Ivalo: Snowmobile Safari, Meet and Feed Reindeers with Lunch

If you’re dreaming of experiencing the silent beauty of Lapland’s winter landscape, this small-group snowmobile tour around Lake Inari offers just that—plus the chance to meet reindeer and enjoy a traditional homemade lunch. We’ve taken a close look at this experience to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your Arctic adventure.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the personal touch of small groups (limited to just 8 people), ensuring you won’t feel lost in a crowd. Second, the chance to learn basic snowmobile handling and explore the stunning frozen scenery, with a local guide sharing insights along the way. Third, the opportunity to meet friendly reindeer on a family-owned island adds an authentic touch you won’t forget.

One potential consideration is the price, which might seem high for some travelers, but when you factor in the included gear, transfers, lunch, and personalized experience, it provides solid value. This tour is best suited for adults or older teens who are eager to enjoy winter activities in a relaxed, intimate setting—though younger children over 140 cm tall and over 12 can join as passengers.

Good To Know

• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants for a more personal experience.
• Learn Snowmobile Skills: Suitable for beginners, with clear instructions.
• Authentic Reindeer Experience: Meet, feed, and learn about reindeer on a family-owned island.
• Cultural Lunch: Enjoy a homemade meal in a traditional Lappish teepee.
• Stunning Scenery: Drive along frozen lakes and rivers, with picturesque views.
• All-Inclusive: Gear, transfers, fuel, insurance, and lunch are taken care of.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at a conveniently located office in Ivalo, next to Hotel Kultahippu and a small K-Market in the village center. This makes meeting up straightforward, especially if you’re already staying nearby. After a warm welcome and fitting you with thermal clothing, shoes, and a helmet, you’ll hop into a minibus for about 10 minutes to the lake’s edge, where your snowmobiles await.

The small group format means that with a maximum of 8 people, the experience feels intimate and personalized. Guests often appreciate how the guides, like Tina and Tapio—who run their family business—are approachable and eager to share stories about Lapland’s lifestyle and environment. Reviews mention Tina and her husband as “exceptional people,” highlighting the genuine hospitality and local knowledge they bring.

Snowmobile Experience and Scenic Drive

This tour is tailored as a fantastic introduction to snowmobiling, especially for beginners. The trail spans approximately 25-30 km, riding along the icy Ivalo River and across Lake Inari. The track is designed to suit different skill levels, so even if you’ve never driven a snowmobile before, you’ll get clear, easy-to-follow instructions from your guide.

Expect the drive to be both exhilarating and scenic. With plenty of opportunities to pause and take photos, you’ll love the sweeping views of the frozen landscape—crystalline ice, snow-covered trees, and the vast, silent lake. One reviewer noted that the “scenic views are truly breathtaking,” making the ride well worth the price.

Learning and Passing Time on the Snowmobile

Guides will first give you a thorough safety briefing and handling instructions. For those worried about controlling the vehicle, rest assured that the emphasis is on fun and safety rather than high-speed thrills. Guests often comment that the guides are patient and informative, making the experience accessible for those with no prior snowmobile experience.

If your group has an odd number of participants, you might find yourself as a passenger in the guide’s snowmobile or on a sleigh pulled by the snowmobile. This flexible approach ensures everyone gets a chance to drive, and you’ll be able to swap places mid-tour, so everyone can enjoy the thrill of driving.

The Reindeer Encounter

A highlight for many is the visit to Tina and Tapio’s family-owned island, where friendly reindeer roam. The owners live on this small island, giving a genuine feel of Lapland’s reindeer husbandry. Feeding the reindeer is a cherished part of the experience, with reviewers mentioning how gentle and “very sweet” the animals are. Guests are encouraged to take photos and learn about reindeer life from the owners, with guides sharing insights on their importance to local Sami culture.

One reviewer appreciated the chance to try making a hole for fishing, adding an interactive element to the visit. The reindeer are accustomed to visitors, making the interaction relaxing and unhurried.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Cozy Lunch Break

After the reindeer encounter, everyone gathers around a campfire inside a traditional Lappish teepee. The homemade lunch features local ingredients—often reindeer or fish—and is served with hot drinks, creating a warm, authentic atmosphere. This meal offers a chance to relax, chat with fellow travelers, and enjoy the stunning surroundings.

Guests who have tried similar tours praise the lunch as “delicious” and “authentic,” with some noting that it exceeds expectations for a packed-in outdoor meal. It’s a great way to savor Lapland’s flavors in a cozy setting, especially after the outdoor activities.

Returning to Ivalo

After lunch and some leisure time, the group heads back along the same scenic trail, with the guide sharing stories and answering questions. The entire experience lasts about 3 hours and 15 minutes, including transfers, making for a comfortably-paced adventure that fits well into a day’s itinerary.

Authentic local experience: Meeting Tina and Tapio on their small island and sharing a homemade meal feels genuine and welcoming. Many reviews highlight how this personal touch elevates the experience beyond just a snowmobile ride.

Beautiful scenery: The views of Lake Inari and the surrounding winter landscape are stunning, and the snowmobile ride offers ample photo opportunities. We loved how accessible the trail was for beginners while still providing excitement.

Family-friendly vibe: Although designed for adults, children over 12 and over 140 cm tall can participate as passengers, making it a family-friendly option. The relaxed pace and safety instructions ensure everyone feels comfortable.

Inclusive and well-organized: Gear, transfers, fuel, insurance, and lunch are included in the price of around $203 per person. For this all-in package, the experience truly delivers value, especially considering the personalized service.

Considerations

While the experience is largely positive, some might find the price a bit steep, especially if budget is a concern. However, when you factor in the quality of guides, equipment, and the authentic encounter with local reindeer, it’s a worthwhile investment.

If you have limited time or prefer a less physically active experience, this tour’s 195-minute duration might be longer than some travelers want, but it allows for a comprehensive adventure.

This tour suits adults and older teens who are curious about snowmobiling and want a genuine taste of Lapland’s winter culture. It’s ideal for those who appreciate scenic drives and authentic interactions with reindeer herders.

Travelers seeking a small-group, personalized experience will find this tour particularly rewarding, as it offers a more intimate connection with the landscape and locals. If you’re looking for a fun, safe, and memorable Arctic adventure that combines activity, culture, and nature, this tour ticks all those boxes.

This small-group snowmobile safari with reindeer feeding and a homemade lunch offers a well-rounded exploration of Lapland’s winter wonders. The combination of scenic riding, authentic cultural encounters, and cozy outdoor dining provides a memorable and balanced experience.

It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want more than just a thrill—they’ll enjoy learning about local life, meeting reindeer, and taking in breathtaking views, all in a relaxed setting. The personalized service and intimate group size make it feel special, not just another tourist activity, making it a worthwhile addition to your Arctic itinerary.

This tour is especially suited for those who value a genuine connection with the environment and people, and who want to experience Lapland’s winter magic in a safe, friendly atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides provide clear instructions and the trail is designed to suit various skill levels, making it perfect for first-time snowmobile drivers.

What do I need to bring?
All necessary clothing, shoes, and helmets are provided, so you just need to dress warmly in layers suitable for cold weather.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes, including transfers, riding, and the lunch break.

Can children participate?
Children over 12 years old and taller than 140 cm can join as passengers, but the tour is mainly designed for adults.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers snowmobile gear, transfers, fuel, insurance, a local guide, and a homemade lunch in a traditional teepee.

Is there an option for a single snowmobile?
A single snowmobile costs an additional €65 per person, but most guests find the shared option flexible and sufficient.

What about the scenery?
Expect picturesque views of frozen lakes, snow-covered trees, and wide-open landscapes—perfect for photography and creating lasting memories.

Is the experience family-friendly?
While mainly aimed at adults, older teens can participate, making it suitable for families with teenagers looking for a unique Arctic adventure.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing for flexible planning in case your travel plans change.

This tour promises a blend of adventure, cultural insight, and natural beauty—an authentic taste of Lapland that leaves a lasting impression.

You can check if your dates are available here: