Reindeer, husky and other Arctic Animals in Rovaniemi

For many seeing reindeer is a bucket list item while visiting Lapland. And no wonder! Their friendly, sweet, and furry appearance embody Christmas magic and the Arctic Circle. The iconic horn head of the north has been a way of life here for centuries.

And then there’s huskies, the loyal canine family members that love the northern rough elements. Equally cute and cuddly they melt hearts with their knowing eyes and soft paws.

The local reindeer herders live with their animals through the year, and for most of them the reindeer provide a livelihood. Reindeer farms can be visited at the Arctic Circle / Santa Claus Village and on reindeer farms around Rovaniemi.

From spending a laid-back day feeding the reindeer and meeting the real-life reindeer herders at the farm to jumping on a fun sleigh ride safari or taking a river boat to a reindeer farm – there are many accessible and enjoyable ways for anyone to hang out with these lovely creatures anytime of the year.

Many husky kennels in Rovaniemi are family-owned, and also open for visitors – whether it’s summer or winter. You will find the activity best suited for you from the range of ways of getting to know the dogs.

You can simply make a visit to a husky park, pet and hug the cuddly ones, or you can choose to go hiking with huskies under the Midnight Sun or take a wilderness safari under the Northern Lights during the Polar Night with a bunch of them.

From a short visit to an all-day excursion, there is something for everyone.

Lapland’s nature is amazing, and the wildlife here is rich. The most typical resident of the Arctic Circle’s forests and meadows is reindeer, but it’s not unusual to see a moose, rabbit, fox or marten.

If you wish to experience more, it’s a great idea to go on a wilderness safari. Experienced guides will take you to places where the likelihood of seeing wildlife is high. Remember: Do not approach animals on your own in the wild.

Experience the wild Arctic and its species in Ranua Wildlife Park zoo tour an hour drive from Rovaniemi. You can see the only polar bears living in Finland, as well as 50 other arctic and northern animal species, in all and all 200 individuals.

Zoo tours are available also in the Santa Claus Village where walking and feeding reindeer or alpacas is an easy-access experience for the whole family.

For horseback riding fans there is a possibility to explore the Arctic city in a different way. Ride a horse under the midnight sun or climb to a top of a hill with a horse. Another option is to find a cosy seat in the sleigh and let the horses lead you to the magical sceneries of Rovaniemi.

Find all your horseback riding and sleigh ride options by clicking the link below.