Saariselkä: Ice Fishing Tour to Lake Inari, Reindeers & Lunch offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s wilderness. For $215 per person, you’ll spend about five hours immersed in the quiet beauty of the Arctic. The tour begins with a pickup from Saariselkä, takes you to a cozy village called Koppelo, and then leads you on a snowy journey via snowmobile and sledge across the frozen landscape to Lake Inari. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines outdoor adventure, cultural charm, and authentic Finnish cuisine.
What we really appreciate about this tour is the opportunity to meet and feed reindeers on a tiny island, which adds a personal touch to an otherwise outdoor-focused day. Plus, the home-cooked, three-course meal served in a warm Lappish teepee by an open fire makes this more than just a fishing trip — it’s a full immersion into local traditions. That said, you should be aware that patience is key — fishing can test your endurance, as one reviewer pointed out. It’s not a high-energy activity but rather a peaceful, contemplative one, ideal if you’re seeking a slower-paced experience in nature.
This tour suits travelers who love scenic landscapes, enjoy a touch of cultural authenticity, and don’t mind a bit of waiting for the fish to bite. It’s perfect for those looking for a memorable Arctic day without the crowds, especially if you appreciate honest outdoor pursuits over commercialized attractions.
Key Points
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- Authentic Arctic Experience: Combines ice fishing, reindeer encounters, and traditional Finnish cuisine.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable local guides enhance understanding of the landscape and culture.
- Scenic Journey: Snowmobile and sledge take you across Lake Inari’s breathtaking, frozen scenery.
- Cultural Encounters: Meet reindeer on a private island, glimpse the local way of life.
- Comfort & Convenience: Warm clothing, shoes, and transport included, making the cold easier to handle.
- Pace & Suitability: A peaceful activity requiring patience, best for those seeking calm, authentic experiences.
The Experience in Detail
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Starting Point & Transportation
The tour begins in Saariselkä with a pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point. We appreciated that warm thermal clothing and shoes are provided at the Ivalo office, which means you don’t need to worry about packing bulky winter gear. The short drive to Koppelo is a chance to settle into the landscape, watching the snow-covered trees and frosted lakes whizz by.
The Snowmobile Adventure
Rather than walking across the snow, you’ll hop onto a sleigh pulled by a snowmobile, which offers a comfortable and scenic ride across the icy terrain. This form of transport is more than just practical; it’s part of the thrill, giving you a real sense of Arctic travel. The landscape here is stunning, with vast, silent lakes and snow-laden forests stretching to the horizon.
Ice Fishing: Patience and Tradition
Once at Lake Inari, your guide will give clear instructions on ice fishing, which involves using either a worm or maggot as bait. We loved the way the guide explained the process, making it accessible even for first-timers. The experience is peaceful, with the frozen lake stretching around you, and the silence only broken by the occasional bite of a fish or the whisper of the wind.
According to reviews, patience is essential — “you have to be patient with fishing, of course,” as Heidi noted. If your group doesn’t catch anything, it’s not necessarily a failure but part of the experience. That said, some may find it less engaging if they’re eager for more activity. Still, many appreciate the authenticity and tranquility of this part of the trip.
More Great Tours NearbyReindeer Encounters & Island Visit
After fishing, the journey continues to a small family-owned island where Tina and Tapio live year-round. Here, you’ll meet friendly reindeers, feed them, and take photos. The reindeer are described as adorable, and this interaction adds a personal, intimate touch to the tour — far from commercial reindeer rides.
The visit offers a rare glimpse into local, authentic life. It’s a highlight for many travelers who want to see how people live in remote Arctic areas and get close to reindeer, which are iconic symbols of Lapland.
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Lunch in a Lappish Teepee
The day culminates with a home-made three-course lunch served in a warm teepee. The menu includes reindeer meat or fish, with vegetarian options available by request. The meal is served by an open fire, creating a cozy, authentic atmosphere that perfectly complements the outdoor adventure. Hot berry juice accompanies the meal, warming you from the inside out.
Reviews emphasize that the lunch is very characteristic of Lapland and a real highlight. It’s not just about the food but the experience of sharing a meal in such a traditional setting.
Practical Considerations & Value
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The cost of $215 per person may seem steep, but when you consider the included transport, thermal clothing, guide, reindeer visit, and authentic lunch, it offers solid value. The small group size — limited to 10 participants — ensures personalized attention and a more immersive experience.
The tour is 5 hours long, which balances outdoor activities with enough time to relax and enjoy each part of the day. It’s worth noting that it might not be suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, wheelchair users, or older travelers over 70, due to the physical demands and outdoor nature.
Optional pickup from Kakslauttanen or Kiilopää is available at an extra cost, making it a flexible option for those staying outside Saariselkä.
What This Tour Is Not
If you’re looking for a high-energy adventure or guaranteed fishing success, this tour might not meet those expectations. Many reviews mention the need for patience, and some visitors didn’t catch fish — but that didn’t diminish the overall enjoyment, as they appreciated the scenery and cultural insights.
Who Should Consider This Tour
This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers seeking authentic Lapland moments, especially those interested in traditional activities like ice fishing and reindeer encounters. Nature lovers who enjoy peaceful, scenic environments will find this particularly rewarding. It may not suit those craving fast-paced or purely entertainment-oriented outings but is perfect for travelers wanting a genuine, hands-on Arctic experience.
Final Thoughts
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This tour offers a balanced blend of outdoor adventure, culture, and delicious local cuisine. The guides’ knowledge and the authenticity of the encounters—feeding reindeer, fishing in pristine surroundings, and sharing a meal around a fire—make it stand out.
While patience is necessary for fishing, the experience’s true value lies in its authenticity and the chance to connect with local traditions in a stunning natural setting. It’s a well-rounded option for travelers eager to see a side of Lapland rarely commercialized, and willing to take their time soaking in the silence and beauty of the Arctic.
If you’re after a meaningful outdoor activity away from crowds, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for those who want to learn about local life, enjoy scenic landscapes, and share an intimate meal in a traditional teepee.
FAQ
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Is transportation included? Yes, pickup from Saariselkä and transport to the activity site are included in the tour price.
What should I wear? Warm thermal clothing and shoes are provided, but you might want to dress in layers to stay comfortable during outdoor activities.
Can I participate if I don’t fish? Yes, the tour is enjoyable even if you don’t catch fish, as the scenery and reindeer visits are equally memorable.
Is the tour suitable for children? It’s not recommended for children under 7, as the activities require patience and outdoor stamina.
How long does the tour last? The experience is approximately 5 hours from start to finish.
What is included in the lunch? A home-made three-course meal made of reindeer meat or fish, with vegetarian options upon request, plus hot berry juice.
Can I join the tour if I’m pregnant or have mobility issues? Unfortunately, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the outdoor nature and physical demands.
What happens if I don’t catch any fish? That’s quite common; many visitors find the fishing part peaceful and relaxing regardless of fishing success.
Do I need to pay extra for pickup from other locations? Yes, pickup from Kakslauttanen or Kiilopää areas is available at an extra cost of €20 per person.
Is the guide knowledgeable? Absolutely — reviews praise the guides for their friendliness and expertise in sharing local culture and landscape insights.
This ice fishing tour in Lapland is more than just a day outdoors; it’s an opportunity to slow down, connect with nature, and experience traditional Arctic life firsthand. It’s a memorable choice for those seeking authenticity, scenic beauty, and a taste of the real Lapland.
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