Rovaniemi: Santa Claus Village and Husky sledge/guided tour

Exploring Rovaniemi’s iconic Santa Claus Village combined with a husky experience offers a slice of Arctic magic. This tour, offered by Lapland Outdoor Adventures tmi, promises a blend of festive charm, Arctic wilderness, and adrenaline-pumping husky rides—all wrapped into a 4-hour package that’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers craving authentic Lapland moments.

Three aspects stand out: the chance to meet Santa himself, the opportunity to interact with Siberian huskies up close, and the breathtaking scenery that surrounds these attractions. The optional husky sledge or wheel cart rides add a dash of adventure, making it more than just sightseeing. A possible consideration is that the tour lasts only four hours, so those wanting in-depth exploration may want to supplement it with additional activities.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a balanced mix of cultural, scenic, and outdoor experiences. It’s especially suited for first-timers to Lapland, families with kids eager for a fairy-tale encounter, or anyone interested in Arctic wildlife and landscapes. Keep in mind that it’s a shorter experience, so if you’re craving a more intensive adventure, you might consider adding extra excursions.

Good To Know

• Authentic Santa Encounter: Meet Santa Claus himself and take festive photos.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Santa’s tradition and the village’s customs.
• Husky Interaction: Get up close with Siberian huskies and learn about their lives.
• Scenic Beauty: Enjoy views of the Arctic wilderness, whether snow-covered or lush.
• Optional Rides: Experience husky sledge rides in winter or wheel carts in autumn.
• Convenient & Flexible: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and flexible booking options.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Santa Claus Village Guided Tour

The highlight for many travelers is the chance to step into the world-famous Santa Claus Village. From the moment you’re picked up (or arrive on your own), the atmosphere is filled with holiday cheer, regardless of the season. Your English-speaking guide, whose name is not specified but is praised for sharing engaging stories, will set the tone with fun facts and background about the village’s history.

Your first stop is Santa’s Post Office, which process letters from children worldwide. The guide might share insights about how the village maintains this magical tradition, and you’ll have the opportunity to write and send postcards—an activity that many reviewers say adds a tangible, memorable touch. As one reviewer notes, “Writing my own postcard made me feel like part of the magic,” highlighting how this simple gesture enriches the experience.

Next, you’ll explore the charming souvenir shops filled with handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and local keepsakes. This part of the tour offers a chance to pick up authentic Finnish or Lapland-specific souvenirs—great for remembering your trip or giving as gifts. The guide generally provides tips on what makes a good keepsake, and some reviews mention that the prices are reasonable for quality, handmade items.

The moment everyone looks forward to is meeting Santa Claus himself. The guide will escort you to Santa’s office, where you get personal time for photos and maybe a quick chat with the jolly man in red. Several reviewers mentioned that Santa was friendly and approachable, making the experience genuine rather than staged. Children are especially thrilled, but adults find it just as enchanting.

Free Time & Additional Exploration

After meeting Santa, you’ll have some free time to explore on your own. Many visitors use this to take additional photos, browse for last-minute souvenirs, or visit a cozy café for a warm drink. The guide is usually available for recommendations, which can be helpful if you want suggestions for the best spots to snap winter landscape photos.

Husky Park Guided Tour

The second half takes you to Husky Park, located nearby. Here, the focus shifts from festive to furry, as you meet Siberian huskies—working dogs renowned for their strength, stamina, and friendly nature. Your guide, who is knowledgeable and passionate about the dogs, will introduce you to the pack, sharing details about their training and daily routines. Several reviews highlight how engaging and informative the guide was, making the visit more than just a photo opportunity.

