If husky sledding is the adrenaline of Finnish Lapland, the reindeer safari is its soul. Gliding slowly through a silent, snow-heavy forest behind a calm reindeer, wrapped in furs, is one of the most peaceful and authentic experiences you can have in Ruka — and one that connects you directly to a way of life that has shaped this region for centuries.
We send guests out on reindeer safaris all winter alongside our Northern Lights tours. Here is exactly what to expect, when to come, and how to make the most of it.
What Is a Reindeer Safari Really Like?
A reindeer safari is a gentle, unhurried experience. You arrive at a working reindeer farm, where a herder introduces you to the animals. Reindeer are semi-domesticated and calm; you will usually have a chance to feed them lichen from your hand before the ride. Then you settle into a wooden sleigh, tuck a warm blanket over your knees, and set off at a walking pace along a marked forest trail.
There is no rush and no noise — just the crunch of snow, the occasional soft grunt of the reindeer, and the hush of the forest. Most safaris finish around a campfire with hot berry juice or coffee and stories from the herders. It is the kind of experience that makes children's eyes go wide and adults feel, for a while, completely unplugged.
The Sámi and Finnish Heritage Behind It
Reindeer herding is not a tourist invention — it is a living tradition. In Finnish Lapland, reindeer have been herded for well over a thousand years, and the practice remains central to the culture and livelihood of many families, including the Indigenous Sámi people of the north. A reindeer safari with a genuine local herder is a window into that heritage: how the animals are cared for, how the herds move with the seasons, and why the reindeer is such a powerful symbol of the North.
When you book, choose an operator that works with real, family-run reindeer farms. You will get the authentic story rather than a staged show — and your visit directly supports the herding families who keep the tradition alive.
Best Time of Year for a Reindeer Safari
Sleigh rides need snow, so the season in Ruka runs roughly from December to April:
| Month | Conditions | Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| December | Deep snow, polar twilight | ★★★★★ | Fairy-tale light and Christmas atmosphere. Perfect for families; pair with an evening aurora hunt. Book early for the holidays. |
| January | Coldest, crisp and still | ★★★★★ | The quietest, most magical forest of the year. Very cold, so wrap up well. Darkest skies for the Northern Lights. |
| February | Cold, more daylight | ★★★★★ | Beautiful light for photos and still plenty of snow. The most popular month with families. |
| March | Milder, bright days | ★★★★☆ | Sunny and warmer with deep snow intact. Lovely, relaxed conditions for a longer ride. |
| April | Spring snow, mild | ★★★☆☆ | End of the sleigh season. Best in the morning before the snow softens. |
What to Wear
Because you sit still in the sleigh rather than moving around, staying warm takes a little effort:
- Base layer: merino wool or thermal synthetic, top and bottom
- Mid layer: fleece or a light down jacket
- Outer layer: a windproof, waterproof shell — many farms also lend thermal overalls and fur blankets
- Extremities: wool socks, insulated boots, a warm hat and mittens
Good to know: reindeer safaris are one of the calmest, safest winter activities in Lapland — ideal for toddlers, grandparents and anyone who wants the magic of the forest without the speed of a husky sled or snowmobile.
Combining a Reindeer Safari with the Northern Lights
Ruka's short midwinter days work in your favour. A reindeer safari takes only part of the afternoon, leaving the long dark evening free for a reindeer experience to flow naturally into a Northern Lights tour. Spend the day in the peaceful company of the reindeer, then chase the aurora across a star-filled sky at night — it is one of the most complete Arctic days you can have.
To plan around the aurora, read our guide to the best time to see the Northern Lights in Finland, and consider a 3–4 night trip that also includes a husky safari. Many of our guests combine all three.
How to Book
Reindeer safaris are popular over Christmas, New Year and the February holidays, so reserve ahead for peak dates. We can arrange a safari as part of your aurora trip and match you with a genuine local herding family. Get in touch and we will build a winter itinerary that fits your group perfectly.