Ivalo: Summer Day/Evening on a Lake in the Wild

If you’re dreaming of a peaceful escape into the heart of Lapland’s wilderness, this Summer Day/Evening on a Lake in the Wild tour offers just that. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of an authentic, relaxing adventure that combines nature, local culture, and a touch of Finnish magic.

What truly catches the eye are the silent electric boat cruises—a perfect way to enjoy the lake without disturbing the environment. Coupled with the chance to learn different fishing techniques, this experience promises a genuine connection to the land and its traditions. Plus, the opportunity to feast on freshly caught fish cooked over a campfire is an unbeatable highlight.

One thing to consider is the need for appropriate clothing—warm, rainproof gear, and sturdy shoes—since the weather in Lapland can be unpredictable even in summer. This tour is ideal for travelers who love nature, want a slow-paced, intimate experience, and enjoy authentic local activities. Families with kids are welcome too, making it a flexible option for a leisurely day in Finland’s wild.

Good To Know

• Authentic Finnish experience: Learn fishing methods used by locals and enjoy a campfire meal.
• Silent, eco-friendly boat: Glide smoothly on the water with an electric outboard, minimizing environmental impact.
• Stunning scenery: Expect breathtaking views of hills, islands, and pristine lake waters under the Midnight Sun.
• Flexible scheduling: Times can be negotiated to fit your plans, making it convenient for different itineraries.
• Family-friendly: There’s room for children, so it’s suitable for small groups and families.
• Expert local guide: Mika, the host, shares his knowledge with a relaxed, friendly style, making the experience both informative and enjoyable.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at Rajajoosepintie 120a, a cozy spot that feels like stepping into a Finnish friend’s home. From here, you’ll hop into a vehicle that whisks you away to the lake—covered by reviews indicating a smooth, hassle-free transfer. The transportation is included, removing any stress about logistics and allowing you to focus on the scenic journey.

The Boat Cruise: Quiet and Scenic

The core of the experience is a 5-hour boat cruise on a lake so beautiful it’s hard to believe it’s real. The boat itself is powered by an electric outboard, ensuring a silent glide across the water. As one traveler, Gerard from the Netherlands, described it, “We are on a beautiful summer day in August, cruising across the lake, with stunning views from the boat. Mika shared insights into the local environment and wildlife.”

Expect to drift past green hills and islands, noticing the zing of the birds overhead and the occasional splash of fish. The peace here is profound—the kind of silence that lets you breathe and truly appreciate nature’s slow rhythm. The lack of engine noise means you’ll really hear the environment, making it a meditative experience.

Fishing Techniques and Learning

Fishing with locals’ methods—trolling, casting, and checking nets—is more than a demonstration; it’s an interactive lesson. A reviewer, GetYourGuide traveler from Germany, recalled: “Mika was very patient, giving tips even to a beginner. We caught a few fish, and it was a blast. He then cooked the fish over the campfire, and I learned a new way to prepare it at home.”

These fishing activities are designed to be accessible, meaning no prior experience is needed. Watching fish dart beneath the boat or hearing the gentle pluck of a line is part of the charm. And catching your own dinner adds a layer of authenticity that’s hard to beat.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Island Stop and Campfire Meal

After the cruise, you’ll arrive at a small island—an ideal spot for a campfire lunch or dinner. Food served here is straight from the lake: freshly caught fish, grilled or fried over open flames, paired with traditional Finnish sides. Fredrika from Finland mentioned how Mika quickly filleted the fish, breaded it, and cooked it “over an open fire, along with reindeer, potatoes, and sauce—like a five-star meal in the middle of nature.”

The meal feels genuinely local—no fancy restaurant can match the freshness and simplicity of food cooked outdoors in such incredible surroundings. You can also enjoy coffee and warm beverages, making this an ideal spot to relax and soak in the scenery.

Flexibility and Family-Friendly Touches

The tour allows for customized start times, which is perfect if you’re traveling with a flexible schedule. The host, Mika, is approachable and happy to accommodate special requests. There is enough space for one or two kids, making this a family-friendly outing that’s more about shared experiences than a typical tourist trap.

What Makes It Special?

What sets this experience apart are the authentic interactions with a knowledgeable local guide—Mika knows the area well and shares stories and insights with genuine warmth. As one review notes, “Mika was funny, relaxed, and embraced the quiet of the surroundings. His hospitality made the whole trip feel like visiting a friend’s cabin.”

On top of that, the price of $289 per group offers good value considering the full day’s activities—including boat, fishing, lunch, and transfer. This isn’t just a boat ride; it’s a chance to connect with Lapland’s natural beauty and its traditions in an intimate setting.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This tour appeals most to travelers who want to step off the beaten path, away from typical tourist spots, and into the true essence of Lapland. If you’re seeking a peaceful, immersive experience that combines nature, local culture, and delicious food, this is a fantastic choice. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate small, private groups will find it particularly rewarding.

The quiet, electric boat makes the journey comfortable and eco-friendly, allowing you to focus on the landscape and sounds of nature. The opportunity to learn local fishing techniques and cook your own catch offers a genuine taste of Finnish life—something that’s increasingly rare in mass tourism.

However, the experience does require some outdoor readiness—warm clothing, rain gear, and sturdy shoes—since Lapland’s weather can turn quickly. It’s also worth noting that the tour’s flexible timing can be a real advantage, especially if you prefer later sunsets or different start times to fit your schedule.

FAQs

What is included in the tour? The tour includes transportation from and back to the starting point, a boat cruise, and a meal with non-alcoholic beverages.

Can I customize the start time? Yes, you can ask for a different starting time if the default doesn’t suit you, as the schedule is negotiable.

Is this experience suitable for children? Yes, there is space for one or two children, and the tour is family-friendly, provided the kids are comfortable outdoors.

What should I bring? Pack warm clothing, rain gear, and sturdy shoes, as weather in Lapland can be unpredictable.

How long does the experience last? The total activity duration is around 6 hours, including transportation, cruise, and island stop.

What languages does the guide speak? The tour is conducted in Finnish, English, and Swedish, with a focus on making everyone comfortable.

Is the boat quiet and eco-friendly? Yes, the boat uses a silent electric outboard, ensuring a peaceful experience with minimal environmental impact.

Can the experience be canceled? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This Summer Day/Evening on a Lake in the Wild tour offers a truly authentic glimpse into Finnish life and Lapland’s natural beauty. From the serene boat cruise to fishing with local techniques and sharing a hearty outdoor meal, it encapsulates the essence of slow, meaningful travel.

Ideal for travelers seeking peace, genuine connection, and stunning scenery, this experience fosters a sense of calm and appreciation for nature’s simple pleasures. The knowledgeable guide, Mika, enhances the journey with his warmth, humor, and insights, making it more than just a boat trip—it’s a memorable encounter with Finland’s wilderness.

While the outdoor gear is a must and weather can be unpredictable, the reward is a day filled with quiet beauty, delicious food, and new skills. For those wanting an immersive, relaxing, and authentic adventure in Lapland’s wilds, this tour is worth every penny.

In summary, this experience offers great value for those eager to explore Lapland beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s perfect for nature lovers, families, and anyone curious about local traditions. The combination of scenery, fishing, and a warm outdoor meal makes it a standout choice for a memorable Finnish escape.

You can check if your dates are available here: