Snowmobile Safari to Lake Inari, meet & feed Reindeers, Lunch

A snowmobile adventure in Lapland offers a perfect blend of thrill, culture, and scenery, all wrapped into a 3-hour 30-minute tour costing around $202 per person. This experience takes place deep in the Finnish wilderness, along the frozen Ivalo River and near Lake Inari, making it ideal for those seeking an authentic Arctic outing. The tour is praised for its professional organization, friendly guides, and the chance to meet reindeer, with a maximum group size of just 8 travelers ensuring a personalized experience. With included hotel pickup and thermals, visitors can focus on enjoying the scenery and activities without worrying about logistics or gear.

This tour is a well-rounded option for adventurers and nature lovers alike. It combines snowmobiling on scenic trails, a visit to a reindeer small island, and a hearty wilderness camp lunch. A notable feature is the opportunity to meet reindeer face-to-face, which adds a unique cultural element. The tour’s flexibility, including vegetarian meal options and the chance to swap driving with fellow participants, makes it accessible for a range of guests. While the experience is quite engaging, it’s most suitable for those comfortable with cold weather and outdoor activities, and it requires participants to have a valid driver license if they wish to drive the snowmobile.

Key Points

• 3.5-hour snowmobile safari exploring Lapland’s winter landscape, including scenic trails along the Ivalo River.
• Hotel pickup from Ivalo area hotels ensures easy access to the rural starting point at Venevalkamantie 3, Inari.
• Shared snowmobiles for two persons, with an option for single driving at an extra cost.
• Meet and feed reindeer on a small island near Lake Inari, adding a cultural highlight to the adventure.
• Lunch served around a campfire in a traditional tepee, featuring BBQ sausages, reindeer or salmon soup, and blueberry cake, with vegetarian options available.
• Weather-dependent activity with a full refund or rescheduling if canceled due to poor conditions.
• Professional guides lead the tour, ensuring safety and sharing insights along the way.
• The maximum group size is 8 travelers, maintaining an intimate experience.

Scenic Trails Along the Ivalo River in Winter

The core of this tour is the snowmobile ride along the frozen Ivalo River. The guide leads you through the shimmering, snow-covered wilderness, offering views that highlight the quiet beauty of Lapland in winter. The trails are suited for thrill seekers on a 2-person snowmobile, combining speed with the chance to enjoy the snow-laden landscape. Riders are given clear driving and safety instructions before setting out, making it accessible for those with some experience or even complete beginners under supervision.

The ride offers an up-close look at the scenic surroundings of rural Lapland. The landscape is dominated by snow-covered forests and the serene, thick ice of the river. The experience balances the adrenaline rush of snowmobiling with moments to enjoy the peaceful winter scenery, making it a memorable highlight of the excursion.

Hotel Pickup and Easy Access to the Wilderness

Transportation is handled smoothly with minibus transfers from hotels in the Ivalo area. This setup removes any hassle of reaching the departure point, located at Venevalkamantie 3, Inari. The pickup service is offered as part of the package, making the start of the adventure stress-free and straightforward.

The meeting point is conveniently close to public transportation options, and the tour ensures timely and comfortable transfer to the snowmobile base at Koppelo village, which is just a 10-minute drive away. At the base, you receive thermal clothing and safety instructions, preparing you well for your snowy journey.

Reindeer Meet & Greet at a Secluded Island

One of the tour’s standout moments is the visit to a small island near Lake Inari, where the tour hosts their own reindeer herd. Here, travelers get a chance to meet and feed the reindeer, adding a cultural touch to the outdoor adventure. Visitors may also see reindeer grazing in the wild from afar, enriching the experience with authentic Arctic wildlife encounters.

The reindeer are kept in a traditional setting, including a Lappish teepee, which provides a cozy shelter for the lunch. This stop is particularly appreciated for its personal interaction, allowing guests to connect with the region’s indigenous culture and its iconic animals.

