Rovaniemi: Snowmobile safari with guide & winter gear

Summary

Glide through Lapland’s snowy silence on a guided snowmobile ride

You’ll suit up in warm gear and learn to drive your own snowmobile across frozen rivers and snowy forests near Rovaniemi, guided by a local who knows every twist of the trail. Expect laughter (maybe nerves), animal tracks in fresh powder, and moments of pure Arctic silence you’ll remember long after the trip.

What’s the experience like?

Pulling the helmet over my head, I could smell that faint plasticky-wool scent of borrowed winter gear — not unpleasant, just oddly comforting. Our guide, Sanni, grinned as she handed me the gloves (“Don’t worry, they’re warm enough for Finnish cold!”). The air outside was sharp and bright, the kind that makes your nose tingle. We clambered onto the snowmobiles parked by the riverbank in Rovaniemi, engines humming quietly under all that white. I’d never driven one before — honestly thought I’d mess it up — but Sanni’s instructions were clear and patient, even when I accidentally squeezed the throttle too hard and startled myself (and her).

The first few minutes felt like learning to walk again, only faster and with more snow flying at my visor. We zipped out onto the frozen river — you can actually feel the difference in how smooth it is under the tracks. There was this moment where everything went quiet except for the low rumble of our machines; trees heavy with frost on either side, sky pale blue above. Sanni pointed out some animal tracks crisscrossing the trail (“Probably foxes,” she said), and I tried to spot them while keeping my balance. It’s funny how quickly you start trusting both yourself and this odd machine beneath you.

We stopped deep in the forest for a breather — just us, surrounded by endless white and those impossibly tall pines. My breath came out in little clouds. Someone cracked a joke about getting lost forever (not me this time), and Sanni laughed, promising she’d always find her way back to Rovaniemi. On the way back, I loosened up enough to enjoy the speed a bit more; there’s something about gliding over snow that makes you feel both tiny and invincible at once. Even now, days later, I still think about that weird mix of adrenaline and peace.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snowmobile Safari in Rovaniemi

• Snowmobile driving instruction
• Drive on frozen river
• Explore forest trails

Top questions

Do I need experience to join this snowmobile safari?

No experience is needed; beginners are welcome and full instructions are given by your guide.

How long does the snowmobile safari last?

The snowmobile ride lasts approximately 1 hour.

Is pickup included from my hotel in Rovaniemi?

The tour includes transfer from Access Lapland Office to the activity starting point and back.

What equipment is provided for the tour?

You’ll get a helmet, balaclava, gloves, boots, and a thermal overall for warmth.

Can children join this snowmobile safari?

Children at least 140cm tall can ride as passengers on a snowmobile; smaller children can travel in a sledge at child rate.

Do I need a driver’s license?

Yes, drivers must be at least 18 years old with a valid A1, T, A or B category license valid in Finland.

Is this activity suitable for people with health issues?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health or pregnant travelers.

What’s included

Your outing includes transfer from Access Lapland Office to where you start riding (and back), all winter clothing like helmet and thermal suit so you won’t freeze out there, twin driving on your own snowmobile for an hour through Lapland’s wilds with an English-speaking local guide who gives clear safety instructions before you set off.