Rovaniemi: Reindeer Ride to Santa through the Magic Forest

Planning a winter trip to Lapland? If so, the Reindeer Ride to Santa through the Magic Forest at Apukka Resort offers a charming taste of the Arctic holiday spirit. This tour promises a cozy, family-friendly adventure filled with reindeer sleighing, festive crafts, and a private meeting with Santa himself.

For those considering it, we love how this experience combines authentic Arctic traditions with fun, interactive activities. The reindeer sleigh ride is an enchanting way to explore the snowy forest, and the chance to meet Santa in his private hideout is a highlight. Plus, the gingerbread baking and Christmas card crafting add a creative, hands-on touch.

One potential drawback? The tour duration is just two hours, so it’s a quick snapshot of Lapland’s magic rather than an extensive exploration. Still, for families or anyone looking for a memorable, picture-perfect holiday experience, this tour hits the right notes.

This experience is best suited for families, couples, or groups eager to enjoy a festive, immersive activity in the Arctic that emphasizes authentic traditions alongside holiday fun.

Good To Know

• Authentic reindeer sleigh ride through a snow-covered forest
• Festive activities such as baking gingerbread cookies and making Christmas cards
• Exclusive meeting with Santa Claus in a private setting
• All-inclusive package with winter clothing, hot drinks, photos, and a small gift
• Convenient pickup options from Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village
• Suitable for children and families, but not for those with mobility issues or animal allergies

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with pick-up options tailored to your location — either from Rovaniemi city center at Korkalonkatu 32 or from Santa Claus Village at Napapiiri I. The organizers are clear about timing, with pickups roughly 35 to 50 minutes before the activity start, so arriving on time is key to making the most of the experience.

After a 25-minute bus or coach ride, you’ll arrive at Apukka Resort, where the fun truly begins. The guided tour lasts about two hours, during which you’ll traverse the snowy landscape on a traditional reindeer sleigh. The guides, often seasoned professionals, carefully assign seats to ensure a comfortable and balanced ride, and many reviewers mention how peaceful and magical the sled journey feels—especially with the quiet reindeer guiding you through frosted pine forests.

The Reindeer Sleigh Ride

The highlight of the tour is the reindeer sleigh ride through the “magic forest”. Travelers frequently comment on how gentle and calm the reindeer are, which boosts confidence even for first-timers. The scenery is stunning: snow-laden trees, soft light filtering through the branches, and the serene silence of the Arctic wilderness. The experience is designed to be both authentic and relaxing, allowing you to soak in the winter wonderland at a slow, enjoyable pace.

Festive Workshops and Activities

The tour isn’t just about the sleigh ride. Once at the resort, you’ll join festive workshops that add a creative flair to the day. Baking gingerbread cookies with cheerful elves is a favorite, with many guests sharing how delicious and fun it was to roll out dough and decorate their treats. The Christmas card craft is equally popular; it’s a lovely opportunity for children and adults alike to create something special to take home.

The elves also teach how to move like a true elf, which sounds silly but is surprisingly entertaining. It’s these playful moments that help everyone embrace their inner holiday spirit.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Meeting Santa in His Private Hideout

The climax of the experience is the private family meeting with Santa Claus. Unlike crowded Santa villages, this intimate setting feels special and personalized. Guests get digital photos with Santa and a little gift, which many reviewers say makes the visit feel truly magical. Reports mention Santa being warm, approachable, and eager to chat, making it a memorable encounter for children and adults alike.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package includes thermal winter clothing—overalls, boots, woolen socks, and mittens—so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own cold-weather gear. Hot drinks and snacks keep everyone warm during breaks, and digital photos of Santa are part of the package, though there’s no dedicated photography service available.

The tour also offers transfers if needed, making logistics easier, especially if you’re staying in Rovaniemi or Santa Claus Village. The price, at $360 per person, might seem steep, but considering the inclusive nature—reindeer ride, crafts, Santa meet-and-greet, photos, small gift, and winter gear—it’s a solid value for a genuinely festive experience.

Overall Experience and Review Insights

Multiple reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides, often noting how well they manage seat assignments and ensure safety. Guests also appreciate the relaxed pace and scenic beauty of the ride, with many describing it as “peaceful” and “like stepping into a Christmas card.”

Some reviewers mention the small group size and the intimate setting with Santa as particularly appealing, allowing for genuine interaction. The hot drinks and warm clothing make the cold more bearable, especially for those unfamiliar with Arctic winters.

Potential negatives include the limited duration, which some wish was longer to soak in more of the forest scenery. Also, if you’re looking for a full-day adventure, this might feel like a brief but sweet snapshot of Lapland’s magic.

Practical Details for Travelers

What to Bring

Dress warmly in layers—thermal underwear, waterproof shoes, hats, and gloves are essential. Since the tour takes place outdoors and involves a sleigh ride, waterproof footwear helps keep your feet dry and comfortable.

Important Considerations

• The activity is on private land, with guided, professional sleigh guiding ensuring safety.
• It’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or animal allergies, given the reindeer involvement.
• Photography is permitted, but respectful of others’ privacy.
• Arrive 15 minutes early to check in and get suited up.

Pricing and Value

At $360 per person, the price includes all activities, gear, and photos. Considering the authentic reindeer sleigh ride, Santa encounter, and festive workshops, many find it worthwhile—especially for families wanting a Christmas to remember.

Booking and Cancellation

The flexible booking policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly. You can reserve now and pay later, giving you peace of mind when planning your Arctic adventure.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect if you’re after an authentic, family-friendly Christmas experience that combines nature, tradition, and fun. It’s ideal for those who want to see Lapland’s snowy beauty from a cozy sleigh, meet Santa in a private, relaxed setting, and enjoy some hands-on festive activities.

While it might not satisfy those craving a full-day adventure or intensive Arctic exploration, it delivers a charming taste of Santa’s Lapland. It’s also a great choice for travelers who value quality, safety, and a personal touch, especially when traveling with young children or as a couple seeking a romantic winter memory.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation to the activity location is not included, but transfers from Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village can be arranged.

What should I wear for the activity?
Dress warmly in waterproof shoes and layers, including thermal overalls, woolen socks, mittens, hats, and waterproof jackets to stay comfortable outdoors.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled activity.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed with families in mind, with festive activities and a private Santa meeting that children love.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, photography is allowed, but be mindful of others’ privacy and the guidelines set by the guides.

What’s included in the price?
The package covers the reindeer sleigh ride, festive workshops, gingerbread baking, Santa meeting, digital photos, a small gift, guiding, hot drinks & snacks, winter clothing, and transfers if needed.

Are there any dietary options available?
Special diet options like vegetarian or gluten-free can be requested, ensuring everyone can enjoy the festive treats.

In essence, this tour offers a cozy, scenic, and interactive way to experience Christmas in Lapland—perfect for making timeless memories in a winter wonderland.

You can check if your dates are available here: