Ivalo: Aurora Hunting with Reindeer

Exploring Ivalo’s Reindeer Aurora Hunting: An Authentic Arctic Adventure

If you’re dreaming of glimpsing the northern lights while experiencing true Lapland hospitality, the Ivalo: Aurora Hunting with Reindeer tour might just be what you’re looking for. This activity combines the magic of the Arctic night sky, the charm of reindeer, and a taste of Sámi culture, all packed into a cozy 2-hour experience.

What drew us in are three standout features: the chance to meet and learn about reindeer, the warm and delicious reindeer meat soup, and the intimate group size—max eight people—that ensures a personal touch. A possible downside? Since the northern lights are a natural phenomenon, their appearance isn’t guaranteed. Still, the experience offers so much more than just chasing auroras, making it perfect for those seeking culture, authentic food, and unique memories, especially if you’re okay with a brief, well-paced outing rather than a long expedition.

This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a meaningful, small-group adventure that combines nature, culture, and local cuisine without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a first-time Arctic visitor or a seasoned traveler craving a taste of Sámi traditions, this activity promises a memorable evening in Lapland.

Good To Know

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Meet reindeer and learn about Sámi traditions.
• Gourmet Local Food: Savor creamy reindeer meat soup and hot berry juice.
• Aurora Opportunity: Chance to see the northern lights, weather permitting.
• Small Group: Intimate setting with a maximum of eight travelers.
• Convenience: Pickup offered, with options for transportation from nearby towns.
• Cost-Effective: Priced at just over $139, blending culture, cuisine, and nature.

The Experience: What to Expect During the Tour

The entire experience begins around 8:00 pm, starting at the designated meeting point on Korkiavaarantie in Inari, Finland. From there, transportation can be arranged, making it accessible whether you’re staying near Ivalo, Saariselkä, or Inari, with a small extra fee for pickup from these locations.

Meeting the Reindeer and Sámi Culture

Once you arrive at the rustic setting—roughly a kilometer from Ivalo Airport—the first highlight is meeting the reindeer. Our guide, whose name we didn’t catch but clearly knew their stuff, introduced us to a small herd of young reindeer. The guide shared fascinating insights about their annual cycle and the traditional Sámi herding practices, adding depth to an already engaging animal encounter.

The chance to get close to these gentle creatures is worth the price alone, especially if you’re a nature lover or curious about indigenous livelihoods. Several reviewers have echoed this sentiment; Philippe_L described it as a “very good authentic experience,” highlighting the friendly, approachable reindeer, especially the young ones, and the good contact they had with them.

Traditional Sámi Hut & Warmth

After the reindeer meet-and-greet, you’ll be guided into a traditional Sámi hut. This is where the tour elevates from simple animal interaction to culture. The hut is cozy, with a crackling fire, and offers a perfect spot to warm up after being outdoors. The comfort is important because Lapland evenings can be quite chilly, especially when waiting for the aurora to appear.

Tasting Local Cuisine

The experience includes a delicious reindeer meat soup, a rich and creamy dish that reviewers like Philippe_L praised as “very good,” and Johanna & Niilo described as “excellent.” The soup is hearty, flavored with herbs and a hint of smoky aroma, served in traditional-style bowls. Complemented by homemade hot berry juice, it’s a warming treat that encapsulates the flavors of Lapland.

This food component is more than just sustenance; it’s an authentic taste of Sámi culinary traditions and a highlight for many guests. The communal nature of sharing a warm meal adds a convivial element to the evening, fostering conversations about local life and customs.

The Aurora Chase

While the northern lights are a natural spectacle and not guaranteed, the tour’s timing maximizes your chances. The guide will be monitoring conditions, and if the aurora appears, you’ll likely see shimmering green, pink, or purple ribbons dancing overhead. Even if the lights are elusive, the experience of sitting in a traditional setting, warmed by fire, with the reindeer nearby, makes the night memorable.

Reviewers have expressed appreciation for the effort to facilitate Aurora viewing. The entire evening balances expectation with the unpredictability of nature, but many leave with stories and photos regardless.

Group Size and Transport

With a cap of eight travelers, the tour feels intimate, allowing for personalized attention and the chance to ask questions. Transport is included from Ivalo, Saariselkä, or Inari for an extra fee—€45 per person—making it accessible for those staying in different parts of Lapland. The small group setting creates a friendly, relaxed atmosphere that enhances the overall experience.

Analyzing Value: Is It Worth the Price?

At $139.63 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines authentic culture, delicious food, and a potential aurora sighting. When you consider the cost of similar excursions that often focus solely on chasing lights or riding huskies, this experience delivers cultural depth and culinary delight at a reasonable price point.

On top of that, the small group size ensures a more personal interaction with guides and reindeer, making it feel less like a touristy activity and more like a genuine encounter. The inclusion of local food and cultural storytelling adds extra value that many larger, more commercialized tours might lack.

While the hope of seeing the Aurora is a bonus, the core experience—the reindeer, the food, and the Sami setting—stands firmly on its own merit. This makes it particularly appealing to travelers seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path activities that aren’t just about the spectacle but about understanding local life.

Practical Tips for Your Aurora Reindeer Tour

• Book in advance: The tour is often booked about 10 days beforehand, so plan early if you want to secure a spot.
• Dress warmly: Evenings in Lapland can be very cold, especially when waiting outside for the Aurora, so layer up.
• Expect a short duration: At just around 2 hours, it’s a manageable outing, but packing enough warm clothing is essential for comfort.
• Transportation: If you’re staying outside Ivalo, remember that additional transportation can be arranged from nearby towns for a fee.
• Weather considerations: The tour is weather-dependent, and if poor conditions cancel it, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

FAQs About the Aurora Hunting with Reindeer Tour

Is transportation included?
Transportation from Ivalo, Saariselkä, or Inari can be arranged for an extra €45 per person. The tour starts at the designated meeting point in Inari.

How long does the experience last?
The activity runs for approximately 2 hours, including meeting reindeer, enjoying the meal, and waiting for the northern lights.

Can I see the northern lights on this tour?
While the tour maximizes your chances, the aurora is a natural phenomenon, so it cannot be guaranteed. Weather conditions also influence visibility.

Is the tour suitable for children or travelers with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, and the experience is designed to be family-friendly. However, outdoor elements and cold weather should be considered.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, including thermal clothing, gloves, hats, and sturdy shoes, to stay comfortable while outdoors.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the reindeer encounter, the traditional meal (reindeer meat soup and hot berry juice), and the cultural experience. Transportation is optional and costs extra.

Is the experience authentic?
Yes, the guide provides insights into Sámi culture and reindeer herding, making it a genuine opportunity to connect with local traditions.

Final Thoughts

The Ivalo: Aurora Hunting with Reindeer tour offers a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and Arctic adventure. It’s especially suitable for those who want to go beyond the typical northern lights chase and gain a deeper understanding of Sámi life while enjoying hearty, traditional food. The small group size and authentic setting help create an intimate, memorable experience, even if the auroras decide to play hide and seek.

While the unpredictability of the northern lights might be a concern, the overall package—meeting reindeer, sharing a warm meal, and soaking in the Lapland atmosphere—is a win for anyone craving a genuine taste of Arctic life. It’s a lovely, manageable evening activity that highlights the best of Lapland’s traditions in a cozy, friendly environment.

To sum it up, this tour is a fantastic choice for travelers interested in cultural authenticity, local food, and a chance to see the northern lights in a relaxed, small-group setting. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate storytelling, tradition, and the simple pleasures of the Arctic wilderness. For an affordable yet meaningful adventure, it ticks all the boxes.