Ivalo: Lake Inari Northern Lights Tour w/ Reindeer & Dinner
Imagine sitting by a crackling campfire on the frozen shores of Lake Inari, wrapped in warm clothes, watching the sky for the elusive Northern Lights. For $187 per person, this 4-hour adventure offers a genuine taste of Arctic life, led by local guides who know the wilderness inside out. You’ll journey in a snowmobile-drawn sleigh, meet friendly reindeer, and enjoy a homemade Lappish dinner in a traditional teepee — all away from the crowds and typical tourist traps.
What we love about this experience is the combination of authenticity and comfort. First, the snowmobile sleigh ride is a wonderfully immersive way to experience the silent beauty of the Arctic wilderness, with the warmth of reindeer hides spreading comfort as you glide across the icy landscape. Second, the dinner setup — hot drinks and a hearty meal cooked over an open fire — adds a rustic charm that’s hard to match elsewhere.
A possible consideration? Since you’re dependent on weather conditions, there’s always the chance that the Northern Lights might stay hidden, which some visitors found a little disappointing. But even without a sighting, the peaceful atmosphere, reindeer encounters, and Arctic scenery make this a memorable trip for nature lovers.
This tour suits travelers who want more than just a quick aurora chase — it’s perfect if you’re after a small-group, local experience that combines adventure, culture, and comfort without feeling overly commercial. If you’re fascinated by Sami traditions or simply eager to experience Lapland’s winter magic, this trip checks those boxes.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Authentic Arctic Adventure: Experience the wilderness in a traditional sleigh pulled by a snowmobile, offering an immersive Arctic ride.
- Cultural Encounters: Meet and feed friendly reindeer, gaining insight into Sami traditions.
- Gourmet Campfire Dinner: Enjoy a homemade three-course meal made from local ingredients, served in a cozy teepee.
- Small Group Experience: Limited to 12 participants, ensuring a personalized and relaxed atmosphere.
- Weather Dependent: The Northern Lights are not guaranteed, but the setting and activities stand strong regardless.
- Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind.
Planning more time in Ivalo? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
A Detailed Look at the Lake Inari Northern Lights Tour
The Itinerary and Transportation
The tour starts with a hotel pickup in Ivalo, usually in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on availability. You’ll be driven to a small local office in Ivalo, where you’ll receive thermal clothing and shoes — essential gear in the Arctic cold. Proper layering makes a significant difference, and the warm clothes provided help you stay comfortable without lugging bulky gear from home.
From there, it’s a short 15-minute drive to the tiny village of Koppelo, far from city lights, setting the perfect scene for Aurora viewing. Once there, you’ll hop into a snowmobile-drawn sleigh, covered with reindeer hide, which adds both charm and warmth. The ride is gentle but immersive, allowing you to soak in the stark beauty of the snow-covered landscapes and frozen lakes.
The Wilderness Experience
The highlight is the ride across the frozen lakeside, where silence reigns and the only sounds are the crunch of snow and the occasional distant call of Arctic birds. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, sharing stories about the region, Sami culture, and the natural environment. As you arrive at the lakeside, you’ll have a moment to breathe in the crisp air and take photos of the breathtaking scenery.
If luck is on your side, the Northern Lights will make a guest appearance — glowing in shades of green and pink across the dark sky. While sightings depend on weather conditions and solar activity, the guides keep their fingers crossed for a display worth waiting for. As one review mentions, “Overall I really enjoyed the activity, it’s a shame I didn’t see the aurora… I will do it again when I return to Finland, hunting for the aurora.” That honesty reminds us that nature makes no promises, but the experience itself holds plenty of value.
More Great Tours NearbyReindeer Encounters and Cultural Insights
Back at the island, you’ll visit a traditional wooden cottage and Lappish teepees. Here, the hosts Tina and Tapio — owners of this family business — create a warm, welcoming environment. Visitors often remark on the authenticity of this setting, far from commercialized tourism. You can meet and feed the reindeer, which are notably friendly, and gain a better understanding of their importance in Sami culture, traditionally used for transportation and livelihood.
Dinner in a Cozy Teepee
After the mingling with reindeer, the group gathers around a campfire to enjoy a homemade three-course dinner. The meal can feature local fish or reindeer, with vegetarian options available upon request — a thoughtful touch for dietary restrictions. The food is prepared with care, and hot drinks help to keep everyone warm as you share stories and enjoy the flickering firelight.
Returning to Ivalo
The tour wraps up with a brief drive back to Ivalo, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel, hopefully with some stunning photos and plenty of stories to tell. The entire experience lasts around 4 hours, making it a manageable evening activity that combines adventure, culture, and relaxation.
What Travelers Are Saying
Many reviews echo the sentiment that this tour is a genuine experience. One traveler, Ylenia, said, “Overall I really enjoyed the activity, it’s a shame I didn’t see the aurora,” but added she would do it again, highlighting the overall positive impression despite the elusive lights. Others rave about the intimate atmosphere, small group size, and the chance to connect with local Sami traditions.
From a practical point of view, travelers appreciate the thermal clothing and shoes, which eliminate the need to bring bulky outerwear. The small group size ensures that questions are welcomed, and everyone feels engaged, not lost in a crowd.
Who Would Love This Tour?
If you’re eager for a genuine Arctic experience that combines adventure, culture, and cozy moments, this trip is ideal. It’s particularly suited for those who want to get away from large, commercial tours and prefer intimate, locally led activities. The chance to meet reindeer and learn about Sami culture adds depth for those interested in indigenous traditions. Since weather can affect the Northern Lights display, flexible travelers who appreciate the overall experience will find this tour rewarding regardless.
The Sum Up
This Lake Inari Northern Lights Tour with Reindeer & Dinner offers a well-rounded Arctic experience that balances excitement, culture, and comfort. The snowmobile sleigh ride immerses you in the quiet beauty of the Lapland wilderness, while the chance to feed reindeer and enjoy a home-cooked meal in a traditional teepee adds authentic cultural flavor.
Though the Northern Lights are unpredictable, the journey and setting alone make this a worthwhile outing. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a personalized, small-group adventure that highlights local traditions and Arctic scenery without feeling rushed or overly commercialized. Whether or not you see the Aurora, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Lapland’s natural and cultural treasures.
FAQs
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Ivalo’s center area, making it convenient and hassle-free.
What should I wear during the tour?
Warm thermal clothing and shoes are provided, ensuring you stay comfortable during the outdoor activities and sleigh rides.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours, which is perfect for an evening activity without feeling too long or rushed.
What meals are served?
The dinner includes local fish or reindeer, prepared as a homemade three-course meal. Vegetarian options are available upon request.
Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
While sightings depend on weather and solar activity, guides do their best to find clear skies for Aurora viewing. It’s not guaranteed, but the Arctic setting is breathtaking regardless.
Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the small group size and gentle sleigh ride make it suitable for families and travelers of all ages, provided they’re comfortable in cold weather.