Ylläs in Lapland is a winter playground unlike any other. With its expansive wilderness, snow-covered hills, and frozen lakes, the area offers a variety of tours that cater to every type of traveler — whether you’re after adrenaline rushes, tranquil snowshoe walks, or authentic Arctic experiences. We especially love activities like the Snowmobile Adventure with Ice Fishing for its combination of fast-paced riding and the chance to catch your own fish through thick ice. The snowy landscapes and the chance to learn traditional fishing techniques make it a memorable outing.
Ylläs’s tours shine because they blend adventure with authenticity. You’ll find options suitable for different budgets and interests, from short hikes in snowshoes to longer wilderness safaris. Whether you prefer a relaxed day of ice fishing or an intense snowmobile ride, the region delivers a genuine Arctic experience. For those who want to explore deeper into Lapland’s wilderness, some tours include hearty Finnish lunches by open fires, adding to the cozy, rustic charm.
Quick Overview
Ylläs offers a diverse mix of winter tours that bring you into Lapland’s stunning landscape. You can explore the wilderness on a snowmobile (Wilderness Snowmobile Tour), trek through snowy forests with snowshoes (Forest Hike with Snowshoes), or ski through the picturesque Lappish scenery (Guided Wilderness Ski Tour). Each experience highlights a different aspect of Lapland’s winter environment, perfect for outdoor lovers or those simply seeking a quiet escape into nature.
Below, we explore each tour in detail, helping you decide based on your interests, fitness level, and budget.
1. Ylläs: Snowmobile Adventure with Ice Fishing
For those craving speed and patience, this tour combines long snowmobile rides with the thrill of ice fishing. The adventure starts with a significant stretch of snowmobiling through pristine wilderness, where you can admire Lappish nature in winter — think snow-laden trees and frozen lakes. The highlight is stopping at a scenic spot to try your luck at ice fishing, where you’ll learn how to drill your own hole and fish for perch or pike under a thick layer of ice.
This tour is especially appealing because it balances high-energy riding with calm, contemplative moments spent waiting for a bite. After fishing, you’ll enjoy a delicious soup lunch cooked over an open fire, adding a hearty, authentic touch. With a rating of 4.8/5 from 12 reviews, most participants praise the personalized service and guides’ expertise. One reviewer notes, “super le prestataire très bien ce n’est pas l’usine comme certaine compagnie. Jeremie notre guide était super!”
Bottom Line: This activity is perfect if you want to combine adventure with local skills like ice fishing, and appreciate a more personal touch during your Arctic adventures.
2. Ylläs: Wilderness Snowmobile Tour
If you’re looking to explore Ylläs’ vast wilderness on a snowmobile, this 6-hour tour delivers an authentic experience. Starting from the snow-covered trails, you’ll ride up hills, cross rivers, and glide along lakes and swamps. The tour emphasizes scenic vistas and the feeling of true wilderness, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts eager to see Lapland’s winter landscape in all its glory.
The guide will lead you through rural paths and snowy forests, sharing insights into the region’s flora and fauna. The tour includes a break in the forest where you can enjoy lunch and hot drinks, warming up amid nature. With a 4.7/5 rating from 15 reviews, travelers praise the smooth riding and excellent scenery. One reviewer said, “Experience a true wilderness snowmobile ride and enjoy the beauty of snowy landscapes of Ylläs.”
Bottom Line: This tour is suited for adventure seekers who want a full-day immersive experience and cherish spectacular views.
3. Ylläs: Forest Hike with Snowshoes
For a more relaxed, nature-focused outing, this 2.5-hour snowshoe walk is a delightful way to explore the frozen forests of Ylläs. Your guide will take you through marshlands and woodland trails, where you’ll learn how to walk with snowshoes and appreciate the quiet beauty of the winter woods. The hike includes a fireplace stop, where you’ll enjoy biscuits and hot drinks — a cozy pause amid the icy silence.
The tour appeals to families and solo travelers alike, especially those interested in learning about the local environment. While the rating is 4.6/5 from 17 reviews, some mention that pick-up logistics could be improved, but overall, the experience is highly recommended. One participant said, “It was a very nice trip and a nice guide who told us a lot.”
Bottom Line: This is a gentle, educational option perfect for those seeking peaceful nature immersion and an introduction to winter survival skills.
4. King of Ylläs: Snowmobiling to the Hill
If reaching the summit is your goal, then the King of Ylläs snowmobile safari is a standout. This 3-hour activity takes you all the way up to Ylläs fell, where the panoramic views are breathtaking. The tour emphasizes group riding, tailored for adults, offering the chance to share the thrill with fellow travelers.
Midway, you’ll pause to warm up with a hot drink, soaking in the quiet majesty of the snowy landscape. The cost of $184 makes it a relatively affordable option considering the longer duration and scenic payoff. Reviews highlight the long, enjoyable ride and the recommendation from past participants, with one saying, “Le safari en motoneige est long et très agréable.”
Bottom Line: This tour is well-suited for adults seeking a manageable yet unforgettable snowmobiling experience with spectacular views.
5. Ylläs: Guided Wilderness Ski Tour with Outdoor Lunch
For ski enthusiasts wanting to combine exercise with authentic scenery, this 6-hour guided tour takes you through the Lappish forest on traditional skis. The guide helps you identify animal tracks and shares stories about the local environment, enriching your understanding of the region. The tour includes a traditional Finnish lunch cooked outdoors over an open fire, making this an immersive cultural experience.
Travelers praise the professional guides and delicious soup lunch, with a perfect rating of 5/5. One reviewer said, “Loved this tour, the guides were very helpful, and the outdoor lunch was fantastic.” The moderate price of $188 offers good value for a full-day, guided experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want to learn about the environment and enjoy a hearty outdoor meal amid Lapland’s winter wilderness.
$188 per person
6. Ice-Fishing by Foot on Lake Ylläsjärvi
For a shorter, more relaxed experience, this ice-fishing tour is perfect. Over 2 hours, you’ll learn how to drill your own hole in the thick ice of Lake Ylläsjärvi and try your luck catching perch or pike. The tour includes hot drinks and several stories about local village life, adding a cultural touch to the activity.
While reviews don’t specify a rating, the activity’s simplicity and affordability—at $82 per person—make it an appealing choice for families or first-timers. Many find the quiet beauty of the frozen lake and the chance to try something uniquely Arctic very rewarding.
Bottom Line: This activity is suited for those seeking a short, authentic ice fishing experience and a chance to capture great photos of the snowy scenery.
$82 per person
How to Choose Your Ylläs Tour
When picking from these options, consider your budget, physical fitness, and interests. If you’re after a full-day immersive experience with outdoor food, the Guided Wilderness Ski Tour offers a fantastic blend of activity and culture. For a quick taste of wilderness, the Ice-Fishing by Foot is affordable and straightforward.
Those seeking adventure and speed should look at the Snowmobile Adventure with Ice Fishing, while scenic riders may prefer the King of Ylläs. The Forest Hike with Snowshoes stands out for families and nature lovers.
Book early, especially during peak winter months, as these tours can fill up quickly. Think about what kind of Arctic experience excites you most—whether it’s the adrenaline rush of snowmobiling, the tranquil beauty of snowshoeing, or the authenticity of ice fishing—and choose accordingly.
Ylläs offers a wonderful range of winter adventures for all tastes. If you’re after high-speed fun, the Snowmobile Adventure with Ice Fishing is a top pick. For a more relaxed day in nature, the guided ski tour or snowshoe hike will suit perfectly. Whatever you choose, Ylläs guarantees an authentic Arctic experience that will leave you with lasting memories.