Reindeer – ride with the icons of Lapland

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Reindeer – ride with the icons of Lapland

Reindeer – ride with the icons of Lapland

The reindeer is an icon of Finnish Lapland, and there’s a good reason for that: the number of reindeer in the province roughly equals that of people. So, when in Rome… jump on a sleigh and ride them like Santa!

Reindeer sleigh rides are a popular way to get close to the fabled animal. Eco-friendly holiday activity at its best, the sleigh ride is not a tourism industry innovation, but an ancient Sámi way of getting around. Rides usually last from 10 minutes to a few hours. Speeds stay moderate, which makes them suitable for all ages. A reindeer ride is rather something of a spiritual journey; gliding through a snowy forest in a wooden sleigh IS that magical experience travel agents keep trying to sell you.

Lapland

In Lapland, swapping the hustle and bustle of ski resorts and cities to the peace and quiet of the wilderness takes mere minutes.

Lapland

Round Them Up

Reindeer are semi-domesticated, and each and every animal is owned by a herder. In Northern Lapland, reindeer husbandry is still a major source of income for many. Twice a year, all reindeer are rounded up for earmarking and counting heads. Lasting for several days, the event definitely does not lack in action.

Tradition

Reindeer and people have a connection that is thousands of years old, first by hunting, then through domestication and herding. The Sámi are known for reindeer husbandry, and the animal is ever present in Lappish life.

A Day at the Races

Some people race cars, but up north we like to keep it environmentally friendly. Arranged for the first time in 1930’s, reindeer races are still held in different parts of the reindeer husbandry area in the spring. The season is finalized in the Reindeer Championships where the best of the best compete for the number one positions!

Wintry Wilderness

Lapland’s exotic charisma in a visual nutshell.

When in Lapland – any time of year – not spotting a reindeer is close to a miracle, as they often feed close to roads and dwellings. Spotting them while skiing is not unusual, either.

Santa’s Helper

Reindeer might not fly but there’s something magical about the creatures. Visiting a Finnish reindeer farm is often at the top of traveler’s bucket list and there’s plenty of options to choose from.

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Reindeer – ride with the icons of Lapland