Ivalo: Snowmobile Safari, Meet and Feed Reindeers with Lunch

Discover the Best of Lapland with the Ivalo Snowmobile Safari and Reindeer Experience

The Ivalo Snowmobile Safari offers an engaging adventure right in the heart of Lapland, Finland, combining the thrill of snowmobiling with the chance to meet and feed friendly reindeers. Priced at $203 per person and lasting around 195 minutes, this tour is perfect for travelers eager to explore the arctic landscape with a small group of just up to 8 participants. The experience is notably highly rated, with a 4.9 out of 5 based on 41 reviews, reflecting consistent satisfaction.

This carefully curated route begins with warm clothing and expert instruction in Ivalo, then takes you onto frozen Lake Inari via snowmobile. The tour includes an authentic stop at a home island of Tina and Tapio, where a homemade Lappish lunch is served in a traditional teepee. The opportunity to meet and feed reindeers adds an authentic touch, making this more than just a snowmobile ride. While it is designed primarily for adults, children over 12 years and over 140 cm tall can participate as passengers. This tour strikes a great balance for those seeking an active, family-friendly, yet immersive experience in Lapland.

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Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized guidance and attention.
• Includes snowmobile driving instruction suitable for beginners.
• Tour covers approximately 25-30 km along the frozen Ivalo River and Lake Inari.
• Visit to Tina and Tapio’s island offers a genuine glimpse into local life.
• Reindeer feeding and photo opportunities deepen the Lapland experience.
• Authentic homemade lunch served in a warm teepee with local fish or reindeer.

Starting Point and Tour Logistics in Ivalo

The tour begins at Ivalo Safaris’ office, conveniently located next to Hotel Kultahippu and a K-Market in the center of Ivalo village. From here, transfers by minibus take guests to the lake’s edge, where the snowmobiles are ready. The entire experience lasts about 195 minutes, with flexible start times based on availability.

A local guide leads the group, providing instructions on snowmobile handling before setting off. The tour is limited to 8 participants, fostering an intimate atmosphere. For safety, all participants wear thermal clothing, shoes, and helmets supplied by the tour operator.

Snowmobile Driving Experience for Beginners and Enthusiasts

This safari is an ideal choice for first-time snowmobile drivers, with a track tailored to suit varying skill levels. Participants learn to navigate the frozen Lake Inari and the Ivalo River. The total trail distance of 25-30 km offers a balanced mix of adventure and scenic views, without feeling overwhelming.

One of the tour’s highlights is the opportunity to swap places between driving and riding as a passenger if the group size is odd, ensuring everyone gets a chance to drive. The guide’s instructions are clear, making this accessible to those unfamiliar with snowmobiling. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, shared snowmobiles are available, and a single snowmobile upgrade costs $65 per person.

Visiting Tina and Tapio’s Island: Reindeer and Local Life

The tour takes you to the owners’ small island, where Tina and Tapio live in a traditional setting. Here, you can meet and feed reindeers, which are described as friendly and gentle. The guide shares stories about reindeer life in Lapland, adding cultural insight to the encounter.

Guests can also take photos and interact with the reindeers, enhancing the authentic feel of the experience. The owners’ island offers a charming backdrop, providing a glimpse into the local lifestyle outside the typical tourist paths.

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Authentic Lappish Lunch in a Warm Teepee

A big part of the experience is the homemade lunch served in a traditional teepee. The meal is prepared from local ingredients, with options including reindeer or local fish. The campfire setting in the teepee offers a cozy atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after snowmobiling.

Hot drinks are served alongside the meal, and guests enjoy beautiful surroundings while savoring this authentic Finnish fare. The lunch is a highlight for many, providing a taste of Lapland’s culinary traditions.

The Reindeer Encounter and Photo Opportunities

Feeding reindeers is a favorite activity on this tour. The friendly animals readily approach, making it easy to take photos and interact. The guide provides insight into reindeer behavior and their importance in Lapland’s culture, making the encounter both fun and educational.

This stop offers a unique chance to connect with the wildlife and culture of the region, adding depth to the snowmobile adventure.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package covers the cost of fuel, taxes, insurance, and thermal clothing, shoes, and helmets. Participants are driving shared snowmobiles with a swap option midway, while hot drinks and lunch are also included.

For those interested in a single snowmobile experience, an upgrade costs $65 per person. The tour includes transfers from Ivalo hotels, making logistics straightforward. Children over 12 years and more than 140 cm tall can sit as passengers, while drivers must hold a valid license with driver’s license details required.

Safety and Physical Considerations

Participants should be comfortable outdoors in cold weather and capable of handling snowmobile controls after instruction. The driver must be at least 18 years old and hold an appropriate license. The self-liability fee for accidents is capped at €700 per snowmobile.

The tour is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or individuals over 95 years, ensuring a safe experience for most healthy adults. The pace and route are designed to suit beginners, but a basic level of physical activity is involved.

Customer Feedback and Highlights

With a rating of 4.9/5 based on 41 reviews, the tour consistently impresses. Reviewers mention the stunning scenery, the friendly reindeers, and the authentic lunch experience as standout features. Guests appreciate Tina and Tapio’s hospitality and the personalized guidance from local guides.

One review highlights the day’s success in combining snowmobile riding and island visits, while another praises the authenticity of the reindeer encounter and the delicious homemade lunch.

Final Thoughts: A Genuine Arctic Adventure

This small-group snowmobile safari in Lapland offers a well-rounded experience with scenic drives, cultural encounters, and authentic local cuisine. The intimate group size and expert guidance make it accessible for beginners and experienced snowmobilers alike.

While it is primarily designed for adults, the participation age requirement of 12+ makes it a good choice for families with older children. The reindeer feeding and visit to Tina and Tapio’s home island provide meaningful insights into Lapland’s traditions, making the experience memorable beyond the snow-covered landscapes.

If you seek a combination of adventure, culture, and cuisine in a safe, small-group environment, this tour offers excellent value. The only considerations are the cost for single snowmobiles and the physical requirements. Overall, it’s a highly rated tour that captures the essence of Lapland’s winter charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 12 years and more than 140 cm tall can participate as passengers, but the tour is mainly designed for adults.

What is included in the price?
The price covers snowmobile driving, thermal clothing, helmet, lunch, transfers, fuel, taxes, and insurance.

Can I drive my own snowmobile?
Yes, a single snowmobile upgrade is available for $65 per person, but the standard package involves shared snowmobiles.

Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, the driver must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driver’s license in Finland.

What is the route like?
The route covers approximately 25-30 km along the frozen Lake Inari and Ivalo River, designed to suit beginner skills.

Where does the tour start and end?
Starts at Ivalo Safaris’ office in the center of Ivalo and ends back at the same location.

What is the lunch like?
The homemade lunch is served in a warm teepee, featuring local fish or reindeer and hot drinks.

Are reindeer feeding opportunities available?
Yes, guests can meet and feed reindeers on the island, with plenty of photo opportunities.

How long does the whole experience last?
The full tour lasts about 195 minutes, including transfers, snowmobile riding, and meals.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women or people over 95?
No, it is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals over 95 years for safety reasons.

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