Levi: Lapland Reindeer and Husky Safari

If you’re dreaming of a winter adventure in the Arctic, this Lapland Reindeer and Husky Safari in Levi offers a genuine taste of northern Finland’s magic. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of a well-organized, heartfelt experience that combines culture, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery all in a few hours.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to visit an authentic reindeer farm where you can learn about traditional Sami reindeer herding. Second, the reindeer-pulled sledge ride promises a peaceful glide through snow-covered landscapes. Third, the huskies—these energetic, adorable dogs—are truly the stars, especially during the huskie-pulled sled ride.

A potential consideration is the limited duration—at just three hours, it’s a quick snapshot of Arctic life rather than an in-depth adventure. Also, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or pregnant women, which is worth noting if you’re seeking a fully accessible experience.

This tour suits travelers looking for an authentic, family-friendly Arctic experience, animal lovers, or those curious to learn about Sami culture and traditional reindeer herding. If you’re after a scenic, hands-on encounter with Arctic animals, this trip could be just perfect.

Good To Know

• Authentic Reindeer Farm Visit offers insight into Sami culture and reindeer husbandry.
• Sledge Rides provide a peaceful, scenic way to experience Lapland’s winter landscape.
• Husky Sledding is a highlight, with energetic dogs and the chance to drive your own sled.
• Expert Guides like Mait and Alex keep the experience informative and fun.
• Good Value: the combination of animal encounters, scenic rides, and local storytelling is quite comprehensive for the price.
• Limited Duration: perfect for a half-day activity, but might leave some wanting more.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Full Review: What to Expect and Why It Matters

Easy and Punctual Pickup

The experience begins with hotel pickup in Levi, making it easy to start your Arctic adventure without any hassle. The guides, such as Mait and Alex, are noted for being friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share their love of Lapland with visitors. This personalized touch makes a difference, especially when you’re learning about the local Sami culture, reindeer farming, and the animals.

Visiting a Reindeer Farm

The first stop is an authentic reindeer farm located near Kittilä. Here, you’ll get a glimpse into the traditional life of Sami herders. Reviewers like Nebile mention how they learned about reindeer farming and Sami culture, and how they appreciated the chance to pet and feed the animals afterward. The reindeer are generally calm and accustomed to visitors, making for a relaxed, memorable experience.

Keep in mind, the reindeer ride itself is about 1 km long, which is enough to enjoy a peaceful glide through the snow and absorb the winter scenery. Some reviewers noted that the sleigh ride can be shorter than expected, but it’s balanced by the intimate farm visit and storytelling session in a traditional kota, where hot berry juice is served—perfect for warming up.

Scenic Reindeer Sledge Ride

The reindeer-pulled sled is described as gentle and offers a slow-paced way to enjoy Lapland’s stunning landscape. The ride is often compared to a peaceful cruise through a winter wonderland, allowing you to take in the quiet beauty of snow-dusted trees and frozen lakes. For many, this is a highlight, capturing the essence of Arctic life in a simple, authentic manner.

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Learning About Sami Culture

What sets this tour apart is the cultural component. The guides share stories about the Sami people—the indigenous inhabitants of Lapland—and their relationship with reindeer. Nebile and others appreciated how the guides explained traditions and the importance of reindeer to Sami livelihood, adding depth to the experience beyond just animal interactions.

Warming Up in a Traditional Kota

After the rides, everyone gathers in a kota, a traditional Sami tent, where hot berry juice and local stories enhance the experience. Several reviews, including Janine’s, highlight how this cozy moment provides a chance to reflect on what you’ve seen and appreciate the Arctic hospitality.

Husky Experience: Meet and Greet

Next, the tour takes you to a husky farm where you’ll learn about these loyal, energetic dogs. The guides, often praised for their warmth and knowledge, introduce you to the dogs’ personalities and their role in Lapland’s winter transportation. As Marjon pointed out, the guides give detailed information—which is appreciated by animal lovers and curious travelers alike.

