Rovaniemi: Santas Village & Snowmobiling to Reindeer Farm

Rovaniemi: Santa’s Village & Snowmobiling to Reindeer Farm – An In-Depth Review

If you’re dreaming of a snowy holiday in Lapland, this tour promises a day packed with festive charm and exhilarating winter activities. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what you can expect — and it sounds pretty magical.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to meet Santa Claus himself in his official village, with the added thrill of snowmobiling through pristine Arctic landscapes. Second, the reindeer farm visit and sleigh ride offer authentic encounters with Lapland’s iconic animals. Third, everything seems well-organized, with delicious local food and warm gear included — which is essential when dealing with the cold.

One small consideration? The Santa visit can feel rushed, especially during peak season, and group sizes might mean some waiting in lines. Still, for the right traveler — especially families with kids or those craving a full-day Arctic adventure — this tour ticks many boxes for value and fun.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Authentic Santa Experience: Meet Father Christmas in his official village and visit Santa’s Post Office.
• Adventure & Culture: Snowmobile rides and reindeer encounters bring the Arctic to life.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Warm clothing, hot drinks, and a hearty lunch are provided.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for children over 4 years old; younger kids sit in sledges.
• Well-Reviewed Guides: Guides like Martin, Raphael, and Zuzanna make the experience smooth and engaging.
• Time & Value: A long, well-paced day offering a lot for the price, with optional extras like insurance and single snowmobile upgrades.

Exploring the Tour Itinerary

Santa’s Village & Santa Claus Meeting

The day kicks off with a pickup from the Safartica Office in Rovaniemi, about 25 minutes before departure. From there, you’re whisked to Santa’s Village, a place brimming with cheer and Christmas spirit. This is the heart of Lapland’s festive appeal, where the magic of Santa is real — or at least feels that way. Reviews highlight how efficiently organized the visit is, with guides like Raphael and Zuzanna making sure everyone gets time with Santa.

While some travelers note the visit can be a bit rushed, most appreciate the opportunity to skip lines and get a memorable family photo. One reviewer mentions Santa’s interaction was brief but still enjoyable, especially for kids. The visit includes a chance for children to share their wish list and experience the post office, where they can send postcards to loved ones.

Lunch & Warm Comfort

After Santa, a hearty lunch is served — often praised for offering a good variety of food, satisfying even the pickiest eaters. It’s a great chance to warm up, chat about the morning’s adventures, and gear up for the next activities. The warmth and filling meal are especially appreciated given the chilly outdoor conditions.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Snowmobiling Across Arctic Landscapes

The highlight for many is the snowmobile safari. Safarctica provides instructions and gear, including winter clothing, so you’re prepared for the cold. The two persons per snowmobile policy allows for shared adventure, although a single driver supplement is available if you want to go solo.

Driving across the frozen terrain, some reviews mention the speed depends on weather and driver skill, but the experience is generally described as impressive and fun. One traveler wrote, “Snowmobiling is a very impressive experience, I loved it.” You’ll cross the Arctic Circle — a significant milestone — and enjoy views that are truly breathtaking.

Reindeer Encounter & Sleigh Ride

Next up is a visit to a reindeer farm, where you get to meet the reindeer and hear stories about reindeer herding traditions. The actual sleigh ride is short but delightful — a chance to sit behind the reindeer and feel the gentle pull of these iconic animals. Several reviews highlight how feeding reindeer and hearing stories from guides add an authentic touch that elevates this experience beyond a mere photo op.

One guest appreciated the reindeer license, a fun souvenir that makes the encounter more meaningful. Even those with limited time found this segment a highlight, offering a quiet moment in the snowy wilderness.

Returning & Crossing the Arctic Circle

After a full day of adventure, you’ll return to Rovaniemi by snowmobile, completing the loop that started with your pickup. The journey back is often relaxed, with many taking in the winter scenery one last time. Crossing the Arctic Circle is a symbolic moment, often marked with photos and a sense of achievement.

What Does the Experience Offer?

Authentic Encounters and Photo Opportunities

This tour does a good job balancing guided activities with free time. Meeting Santa, feeding reindeer, and riding a snowmobile all contribute to a rich, memorable experience. Many reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guides like Martin, Santeri, and Raoul, who make sure everyone feels comfortable and safe while having fun.

Practical Aspects & Value

At $271 per person, many find this tour offers good value, especially considering the inclusions: warm clothing, hot drinks, lunch, snowmobiling instructions, and local guides. The option to reserve now and pay later adds flexibility, a bonus during uncertain travel times.

Duration & Group Size

The tour lasts about 6.5 to 7.5 hours, making it a full day but not overwhelming. Group sizes tend to be large, which can mean some waiting during Santa visits or at the reindeer farm. However, the overall flow is smooth, and most guests leave feeling they’ve made the most of their day.

Tips from Reviews and Experience

• Dress warmly—some recommend second socks and heated gloves.
• Arrive on time to avoid missing parts of the tour, especially Santa’s visit.
• Younger children (under 4) might find the cold challenging or get tired.
• If you’re a snowmobile enthusiast, check the single driver supplement.
• Be prepared for shorter reindeer rides due to weather, but that doesn’t take away from the charm.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for families, especially those with children eager to meet Santa and experience snow activities. It also suits adventure lovers who want a taste of snowmobiling amid stunning Arctic scenery. Those seeking authentic reindeer encounters and a full-day, well-organized trip will find plenty of value here.

However, if you’re after a more relaxed Santa visit or prefer shorter activities, some might find the Santa part a bit rushed. It’s also less suitable for very young infants or pregnant women due to the outdoor cold and snowmobiling activities.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Arctic Lapland, combining cultural experiences with exhilarating activities. The guides’ friendliness and professionalism shine through, and the inclusions of lunch, warm gear, and hot drinks make it a practical choice.

While the Santa visit can feel a little hurried during peak season, the reindeer and snowmobile experiences more than make up for it, providing memorable interactions and stunning scenery. The value for the price, given the variety of activities and professional organization, makes this a compelling option for families and adventure-seekers alike.

If you’re looking for a full-day, authentic Lapland adventure that balances fun, culture, and natural beauty, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transfers from the Safartica Office are included, and you’ll meet there 25 minutes before departure.

What should I bring?
You need to bring your driver’s license, and warm clothing is provided, but dressing in layers and warm socks is recommended.

Can I drive a snowmobile alone?
No, the safari is two persons per snowmobile. A single driver supplement of $55 per person can be purchased if you want solo driving.

Is this suitable for children?
Children aged 4 and above can join, sitting in sledges behind guides’ snowmobiles. Under 4s are not recommended.

How long is the Santa visit?
Reviewers suggest the Santa stop can be quite brief, especially during busy seasons, so manage expectations if you want a long chat.

What is the reindeer experience like?
You’ll meet reindeer, hear stories about herding, and enjoy a short sleigh ride. Feeding reindeer adds an interactive touch.

How cold will it be?
Expect frigid temperatures, often well below freezing. Warm gear is provided, but layering is key.

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

This tour strikes a fine balance between classic Arctic activities and festive charm, making it a strong choice for travelers eager to embrace Lapland’s wintry magic.

You can check if your dates are available here: