Discover Rovaniemi winter activities
Looking for unforgettable Rovaniemi winter activities? You’re in the right place.
Cross the Arctic Circle in Santa’s reindeer sleigh! Come along, buy a ticket and wait your turn in Santa Claus Village . You can also claim your Arctic Circle crossing certificate at our ticket office.
You can take photos on the reindeer ride, but the guide will be happy to take photos for you after the ride. Remember to dress warmly to stay comfortable and make the most of your unique experience.
Stay a while longer to enjoy the glow of the campfire. Tip: you can buy marshmallows from the ticket office to roast on the campfire after the ride.
Things to do in rovaniemi during WINTER
Winter in Rovaniemi is a magical time to meet Santa’s reindeer. At Santa Claus Village, you can enjoy snowy sleigh rides and warm moments by the fire — all without advance booking.
Try a short Reindeer Path ride for a gentle introduction, or choose the Forest Path for a longer ride through snowy trees. Both are family-friendly and available daily in the village.
For something more immersive, join a Winter Adventure Reindeer Safari. This one-hour experience takes you deeper into the forest on a 2–3 km sleigh ride, ending with a campfire, warm drinks and small snacks.
In the evening, you can search for the Northern Lights on a peaceful reindeer sleigh ride under the Arctic sky. A quiet, unforgettable winter moment.
All activities start from Santa Claus Village, just 20 minutes drive from Rovaniemi city centre. No booking needed for the shorter rides.
We Believe in Doing Things Right
Sustainability, animal welfare, and respect for nature are at the heart of what we do – not just in words, but in every decision we make.
What our customers are about our Winter activities
Loved it!
Loved the forest path raindeer ride. 2 adults and 1 children cost £100 from the information point in the main office. It was a lovely ride in the forest. Beautiful and quiet. Loved roasting marshmallows outside and the queue wasn’t more than 5 minutes.
Bea G / Feb 2024
A magical winter experience
We both really enjoyed our 3km reindeer ride. We shared a sledge and it was a relaxing 45 minute ride on the snow through the SCV site and adjacent woodlands at a walking pace. Our guide (Mikko) was happy to take our photo at the start and finish of the ride. We also had the opportunity to cook sausages and drink warm berry juice in a private covered area adjacent to the finish. In all, a magical winter experience
Jon / Feb 2024
A beautiful, child friendly reindeer ride in the woods
We went for the 1000m reindeer sleigh ride and it we all loved it, such a beautiful trail. We arrived at 11:30am and had to queue for 45 minutes for the ride, but worth the wait.
joannesarah / Dec 2023
Lappish food in Santa Claus Village
Lapland Restaurant Kotahovi offers traditional, simple Lappish and Finnish food. In our traditional Lappish hut style restaurant, you can enjoy the atmosphere of Lapland with all your senses. An open fire blazes in the middle of the restaurant, and you can see the reindeer of the Santa Claus Reindeer Park from the window.
FAQ - Rovaniemi WINTER Activities with Santa Claus Reindeer
What winter activities can I do with Santa Claus Reindeer in Rovaniemi?
You can join our reindeer rides right here in Santa Claus Village! Try the Reindeer Path (400 m) or Forest Path (800 m) – both are walk-in and available daily. For a longer adventure, book a Winter Safari or an evening Northern Lights ride into the quiet Arctic forest. You can also cross the Arctic Circle and get a certificate.
Do I need to book the activity in advance?
No booking is needed for the Reindeer Path or Forest Path rides. Just come to Santa Claus Village and get your ticket on the spot. Longer safaris (Winter Adventure, Northern Lights) requires advance booking.
Are the reindeer rides suitable for children?
Yes! Reindeer rides are a safe and magical experience for the whole family. Small children can ride with an adult in the sleigh.
What’s included in the Winter Adventure Reindeer Safari?
This is a one-hour experience with a longer sleigh ride into the forest. You’ll ride wrapped in reindeer hides, enjoy warm drinks and snacks by the fire, and hear stories from reindeer herder life.
What happens during the Northern Lights ride?
You’ll take a peaceful sleigh ride under the Arctic sky, with time by the fire to watch for the northern lights. A magical winter evening you’ll always remember.
What should I wear for these activities in winter?
We recommend dressing in warm winter outdoor clothing. Reindeer hides are provided in the sleigh, but for longer rides, it’s essential to layer up.
Wear thermal underwear, a wool mid-layer, winter trousers, and a jacket. Keep your feet, hands, head, and neck well covered with wool socks, winter boots, mittens, a beanie, and a scarf. Loose clothing keeps you warmer – avoid tight shoes or gloves.
Children feel the cold faster, so make sure they’re dressed with extra care for this unforgettable Lapland adventure!
Where can I join the reindeer rides?
All our rides begin in Santa Claus Village, right behind the Santa Claus Office. We’re easy to find – just follow the signs and the sound of sleigh bells!