Saariselkä: Northern Lights & Reindeer Sledding Tour

If you’re dreaming of a true Arctic experience, the Saariselkä Northern Lights & Reindeer Sledding Tour offers just that. This 2.5-hour excursion in Lapland combines the charm of reindeer-driven sledding with the chance to see the elusive Aurora Borealis, all wrapped in the rich cultural fabric of the Sámi people. While you might not always catch the Northern Lights, the journey itself promises memorable moments grounded in tradition, nature, and genuine Finnish hospitality.

What sets this tour apart are three key aspects: the authenticity of riding with reindeer, the knowledgeable guides who bring stories of local culture to life, and the cozy campfire experience that makes the cold seem like part of the fun. The only consideration? The tour is weather-dependent, so the Northern Lights are never guaranteed—just like any natural phenomenon, they can surprise or hide. Still, if you’re after a meaningful, cultural Arctic adventure, this tour is a fantastic fit, especially for those who love nature, storytelling, and a touch of folklore.

Good To Know

• Authentic Reindeer Sledding: Experience a traditional Sámi way of traveling through Lapland’s peaceful landscape.
• Cultural Insight: Guides share stories about the Sámi people and reindeer life, enriching the experience.
• Northern Lights Chance: While not guaranteed, the possibility of witnessing the Aurora Borealis adds extra magic.
• Comfort & Safety: Warm thermal clothing, blankets, and hot drinks ensure a cozy experience despite the cold.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for children over 7, making it a memorable family outing.
• Limited Transfer: The tour starts at a specific meeting point, so arranging your own transfer from nearby areas is necessary.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Reindeer Sledding Experience

Starting Point & Logistics

The tour kicks off at the Lapponia Tours safari house at Honkapolku 1, a recognizable gray building with a tower roof. After a brief briefing and distribution of thermal clothing, you’ll hop into a vehicle for a short 15-minute transfer to the reindeer farm, where the magic begins.

The Reindeer Ride

Once at the farm, you’ll have the chance to feed the friendly reindeer—a lovely touch that helps you connect with these gentle animals before setting off. The actual sled ride lasts around 30 minutes, during which you’ll sit back and relax as the reindeer lead you through peaceful, snow-covered forests. Reviewers like Uta and Emad highlight just how special it is to sit in the sleigh, feeling the crisp air and hearing the gentle sounds of reindeer hooves crunching through snow.

Guides & Cultural Connection

Guides like Visa (mentioned in reviews) are praised for their knowledgeability and friendly attitude. They don’t just lead the sled but share stories about the Sámi culture, reindeer husbandry, and local traditions. Radu even mentions how Visa carved a stick during the campfire stop—a small detail illustrating the guide’s skill and the authentic, hands-on aspect of the tour.

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Campfire & Hot Drinks

After your sledding adventure, there’s a cozy break around a campfire. You can enjoy a warm cup of hot drink—coffee or tea—and some cookies, creating a relaxing atmosphere in nature. Akshay appreciated the helpfulness of the guides and the storytelling, which made the experience even more engaging. These moments of warmth and sharing add a human touch that many travelers cherish.

Aurora Borealis & Night Sky

The tour usually includes a chance to see the Northern Lights, but as the tour notes, sightings are not guaranteed. Reviewers like Radu and Claudia mention how lucky they were to catch a glimpse, making it extra special. The dark, quiet forest and clear skies provide perfect conditions for Aurora viewing if conditions align.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins at the safari house, where you’ll meet your guide and get suited up with thermal clothing. From there, a 15-minute transfer takes you to the reindeer farm, the heart of the experience. Once there, you’ll feed the reindeer, learn about their lives from the guides, and then hop onto the sleigh for a 30-minute ride through Lapland’s tranquil wilderness. Afterward, you’ll settle down around the campfire for hot drinks, snacks, and stories. The experience concludes with a return transfer back to the original meeting point.

What Makes This Tour Valuable?

Cultural Authenticity & Unique Tradition

Riding with reindeer is a core part of Sámi culture, and this tour offers a rare glimpse into their traditional way of life. The opportunity to feed the reindeer and listen to stories from guides like Visa makes it more than just a scenic ride—it’s an educational experience that deepens your understanding of Arctic indigenous culture.

Quality of Guides & Insights

Guests like Radu and Akshay rave about guides such as Visa, emphasizing their extensive knowledge and warm, friendly manner. They share stories that create a connection to Lapland’s heritage, making the experience more immersive and meaningful.

Visual & Sensory Experience

Sitting in a reindeer sleigh through snow-blanketed forests under the starry sky is a visual feast, especially if the Northern Lights make an appearance. The peacefulness of the forest, combined with the soft sounds of reindeer and the crackling campfire, offers a sensory experience that sticks with you long after the tour ends.

Value for Money

At $215 per person, this tour is a well-rounded package considering the inclusion of thermal clothing, guiding, reindeer feeding, hot drinks, and the chance to see the Northern Lights. Many travelers find this to be a fair price for such an authentic, cultural experience in the Arctic.

Family & Accessibility

With a minimum age of 7, it’s suitable for most families seeking a memorable outdoor adventure. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for different needs.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress warmly in layered clothing—thermal, waterproof, and windproof layers are essential.
• Bring your own camera for photos, but remember that flash photography is prohibited to protect the reindeer.
• The tour starts at specific times; check availability and plan your transfer accordingly.
• Be prepared for weather variability, as clear skies increase your chance of Northern Lights sightings.
• The tour is weather-dependent, so if the skies are cloudy or the weather is severe, the experience might differ.
• Remember, Northern Lights are not guaranteed, but the peaceful snow-covered landscape alone makes this worth it.

The Sum Up

The Saariselkä Northern Lights & Reindeer Sledding Tour is a thoughtfully curated peek into Lapland’s traditions, natural beauty, and Arctic wildlife. It balances adventure with cultural storytelling, making it perfect for those who want to connect with the environment and indigenous heritage. The guides’ passion and knowledge add depth, while the chance to see the Aurora Borealis adds that sprinkle of magic on a cold but beautiful night.

This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate authentic local culture, enjoy serene outdoor activities, and are seeking a meaningful Arctic memory. With its warm campfire, friendly reindeer, and the possibility of northern lights, it offers a true taste of Lapland’s unique charm.

If you’re after a genuine, well-organized way to experience reindeer sledding and Sami culture, this tour provides excellent value and lasting impressions—especially if the skies cooperate.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
No, transportation from areas like Kiilopää, Kakslauttanen, Muotka, Inari, or Ivalo is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transfer to the meeting point at Honkapolku 1.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 2.5 hours, including transfers, the reindeer sled ride, and campfire time.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing is provided, but you should bring your own comfortable, layered, waterproof, and windproof clothes, along with sturdy shoes suitable for snow.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
While the tour offers chances to see the Aurora Borealis, sightings cannot be guaranteed due to weather and solar activity conditions.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 7 years old are welcome, making it a family-friendly activity.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is designed to be wheelchair accessible.

What if the weather is bad?
The activity is weather-dependent, so if conditions are severe or cloudy, the tour might be canceled or the Aurora sighting might not happen.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, you can bring your camera, but flash photography during the ride is strictly prohibited to protect the reindeer.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $215 per person, which includes thermal clothing, guiding, reindeer feeding, hot drinks, and the chance to witness the Northern Lights.

This tour blends authentic cultural elements with a chance to enjoy Lapland’s stunning scenery and wildlife—perfect for travelers seeking more than just a sightseeing trip, but a genuine Arctic adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: