Key Points

Duration: This tour lasts 4.5 hours, blending outdoor activities with a cozy Finnish meal.
Activities: Experience snowshoeing through Lapland’s primeval forest, try ice fishing on a frozen lake, and learn to light an Arctic fire to prepare smoked salmon.
Location: Starts from Santa’s Hotel Santa Claus or Santa Claus Village, with transport in a van.
Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to see arctic rabbits, white foxes, arctic owls, lynx, and reindeer along the snow-covered trails.
Authentic Finnish Meal: Concludes with a traditional meal in a KOTA hut, complete with a warm fire and blueberry tea.
Family-Friendly: Children over 150 cm pay adult price; younger children ride in sleds pulled by guides’ snowmobiles.

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Rovaniemi: Snowshoeing in the Lapland Primeval Forest

This tour begins with an exciting snowshoeing adventure into the primeval forest of Lapland. The guides provide specially designed snowshoes because the snow in this region is up to 1 meter thick all year round—ordinary hiking shoes won’t do. As you walk along snow-capped trails, the scenery resembles a white fairy tale, with the silence only broken by the crunching snow and occasional sighting of arctic wildlife such as arctic rabbits, white foxes, and arctic owls.

During the trek, there’s a chance to encounter wild animals like lynx and reindeer. The guides are knowledgeable about the surrounding nature and help you understand the Arctic ecosystem. The tranquil environment offers a perfect break for relaxation and appreciating the raw beauty of Lapland’s wilderness.

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Ice Fishing on a Frozen Lapland Lake

The journey continues with an ice fishing experience on a frozen lake in the heart of Lapland. The guide explains how to use the equipment and provides guidance throughout the activity. The calmness of the lake and the surrounding beautiful scenery make for a peaceful setting as you wait quietly for a fish to bite.

Whether or not you manage to catch fish, everyone can enjoy sitting around a campfire, where warm blueberry tea is served. The outdoor activity gives a genuine taste of Arctic life and the traditional way of fishing that locals have practiced for generations.

Finnish Culinary Skills in a Cozy KOTA Hut

After the outdoor adventures, the tour shifts indoors to a KOTA hut, where you’ll learn to light an Arctic fire and prepare smoked salmon using a local recipe. The KOTA provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, allowing guests to relax after the brisk outdoor activities.

The smoked salmon is a highlight, showcasing traditional Finnish culinary techniques. The fire adds a cozy touch, making this part of the experience both educational and delicious. The local meal offers a true taste of Lapland and its rich food traditions.

Tour Logistics and Practical Details

This 4.5-hour tour departs from Santa’s Hotel Santa Claus or Santa Claus Village, with transportation in a van that lasts approximately 30 minutes between the meeting point and the forest. The guided tour itself lasts about 2.5 hours, with an additional hour dedicated to the BBQ meal in the KOTA hut.

The tour operates with a minimum of 2 people on weekdays and Saturdays, and 4 people on Sundays and public holidays, making it best suited for small groups or families. Children over 150 cm can pay the adult price for snowmobiling, while younger children ride in sleds pulled by guides’ snowmobiles.

The activity supports multiple languages—Chinese, English, and Finnish—and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. The departure times vary based on season and booking volume, so early reservation is recommended.

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Wildlife Encounters and the Arctic Environment

Throughout the outdoor portions, there are rich chances to spot native wildlife and observe the Arctic ecosystem in its natural state. This adds a layer of authenticity often missing from more commercial Arctic tours. The snowy forest and frozen lake serve as a stunning backdrop for these encounters, making the experience both visually memorable and educational.

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Authentic Finnish Experience in Lapland

What makes this tour stand out is the blend of adventure and culture. From snowshoeing through untouched wilderness to fishing and cooking in a traditional KOTA hut, every element emphasizes genuine Lapland traditions. The cozy meal in the KOTA allows guests to connect with local culinary customs while warming up after the outdoor activities.

The tour is suitable for those who appreciate nature, quiet reflection, and authentic local craftsmanship. The guides are attentive and share their knowledge, ensuring a safe and enriching experience.

Final Thoughts on the Rovaniemi Snowshoeing, Ice Fishing, and Salmon Tour

This 4.5-hour excursion offers a well-rounded taste of Lapland’s wilderness and culinary culture. The snowshoeing through pristine forests, the peaceful ice fishing, and the chance to prepare smoked salmon in a traditional KOTA make for a memorable Arctic adventure.

While the tour emphasizes nature encounters and authentic activities, it remains accessible with options for children and small groups. The cozy KOTA meal perfectly complements the outdoor activities, making this a rewarding experience for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a genuine Arctic experience.

The main considerations include season-dependent ice conditions and the need for advance booking due to varying departure times and group size requirements. This tour offers a high-quality, immersive escape into Lapland’s wilderness with a warm taste of Finnish hospitality.

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Rovaniemi: Snowshoeing, Ice Fishing and Salmon in Kota

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts 4.5 hours in total, including outdoor activities and the meal in the KOTA hut.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Santa’s Hotel Santa Claus or Santa Claus Village.

What activities are included?
Guests experience snowshoeing in Lapland’s primeval forest, ice fishing on a frozen lake, and preparing smoked salmon in a KOTA hut.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 150 cm can pay the adult price for snowmobiling, while younger children ride in sleds pulled by guides.

What wildlife might be seen during the tour?
The tour offers chances to see arctic rabbits, white foxes, arctic owls, lynx, and reindeer.

How is the outdoor environment described?
Expect snow-covered trails in a white fairy tale world with silent forests and frozen lakes.

Is the meal in the KOTA hut included?
Yes, the traditional Finnish meal and blueberry tea are part of the experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.

What languages are available for guides?
Guides speak Chinese, English, and Finnish.

How do I book or reserve?
Reservations are flexible; you can book now, pay later, and reserve & pay later without immediate payment.