Rovaniemi: Husky & Reindeer Safari, Aurora BBQ Night

Summary

Lapland husky rides meet reindeer sleighs under northern lights

You’ll race behind huskies through snowy Lapland, glide quietly on a reindeer sleigh, and share Lappish BBQ by a bonfire while scanning for northern lights near Rovaniemi. Hotel pickup is included so you don’t have to worry about getting lost in the dark Arctic evening. It’s less about chasing perfection — more about those odd little moments you’ll remember.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect my toes to go numb that quickly — even with the thick socks. But honestly, the cold in Rovaniemi is different. It’s sharp but kind of clean, if that makes sense? Our guide, Olli, handed me a mug of hot tea right after we met the huskies. They barked and yipped like they’d been waiting all morning just for us. The husky safari was short (maybe 500 meters?) but fast enough that I got snow in my eyelashes and laughed out loud. Olli said the dogs love to run more than anything — you can actually see it in their eyes.

Afterwards we met the reindeer team. They’re quieter than I thought — almost shy. There was this one with a lopsided antler who kept sniffing my glove; I tried to say “kiitos” but probably butchered it (Olli grinned anyway). The reindeer sleigh ride was slower, gliding through pine trees dusted with frost. I could hear nothing but the runners sliding over snow and our breath in the air. We finished before noon and had time to choose: back to the hotel or Santa Village for the afternoon (I picked Santa Village because… when else?).

The real magic hit at night. Olli picked us up again after dark — which is basically anytime after 3pm here — and drove us out past town lights. We stopped by a frozen lake first; there was this weird silence, like even the air was waiting for something. While we waited for any sign of aurora (no promises), he grilled sausages over a fire inside a wooden kota hut. The smoke mixed with cold air and someone passed around Fazer chocolate — honestly, that part alone would have been worth it. The lights showed up faintly behind some clouds, greenish streaks moving so slowly I almost missed them at first.

I still think about that moment: standing by the fire, cheeks burning from cold and heat at once, watching strangers turn into friends as we squinted at the sky together. Not everything went perfectly (my phone died from cold halfway through), but maybe that’s what made it feel real.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Husky and Reindeer Rides, Aurora BBQ

• Travel to huskies and reindeers place
• Meet Arctic huskies
• Enjoy short husky ride
• Meet authentic Lapland reindeers
• Enjoy relaxing reindeer sleigh ride
• Free afternoon after morning activities
• Guide picks you up from hotel
• Drive to first Aurora viewing location
• Enjoy Lappish BBQ by bonfire
• Drive to second Aurora viewing location
• Admire northern lights if visible

Top questions

How long is the Rovaniemi husky & reindeer safari tour?

The total experience lasts about 7 hours including travel time.

Does this day trip from Rovaniemi include hotel pickup?

Yes, hotel or accommodation pickup and drop-off are included.

Is food provided during the Aurora BBQ night?

Yes, you get hot tea, grilled sausage with bun, marshmallows to roast, and Fazer chocolate.

Can vegans join this tour?

Vegan options are available if you inform ahead of time.

What are the distances for husky and reindeer rides?

The husky ride is 500 meters; reindeer sleigh ride is 400 meters.

Are there chances to see Northern Lights on this tour?

You visit two Aurora locations for better chances but sightings aren’t guaranteed.

How many people are in each group?

The maximum is 8 participants per car for a small group experience.

Is this day trip suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your hotel or accommodation in Rovaniemi by Mercedes-Benz or Volkswagen minivan (max 8 guests), meeting friendly Arctic huskies with a short sled ride, visiting Lapland reindeers for your own sleigh ride through snowy forest trails, plus an evening drive to two Northern Lights viewing spots where you’ll enjoy hot tea and a traditional Lappish BBQ dinner around a bonfire before returning late at night.