snacks while your reindeer rest nearby. Transfers from Rovaniemi and all winter gear are included — you’ll leave feeling like you’ve lived a small piece of Arctic tradition.

What’s the experience like?

We climbed into the sleigh just as the sky was turning that pale blue you only see in Lapland. The air had this dry, icy bite — not painful, just sharp enough to make my nose tingle. Our reindeer looked back at us with what I swear was a judgmental side-eye (maybe I imagined it). The guide, Sanni, handed me an extra pair of wool socks and grinned like she knew I’d need them. Then we set off, the runners creaking softly over snow that squeaked underfoot.

I didn’t expect how quiet it would be out there. You hear about “peaceful” but this was different — just the soft jingle of harness bells and our breath puffing out in little clouds. Sanni started telling us about her grandfather’s life as a reindeer herder; she pointed out tracks in the snow and laughed when I tried to repeat the Finnish word for “antler.” (I definitely butchered it.) The main keyword here is reindeer sleigh ride Lapland — but honestly, it felt less like a tour and more like slipping into someone else’s winter routine for a while.

After maybe half an hour (I lost track), we stopped at this wooden hut tucked between pines. Inside smelled like smoke and something sweet — turns out it was berry juice warming on the stove. We wrapped our hands around hot mugs while the reindeer rested outside, steam rising off their backs. There was a moment where nobody talked; just sipping quietly, cheeks burning from the cold and firelight flickering on everyone’s faces. I still think about that silence sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Reindeer sleigh ride and snack

• Ride reindeer sleigh through forest
• Visit Lappish hut in wilderness
• Enjoy hot drinks and light snack
• Learn about reindeer and herders
• Return by reindeer sleigh

Top questions

How long is the reindeer sleigh ride from Rovaniemi?

The sleigh ride covers 2-3 km through snowy forests near Apukka Resort.

Is hotel pickup included for this Lapland reindeer tour?

Yes, transfers are included from Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village to Apukka Resort and back.

Are winter clothes provided for the reindeer sleigh ride?

Yes, thermal overalls, boots, woolen socks, mittens, and balaclava are provided.

Is this tour suitable for young children?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap during the ride.

What food or drink is included on this day trip?

A hot drink and light snack are served in a Lappish hut during the tour.

Will we learn about reindeer herding on this experience?

Yes, your guide will share stories about reindeer husbandry in Finnish Lapland.

How physically demanding is this activity?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels but not recommended for those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes transfers from Rovaniemi or Santa Claus Village to Apukka Resort and back again, all necessary winter clothing like thermal overalls and boots to keep you warm, guiding with personal stories about reindeer husbandry, a 2-3 km traditional reindeer sleigh ride through snowy forests, plus hot drinks and a light snack inside a cozy Lappish hut before returning home.