Rovaniemi: Late Night Ride with Finnhorses

Rovaniemi’s Late Night Ride with Finnhorses offers a unique way to connect with Lapland’s wilderness, blending horse riding, wildlife encounters, and storytelling under the stars. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, detailed reviews and descriptions reveal it as a charming experience suited for those craving an authentic, nature-focused outing in the Arctic.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to explore the Lappish forest at night on a gentle Finnhorse, experiencing its quiet beauty. Second, the opportunity to potentially see moose, foxes, and hares in their natural habitat, a rare thrill for wildlife enthusiasts. Third, enjoying a warm beverage and snack around the campfire while hearing stories about Lapland’s horses and culture.

One point to consider is the moderate duration—at around 1.5 hours, it’s a brief but immersive experience. Those seeking a longer adventure or a comprehensive riding holiday might want to combine it with other activities. This tour appeals most to travelers who want an authentic, leisurely ride with knowledgeable guides in a small, intimate group setting.

Good To Know

• Nighttime forest exploration adds a magical, peaceful atmosphere.
• Finnhorses are gentle and native to Finland, offering an authentic riding experience.
• The small group size (up to 5 participants) ensures personal attention.
• Wildlife encounters make this more than just a scenic ride.
• The campfire segment enhances the cozy, storytelling vibe.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation make planning easier.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Rovaniemi Late Night Ride with Finnhorses

What to Expect from the Experience

This tour takes you through the heart of Lapland’s forest under the night sky, riding on a Finnhorse, a breed native to Finland known for its friendly temperament and strong connection to local culture. The experience begins with a warm welcome and safety instructions—crucial for ensuring riders of all levels feel confident. The guides, praised for their knowledgeable and friendly demeanor, share interesting insights about the horses and local life, making the experience informative as well as scenic.

As you set off, you’ll be riding in small groups—strictly limited to five participants—to keep the journey intimate. Depending on the season, the landscape transforms: in summer, it’s the midnight sun; in winter, snow blankets the trees; and in autumn, vibrant colors surround you. The dark forest, lit only by your headlamp and the moon, creates a quiet, almost mystical atmosphere.

Encountering Wildlife in the Darkness

One of the standout aspects of this tour, based on reviews, is the potential to see local wildlife like moose, foxes, and hares. The calm of the night and the untouched forest make these sightings more likely, or at least more special. It’s worth noting that in the dark, animals are more elusive, but the guides’ expertise helps set the scene for perhaps a glimpse of these shy creatures.

Learning About the Finnish Horse Breed and Local Life

Throughout the ride, your guide shares stories about the Finnhorse, Finland’s national breed, and their role in Lapland’s history. A reviewer highlighted how “the guide was wonderful, learning about the horses was great,” which emphasizes the value of the storytelling component. These anecdotes enrich the experience and deepen your appreciation for the local culture.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Campfire Experience

After the ride, everyone gathers around a campfire to enjoy warm juice, a sausage, salmon sandwich, gingerbread cookies, and marshmallows. This social moment, often praised for its cozy ambiance, offers a perfect chance to swap stories and appreciate the wintery or summer landscape. The fire-side storytelling adds a personal, authentic touch, making the evening more memorable.

Practical Details and Value

At $153 per person, the tour offers excellent value considering the inclusions: safety instructions, helmet, a 40-60 minute horse ride, drinks, snacks, and guide services. The small group size ensures individual attention, especially for beginners or those who might be a little nervous about riding in the dark.

Transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to Aurora Horses Napapiiri, located at the north end of Joulumaantie. The meeting point is straightforward to find, following guide signs and directions, which makes logistical planning simple.

Accessibility and Restrictions

It’s wheelchair accessible, but unfortunately, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, or those with animal allergies. Guests are advised to wear warm, comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes—crucial for staying cozy and safe during the ride.

The Overall Experience

Travelers who love authentic, small-group adventures will find this ride especially appealing. The combination of scenic riding, wildlife chances, and stories from local guides offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s wilderness.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for nature lovers, horse enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful, memorable night in Lapland. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy gentle rides and storytelling, and who want to connect with the Arctic environment on a deeper level. Since it’s a 1.5-hour activity, it fits well into a broader itinerary of Lapland adventures, offering a relaxed yet special highlight.

Final Thoughts

The Late Night Ride with Finnhorses is a well-balanced activity that combines gentle riding, wildlife encounters, and cultural storytelling in a small-group setting. Its focus on authenticity and comfort makes it ideal for those who value meaningful experiences over adrenaline rushes, yet still want a touch of adventure.

The knowledgeable guides and cozy campfire contribute significantly to the charm, making this more than just a scenic ride. Whether you’re a horse lover or simply looking to see Lapland from a different perspective, this tour offers a gentle, atmospheric way to spend an evening in the Arctic.

For travelers wanting a peaceful, authentic exploration of Lapland’s wilderness, this ride delivers on all fronts—serene landscapes, local wildlife, and genuine stories around the fire.

FAQs

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to make your own way to Aurora Horses Napapiiri, but directions are straightforward and easy to follow from major landmarks like Husky Park or the Forest Mansion.

What should I wear for the ride?
Dress warmly in comfortable clothing suitable for the weather, along with sturdy shoes. Layering is advisable, especially in winter, when temperatures can be quite low.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Children under 7 years old cannot participate, mainly for safety reasons. The ride duration and environment are best suited for older children and adults.

Can pregnant women join this tour?
No, pregnant women are advised not to participate, as riding in the dark and on uneven terrain might pose risks.

What wildlife might I see?
While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the guides mention that in the dark, you might encounter moose, foxes, and hares. The experience is as much about the atmosphere and anticipation as wildlife spotting.

How long is the horseback ride?
The ride lasts approximately 40 to 60 minutes, depending on the group and conditions.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers safety instructions, riding helmet, the horseback ride, warm juice, water, a small snack, campfire stories, and guide services. Extras like personal expenses or transport are not included.

To sum it up, whether you’re an animal lover, history buff, or someone seeking peaceful, scenic moments under Lapland’s stars, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience. It’s about more than just riding; it’s about feeling connected to the wilderness, learning about local culture, and sharing warm moments around a campfire. If you’re after a gentle, authentic Arctic adventure, this ride might just be the highlight of your trip to Rovaniemi.

You can check if your dates are available here: