Rovaniemi: Meet and Feed Reindeer

If you’re visiting Rovaniemi and looking for a truly authentic Arctic experience, the Meet and Feed Reindeer tour offers a charming glimpse into Lapland’s traditional way of life. While not a long tour, it packs in meaningful interactions with reindeer, engaging stories about their care, and picturesque moments that will make your Arctic adventure memorable.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the close-up animal encounters—petting and feeding reindeer that are surprisingly gentle. Second, the tales of reindeer husbandry shared by knowledgeable guides give you insight into this age-old livelihood. Third, the included winter clothing and hot drinks make the chilly environment comfortable and cozy.

A possible drawback is the limited duration—just about an hour—which might leave some wanting more time with these fascinating creatures. Still, for those eager to connect with nature and learn about local traditions in a manageable time frame, this tour hits the right note.

This experience is ideal for families, solo travelers, or couples seeking an authentic, low-stress activity that combines education, animal interaction, and Lapland’s iconic winter scenery.

Good To Know

• Authentic Reindeer Encounters: Pet and feed reindeer in a safe, friendly environment.
• Educational Content: Learn about reindeer husbandry and their place in Sami culture.
• Comfort in Cold Weather: Includes thermal clothing, boots, and mittens—perfect for winter.
• Photographic Opportunities: Capture adorable reindeer moments for social media.
• Convenient Transfers: Options from Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village.
• Value for Money: At $74, this tour offers a meaningful, family-friendly experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Reindeer Experience

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The tour is approximately one hour long, making it a great quick immersion into Lapland’s reindeer traditions. It begins with a convenient pick-up from either Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village, depending on your preference. This transfer, included in the price, ensures you avoid the hassle of navigating snowy roads on your own.

Once at the Apukka Resort, you’ll be guided through the process of meeting the reindeer, which are accustomed to human interactions. Guests often comment on how friendly and gentle these creatures are, making petting a rewarding experience. As one reviewer noted, “The reindeer are very used to humans and are quite calm,” which is reassuring for first-timers or families with children.

During the visit, you’ll learn what reindeer typically eat—primarily lichen—and the significance of feeding them. You’ll be given fresh lichen to hand-feed the animals, creating a memorable bonding moment. Several guests mentioned how unexpected it was to feel a reindeer’s soft nose or gentle nuzzle for the first time, which adds genuine warmth to the activity.

Stories of Reindeer Husbandry and Sami Culture

An integral part of this tour is the storytelling. Guides share insights into reindeer husbandry, explaining their role in Sami culture as both a livelihood and a way of living harmoniously with nature. Expect to hear about how herders manage the animals, the seasonal routines, and the challenges faced in modern times.

One reviewer appreciated the storytelling, saying, “The guide made it clear how important these animals are to the Sami people and their traditions.” This contextual layer elevates the experience from mere animal petting to a meaningful cultural exchange.

The Photo Opportunities

This tour lends itself to capturing adorable moments. Many guests shared how they snapped great pictures, especially with the reindeer’s expressive eyes and soft fur. The friendly animals tend to approach guests, making it easy to get close-up shots. Remember to bring your camera or smartphone fully charged because these photo moments are fleeting and adorable.

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Comfort and Practical Considerations

Since the tour takes place outdoors in winter, thermal clothing and warm boots are provided if needed, which is a thoughtful touch. Woolen socks, mittens, and a balaclava help ensure guests stay warm during the visit, even in the coldest months.

Guests have noted that the clothing is comfortable and suitable for the environment, which allows you to focus on the experience rather than fighting the cold. The inclusion of hot drinks further enhances the cozy feeling, especially after spending time in the chilly air.

Access and Logistics

The tour includes transfers—a major convenience. You can choose to be picked up from Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village, with timings arranged to fit your schedule. The pickup times are communicated via email, approximately 30-40 minutes before the activity begins, so arriving a little early is advised.

The reindeer farm is just a short walk from the resort, which guests find manageable even in winter boots. It’s worth noting that external snacks are not allowed for the reindeer, so please plan your food accordingly.

Cost and Value

At $74 per person, the tour provides good value considering the personalized nature of the interaction and the cultural insights provided. Compared to other Arctic activities, this is a gentle, family-friendly option that doesn’t demand intense physical activity or long hours. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a taste of traditional Sami life without committing to longer or more strenuous excursions like husky sledding or snowmobiling.

Accessibility and Limitations

The activity is not suitable for wheelchair users, primarily due to the outdoor nature and uneven terrain of the farm area. If mobility is a concern, consider this before booking.

Final Thoughts

The Rovaniemi Meet and Feed Reindeer tour offers a simple yet authentic way to connect with Lapland’s iconic animals and learn about Sami culture. With friendly reindeer, engaging stories, and warm clothing provided, it’s a wonderfully relaxed activity that fits well into any Arctic itinerary.

While the hour-long duration may leave some wanting more, the quality of interaction and cultural depth make it worthwhile. Perfect for families, animal lovers, or those seeking a peaceful, meaningful experience away from bustling tourist spots.

For travelers interested in genuine cultural exchanges and adorable animal encounters, this tour offers a practical, well-organized, and memorable introduction to Lapland’s reindeer heritage.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transfers are included if needed, with options from Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village. The pickup times are confirmed via email.

How long does the tour last?
The activity runs for approximately 1 hour, which is enough to pet, feed, and listen to stories without feeling rushed.

What should I bring?
Outdoor clothing suitable for winter. The tour provides thermal clothing and boots if needed, so dress warmly and comfortably.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely. The reindeer are friendly and make for great photo subjects, especially with their expressive eyes and soft fur.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s a family-friendly activity, especially since the reindeer are gentle and accustomed to visitors.

Are there any dietary restrictions I should be aware of?
Guests are not allowed to bring external snacks for the reindeer, so plan accordingly.

Is the tour accessible for all travelers?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to the outdoor farm area and terrain.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute changes.

In summary, the Meet and Feed Reindeer tour in Rovaniemi is a charming, well-organized activity that offers a glimpse into traditional Sami life while providing adorable animal interactions. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful Arctic moment, it’s a worthwhile addition to your Lapland adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: