Exploring Lapland on horseback offers a unique blend of adventure, tranquility and connection with nature that few other experiences can match. This traditional mode of transport provides unparalleled access to Finland’s pristine winter wilderness while treading lightly on the environment. Horseback riding allows you to reach remote, untouched landscapes where motorized vehicles cannot venture, all while experiencing the profound silence of snow-covered forests. The rhythmic pace of these majestic animals creates a perfect harmony with the Arctic environment, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in Lapland’s magical winter scenery and enhancing your chances of witnessing the northern lights from exceptional vantage points.
What are the benefits of exploring Lapland on horseback?
Exploring Lapland on horseback offers remarkable benefits that enhance your Arctic adventure in ways no other mode of transportation can match. This traditional Finnish method of wilderness travel connects you intimately with the stunning winter landscape while providing unique advantages.
Perhaps the most compelling benefit is the unparalleled access to remote areas. Finnish Lapland’s pristine wilderness includes dense forests, frozen lakes, and rolling fells that remain inaccessible to motorized vehicles. On horseback, you can venture deep into these untouched areas, following narrow trails and ancient pathways that have been used for centuries.
The elevated perspective from atop a horse provides a distinctive vantage point to appreciate Lapland’s snow-draped scenery. You’ll be able to see farther across the winter landscape, spot wildlife more easily, and gain a better appreciation of the vast Arctic wilderness. Our Finnhorses are especially suited to this environment, with their steady temperament and natural adaptation to cold climates.
The silence of horseback travel is another profound benefit. Without the noise of engines, you’ll experience the true tranquility of Lapland—hearing only the soft crunch of snow beneath hooves, the gentle breathing of your horse, and perhaps the distant call of winter birds. This peaceful atmosphere allows for genuine mindfulness and presence in nature.
Horseback riding in winter Lapland also offers a perfect pace for exploration. Not too fast to miss the details, yet efficient enough to cover meaningful distances, this traditional travel method lets you fully absorb the magical atmosphere of Arctic Finland. The physical connection with your horse adds another dimension to the experience, creating a partnership that enhances your journey through the snow-covered landscape.
For those seeking authentic cultural experiences, exploring on horseback connects you with traditional Finnish ways of life and travel methods that have been utilized for generations in these northern regions. Learn more about our guided horse experiences that combine adventure with cultural insights.
What types of accommodation complement horseback tours in winter Lapland?
After an exhilarating day exploring Lapland’s wilderness on horseback, we offer exceptional accommodation options that perfectly complement your adventure while maintaining your connection with nature. Each accommodation choice enhances your experience of Finnish Lapland in unique and memorable ways.
The Polar Lights Lodge provides a wilderness retreat in the heart of Finnish Lapland where you can experience the authentic essence of Arctic tranquility. Surrounded by pristine forest, this lodge offers the perfect environment to breathe in the cleanest air in Europe while marveling at spectacular night skies. The strategic location away from light pollution creates ideal conditions for viewing the northern lights directly from your accommodation. The lodge perfectly balances comfort with an authentic Finnish wilderness experience, allowing you to taste genuine Finnish happiness while resting between horseback adventures.
For a truly immersive nature experience, the Aurora Wilderness Cabin offers a peaceful retreat nestled in Levi’s serene wilderness. Our experienced guides escort you through the enchanting forest to ensure a comfortable arrival at your secluded cabin. The thoughtfully designed cabins feature large windows, including a spectacular roof window, providing perfect vantage points for stargazing or northern lights viewing. Depending on the season, you might witness the Midnight Sun (late May to late July) or the dancing aurora borealis (late August to early April) from the comfort of your bed. Each overnight stay includes a light evening meal and breakfast featuring delicious Finnish specialties, perfectly complementing your horseback adventures.
