Rovaniemi: Apukka Reindeer Journey

A reindeer-drawn sleigh moves at the pace of the animals, not an engine. That slow, quiet passage through Lapland’s snowy woods is the heart of Apukka’s two-hour experience, with time afterward to meet the reindeer and hear about the work and traditions behind herding them.

I like the mix of a peaceful forest ride and a fireside pause with a warm drink. I also like that thermal clothing and transport from central Rovaniemi or Santa Claus Village can be included. One thing to weigh: at $206 per person, this is a costly outing, and the sleigh ride itself is much shorter than the two-hour activity window.

At a glance

• The sleigh route is 2 to 3 km: Expect an unhurried ride, often around 40 to 50 minutes, rather than a long-distance trek.
• The animals are part of the experience: You can see them up close, and opportunities to feed or gently touch them have been available.
• Guides explain reindeer husbandry: The talk can cover reindeer, Lapland, and local life, not just the ride.
• A fire and hot drink follow the ride: Biscuits or cookies have also been served, but the stated inclusion is a hot drink.
• Warm gear is supplied: Thermal overalls, boots, wool socks, and mittens are included, though you should still dress warmly.
• Transfers require attention: Pick-up times are confirmed by email, and missing the bus means no refund.

From Apukka Resort to the reindeer

The reindeer farm is a short walk from Apukka Resort, so the outing begins with a transition from resort grounds to the animals and sleighs. The full activity lasts two hours, but that includes more than sitting in the sleigh: you also have the walk, instructions, time with the guide, and the fireside stop.

Your guide leads the group and talks about reindeer husbandry. Guides have included Emily, Tommy, Alexi, and Christina, though you should not expect a particular person on your date. The best part of this introduction is its practical focus. Reindeer are not just a seasonal symbol here; they are animals cared for through a working tradition. Learning how people look after them gives the ride more meaning than a photo stop alone.

You may have a chance to feed the reindeer and, depending on the activity’s arrangements that day, touch one gently. Treat this as a chance to observe rather than a promise of a long animal encounter. Follow the guide’s instructions, and let the reindeer set the terms of any contact.

A quiet ride, not a fast one

The sleigh covers 2 to 3 km through snowy forest. It is a slow ride, and that is the point: you have time to take in the trees, listen to the soft movement of the sleigh, and notice how quiet the woodland can feel under snow. Some routes have also crossed a frozen lake, though the exact path may vary.

The ride is often described as lasting around 40 to 50 minutes. That is a useful planning figure, but conditions and the day’s arrangements may affect the pace. The short distance and unhurried speed suit you if you want atmosphere more than action. If you are hoping for speed, a long wilderness route, or a sleigh pulled just for your party, this is not that kind of outing.

Guides allocate seats in the sleighs to balance the load for the animals. A professional steers each sleigh for safety. Depending on the group, the sleighs may travel in a line; one account described a train of several sleighs. That setup helps the group move together, but it can make the ride feel less like a solitary trip into the forest. If quiet space and solitude are your main priorities, keep that in mind.

The animals are working reindeer, and the ride is an organized tourist activity. The guide’s handling and the animals’ comfort matter. If you have questions about how the reindeer are cared for or trained, ask during the visit. It is reasonable to want a clear answer before deciding whether this experience fits your values.

The fireside pause and what you learn

After the ride, you gather by a fire with a hot drink while the guide shares more about reindeer husbandry. This pause changes the rhythm of the outing. Instead of rushing from sleigh to bus, you get a little time to warm up, ask questions, and connect the ride with the animals’ everyday care.

Biscuits or cookies have been served alongside drinks on some occasions, but the included item is a hot drink. Think of this as a simple warm-up, not a full meal. Apukka also has a restaurant, and you could plan to eat there separately if you want more than a drink and a small treat.

The guides’ explanations are a real part of the value. Some have also shared information about Rovaniemi, Finnish life, and Lapland more broadly. That context helps if you are new to the region and want more than a scenic ride. You may come away with a better sense of the skills and routines involved in reindeer keeping, as well as a few good questions to carry into the rest of your stay.

Staying warm in Arctic weather

Apukka supplies a thermal overall, thermal boots, wool socks, and mittens. That is a helpful layer of protection, especially if you have arrived in Rovaniemi without specialist winter gear. Still, bring warm clothing of your own. The sleigh ride is outdoors, and sitting still can feel cold even when you are dressed for winter.

Cold is the most consistent practical warning. Temperatures can be severe, and people have felt chilled even with the supplied clothing. Add your own warm base layers, and pay attention to your feet and hands. The gear helps, but it does not make the weather disappear. If the day is very cold, you may find the stillness lovely and the same stillness a test of your layering.