Traditional Wilderness Camp Lunch

After the snowmobiling, the tour continues with a hearty lunch around an open fire in the teepee. The menu features BBQ sausages, reindeer or salmon soup, and fresh bread and blueberry cake. A hot berry juice accompanies the meal, keeping everyone warm and energized. Vegetarian options are available upon request, ensuring accessibility for different dietary preferences.

Lunchtime in the wilderness offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s culinary traditions, set amid the snowy landscape. The camp’s rustic charm and the open fire create a memorable backdrop for this social and relaxing part of the tour.

Safety, Licensing, and Group Size

Participants wishing to drive a snowmobile must hold a valid driver license recognized in Finland, such as an A1, T, A, or B category license. Minors and children are seated in a sledge behind the guide’s snowmobile, with children over 140 cm able to sit behind an adult when paying the adult rate.

The tour is limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience. Safety is prioritized, with guide supervision and comprehensive instructions provided. The activity includes insurance and fuel, with optional single snowmobile upgrade at an additional $65 per person.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

The activity is dependent on good weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, guests are offered a full refund or alternative date. Cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are free, but late cancellations or changes are not accepted. This policy helps ensure safety and the quality of the outdoor experience.

What to Expect During the Tour

The tour begins with a 15-minute warm-up at the office, where thermal clothing is provided. Afterward, participants are transported to Koppelo village for the snowmobile ride. The ride lasts approximately 2 hours, combined with the stop at the reindeer island and the camp lunch.

Throughout the tour, guides explain safety procedures, share insights into the landscape, and facilitate interactions with reindeer. The pace is steady, with enough time for photos and enjoying the scenery without feeling rushed.

Suitability and Physical Requirements

The tour is suitable for most people who are comfortable in cold weather and outdoor environments. Participants must be at least 18 years old to drive and carry their driver license. Children over 140 cm can sit behind an adult if paying the adult fee. The activity is not recommended for those with mobility challenges but is generally accessible with proper clothing and a positive attitude.

Pricing and Additional Costs

The base price of $202.38 per person covers shared snowmobiles, transfers, lunch, fuel, taxes, and insurance. A single snowmobile supplement is available for $65 per person. The tour’s cost reflects the inclusive nature of the experience, combining transportation, activity, and meal.

Final Thoughts on the Snowmobile Safari in Lapland

This tour delivers an authentic Arctic adventure with a perfect mix of adrenaline and cultural engagement. The professional guides, scenic trails, and the chance to meet reindeer make it stand out in the region. The included lunch in a traditional teepee adds to the sense of immersion.

While weather can impact the activity, the flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind. The small group size ensures attentive guidance and a more intimate experience. This tour suits those who enjoy outdoor winter activities, scenic landscapes, and cultural encounters with Lapland’s indigenous animals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The total experience lasts approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, including transfers, snowmobiling, and lunch.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Venevalkamantie 3, Inari, with transportation provided from Ivalo area hotels. It ends at the same meeting point.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a lodge-style camp lunch with sausages, reindeer or salmon soup, bread, blueberry cake, and hot berry juice is included. Vegetarian options are available by request.

Can I drive the snowmobile?
Yes, if you hold a valid driver license in Finland (A1, T, A, or B). Participants under 18 cannot drive but can still enjoy the tour as passengers.

What should I wear?
Thermal clothing is provided, but it’s recommended to dress warmly in layers suitable for outdoor winter activities.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children over 140 cm in height can sit behind an adult on the snowmobile when paying the adult price. Younger children are seated in a sledge behind the guide.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The activity is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

How many people participate in each tour?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a comfortable, personalized experience.

Is there an extra charge for a single snowmobile?
Yes, $65 per person for those who prefer to drive alone.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is typically booked about 39 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

What safety measures are in place?
Guides provide safety instructions, supervise the ride, and ensure participants are properly equipped with thermal gear and briefing.

This snowmobile safari to Lake Inari combines adventure, nature, and cultural elements into a well-organized, memorable outdoor activity. It’s perfect for those eager to explore Lapland’s winter wonderland while enjoying authentic Finnish hospitality.