Levi: Lapland Reindeer and Husky Safari

Unveiling the Magic of Lapland: Reindeer and Husky Safari Review

If you’re dreaming of a winter adventure in Lapland, Finland, the Levi: Lapland Reindeer and Husky Safari offers a delightful glimpse into traditional Arctic life. This tour, which lasts around 3 hours, combines the charm of reindeer sleigh rides with the thrill of husky sledding, all set against some of the most beautiful snowy landscapes I’ve seen.

What I genuinely appreciate about this experience is how it balances authenticity with fun. You get to visit an actual reindeer farm, not just a touristy setup, and then hop into a husky-pulled sled that feels like stepping into a Christmas card. The tours are well-organized, guided by friendly and knowledgeable staff—special shoutout to Mait, whose warmth and info made the trip extra memorable.

One possible consideration is the weather; in November, if snow isn’t yet abundant, the activities might be adjusted—like swapping sled rides for wheel rides. So, it’s good to check availability and dress warmly, as the outdoor winter chill makes layers essential. But if you love animals, scenic landscapes, and a taste of Sami culture, this trip packs a lot of value into just three hours.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Reindeer Farm Visit: You’ll see real reindeer and learn about Sami traditions, which adds a cultural depth to the trip.
• Sleigh Rides: Reindeer-pulled sledge rides and husky sledding are the highlights, offering both tranquility and adrenaline.
• Guides You Can Trust: Guides like Mait and Alex are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make the experience special.
• Animal Welfare: The animals appear well cared for and trained, though behavior can be unpredictable—follow all safety instructions.
• Unique Scenic Views: Expect stunning snowy landscapes, perfect for photography and simply soaking in the Arctic beauty.
• Value for Money: At $284, the tour offers a comprehensive experience with transportation, detailed guides, and plenty of animal interactions.

Entering the Arctic Wonderland: The Tour Itinerary

This tour begins with hotel pickup in Levi, which means you can leave the logistics to someone else—handy in chilly conditions. The first stop is a reindeer farm, where you get a chance to feed, pet, and learn about these gentle animals. One of the standout moments, according to reviews, is the visit to a traditional reindeer herding environment—not a staged setup, but a real working farm. Expect to hear stories about Sami culture and reindeer husbandry, which adds an educational layer to what might seem just a fun ride.

The reindeer sledge ride covers about 1 km, and while it’s relatively short, the tranquility of gliding over snow with a team of reindeer is something you won’t forget. Nebile shared that, “We learned about the husky life, reindeer farming, and Sami culture,” making clear how much culture and tradition are woven into the experience.

Afterward, you’ll warm up in a traditional kota, a cozy Sami tent, where hot berry juice is served. The cozy environment and storytelling make this a relaxing break, giving you a taste of Arctic hospitality.

Following the farm visit, the journey continues to a husky kennel, where you’ll meet these energetic and loyal dogs. The guides are often praised for their warmth—they often share stories about the dogs’ backgrounds and personalities, making the experience more personal. Once briefed on safety, you’re invited to drive your own husky sled for about 2 km, which many reviewers consider the tour’s highlight. Janine called it “just amazing,” and others have found it to be a very interactive and exciting way to explore the snow-covered wilderness.

The Reindeer and Husky Rides: What to Expect

The reindeer sledding is a peaceful, scenic glide that allows you to take in the winter landscape at a gentle pace. On the other hand, husky sledding is often described as exhilarating—like a rollercoaster on snow, but with adorable dogs pulling you along. Simon noted, “The location was breathtaking, and the huskies were full of energy.” Keep in mind that some reviews mention the husky ride can be short (around 2 minutes), which might feel brief for the cost, but the experience of mushing your own team makes up for it.

The guides tend to take photos and videos, so you leave with good keepsakes—handy for sharing your Arctic adventure back home. The entire experience is designed to be family-friendly, but note that infants are required to sit on laps, and wheelchair access isn’t available.

Transportation, Duration, and Group Size

The tour lasts about 3 hours and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a seamless outing. The group size tends to be intimate, with reviews mentioning small groups of around 8 people, which enhances the personal touch and safety. The cost at $284 per person is quite reasonable when considering the inclusion of guides, animal interactions, and transportation.

The activity is in Finnish Lapland, an area known for its stunning winter scenery. The timing can influence your experience—early November might lack snow, which could lead to some activities being replaced with wheel rides. Always check availability and weather forecasts before booking.

Who is this tour best suited for?

If you’re an animal lover, culture enthusiast, or someone craving an authentic Arctic experience, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially ideal if you want a combination of scenic rides and cultural insights, rather than just a snowmobile or pure adventure. Families with children, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate a mix of education and fun will find this a solid choice.

Authenticity, Value, and Cultural Touches

Many reviews praise the authenticity of the experiences—guides like Mait and Alex are noted for their friendly, informative nature, often sharing stories beyond just the animals. The visit to a traditional reindeer farm isn’t just a photo opportunity but an insight into Sami life, which adds a meaningful layer to the experience. Nebile appreciated learning about Sami culture, making the trip more than just a touristy ride.

The hot berry drink served in the kota is a small but memorable detail—warming you both physically and culturally. It’s these touches that make this tour stand out from more generic Arctic excursions.

The value proposition

At $284, the tour offers a well-rounded package: transportation, expert guides, animal interactions, and scenic rides. Considering the cost of similar experiences elsewhere, you’ll find this provides good value—especially with the positive reviews praising the knowledgeable guides who make the stories and safety instructions clear and friendly.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re after an authentic, family-friendly Arctic adventure that combines culture, stunning scenery, and animal interactions, this safari is a smart pick. The small group sizes and friendly guides ensure a personalized experience, while the scenic rides and animal encounters make for memorable moments.

However, if you’re seeking longer sled rides or adrenaline-pumping activities, this might feel a bit short or gentle. Also, remember to dress warmly—layers are essential—and check the snow conditions if visiting in early winter.

This tour strikes a good balance between authenticity and entertainment. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a taste of Sami culture along with the thrill of sledding with animals that seem genuinely happy and well cared for. It’s a genuine Arctic experience that’s more about connection with nature and tradition than just ticking off a bucket list.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickup and drop-off from Levi hotels are included, making it convenient to start and end the tour.

How long does the entire tour last? The experience lasts about 3 hours, providing enough time for two rides, animal interactions, and warming up in a kota.

What should I wear? Dress warmly in winter layers. While thermal outerwear isn’t included, you’ll want insulated clothes, hats, gloves, and sturdy boots.

Can children participate? Yes, children can join, but infants must sit on laps. The experience is family-friendly but not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments.

What if there’s not enough snow? In November, if snow is scarce, the activities may be adjusted—like replacing sled rides with wheel rides—so check availability beforehand.

Are the animals well cared for? Reviews consistently mention that the reindeer and huskies are well-trained and treated kindly. However, always follow all safety instructions.

Is this experience good value? Given the guided tours, animal interactions, and scenic rides, $284 is considered reasonable especially for a small group experience—many reviews highlight the friendly guides and memorable moments.

Can I take photos? Absolutely. Guides often take photos and videos for you, so you can focus on enjoying the moment and capturing memories.

In essence, this safari offers a genuine glimpse into Arctic life, blending scenic rides, cultural insights, and animal encounters. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone seeking an authentic, heartfelt experience in Lapland’s winter wonderland.