The excursion includes a walk from the resort to the reindeer farm. That is only a few minutes, but it is worth knowing if you are dressing small children or anyone who dislikes walking on snow. The activity is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Getting there without missing the sleigh

Transfers are available from two pick-up points. In central Rovaniemi, the bus leaves from Korkalonkatu 32, 50 minutes before the activity start time. At Santa Claus Village, the pick-up is at the Napapiiri I bus stop by the E75, 35 minutes before the start.

Apukka confirms your pick-up time by email within 48 hours of booking. Read that message carefully and set a reminder. If you miss the pick-up, a refund is not available. Transfer arrangements have been described as well organized, but the early departure means this is one detail you should not leave to memory.

If you are staying near Apukka, check the activity’s arrangements rather than assuming you can simply walk over at the start time. The farm is a short walk from the resort, but the transfer and meeting instructions still matter. Alcoholic drinks are not allowed in the vehicle.

What $206 buys you

At $206 per person, this is a premium-priced activity. The fee covers the 2 to 3 km sleigh ride, guide and reindeer husbandry stories, a hot drink, winter clothing, and transfers when needed from the listed Rovaniemi pick-up points. What you are paying for is an organized, guided experience with transport and cold-weather gear, as well as access to the reindeer and the time to learn about them.

The value depends on what you want from a Lapland outing. If a calm ride, close animal encounter, and local context sound worthwhile, the combination may justify the cost. If you mainly want a long ride, dramatic speed, or a large stretch of wilderness, the short route may leave you wanting more. Some people find the experience expensive for its length, so compare it with other activities in your budget before booking.

The two-hour duration can also be misleading if you picture two hours in the sleigh. The ride is usually closer to 40 to 50 minutes, with the remaining time devoted to preparation, the walk, stories, and the warm drink. That fuller format is a plus if you value the guide’s explanations and meeting the reindeer. It is a drawback if you are paying mainly for riding time.

You can reserve now and pay later, and cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity qualifies for a full refund. Those options help if your plans are still taking shape, but they do not change the no-refund rule if you miss the confirmed pick-up.

Who will enjoy this most

This outing suits you if you want a gentle outdoor activity, enjoy seeing animals up close, or are curious about how reindeer husbandry fits into life in Lapland. It can work well for families: children as young as two and three have taken part, and the slow ride gives young ones time to watch the animals and the forest. Bring plenty of warm layers for children, since cold can be harder on little bodies.

It is also a good choice if you want a guided activity that does not ask you to steer or manage the sleigh. Professionals handle that part, and the guide provides context along the way. Couples may enjoy the quiet, wintry mood, though the group format means it is not necessarily a private or secluded outing.

You may want to skip it if you need step-free access, dislike cold-weather activities, or expect a long ride with only your own party. It is also worth considering how you feel about reindeer being used to pull tourist sleighs. The animals are central to the activity, not simply scenery, so it makes sense to choose an experience that aligns with your comfort and values.

Should you book the Apukka reindeer ride?

Book this if you want a slow, guided introduction to reindeer and Lapland traditions, and the price fits your budget. The strongest reasons to go are the quiet sleigh ride, the chance to meet and feed the reindeer, and the guide’s explanations around the fire. Pack warmer than you think you need, check the pick-up email, and go in expecting a 40 to 50 minute ride within a two-hour activity.

If your priority is maximum ride time or a private wilderness experience, look for another option. If you are after a measured, well-organized outing that combines scenery, animal contact, and local context, Apukka makes a compelling choice.

FAQ

How long is the Apukka reindeer activity?

The full activity lasts two hours. The sleigh ride is often around 40 to 50 minutes.

How far does the reindeer sleigh travel?

The included sleigh ride covers 2 to 3 km.

What is included in the price?

The activity includes the sleigh ride, a guide and stories about reindeer husbandry, a hot drink, winter clothing, and transfers from the listed pick-up points if needed.

What winter clothing does Apukka provide?

The supplied clothing includes a thermal overall, thermal boots, wool socks, and mittens. Bring warm clothing of your own as well.

Where are the pick-up points?

Pick-up is available at Korkalonkatu 32 in Rovaniemi city center or at the Napapiiri I bus stop by the E75 at Santa Claus Village.

When will I learn my pick-up time?

Apukka Resort confirms your pick-up time by email within 48 hours of booking. Read the message carefully, as missing the pick-up means no refund.

What language is the tour in?

The live guide speaks English.

Can wheelchair users take part?

No. The activity is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Can I cancel or pay later?

You can reserve without paying immediately, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.