The Cozy Kammi Experience offers a unique opportunity to connect with both nature and animals. Located on our horse and husky farm, this round, traditional building provides an intimate wilderness experience while keeping you warm and comfortable in quality sleeping bags. The experience begins with a chance to meet the farm’s horses and huskies, creating a deeper connection with these magnificent animals before your riding adventures. Inside the kammi, you’ll enjoy a dinner prepared with authentic Finnish ingredients. Later, relax in an outdoor hammock while gazing at the star-filled Arctic sky, perhaps witnessing the northern lights dance overhead. Morning brings a delightful surprise – a breakfast basket delivered to your doorstep.
For adventurous souls, the Wilderness Caravan Adventure offers flexibility and proximity to nature. Located along Muonio Road, just a 10-minute drive from Levi, this accommodation option allows you to stay in a motorhome, caravan, private tent, or hammock while enjoying full access to necessary amenities. The farm features five electric caravan pitches and unlimited tent and hammock spots. Guests can enjoy atmospheric cooking in the kammi, use toilet facilities, access water and electrical outlets, and take advantage of the drainage services. The location beside a river offers opportunities for refreshing dips, and you can even rent a barrel sauna for the full Finnish experience. As a bonus, guided tours to meet the farm’s horses and dogs are included in the price, creating a perfect connection between your accommodation and horseback adventures.
All our accommodation options are designed to enhance your connection with Lapland’s natural environment while providing the comfort needed to fully enjoy your horseback adventures. The proximity to nature ensures you won’t miss a moment of the Arctic’s spectacular phenomena, from northern lights to midnight sun, depending on your season of travel. For more information about these unique accommodation options that pair perfectly with horseback adventures, feel free to contact our team for personalized recommendations.
What should you pack for a winter horseback adventure in Finnish Lapland?
Packing appropriately for a winter horseback adventure in Finnish Lapland is important for both comfort and safety. The Arctic environment demands specialized clothing and equipment that will keep you warm during extended periods outdoors while allowing freedom of movement for riding.
The foundation of your packing list should be the layering system, which consists of three important components. Your base layer should be made of merino wool or synthetic moisture-wicking materials—never cotton, which retains moisture and can cause dangerous cooling. These thermal undergarments work by drawing perspiration away from your skin while retaining heat. For mid-layers, opt for insulating materials like fleece or down that trap warm air close to your body. Finally, your outer layer must be both windproof and waterproof while remaining breathable enough to release excess heat and moisture.
Extremities require special attention in Arctic conditions. Pack at least two pairs of gloves: thin liner gloves that allow dexterity for handling camera equipment or adjusting clothing, and heavily insulated outer mittens for maximum warmth. Proper winter riding boots with adequate insulation are essential—regular riding boots will not suffice in Lapland’s winter temperatures. Look for Arctic-rated footwear with removable liners that can be dried overnight. Complement these with wool socks and possibly sock liners for additional warmth.
For headwear, bring a wind-resistant hat that covers your ears completely, plus a balaclava or neck gaiter to protect your face from biting winds. Don’t forget high-quality sunglasses or goggles, as snow glare can be intense even on overcast days.
When it comes to horseback-specific items, riding helmets are typically provided by us, but if you have your own that fits well, consider bringing it. Avoid bulky snow pants that might bunch uncomfortably while riding; instead, opt for thermal riding tights under water-resistant outer pants designed for winter sports.
For northern lights photography, pack a camera capable of manual settings, a sturdy tripod, extra batteries (which drain quickly in cold temperatures), and a remote shutter release. Keep batteries warm by storing them close to your body when not in use. A headlamp with a red light mode will preserve your night vision while allowing you to adjust camera settings.
Additional essentials include hand and toe warmers, a thermos for hot beverages, high-energy snacks, and a small backpack to carry personal items during rides. Lip balm and moisturizer with sun protection are also useful, as the Arctic air can be extremely drying.
Remember that while proper gear is essential, our horse experiences include professional guides who can provide advice on daily clothing adjustments based on current weather conditions and the specific activities planned.
