Reindeer, Huskies and Other Arctic Animals in Rovaniemi

For many visitors, seeing a reindeer is high on their Lapland bucket list. And it is easy to see why! Their friendly nature and unmistakable antlers have made them one of the most recognisable symbols of the Arctic and Christmas. But reindeer are much more than a Christmas icon — they have been an important part of life in the North for centuries.

And then there are the huskies! Energetic, friendly, and perfectly suited to Arctic conditions, these hardworking dogs have a special connection to life in the North. Meeting them is a chance to get up close to these fascinating animals and learn more about their lives.

Reindeer herding is an important part of life in Lapland, and local reindeer herders spend the year caring for their animals. A visit to a reindeer farm offers a chance to meet the animals and learn more about the people, traditions, and way of life connected to reindeer herding. Santa Claus Village is just the beginning when it comes to meeting Santa Claus’ iconic companions in Rovaniemi. Beyond this location on the Arctic Circle, numerous reindeer farms in and around Rovaniemi offer a variety of experiences and opportunities to meet these remarkable animals!

From peaceful encounters to Arctic adventures, there are many ways to experience reindeer in Rovaniemi. Spend time at a farm feeding the reindeer and meeting local herders, hop on a traditional reindeer sleigh ride, or travel by riverboat to a reindeer farm. Each experience offers a different way to get close to these iconic Arctic animals and learn more about life with reindeer in Lapland. With activities available throughout the year, you can discover the world of reindeer in many different ways.

Many of Rovaniemi’s husky kennels are family-owned and open their doors to visitors throughout the year. A visit gives you the chance to meet the dogs, get to know their personalities, and experience the lively atmosphere of a working husky kennel. Hear the excited barking, learn about the dogs’ daily routines, and discover the dedication that goes into caring for a team of huskies.

There are many ways to experience the huskies, from shorter kennel visits to longer adventures in the Arctic landscape. In summer, you can choose a tour that takes you along the trails with huskies beneath the Midnight Sun. Come winter, trade the green forests for a snowy wilderness and set out with the dogs beneath the Northern Lights.

Whether you visit for a short while or spend a full day with the dogs, a husky experience offers a different way to discover Lapland in every season.

Beyond the reindeer farms and husky kennels, Rovaniemi’s forests, meadows, and wilderness areas are home to a fascinating variety of wildlife. Reindeer are a familiar sight around the Arctic Circle, but with a little luck, you might also spot a moose, hare, fox, or marten.

Deep in the more remote wilderness of Lapland, bears, wolves, and wolverines also make their home, although they rarely venture into areas frequented by people.

If you would like to learn more about Lapland’s wildlife, consider joining a guided nature or wilderness tour. Experienced local guides can help you discover the region’s diverse wildlife while ensuring that animals are observed safely and respectfully in their natural environment.

Remember: Never approach wild animals on your own.

Rovaniemi is surrounded by nature, but there are also places where you can get a closer look at the wildlife of the North. About an hour’s drive from Rovaniemi, Ranua Wildlife Park is home to Finland’s only polar bears, together with around 50 other Arctic and northern animal species with approximately 200 individual animals in total.

For an easy family-friendly animal experience closer to Rovaniemi city centre, head to Santa Claus Village, where you can meet and feed reindeer and alpacas and enjoy a walk among the animals at Santa’s Pets.

There is more than one way to explore the landscapes around Rovaniemi. In summer, saddle up and ride beneath the Midnight Sun, follow forest trails, make your way to the top of a hill on horseback, or even take a refreshing swim with horses. As autumn arrives and the nights grow darker, you can set out on a horse-drawn carriage ride in search of the Northern Lights. When winter arrives, swap the saddle for a cosy seat in a horse-drawn sleigh and glide through the snowy scenery.

Whether you are an experienced rider or looking to try something new, there are experiences to suit different interests and seasons. A guided horseback ride can take you into the forests and countryside around Rovaniemi, while a carriage or sleigh ride offers a more relaxed way to enjoy the surrounding landscapes.

Meeting the animals of the North is a special part of many Rovaniemi experiences. Whether you are visiting a reindeer farm, getting to know the huskies at a kennel, or joining an animal activity in the wilderness, remember that responsible tourism starts with respecting the animals and their well-being.

A responsible animal experience is also an opportunity to learn. Take the time to listen to the people caring for the animals, learn about their daily lives, and discover the role that reindeer, huskies, and other animals have played in life in the North.

Looking for a sustainable way to meet the animals of Rovaniemi? Explore the local companies with the Sustainable Travel Finland label and find an experience that puts responsible tourism at the heart of what they do.