Ivalo, in the heart of Finnish Lapland, is a fantastic place to enjoy authentic Arctic flavors and local traditions during your trip. Unlike typical tourist spots, Ivalo offers unique lunch experiences set against stunning winter scenery, often combined with exciting activities like snowmobiling and reindeer encounters. Among these, our favorites include tours that blend gastronomy with adventure, such as snowmobile safaris with reindeer feeding, and scenic ice fishing trips that serve hearty home-cooked meals. If you’re imagining a meal in the midst of snow-covered lakes or sharing a warm teepee after a day outdoors, Ivalo delivers with style.
For those seeking a small group, personalized experience, the Ivalo: Snowmobile Safari, Meet and Feed Reindeers with Lunch** stands out, offering a genuine look at local life with a homemade meal in a traditional teepee. Meanwhile, travelers who want a more relaxed pace while still enjoying the Arctic landscape will find the Ice Fishing Tours to Lake Inari equally appealing, especially with the chance to share a hearty lunch by open fire. These experiences show that in Ivalo, authenticity and adventure go hand-in-hand.
1. Ivalo: Snowmobile Safari, Meet and Feed Reindeers with Lunch
At number one on our list is the Ivalo: Snowmobile Safari, Meet and Feed Reindeers with Lunch. This small-group tour takes you out onto the stunning Lake Inari, where you’ll experience Lapland’s natural beauty firsthand. Your local guide, with their deep knowledge of the region, shares stories and insights while leading you on a snowmobile adventure that’s both exhilarating and scenic.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on authentic local life. You’ll visit Tina and Tapio’s home island, a tiny family-run operation, where they welcome you into their world. Here, you’ll enjoy a homemade lunch in a traditional Lappish teepee, a cozy space warmed by an open fire. The highlight for many is meeting and feeding friendly reindeers, a memorable experience that adds a personal touch to your Arctic day. The small group size ensures plenty of interaction and an intimate atmosphere.
Guests consistently praise the friendly hosts and the unique setting, with one reviewer calling it “a successful day” that included snowmobiling and reindeer encounters. The tour’s value lies in its combination of adventure, culture, and hearty food, all in a compact 195-minute package that’s perfect for those wanting an authentic taste of Lapland.
Bottom Line: If you want a hands-on, small-group adventure with reindeer feeding and a home-cooked lunch, this tour offers a genuine experience that’s hard to beat.
2. Ivalo: Ice Fishing Tour to Lake Inari, Reindeers & Lunch
Coming in at number two is the Ice Fishing Tour to Lake Inari, Reindeers & Lunch. This four-hour experience combines the quiet thrill of ice fishing with opportunities to meet reindeer and enjoy a warm, homemade meal. Led by an experienced local guide, this tour showcases Lapland’s pristine winter scenery while offering a hands-on activity that’s both relaxing and rewarding.
The highlight of this trip is ice fishing on Lake Inari, where you’ll try your luck at catching fish through a hole drilled in the thick ice—an activity that’s as much about patience as skill. After some fishing, you’ll gather around an open fire inside a cozy Lappish teepee to enjoy a home-cooked lunch. The experience is designed to be authentic, with the scenery and tranquil atmosphere making it memorable. Meeting friendly reindeer adds a charming element, especially for animal lovers.
Rated 4.7/5 by past participants, this tour is praised for its informative guide and the delicious lunch. One reviewer said, “We loved the interesting fishing experience and the lovely lunch in the teepee,” emphasizing the combination of adventure and comfort. The tour offers great value for its duration, appealing especially to travelers who want a relaxed but engaging Arctic activity.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in a classic Lapland experience that pairs ice fishing with reindeer encounters and a hearty outdoor meal, this is a highly recommended choice.
3. Saariselkä: Ice Fishing Tour to Lake Inari, Reindeers & Lunch
Topping off the list at number three is the Saariselkä: Ice Fishing Tour to Lake Inari, Reindeers & Lunch. A full five-hour journey, this tour takes you into the Arctic wilderness with a seasoned local guide leading the way. It’s ideal for travelers who want a longer, more immersive outdoor experience.
The tour includes scenic transportation to Lake Inari, where you’ll take a sleigh pulled by a snowmobile across the frozen lake. Once there, you’ll participate in ice fishing, a peaceful activity that emphasizes the quiet beauty of Lapland’s winter landscape. After fishing, you’ll enjoy a home-made three-course meal served in a warm teepee by the open fire, adding to the authentic feel.
Rated 4.9/5 by reviewers, this trip is praised for its breathtaking scenery and the intimate atmosphere created by the small group setting. One traveler noted, “The fishing was peaceful, and the reindeer were adorable,” highlighting the memorable nature of the experience. The additional time allows for more relaxed exploration and meaningful encounters.
While slightly more expensive at $215, this tour offers longer duration and richer immersion, suited for those eager to spend more time in Lapland’s winter wonderland.
Bottom Line: For travelers wanting a comprehensive Arctic experience—with extended outdoor activities, scenic transport, and a multi-course lunch—this tour delivers a memorable adventure.
How to Choose Your Perfect Lunch Experience in Ivalo
When selecting your ideal Arctic lunch tour, consider your budget, interests, and physical comfort. If you want a short but authentic experience with a focus on reindeer and snowmobiling, the Snowmobile Safari with Reindeer Feeding is perfect. For a more relaxed pace, especially if ice fishing appeals to you, the Ice Fishing Tours offer a quieter, more contemplative day. And if you’re eager to spend more time outdoors and learn about scenery, the longer Saariselkä tour provides an extensive experience.
Think about what activities excite you most—snowmobiling, ice fishing, or simply enjoying the wilderness—and match those to the tour duration and style. Also, check availability and the best times to go, as winter months from December through March typically offer the best conditions for these activities.
In all cases, booking early is wise, especially during peak winter months, to secure your spot on these popular adventures.
Final thoughts
Ivalo offers a range of lunch experiences that go beyond simply eating to include adventure, cultural insight, and stunning scenery. Whether you prefer the thrill of snowmobiling and reindeer encounters, the tranquility of ice fishing, or a longer immersion in Lapland’s winter landscape, there’s something to match your style.
If you’re after a small-group, authentic experience, the Snowmobile Safari with Reindeer Feeding is a top choice. For more laid-back outdoor fun and hearty meals, the ice fishing tours are excellent options. And if you want to maximize your outdoor time, the Saariselkä tour offers an extended Arctic adventure.
No matter which you pick, early booking is essential, as these experiences are popular and fill up fast. Get ready to enjoy Lapland’s rich simplicity and make memories that will last a lifetime.