Saariselkä: Ice Fishing Tour to Lake Inari, reindeers& lunch

Traveling to Lapland and looking for a genuine Arctic adventure? This Ice Fishing Tour to Lake Inari offers more than just casting lines — it’s a chance to soak in the breathtaking scenery, meet reindeer, and enjoy a warm, homemade meal in true Lappish style. We haven’t done it ourselves, but from the detailed reviews and descriptions, it sounds like a thoughtfully curated experience that balances outdoor fun with cultural insights.

What we love about this trip? First, the spectacular views of Lake Inari, often called the jewel of Lapland. Second, the chance to meet and feed reindeer on a remote island, giving an authentic touch of local Sami life. Third, the delicious homemade three-course lunch, served in a cozy teepee by an open fire. The only downside? It’s a five-hour commitment, and patience might be needed for the fishing—this isn’t a quick, action-packed excursion, but rather a slow, peaceful immersion in Arctic life. This tour suits those who enjoy nature, cultural experiences, and a bit of tranquility away from busy tourist spots.

Good To Know

• Authentic Arctic experience blending ice fishing, reindeer encounters, and local cuisine.
• Scenic transportation in snowmobiles and sleighs over Lake Inari.
• Guided experience with knowledgeable local guides, including instructions for ice fishing.
• Limited groups (max 10 participants) for a personalized experience.
• Warm clothing and shoes provided, ensuring comfort in the cold.
• Family-friendly but not suitable for children under 7 or travelers with certain mobility restrictions.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Setting the Scene: What’s Included and How It Works

This tour kicks off with a pickup from Saariselkä, where you’ll be fitted with thermal clothing and sturdy shoes at the Ivalo office—no need to worry about chilly hands or feet. From there, it’s a short drive to Koppelo, a tiny village that acts as the starting point for your Arctic adventure. Here, snowmobiles and sledges await, and the journey to your fishing spot feels like a scene from a fairy tale, with a sleigh pulled behind a snowmobile gliding across silent, snow-covered landscapes.

An experienced local guide will give clear instructions on ice fishing, a skill that adds a layer of satisfaction to the experience. You’ll be handed your own fishing rod to try your luck, using bait like worms or maggots—a simple setup, but one that can lead to real catches if you’re lucky. As one reviewer pointed out, patience is key: “You have to be patient with fishing of course. If you don’t have that, or someone in your group doesn’t, you might get bored quickly.” It’s all about embracing the peaceful silence and stunning surroundings.

Exploring Lake Inari and the Reindeer Island

After fishing, the tour continues to a small island inhabited by Tina and Tapio, a family who live there year-round. Meeting their friendly reindeer is a highlight worth noting. They’re not just for show—these reindeer are adorable, and you can feed them, take photos, and get a glimpse of genuine Sami life far from crowds and commercialism.

According to one traveler, “The reindeer are adorable,” and the visit offers insight into a lifestyle that’s closely tied to nature. It’s a rare chance to see how people live in this remote part of Lapland, far from the bustling tourist resorts. The family’s hospitality adds a warm touch to the day, making it more than just a sightseeing stop.

The Cozy Lunch in the Lapland Teepee

After the island visit, it’s time to warm up in a traditional Lappish teepee, where an open fire crackles, and a home-cooked, three-course meal awaits. The menu typically features local reindeer meat or fish, with vegetarian options available upon request—something worth confirming before booking if you have dietary restrictions.

The lunch experience is a highlight, especially in the context of the Arctic surroundings. Imagine sitting in a warm teepee, enjoying hearty, local flavors while snow gently falls outside. Hot berry juice complements the meal, adding to the authentic feel. As one reviewer noted, “The lunch was very characteristic, and the reindeer are adorable,” making it clear that the food and setting create memorable moments.

Additional Details and Practicalities

Transport and Group Size: The trip includes transport from Saariselkä, with a small group limit of 10 participants. This means a more intimate experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and enjoy personalized attention from guides.

Clothing and Equipment: All necessary warm clothing and shoes are provided, so packing light is possible. This consideration adds value, especially given the cold Arctic environment.

Duration and Starting Times: The tour lasts around five hours, with start times varying based on availability. Check ahead to match your schedule.

Price and Value: At $215 per person, it’s a good deal for a full day of authentic Arctic experiences—fishing, reindeer, local cuisine, and scenic transport. The inclusion of guidance, clothing, and meals helps justify the cost, especially for travelers seeking genuine, off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Additional Pick-up: An extra fee applies if you’re staying near Kakslauttanen or Kiilopää, which is worth knowing if you’re based in those areas.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

What Reviewers Say

The feedback from past travelers emphasizes the tour’s authentic charm and beautiful scenery. One noted, “The transfer to Ivalo takes half an hour by taxi,” and highlighted the peaceful fishing in solitude, “It was just us in the silence to enjoy the moment.” Others appreciated the knowledgeable guides—”A great day out with Mico, understanding more about the local way of life”—and the warmth of the lunch experience, even when fishing yielded no catches.

While some mention the patience required for fishing, most agree that the overall experience makes it worthwhile. The combination of scenery, cultural insight, and delicious food makes it a well-rounded Arctic adventure.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience suits travelers who love nature, outdoor activities, and culture. It’s ideal if you’re happy to spend time outdoors in cold conditions and want a genuine taste of Sami life. Families with children over 7, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed, meaningful Arctic experience will find it rewarding.

It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues or pregnant women, as the activity involves some walking, snowmobiling, and exposure to cold environments. If you’re seeking a quick thrill or lively action, you might find this tour too tranquil.

Final Thoughts on Value and Experience

The Saariselkä Ice Fishing Tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty. The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a personalized experience that feels authentic and respectful of the environment. The highlight for many will be the sense of peacefulness, combined with the chance to try ice fishing on Lake Inari, one of Lapland’s most stunning lakes.

The opportunity to meet reindeer, learn about Sami traditions, and enjoy a warm, hearty meal makes this a memorable outing. It’s a thoughtful choice for those who want more than just sightseeing—who desire a genuine connection to Arctic life.

For the cost, you’re getting a full, immersive experience with plenty of authentic touches. It’s a tour that appeals to travelers eager for tranquility, a bit of patience, and a lot of beautiful scenery.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, transport from Saariselkä to the tour start point is included, along with travel back at the end of the trip.

What should I wear? The tour provides warm clothing and shoes, so you just need to dress in layers suitable for cold outdoor conditions.

Can I join if I don’t fish? Absolutely. While fishing is a key part of the experience, the tour also offers sightseeing, reindeer encounters, and a delicious lunch, making it enjoyable even if fishing isn’t your main focus.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience lasts about five hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.

Are children allowed? The tour isn’t suitable for children under 7 years old, mainly because of the outdoor nature and patience needed for fishing.

Is vegetarian lunch available? Yes, vegetarian options can be arranged upon request.

What if I want to be picked up from a different area? An extra fee of 20 per person applies for pickups from Kakslauttanen or Kiilopää.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women? No, for safety reasons, pregnant women are advised not to participate.

In summary, this ice fishing trip combines the magic of Lapland’s winter landscape with authentic cultural encounters and hearty local cuisine. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful, meaningful Arctic experience, especially those eager to learn about Sami traditions and try their hand at ice fishing in a stunning natural setting.

You can check if your dates are available here: