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

Exploring the Arctic: An Authentic Ice Fishing Experience in Lapland

If you’re curious about Lapland’s winter traditions, this Ice Fishing Tour to Lake Inari offers a fascinating glimpse into local life, combined with stunning scenery and memorable activities. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances adventure with cultural insight. While the trip is primarily about ice fishing, it’s much more than just sitting on a frozen lake; it’s about experiencing the quiet beauty of Lapland, meeting reindeer, and sharing a homemade meal in a traditional Lappish teepee.

Two things I really appreciate about this experience are the personal touch provided by the local guides — who seem genuinely enthusiastic about sharing their homeland — and the unique scenery that makes the whole day feel like a step into a winter postcard. The guides, like Mico, are noted for their friendly, knowledgeable approach, which makes even the patience-needed fishing part more enjoyable. The opportunity to feed reindeer on a private island adds a warm, authentic touch that many other tours overlook.

A possible consideration is that fishing in winter requires patience — heidi’s review mentioned that “if you don’t have patience, you might get bored quickly,” as fishing can be slow if the fish aren’t biting. On top of that, this tour is not suited for small children under 7, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, so it’s best suited for active, adventure-loving travelers who appreciate the outdoors.

Key points / Takeaways

• Personalized guidance from local experts makes the experience more engaging and educational.
• Scenic frozen landscape of Lake Inari provides a breathtaking backdrop for fishing and exploration.
• Feeding reindeer on a private island offers a genuine, non-touristy encounter with Lapland’s iconic animals.
• The home-cooked three-course lunch served in a warm teepee adds a cozy, authentic touch to the outdoor adventure.
• The small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures a more intimate experience.
• The cost of $215 per person includes transport, clothing, guided instruction, reindeer meet-and-greet, and lunch, offering good value for a memorable Arctic day.

Discovering the Arctic’s Hidden Treasures

This five-hour trip starts with a pickup from Saariselkä, where you’re provided with thermal clothing and shoes—an important detail that saves you from packing bulky winter gear. The short drive to Ivalo and then to Koppelo, a tiny village, sets the stage for a truly Lapland-only adventure. The guides, like Mico, are praised for their friendly, informative manner, which helps you quickly feel comfortable in the cold.

Once you’re in Koppelo, snowmobiles and sledges are ready, beginning your journey through Arctic scenery that feels untouched and quiet. The sleigh ride pulled by snowmobiles to the secret fishing spot on Lake Inari is a highlight in itself, offering views that seem straight out of a winter fairy tale. As you settle into your ice fishing setup, the guide will give clear instructions — you’ll be fishing in a way that’s authentic to the region, using worms or maggots to tempt the fish beneath the ice.

Fishing in winter isn’t necessarily a quick sport, as Heidi points out, but that patience is part of the charm. You get to enjoy the silence, the crisp air, and the snow-covered lake. Even if the fish aren’t biting, the experience of being in this pristine environment is worth it.

Meeting Reindeer and Authentic Lapland Living

After fishing, the tour takes you to a private island owned by a local family, Tina and Tapio. Here, you get a rare chance to meet and feed reindeer, which many travelers find adorable and memorable. The reviews highlight this as a genuine, away-from-tourist-spot experience — “the reindeer are adorable,” Chiara remarks. The owners live on the island year-round, providing a chance to glimpse real Lapland life.

This part of the trip adds a warm, personal touch, contrasting with the vast, silent lake. It’s a chance to connect with the animals and the land, not just see them from a distance. The reindeer are friendly, and the photo opportunities are plentiful, making this a highlight for animal lovers.

Cozy, Authentic Lunch in a Traditional Teepee

No outdoor adventure in Lapland is complete without a hearty meal, and this tour excels here. The homemade three-course lunch served in a Lappish teepee by an open fire is a true highlight. The menu offers reindeer meat or fish as standard, with a vegetarian option available on request, catering to different tastes. This meal showcases local ingredients and cooking styles, enhancing the cultural experience.

The open fire creates a warm, communal atmosphere, and the hot berry juice is a perfect warming drink after hours in the cold. The reviews emphasize the lunch’s authenticity and deliciousness, making it more than just a meal — it’s a taste of authentic Lapland hospitality.

Price and Logistics: Good Value for a Unique Arctic Outing

At $215 per person, this tour offers considerable value given what’s included: transport, thermal gear, guiding, reindeer encounter, and a traditional lunch. The small group size (up to 10 participants) ensures personalized attention, which enhances the overall experience.

Transport is straightforward, with organized pickup from Saariselkä, and optional pickup from other areas like Kakslauttanen or Kiilopää for an additional fee. The tour lasts five hours, with flexible start times depending on availability, fitting well into most winter itineraries.

Some reviews mention that the transfer to Ivalo and onward to Inari is easy and well-coordinated, adding to the tour’s convenience. Keep in mind that if you’re not comfortable in winter clothing, the gear provided ensures you stay warm during outdoor activities.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who want more than just sightseeing — those willing to embrace the cold, be patient with fishing, and enjoy authentic cultural encounters. It’s perfect for nature lovers, animal enthusiasts, and anyone interested in Lapland’s outdoor traditions.

It’s less suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility issues, due to the outdoor, sometimes physically demanding nature. The tour’s small size and personal approach make it suitable for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers seeking a genuine Arctic experience.

Final Thoughts on This Arctic Adventure

This ice fishing trip to Lake Inari offers a beautiful blend of scenery, culture, and outdoor fun. The guides, like Mico, stand out for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience accessible and engaging. The chance to feed reindeer on a private island and enjoy a home-cooked meal in a traditional teepee really sets it apart from more generic Arctic excursions.

While fishing may require patience, the overall journey is about more than just catching fish — it’s about savoring the stillness and majesty of Lapland in winter. For travelers seeking a genuine, immersive experience that combines outdoor adventure with cultural authenticity, this tour delivers a memorable day in the Arctic.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transport from Saariselkä is included, with the option to be picked up from Kakslauttanen or Kiilopää for an extra fee.

What should I wear?
The tour provides warm thermal clothing and shoes, so you don’t need to bring your own winter gear. Still, dressing in layers underneath is recommended.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience lasts approximately five hours, including pickup, activities, and lunch.

Can I participate if I don’t like fishing?
Yes. While fishing is part of the experience, the trip also involves scenic rides, reindeer encounters, and enjoying the landscape.

Are children allowed?
Children under 7 years old are not suitable for this tour, mainly due to outdoor activities and cold conditions.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a homemade three-course meal served in a warm teepee is part of the tour.

What if I don’t catch any fish?
That’s quite common, as noted in reviews. The experience isn’t solely about fishing success but about enjoying the environment and local culture.

How do I book or cancel?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour date.

This Arctic ice fishing adventure offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s winter charm, making it perfect for those eager to experience local traditions in a scenic setting. It’s a day that balances outdoor fun, cultural insights, and cozy comforts — a true winter highlight.