Step into a world of untamed winter wonder as you venture across the frozen expanse of Inari Lake, a vast canvas of pristine ice and snow. Gliding effortlessly by sleigh, you’ll discover a hidden realm of over 3,300 uninhabited islands, each one a testament to the raw beauty of Finland’s Lapland. But this is no mere sightseeing tour – prepare to learn about the timeless traditions of the region, from snowshoeing and net fishing to the time-honored ritual of ice fishing and a hearty, fire-cooked meal. Let your experienced guide lead you on a journey that promises to awaken the senses and leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- A 6-hour private guided tour of Inari Lake, the frozen winter wonderland in Finnish Lapland, featuring traditional activities like sleigh riding and ice fishing.
- Glide across the pristine frozen surface of Inari Lake with over 3,300 uninhabited islands, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and towering pines.
- Engage in authentic Finnish experiences such as snowshoeing, net fishing under the ice, and preparing a traditional Finnish meal over an open fire.
- All-inclusive tour package with thermal overalls, helmets, and transfers from Ivalo, priced from $326.96 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Suitable for adults, with no accommodations for children under 10, and specific dress code requirements to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.
Key Tour Details
The private guided tour on Inari Lake typically lasts around 6 hours, though its duration can be adjusted to suit visitors’ needs.
During this immersive experience, guests embark on a sleigh ride across the vast, frozen lake, which boasts over 3,300 islands, offering a serene and picturesque winter wonderland.
The all-inclusive tour is priced from $326.96 per person, and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Thermal overalls, helmets, and transfers from Ivalo are included, ensuring visitors are well-equipped to explore the stunning natural landscapes and engage in traditional Finnish activities, such as snowshoeing, net fishing, and ice fishing, all while savoring a delicious, freshly-prepared meal.
Highlights of the Experience
Embarking on this private guided tour, visitors enjoy a serene winter wonderland as they glide across the vast, frozen expanse of Inari Lake, marveling at its over 3,300 islands.
The adventure continues as they strap on snowshoes and venture into the snow-blanketed wilderness, discovering the secrets of traditional net fishing under the ice.
An exhilarating highlight is the chance to try ice fishing and prepare a delectable Finnish meal over an open fire, savoring the fresh-caught fish and sipping warm beverages.
Throughout the journey, the knowledgeable local guide provides captivating insights, ensuring a truly authentic and unforgettable experience in the heart of Finnish Lapland.
What’s Included and Excluded
As part of this captivating private tour, visitors are treated to an array of inclusions that heighten the immersive experience, from the guidance of an experienced, English-speaking local to the provision of warm thermal overalls and helmets.
Participants will embark on a sleigh ride across the vast Inari Lake, explore one of its 3,300 islands on a guided snowshoeing nature walk, and gain insight into traditional net fishing under the ice. They’ll also have the chance to try their hand at ice fishing and enjoy a freshly prepared Finnish meal cooked over an open fire.
However, certain exclusions apply, such as the lack of accommodations for children under 10 and the prohibition of high-heeled shoes, sandals, and shorts, ensuring the safety and comfort of all participants throughout their wintry adventure.
Meeting Point and Directions
Nestled in the harbor of Veskoniemi Village, a bright yellow crane stands as a beacon, guiding adventurous souls to the meeting point of this captivating private tour on Inari Lake.
Amidst the serene landscape, visitors will find themselves drawn to the water’s edge, where they’ll be greeted by their experienced, English-speaking guide.
From this picturesque starting point, the group will embark on a journey of discovery, exploring the vast, frozen expanse of Inari Lake and its enchanting islands.
With a focus on immersing guests in traditional Finnish activities, this tour promises to be a truly authentic and unforgettable experience in the heart of Lapland’s winter wonderland.
Sleigh Ride on Inari Lake
Once aboard the traditional wooden sleigh, guests are swept away on a thrilling journey across the vast, frozen expanse of Inari Lake, its shimmering surface dotted with over 3,300 uninhabited islands.
The rhythmic crunch of the sleigh gliding across the pristine ice sets the stage for an unforgettable adventure.
As the guide skillfully navigates the sleigh, guests take in the breathtaking panorama of snow-capped peaks and towering pines that frame the serene landscape.
