From Saariselkä: Ice Fishing Tour with Open Fire Cooking offers a genuine taste of Arctic life, combining a snowy adventure with the chance to catch your own dinner. For $234 per person, you’ll hop aboard a snowmobile sleigh heading to Lake Inari, one of Lapland’s most scenic and tranquil spots. The journey begins from Saariselkä, a popular hub for Arctic explorers, with pickup options from your hotel or Holiday Club Saariselkä.
You’ll spend the day learning ice fishing from a local guide, an experience that’s both relaxing and engaging. The highlight? Trying your luck to catch fish, then enjoying a hearty open fire meal of sausages, warm juice, and coffee on a remote island. We loved the way the tour balances outdoor adventure with cultural authenticity, especially the personalized guidance from an experienced local guide who makes the whole process accessible and fun.
However, be aware that the activity requires warm, layered clothing and waterproof footwear—no real surprises there, but it’s worth mentioning for comfort. This tour suits those who enjoy being outdoors, trying traditional activities, and don’t mind a bit of cold weather. If you’re after a relaxed, authentic Arctic experience with a touch of local flavor, this is a fantastic choice.
Key Points
- Authentic Arctic experience: Learn ice fishing from a local guide on Lake Inari.
- Snowmobile adventure: Ride in a snowmobile sleigh or walk to the island.
- Open fire meal: Enjoy sausages, hot juice, and coffee cooked over an open fire.
- All-included: Guides, transportation, fishing gear, and fire-cooked snacks included.
- Weather gear: Bring warm, layered clothing and waterproof shoes.
- Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, perfect for last-minute plans.
Exploring the Tour: What to Expect from Start to Finish
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Convenient Pickup and Transportation
Your adventure begins with a hotel pickup in Saariselkä or Ivalo, making the logistics straightforward. Traveling in a hybrid Multivan, the ride to Lake Inari is comfortable and environmentally conscious, offering a chance to enjoy the snowy scenery en route. The drive itself is part of the experience, with the landscape transforming from forested outskirts to the serene, open waters of Lake Inari.
Snowmobile or Sledge to the Island
Once at Veskoniemi, the group transfers onto a snowmobile sleigh for a short ride across the snow-covered ice to the small island where your fishing activity will take place. Some guests may prefer to walk along the sledge track, which adds an element of physical activity and a more intimate connection with the wilderness. The snowmobile ride is swift but exhilarating, providing a real Arctic thrill that many find memorable.
Ice Fishing with a Local Guide
The core of this tour is learning how to ice fish. Your guide, often a lifelong local, shares tips on how to properly fish through the ice, using simple equipment like a fishing rod and baited with worms or maggots. The experience is relaxed yet informative, allowing you to try your hand at catching fish in a true Lapland style.
One review notes, “Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and patient, making the activity accessible even for beginners.” The focus isn’t solely on catching fish but on appreciating the traditional methods and the quiet beauty of the frozen lake.
More Great Tours NearbyRelaxing Fire-side Meal
After fishing, everyone gathers around an open fire to enjoy a warm snack. The menu includes sausages, which are cooked right over the flames, along with warm juice and coffee, cookies, and buns. This simple meal is a highlight for many, providing warmth and comfort amid the cold outdoor environment while taking in the spectacular surroundings.
Additional Details and Considerations
The entire experience typically lasts a few hours, making it suitable for a half-day activity. The group sizes are generally small, enhancing the intimate feel and allowing guides to give personal attention. Since the tour is available in English, language barriers are minimal, and guides are well-versed in sharing Arctic culture.
While the tour doesn’t specify the exact group size or duration, the focus on personalized guidance and local knowledge suggests it’s designed to be both engaging and manageable for most travelers.
Why This Tour Offers Real Value
Compared to other Arctic activities, this ice fishing tour emphasizes authenticity over spectacle. The chance to learn a traditional skill directly from a local guide provides a deeper connection to Lapland’s cultural fabric. Plus, transportation and equipment are included, making it a convenient option, especially for those unfamiliar with Arctic logistics.
The open fire meal adds a cozy, communal touch that elevates the experience beyond a simple outdoor excursion. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, who bring the environment to life with stories and tips, enriching the overall experience.
In terms of value, while $234 isn’t cheap, it covers transportation, gear, instruction, and the fire-cooked meal. For travelers looking for a memorable, hands-on Arctic experience that combines adventure with culture, this tour is well worth considering.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This tour is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, curious travelers eager to try traditional Arctic activities, and those who appreciate authentic cultural experiences. It suits families, couples, or solo adventurers comfortable with cold weather and looking for a meaningful activity that’s more than just sightseeing. If you’re after a relaxed, engaging outdoor adventure that immerses you in Lapland’s winter life, this ice fishing tour fits the bill.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bring my own warm clothing?
Yes, it’s recommended to dress very warmly in layers, including waterproof boots, as the tour emphasizes outdoor time in cold conditions.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from Saariselkä or Ivalo hotels, making logistics simple.
How long does the tour last?
While not explicitly detailed, it’s a few hours long, providing a comfortably paced experience.
What’s included in the price?
The package includes a guide, transportation in a hybrid Multivan and snowmobile, fishing equipment, and open fire cooking with sausages, warm juice, coffee, cookies, and buns.
What should I wear during the activity?
Wear multiple layers of winter clothing, waterproof shoes or boots, and warm accessories like gloves and hats.
Can I walk instead of riding the snowmobile?
Yes, you can walk along the sledge track if you prefer some physical activity over riding the sleigh.
Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is geared towards outdoor adventure lovers but may not be suitable for very young children or those in wheelchairs, as it requires outdoor activity and walking.
What if I don’t catch any fish?
Even if you don’t catch fish, you’ll still enjoy the experience of being out on the ice and the fire-cooked meal.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What language is spoken during the tour?
The experience is conducted in English, making it accessible for most travelers.
To sum it up, this Ice Fishing Tour from Saariselkä combines the thrill of Arctic outdoor activities with authentic cultural experiences. The guided instruction, coupled with the cozy fire meal and scenic winter landscape, makes it a memorable way to spend a day in Lapland. It’s well-suited for those who want a hands-on activity and a genuine taste of local life, especially if you’re eager to learn traditional skills like ice fishing. With the assurance of knowledgeable guides and inclusive logistics, this experience offers good value for those seeking an engaging Arctic adventure.
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