Few experiences feel more unmistakably Lapland than meeting reindeer in their natural Arctic environment.
Our reindeer experiences in Lapland give you the chance to encounter these remarkable animals, learn more about their role in northern life, and, on some holidays, enjoy a traditional sleigh ride through snowy forests and open landscapes.
Reindeer experiences feature on many of our Northern Lights holidays in Finland, Sweden and Norway alongside husky sledding, snowmobiling and evenings spent searching for the Aurora Borealis.
A reindeer experience can take several different forms depending on location, season, and local practice.
In some areas, particularly in Finnish Lapland, you may still experience a short reindeer sleigh ride, travelling gently through forest trails or open snow-covered terrain. However, it is important to note that longer traditional sleigh journeys are becoming less common in many parts of Lapland. The reindeer’s welfare is always at the absolute forefront of any experience offered and (just like us humans!) some animals very much enjoy interacting with visitors and some prefer to keep their distance. The Reindeer herder will tailor the experience they offer depending on the animals they care for so well.
More commonly today, reindeer experiences focus on:
The exact format varies between holidays, but the emphasis is increasingly on education, cultural understanding and respectful wildlife interaction, rather than just a ride in a sleigh.
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Reindeer are native across the northern regions of Finland, Sweden and Norway, and remain an important part of Arctic ecosystems and rural livelihoods.
In Finnish Lapland, reindeer herding is widely practised and remains an important livelihood for many families. In Sweden and Norway, reindeer herding is also present, though it is more regionally concentrated and closely regulated.
Across all three countries, reindeer are closely associated with the Sámi people, the Indigenous people of Sápmi (the cultural region spanning northern Norway, Sweden, Finland and parts of Russia).
Reindeer herding is one of several traditional Sámi livelihoods and remains an important part of cultural identity for some Sámi communities today. It is also a living, modern practice that has adapted significantly over time.
It is important to understand that:
Where reindeer experiences include cultural interpretation, we work with local providers to ensure information is shared respectfully and accurately, reflecting current, lived experience rather than stereotypes or historical generalisations.
A modern reindeer experience is usually calm, slow-paced and observational (just like the iconic animals you will be meeting!)
Depending on the itinerary, you might:
Unlike faster Arctic activities such as husky sledding or snowmobiling, reindeer experiences are typically designed to be quiet, reflective and educational.
Want to know what it’s actually like? Read our first-hand experience of a reindeer safari in Finnish Lapland, from meeting the animals to heading out into the snowy landscape.
Reindeer encounters are often a highlight of family holidays in Lapland.
They are particularly well suited to children because they combine:
Reindeer experiences feature on many of our Lapland family holidays, often alongside Santa-themed activities or Northern Lights excursions.
Age suitability and activity format vary by location, so it is always best to check individual itineraries.
Reindeer activities are usually experienced during the daytime, but they often form part of a wider Northern Lights itinerary.
A typical holiday might include:
On rare occasions, some reindeer experiences may take place in the late afternoon or early evening, offering the possibility of being outdoors under the Arctic night sky. However, this is not the norm and should not be relied upon as a Northern Lights activity.
The Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon and can never be guaranteed, but staying within the Aurora Zone gives multiple opportunities to see it.
Explore our full collection of Northern Lights holidays.
Most experiences include meeting reindeer and learning about their care and role in Arctic life. Some also include feeding opportunities, farm visits and, in select locations, a short sleigh ride.
They are becoming less common in many areas. While sleigh rides still exist in some locations, many modern experiences in Sweden and Norway now focus more on farm visits, cultural interpretation and animal interaction rather than sleigh rides.
Yes, many are designed with families in mind. They are generally very calm, safe and educational, but age restrictions and formats vary by holiday.
It is possible on rare occasions if an experience takes place after dark, but this is not guaranteed. Most Northern Lights viewing is done on dedicated evening excursions.
Reindeer herding is one traditional livelihood within some Sámi communities across Sápmi. However, Sámi culture is diverse and contemporary, and not all Sámi people are involved in reindeer herding.
