Meet Vesku, the world's first reindeer influencer

In the heart of the charming Finnish Lapland, there resides a remarkable, and very cute, creature who has captured the hearts of adventurers and nature enthusiasts. Vesku, the world's first reindeer influencer, has a keen eye for beauty and a deep connection to his homeland.

In this exclusive interview, Vesku shares his invaluable insights and insider tips for those seeking to embark on an unforgettable journey to this breathtaking region. From hidden gems tucked away in the wilderness to the best spots for witnessing the mesmerising phenomenon of the midnight sun, Vesku's tips will certainly elevate your experience.

Hi Vesku! Could you tell us a bit about yourself?

Hi! I'm Vesku, a two-year-old reindeer from Finnish Lapland. I’m a wilderness expert and a nature lover – I like to hike and explore Lapland. A lot of people probably know me from social media as I've recently started running my own Instagram account. There I share details about my life here in Europe's last wilderness reserve, where there are more of us reindeer than people.

What made you decide to become an influencer?

I love my homeland and I’m excited to tell as many people as possible how wonderful it is. Finnish Lapland is a fantastic place – especially in summer! Even though I’m familiar with the area, there are always new fells, forests, open waters, streams, paths, and nooks and crannies to be charmed by. My loved ones also encouraged me saying that I’m quite photogenic, I’m authentically myself and that I make friends easily.

What do you hope to achieve as an influencer?

I think it's great to get to know people from all over the world. I want to show my human friends how they can live in harmony with nature and feel good. I think it would be good for many people to unwind and relax in Lapland amid their hectic modern life. It would be nice if people found so much joy and inspiration in my tips that they would come and meet me this summer. Isn't that the goal of every influencer: to inspire and cheer others up? In addition, it would be nice to get a lot of followers and engagement so that as many people as possible would hear about the world's finest region, the Finnish Lapland!

What do you like the most about Lapland?

Summer and the midnight sun! The time of the midnight sun is magical – you have time for anything because it's light around the clock and you’re just too excited to go to bed early. I love daydreaming and taking in the majestic views of the misty wilderness. In the cleanest air and nature in the world, you can experience all my favourite things, such as hiking in the stunning fell landscapes, eating healthy natural produce, swimming in natural waters, lounging on the beach and practising yoga with other reindeer.

Any tips for those travelling to Lapland?

My home region is an incredibly diverse summer destination, where my human friends seek not only some peace and quiet, but also adrenaline-fueled adventures. Here you can hike, cycle in national parks, enjoy sauna by the lake, try whitewater rafting, sleep in gorgeous glass hotels in the middle of the wilderness, photograph bears, eat in five-star restaurants or dance on top of Rukatunturi fell at the Solstice festival. The Northern Lights season begins at the end of August, and in September you can enjoy the vibrant autumn colours as leaves turn into various shades of red and yellow.

Have you met Santa Claus and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer?

I know Rudolph of course, but meeting his boss Santa is still on my bucket list. Hopefully this summer I’ll be able to make a weekend trip to Korvatunturi. It would be great to catch up with Rudolph and hear about his well-deserved summer holiday plans.

What is your favourite Finnair destination?

I have so many favourites! You can easily reach Kuusamo, Rovaniemi, Kittilä and Ivalo from Helsinki. I recommend Kuusamo, Rovaniemi, Levi, Ylläs, Kemi, Pyhä-Luosto and the northernmost regions of Lapland with whom I have collaborated to raise awareness of the Lapland summer. All the destinations are rather unique, so the best thing is to visit them all and experience the magic of Lapland for yourself. 

Anything you’d like to say to our Blue Wings readers?

Summer season is the best time of the year, so get your plans sorted now if you haven’t already and I hope to see you in Lapland soon! I, for one, can't wait for the snow to melt and to bask in the warmth of the sun. The best thing is to trot under the midnight sun in the greenery of Lapland, which surprises and enchants many first-time visitors!

Thank you, Vesku, and see you in Lapland!