You’ll get close-up encounters with the huskies, learning about their care and role in Arctic life. One reviewer emphasized, “The dogs are adorable and clearly well-loved,” which adds an authentic feel to the interaction. This part of the experience is not just about photos; it’s about understanding the importance of these dogs in Lapland’s culture.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Optional Husky Sledge or Wheel Cart Rides

For those craving a bit of excitement, the tour offers the option to add a husky sledge ride. During winter, you’ll glide through snow-covered trails, pulled by a team of eager huskies. One traveler described it as “an unforgettable rush, like living a real Arctic adventure,” while others appreciated the chance to experience traditional dog sledding firsthand.

In the autumn or when snow isn’t available, the same ride is offered using wheel carts—a fun and scenic way to feel the power of the huskies pulling you through the forested landscape. The rides are priced separately, and it’s recommended to inform the guide in advance to secure your spot. Several reviews mentioned the joy of feeling the dogs’ strength and speed, which adds a fulfilling adventure element to an already exciting day.

End of the Tour and Return

After the husky interaction, the guide ensures everyone has enjoyed the experience and then transports you back to your hotel or another predetermined location. The transportation is generally well-organized, with some reviewers mentioning punctual pickups and friendly drivers.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour’s value largely comes from the combination of guided visits, personal encounters, and the convenience of hotel pickup. Included are the guided tour of Santa Claus Village, meeting Santa, crossing the Arctic Circle, visiting Santa’s Post Office, the husky park visit, and professional English-speaking guides.

Extras, like husky sledge rides, are optional and come at an additional cost—something to consider if you’re looking for a full adrenaline experience. Meals, drinks, and souvenirs are not included, but the tour’s pace allows ample time to purchase souvenirs or grab a warm drink at the village cafés.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress warmly, especially if you plan to take the husky ride, as outdoor activities can be quite cold.
• Bring a camera to capture Santa, huskies, and scenic views—many reviewers note the stunning vistas are worth snapping.
• Arrive at your hotel lobby 5 minutes early for pickup; the guide usually waits in the lobby.
• The husky ride is not included in the base price, so decide in advance if you want to enhance your experience.
• The tour is in English, making it accessible for most travelers, with flexible booking options like free cancellation and pay-later reservations.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Lapland’s charm. You’ll get to see the iconic Santa Claus Village, interact with friendly huskies, and enjoy spectacular Arctic scenery—all in just four hours. The experience strikes a fine balance between culture and outdoor adventure, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a snapshot of Lapland’s magic without overextending their schedule.

While the tour is short, it’s packed with memorable moments—especially the chance to meet Santa and feel the power of a team of huskies pulling your sledge. The optional rides add a thrill, and the knowledgeable guides ensure you gain authentic insights into local traditions and wildlife.

Overall, if you’re looking for a practical, scenic, and heartwarming introduction to Lapland, this tour offers excellent value and a chance to create lasting memories of your Arctic journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it convenient to start and end the tour without extra hassle.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, which is enough time to enjoy Santa’s Village, visit the huskies, and possibly add a sled ride.

Can I book the husky ride in advance?
The husky sledge or cart ride is available at an extra cost and should be booked with the guide in advance to secure your spot.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing, including sturdy shoes, is recommended as much of the tour is outdoors, especially during winter.

Are photos permitted?
Absolutely. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to photograph Santa, the huskies, and the Arctic scenery.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s particularly popular with families, especially those eager to meet Santa and interact with the friendly huskies.

What is the price?
The base cost is $170 per person, which covers guided tours, Santa meeting, and the husky park visit. Extras like rides are optional and paid separately.

Is the experience available year-round?
Yes, but the husky sledge ride changes seasonally—sledges in winter and wheel carts in autumn.

Will I see the Northern Lights?
This tour focuses on Santa, huskies, and scenery; Northern Lights viewing depends on weather conditions and is not guaranteed.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This comprehensive experience offers a wonderful blend of festive charm and Arctic adventure, ideal for anyone wanting a meaningful taste of Lapland. Whether it’s the joy of meeting Santa, the thrill of a husky ride, or simply soaking in the winter wonderland scenery, you’re set for an authentic arctic memory.

You can check if your dates are available here: