Meet Lapland’s reindeer up close with Salonki Travels in Ruka. A thrilling sleigh ride and campfire tales offer families a unique peek into Arctic traditions.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
90 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels including families with children, minimal physical exertion required
Wildlife
History
Reindeer herding is a cornerstone of Sámi culture in Lapland, a practice sustained over centuries as both livelihood and tradition.
Conservation
Salonki Travels supports sustainable tourism by educating visitors on responsible wildlife interaction and preserving the natural habitat of the reindeer.
Salonki Travels
Meet Lapland’s reindeer up close with Salonki Travels in Ruka. A thrilling sleigh ride and campfire tales offer families a unique peek into Arctic traditions.
Salonki Travels is an activity operator based in Ruka, Pohjois-Pohjanmaa, offering guided outdoor experiences across Lapland. The company arranges a wide range of tours including snowmobile safaris of varying lengths (introduction safaris, 50 km and 100 km options), husky safaris, reindeer farm visits, ice fishing, snowshoeing, ice karting and river rafting. Salonki Travels also hosts traditional Finnish experiences such as kota dinners and multiple sauna formats, from smoke saunas to lakeside bathing.
Tours are led by local guides familiar with the Ruka region and Arctic conditions. Several snowmobile safaris include hands-on instruction for beginners as well as guided routes for more experienced riders. Family-friendly options are available — for example, introductory snowmobile experiences allow children to participate in sledges. Reindeer visits include both short and longer rides and opportunities to learn about reindeer culture, handicrafts and farm life. Seasonal activities reflect Lapland’s winter and summer possibilities, from Aurora hunts in heated wagons to river rafting and lakeside saunas in warmer months.
Salonki Travels focuses on safe, guided outdoor experiences that showcase northern nature and local traditions. Descriptions and itineraries emphasize practical details such as driving instruction, guided routes, on-site meals and opportunities for photography. By operating from a known base in Ruka and offering a broad program of tours, Salonki Travels provides visitors with structured ways to experience authentic Lapland activities and local outdoor culture.
Location
Ruka, Pohjois-Pohjanmaa
Based in Ruka, Lapland
Tours Offered
21 tours
Snowmobiles, huskies, saunas
Guided Tours
Local guides
Led by experienced guides
Seasons
Winter & Summer
Activities across seasons
Choose Salonki Travels for guided snowmobile safaris, husky rides, reindeer experiences and traditional saunas — check availability and book the preferred date.
Dress in Layers for Cold Weather
Temperatures near Ruka can dip well below freezing, so multiple insulating layers will keep you comfortable during outdoor activities.
Arrive Early for Transfers
Allow extra time for the 30-minute transfer each way to the farm to avoid rushing the experience.
Respect Animal Boundaries
While reindeer are gentle, follow guidance for safe interactions to ensure a positive experience for you and the animals.
Bring a Camera with Protective Gear
Cold and moisture can affect electronics, so pack protective cases or covers for your gear.
Thermal Base Layers
Keeps your core warm during chilly sleigh rides and outdoor time at the farm.
winter
Insulated Waterproof Gloves
Protect hands from cold and moisture while handling gear or during the sleigh ride.
winter
Sturdy Waterproof Boots
Necessary for navigating snow and damp conditions around the farm.
winter
Camera with Extra Batteries
Cold drains batteries faster—capture moments with spares on hand.
winter