The Husky Sled Ride

The 2 km husky sled ride is the tour’s adrenaline rush. Whether you opt to drive your own sled or enjoy being pulled, the experience is unforgettable. The dogs’ enthusiasm and the snow-covered surroundings create a joyful, exhilarating atmosphere. Reviewers frequently mention how much fun it is to drive the sled yourself, with some describing it as “like an extreme sport”—but don’t worry, safety instructions are provided.

Guests also note how the guides take photos and videos during the ride, ensuring you leave with lasting memories. The dogs are described as well-treated and vivacious, making the whole experience feel genuine and ethical.

Animal Welfare and Authenticity

From reviews, it’s clear that animal welfare is taken seriously. Guides talk openly about the animals, and many farms are run by people passionate about their dogs and reindeer. Visitors like Bernhard appreciate the small group size, with some tours only accommodating around 8 people, fostering a more intimate and personal atmosphere.

Practical Details and Value

At $284 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive Arctic experience in a manageable time frame. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a hot drink, and all activities (except for thermal outerwear, which needs to be rented separately). The activity duration of 3 hours makes it ideal for travelers with tight schedules but wanting a meaningful taste of Lapland.

While the price might seem high, reviews suggest it’s a fair value considering the quality of the animals, the expertise of the guides, and the scenic beauty. Many travelers mention that the experience exceeds expectations, especially given the personalized, small-group nature of the tour.

Important Considerations

Make sure to dress warmly—layers, thermal clothing, and sturdy winter boots are essential. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and pregnant women or those with mobility issues should consider other options. Also, note that November tours might feature farm visits instead of sled rides if snow cover is insufficient, so check availability.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families, animal enthusiasts, and anyone interested in Sami culture. It offers a balance of learning, adventure, and relaxation in a setting that feels genuine and heartfelt. If you’re after a photo-worthy trip with memorable animal encounters, this tour won’t disappoint.

It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate a small-group atmosphere and want to avoid large tour crowds. If you’re craving a truly authentic taste of Lapland’s winter life, this safari offers a meaningful, fun, and beautifully scenic adventure.

FAQs

• Is hotel pickup available? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Levi, making the experience hassle-free.
• How long is the tour? The activity lasts approximately 3 hours, but check the schedule for available starting times.
• What should I wear? Dress warmly in winter layers, including thermal clothing and sturdy boots, as this is an outdoor winter activity.
• Are the animals well cared for? Based on reviews, guides emphasize animal wellbeing, and the animals are trained for these activities.
• Can I drive the sled myself? Yes, the husky ride allows you to drive your own sled after a safety briefing.
• Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, many families enjoy the experience, although very young children sit on laps during the rides.
• What happens if there’s no snow? In November, the tour may switch to a farm visit without sled rides due to lack of snow.
• Is this activity accessible? No, it is not wheelchair accessible or suitable for those with mobility impairments.
• Can pregnant women participate? No, this tour is not recommended for pregnant women.
• What is included in the price? Guide service, hotel pickup and drop-off, a 2 km husky sled ride, a 1 km reindeer sled ride, and a hot drink are included. Additional gear like thermal outerwear is not included.

Final Thoughts

The Levi Lapland Reindeer and Husky Safari offers a well-rounded, authentic Arctic experience packed into a manageable half-day adventure. With knowledgeable guides, intimate animal encounters, and beautiful scenery, it’s a memorable way to connect with the unique culture and nature of Lapland.

If you value storytelling, animal welfare, and scenic rides, this tour will meet those expectations. It’s especially a good choice for families or travelers seeking a genuine, small-group Arctic encounter that leaves you with warm memories and plenty of photo opportunities.

While it’s not a long or deeply immersive journey, it hits all the right notes for a joyful, authentic taste of Lapland’s winter wonderland.

You can check if your dates are available here: