Saariselkä: Ice Fishing Tour to Lake Inari, reindeers& lunch

This 5-hour Arctic ice fishing tour in Lapland offers a blend of outdoor activity, local culture, and stunning scenery. For $215 per person, participants enjoy transport from Saariselkä, warm thermal clothing, a guided trip to Lake Inari, and an authentic home-made 3-course lunch served in a Lappish teepee by an open fire. The tour is designed for small groups, limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

The experience is ideal for those who appreciate nature and culture, with highlights such as feeding reindeers on a small island and witnessing Lapland’s serene winter landscape. While fishing requires patience, the tranquil environment and the chance to relax in nature make it worthwhile. Note that children under 7, pregnant women, and those with certain mobility restrictions** should consider other options, as this activity has some limitations.

Key Points

• Expert local guide leads the tour, providing insights into Arctic life
• Includes transport, warm clothing, shoes, and reindeer meet-and-greet
• Experience ice fishing on Lake Inari in a traditional style with your own fishing rod
• Visit a small island inhabited by reindeers and learn about local lifestyles
• Warm lappish teepee features a home-made 3-course lunch served by open fire
• Suitable for adventurers and cultural enthusiasts, not ideal for children under 7 or pregnant visitors

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Begins in Saariselkä

The tour departs directly from Saariselkä, with pick-up included. Travelers are first taken to the Ivalo office, where they receive thermal clothing and shoes to keep warm during the outdoor activities. From there, a short drive takes everyone to the quaint village of Koppelo, where snowmobiles and sledges await.

This carefully arranged transportation ensures comfort from the start, with scenic vistas along the way. The journey to the fishing spot involves riding in a sleigh pulled by a snowmobile, offering a cozy and picturesque ride across the snowy landscape. This setup sets the tone for a relaxed but adventurous day ahead.

Ice Fishing on Lake Inari with a Local Guide

Once at Lake Inari, the experienced guide provides instructions for ice fishing, explaining the traditional Lappish method. Each participant receives a personal fishing rod, and the guide’s advice helps improve the chances of catching fish, though patience is key.

Fishing involves baiting with a worm or maggot, and the peaceful surroundings make for a calm, meditative experience. The vastness and stillness of Lake Inari create a memorable setting, where the silence is only broken by the occasional sounds of nature. Even if fishing results in no catch, the tranquility alone makes the experience worthwhile.

Visiting the Reindeer Island and Learning About Lapland

After fishing, the group heads to a small island owned by local family owners, Tina and Tapio. The island hosts two friendly reindeers that visitors can meet and photograph, offering a glimpse into authentic reindeer husbandry. The owners live on the island year-round, providing a real connection to Lapland’s reindeer culture.

This stop allows for interaction with the reindeers, understanding their importance to local life, and enjoying the serene winter scenery away from tourist crowds. It’s a simple, genuine experience that emphasizes local traditions and the slow pace of life in this region.

Lunch in a Traditional Lappish Teepee

One of the tour’s highlights is the home-made 3-course lunch served inside a warm Lappish teepee. The meal is prepared over an open fire, adding to the rustic authenticity. Guests have the choice of reindeer meat, fish, or vegetarian options upon request, ensuring dietary preferences are respected.

The berry juice served alongside the meal complements the hearty dishes and enhances the outdoor ambiance. The teepee’s cozy interior provides a comfortable refuge from the cold, where guests can relax, swap stories, and enjoy the genuine flavors of Lapland.

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Practical Details: Transportation, Group Size, and Accessibility

The tour includes transport from Saariselkä to the main activity locations, with pick-up at nearby hotels. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures a more intimate experience and personalized attention. The activity lasts approximately 5 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.

Warm clothing and shoes are provided, so there’s no need to bring your own winter gear. However, the tour is not suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those over 70 or 75 years, due to the physical nature and outdoor setting.

The Scenic Landscape and Outdoor Atmosphere

Traveling in Koppelo, travelers enjoy spectacular views of snowy forests, frozen lakes, and the vast Arctic wilderness. The sled ride pulled by a snowmobile offers an authentic Lapland experience, highlighting the region’s natural beauty.

Participants appreciate the peacefulness and the quiet grandeur of the landscape, which creates a perfect setting for reflection and appreciation of Lapland’s winter environment. The entire experience is designed to be peaceful and immersive, with the guide sharing insights about the local ecosystem and traditions.

The Reindeer and the Authentic Lifestyle

Feeding and interacting with the reindeers on the island gives visitors a hands-on connection to the reindeer herding culture. The animals are described as adorable and the setting is away from tourist crowds, offering a more authentic look into local life.

The owners, Tina and Tapio, foster a familial atmosphere, providing insights into reindeer care and Lapland traditions. This stop is a favorite for nature lovers and those interested in cultural storytelling.

Food, Refreshments, and Comfort

The lunch served in the teepee is home-made and hearty, emphasizing local ingredients like reindeer meat or fish. The berry juice complements the meal, adding to the authentic experience.

Guests can expect to warm up by the open fire, enjoying the cozy interior of the teepee. This setup delivers a comfortable break amid the outdoor adventure, making the experience suitable even for those not primarily interested in fishing.

Booking, Cancellation, and Additional Information

Reservations are flexible; customers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The activity allows you to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in planning. The tour is conducted in English and is ideal for those seeking small group interaction in a relaxed outdoor setting.

Other nearby locations like Kakslauttanen or Kiilopää can be arranged for extra fees, if travelers want additional pickup options. The tour’s focus on authenticity, scenic beauty, and local culture makes it a compelling choice for adventurers and cultural explorers alike.

This well-reviewed Arctic experience offers a balance of outdoor activity, cultural insight, and relaxation. With a high rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 8 reviews, the tour’s strengths lie in its knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and authentic touches like reindeer interactions and home-made meals.

While fishing can require patience, the peaceful environment and beautiful landscapes make every moment meaningful. The small group format ensures a personalized experience, making it suitable for adventurers and those curious about Lapland’s traditions. For travelers interested in nature, culture, and genuine outdoor experiences in Finland, this tour offers a memorable taste of Lapland.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transport from Saariselkä, warm clothing and shoes, a local guide, the reindeer feeding experience, and a home-made 3-course lunch.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts approximately 5 hours, but start times vary based on availability.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 7 years, due to the outdoor conditions and activity nature.

Can I join from other locations?
Yes, pickup from Kakslauttanen or Kiilopää is possible for an extra $20 per person.

What are the main highlights of the experience?
Expect ice fishing on Lake Inari, feeding reindeer, lunch in a traditional teepee, and scenic sled rides pulled by snowmobiles.

Do I need my own winter gear?
No, warm clothing and shoes are provided as part of the tour.

Is this activity physically demanding?
The activity involves outdoor time and some physical activity in cold conditions. It’s not suitable for those with mobility restrictions or pregnant women.

What should I bring?
Guests should wear warm layers, but additional gear isn’t necessary since it’s provided.

What if I don’t catch any fish?
Even if fishing results in no catch, the peaceful environment and scenic views make the experience valuable and enjoyable.

This authentic Arctic adventure offers a wonderful mix of nature, culture, and cuisine in Lapland. Whether you’re interested in fishing, reindeer, or simply enjoying the winter landscape, this tour provides a well-rounded glimpse into Lapland’s outdoor life.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby