Levi Polar Lights Tours: Reindeer and Husky Taster

Discovering Levi’s Reindeer and Husky Taster Experience

If you’re dreaming of a quick dose of Arctic adventure, the Levi Polar Lights Tours’ Reindeer and Husky Taster offers a captivating slice of Lapland’s winter wonderland. This 1.5-hour experience packs in a husky sled ride and a gentle reindeer sleigh, making it ideal for first-timers or those short on time but eager to experience traditional Sami culture and Arctic scenery. While the tour isn’t a long haul, it delivers genuine moments of excitement and serenity, all guided by friendly, knowledgeable staff.

What I really like about this experience is how it balances thrill and tranquility. The husky ride feels energetic and exhilarating, especially with guides like Salla, who’s praised for being sweet and thoughtful. Then, the reindeer sleigh offers a peaceful glide through snowy landscapes, perfect for unwinding after the speed of the huskies. Another highlight is the authentic atmosphere — you get a real sense of Lapland’s traditions, not just a touristy spectacle.

A key consideration is the short duration — at just 1.5 hours, it’s more a taste than an in-depth adventure. Some reviews mention rides feeling brief, and the limited daylight in winter can make the scenery less dramatic if you’re booking late in the day. Still, for those with limited time or wanting a snapshot of Arctic life, this tour offers solid value without a hefty price tag.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Combines traditional Sami reindeer sleighing with an exhilarating husky sled ride.
• Guides with Local Knowledge: Guides like Salla and others are noted for their friendliness and expertise.
• Short and Sweet: Perfect for a quick glimpse into Lapland’s winter life, ideal if you’re on a tight schedule.
• Included Hot Drinks & Snacks: A cozy way to warm up after the cold rides, adding a welcoming touch.
• Transport Convenience: Starts and ends at Levi Center, with pickup and drop-off included, making logistics simple.
• Limited Daylight Impact: Rides may be darker if taken later in the afternoon, which can affect scenery views but adds to the winter ambiance.

The Real Experience: What to Expect During Your Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

Your adventure kicks off at Levi Center Hissitie 11, across from a parking lot and near a pizza shop. The tour provider, Polar Lights Tours, offers pickups from Levi’s central area — a big plus for ease of access, especially since hotel pickups aren’t included. The process involves a short bus ride of about 15 minutes to the tour site, which keeps the journey comfortable and stress-free.

Safety Briefing and Tour Introduction

Once at the site, expect a 10-minute safety briefing. This isn’t just a boring chat — the guides are clear, friendly, and eager to make sure everyone feels confident, especially if you’re new to sledding. This part is essential, especially when handling snow-covered equipment and animals.

Husky Sled Ride: Speed, Power, & Connection

The husky ride is the most adrenaline-pumping part. You’ll sit comfortably in a large sled, pulled by a team of friendly, well-trained huskies. Guides like Salla earn high praise for their welcoming attitude and knowledge. The ride covers about 1 km — enough to give you a good sense of how huskies work as a team and how much fun sledding can be. Several reviews highlight how “fun with speedy huskies” makes this a highlight, with “guides being very professional, detailed, passionate, and friendly.”

Reindeer Sleigh: Calm & Serene

After the husky ride, you’ll switch to a reindeer sleigh — gentle, peaceful, and surprisingly relaxing. You glide through snow-covered landscapes, taking in the quiet beauty of Lapland’s winter scenery. Many reviews describe the reindeer experience as “serene” and “calm,” perfectly complementing the high-energy husky ride. It’s a great way to unwind and connect with the environment.

Authentic Cultural Touches and Tasting

The tour includes local snacks and hot juice, adding a cozy element after the outdoor adventures. This part of the experience makes the outing feel more authentic and welcoming, especially on cold days when warming up is appreciated.

Additional Stops and Photo Opportunities

There are planned photo stops and a 30-minute guided tour that deepen your understanding of the local area and Sami traditions. While some travelers note that scenery can be darker in winter, guides often make the most of the scenery, sharing stories and insights.

The Value of This Short Arctic Escape

At $153 per person, the tour strikes a good balance between affordability and memorable moments. It’s not an in-depth safari, but the combination of animal rides, scenery, and cultural snippets makes it worthwhile, especially if you’re limited on time. Many travelers rave about the welcoming guides, mentioning guides like Salla who made the experience extra special. The inclusion of hot drinks and snacks also adds value, turning cold outdoor moments into cozy memories.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits those new to Lapland or travelers looking for a snapshot of Arctic life. It’s great for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a taste of sledding without committing to a longer trip. However, if you’re after more extensive sledding or nighttime aurora hunting, you might want to look elsewhere. The short duration and daylight limitations mean it’s more about quick fun than a deep immersion.

Practical Tips for Your Arctic Adventure

• Dress warmly: Layer up with thermal clothes, hats, and insulated shoes. Many reviews mention how cold it can get, especially during husky rides in -20°C weather.
• Book early: Tours are subject to availability, especially in peak winter months.
• Arrive a bit early: This ensures you’re ready for the safety briefing and don’t miss any part of the experience.
• Capture the moment: Bring your camera or smartphone, but keep it warm in your pocket to prevent battery drain.
• Consider timing: Rides are more atmospheric if taken earlier in the day when there’s more light, though the ambiance is still magical after dark.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a first-timer eager to experience traditional Sami culture, or simply curious about Arctic animals, you’ll find this mini-adventure charming and authentic. It’s ideal for those who want a taste of Lapland’s winter without a hefty time commitment. Families with children, couples, or solo travelers will all appreciate the friendly guides and the chance to connect with nature in a manageable, well-organized way.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? No, pickup from Levi Center Hissitie 11 is included, but hotel transfers are not. You’ll want to meet at the specified location.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a quick but memorable Arctic outing.

What should I wear? Dress in warm, layered clothing, including hats and insulated shoes, since you’ll be outdoors in freezing temperatures.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users? Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible as per available information.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Do I need to pay upfront? You can reserve your spot now and pay later, giving you flexibility in planning.

Final Thoughts: A Short but Sweet Arctic Adventure

The Levi Polar Lights Tours’ Reindeer and Husky Taster offers a well-rounded introduction to Sami culture and Arctic scenery in just a short time. Its balance of speed and calm, guided by enthusiastic experts like Salla, creates a memorable snapshot of Lapland’s winter life. The included snacks and warm drinks add a nice touch, making the cold outdoor experience more comfortable.

While it’s not a grand expedition, the authentic animal encounters, stunning winter vistas, and friendly guides make this tour a solid choice for first-time visitors. It’s especially perfect if your schedule only allows a quick outing but you still want to savor some Arctic magic.

If you’re after a straightforward, enjoyable introduction to reindeer and husky sledding, with the convenience of organized transport and cultural insights, this tour fits the bill. Just remember to layer up and enjoy every moment of Lapland’s snowy charm.