The sensation of speed and the crisp, invigorating air create a sense of exhilaration, while the tranquility of the lake instills a profound feeling of peace and connection with the natural world.
Guided Snowshoeing Nature Walk
After the exhilarating sleigh ride, the tour shifts its focus to a guided snowshoeing adventure across one of the pristine islands dotting Inari Lake’s frozen expanse. Strapping on their snowshoes, your embark on a captivating nature walk, immersed in the serene, snow-blanketed landscape.
Snowshoes grip the powdery snow, allowing effortless exploration of the untouched terrain.
The guide shares insightful knowledge about the local flora and fauna, pointing out hidden wonders.
Guests pause to admire the breathtaking, panoramic views of the vast lake and its countless islands, a truly mesmerizing sight.
This snowshoeing experience offers a chance to connect with Finland’s enchanting winter wilderness in an intimate, engaging manner.
Insight Into Traditional Net Fishing
The guide then takes your to witness one of Finland’s most traditional fishing methods – net fishing under the ice. They’ll learn how local fishermen have harnessed this centuries-old technique to harvest the bountiful waters of Inari Lake.
The guests watch in fascination as the guide demonstrates the intricate process of cutting a hole in the thick ice, carefully deploying the net, and patiently waiting to see what treasures the lake will surrender.
The rhythmic motion of the net being pulled from the icy depths, revealing the glistening scales of the freshly caught fish, is a mesmerizing sight. As the group marvels at this time-honored practice, they gain a deeper appreciation for the hardy spirit and self-reliance of the Inari people.
Ice Fishing and Finnish Meal Preparation
Next, the guide leads your to a secluded spot on the lake where they’ll try their hand at the time-honored tradition of ice fishing. Donning thermal overalls, the group eagerly gathers around the guide as they learn the intricate techniques of cutting through the thick ice, baiting their hooks, and patiently waiting for a telltale tug on the line.
The guests can’t help but feel a surge of excitement as they anticipate the thrill of reeling in their own freshly caught fish.
In a true embodiment of Finland’s self-reliant spirit, the guide then shows the group how to prepare a delectable Finnish meal over an open fire, using the very fish they’ve just caught. The aroma of sizzling fish and the crackle of the flames fill the crisp air, setting the stage for a truly immersive and authentic experience.
- Guests learn the art of ice fishing from an experienced guide
- Freshly caught fish are used to prepare a traditional Finnish meal
- The open-fire cooking adds to the cozy, outdoor ambiance
Frequently Asked Questions
How Difficult Is the Snowshoeing Portion of the Tour?
The snowshoeing trek across Inari Lake’s frozen landscape is an exhilarating yet accessible adventure. Though it requires some effort, the guide’s expertise ensures even beginners can comfortably traverse the pristine winter wonderland and enjoy Finland’s serene natural splendor.
Can I Bring My Own Fishing Equipment for the Ice Fishing?
Participants can’t bring their own fishing equipment for the ice fishing portion of the tour. The guide will provide all the necessary gear, as it’s essential to ensure a safe and authentic Finnish experience on the frozen lake.
Is the Traditional Finnish Meal Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Friendly?
The traditional Finnish meal on this tour is often adaptable to dietary needs. Vegetarian and gluten-free options can typically be arranged with the experienced guide, ensuring all participants fully savor this authentic cultural experience.
What Are the Group Sizes for This Private Guided Tour?
The group sizes for this private guided tour are flexible, allowing for an intimate and personalized experience. The tour can accommodate small groups of various sizes, ensuring a tailored adventure amidst the stunning Inari Lake landscape.
Is There a Minimum or Maximum Number of Participants Required?
There’s no set minimum or maximum number for this private tour – it’s tailored to each group’s needs. Groups can be intimate or larger, with the guide adjusting the experience accordingly for an unforgettable Finnish adventure.
Recap
Gliding across the frozen Inari Lake on a traditional Finnish sleigh, guests are immersed in a winter wonderland of untouched beauty.
Snowshoeing through the pristine landscape, they learn the age-old methods of net and ice fishing before savoring a hearty, freshly prepared meal over an open fire.
This private guided tour offers a truly authentic, unforgettable experience in the heart of Finnish Lapland.
