Private Snowshoeing to a Private Reindeer Forest & Reindeer Herder’s Day with Lunch, Levi

Snowshoeing to Secret Reindeer Forest in Levi. Afternoon Herder’s Day with Soup Kota Lunch, Warm Clothing Included

Why this is one of the most complete experiences in Levi

• Snowshoe hike entirely on private land, no public trails, no other visitors
• The Secret Reindeer Forest: Jussi’s privately owned old pine and birch forest
• Animal welfare first: no rides, no tricks. Semi-wild reindeer on their own terms
• Afternoon departure, includes the full Herder’s Day with soup kota lunch: vegetable soup with rieska, reindeer sausage, Finnish pancakes, hot drinks
• Warm winter clothing included. Nothing to rent or arrange separately
• Lasso practice and personal Reindeer Herder’s Assistant diploma

This two-part experience is ideal for adults and children aged 12 and up, combining gentle snowshoeing through pristine winter landscapes with a private visit to a reindeer herder’s forest. The experience offers a balanced mix of nature, culture and relaxation, making it one of Levi’s most cherished winter activities.

Part 1: Easy Snowshoeing Hike in the Private Wilderness

Snowy Trails & Scenic Viewpoint

Your journey begins in Levi village, where you meet your guide and are fitted with snowshoes over your own sturdy winter boots. After a short 10-minute transfer, you arrive in a secluded wilderness area, far from public trails and ski slopes.

With our experienced guide, you’ll walk a 2–4 km loop trail through snowy forests and frozen swamplands. The route is chosen for its balance of gentle activity and scenic beauty, with several excellent spots for photographing Lapland’s untouched winter wilderness.

This snowshoe trail lies entirely on private land, offering true peace, serenity and exclusivity, perfect for those seeking a nature experience far from the crowds.

Part 2: Reindeer Encounter in a Secret Forest

After about an hour of snowshoeing, you’ll arrive in an old pine and birch forest, a completely private area owned by a local reindeer herding family. This is a truly exclusive setting with no other visitors, often referred to as our Secret Reindeer Forest.

As you step into the quiet forest, curious reindeer from the nearby herd begin to approach, expecting food. You’ll be welcomed by your local host, who introduces themselves and shares a few words about their family’s long tradition in Lappish reindeer husbandry.

You’ll receive a bucket of feed, usually a mix of hay and specially prepared pellets, and begin feeding the animals as they gather around. The feeding takes place at several natural spots throughout the forest, giving you time to interact closely with the reindeer, take beautiful photos and enjoy unhurried moments in their presence. Some of these Arctic animals may allow you to come close, while others remain shy and cautious, as they live freely in nature for most of the year.

This peaceful, unstructured moment in nature is what we fondly call “Reindeer Therapy”, known for its calming effect and emotional connection to the wild.

Traditional Lappish kota meal by the open fire

The kota is pre-heated and warmed in advance, ready for the guests. Our own kota chef serves a traditional Lappish kota meal.

After spending time with the reindeer, guests move into the warm kota. Wooden benches are covered with reindeer hides, and the open fire is burning. Lunch begins with the Northern Light Veloute, our kota chef’s signature soup, made fresh over the open fire and served with rieska, local flatbread toasted on the flames. We call it the wilderness Michelin star: no actual stars, no white tablecloths, just a quietly exceptional bowl of soup in a reindeer-skin kota deep in the Arctic forest. It always tastes better than it has any right to. Then comes reindeer sausage: guests can grill it over the open fire with the chef’s guidance; it is locally made and ecologically sourced. After that, our chef serves thin Finnish pancakes with arctic berry jam and whipped cream. Coffee is brewed in a pot on the fire, with berry juice and herbal tea also served. While guests enjoy the meal, the host continues with more stories about the reindeer, the Arctic way of living and the questions that have come up during the visit.

Lasso and diploma

Before departure, try traditional lasso throwing, always a guest favorite, and receive your own Reindeer Herder’s Assistant diploma as a keepsake. The return hike is shorter, approximately 15 minutes back to the transfer point.

Vegetarian, vegan or chicken sausage alternatives available on request.

Who this is for

• Families with grown-up children aged 12 and above (recommended age — see Important remarks)
• Couples and small groups who want an authentic reindeer encounter combined with active snowshoeing
• Guests who want a full half-day experience with a proper meal and warm clothing provided
• Anyone looking for the Reindeer Herder’s Day experience reached on foot rather than by snowmobile sled

Responsibility waiver: Scandinavian Travel Group is not responsible for changes, disruptions or unavailability affecting any third-party venue or location visited during this program, for whatever reason. Where a venue is unavailable, the guide will make reasonable alternative arrangements where possible. No refund is due for circumstances beyond our control.