Ivalo: Aurora Hunting with Reindeer

Ivalo: Aurora Hunting with Reindeer – A Genuine Arctic Experience

Our review of the “Aurora Hunting with Reindeer” tour in Ivalo offers a close-up look at an activity that combines culture, cuisine, and the magic of the northern skies. Priced at just under $140 per person, it’s a surprisingly affordable way to enjoy the authentic side of Lapland. As someone who loves stories that go beyond the typical tourist trail, I can tell you this tour offers a warm glimpse into Sámi traditions, with the added thrill of hoping to catch the Aurora Borealis.

Two things stand out about this experience. First, the opportunity to meet reindeer and learn about their role in local culture is genuinely engaging. Second, the delicious reindeer meat soup served in a traditional Sámi hut turns a simple meal into a cozy, memorable event. That said, while the experience promises a night of culture and potentially stunning northern lights, it’s worth remembering that aurora viewing remains a natural event—so there’s always a bit of luck involved.

One aspect to consider is the group size, limited to just eight travelers, which ensures a personal touch and a more intimate experience. The other is the location—just a kilometer from Ivalo Airport and 10 kilometers from the town center, making it easy to include in your travel plans. However, if you’re coming from Saariselkä or Inari, transportation costs are extra, at €45 per person, so plan that into your budget.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic cultural experience: Meeting reindeer and learning about Sámi traditions offers a meaningful peek into Arctic life.
• Delicious food: The reindeer meat soup and hot berry juice are highlights, especially as a warming treat during a cold Arctic night.
• Small group size: Limited to eight people, making for a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• Location convenience: Close to Ivalo Airport, with optional transportation from nearby towns.
• Aurora unpredictability: The northern lights are a natural phenomenon—beautiful but not guaranteed.
• Educational aspect: You’ll get explanations about the reindeer yearly cycle and herding traditions, which can deepen your appreciation of local culture.

A Deep Dive into the Arctic Magic

When I first read about this tour, I immediately appreciated its focus on authenticity. It’s not just about chasing lights or taking photos; it’s about understanding a way of life. Meeting reindeer—those gentle, curious animals—can be surprisingly delightful. As the review from Philippe_L notes, the guides (“Johanna & Niilo from Ivalo Experiences”) are friendly and provide good explanations, which makes a big difference when you’re trying to absorb both the cultural and natural elements of the tour.

The traditional Sámi hut, where the reindeer meat soup is served, is not just a cozy shelter but an invitation to see how locals have adapted their lifestyle to the Arctic environment. The creamy reindeer meat soup is praised for its taste, and it’s an excellent way to warm up after an hour or so outside looking for the Aurora. The addition of homemade hot berry juice adds a sweet and tart complement, making the meal feel like a genuine, hearty Arctic treat.

The activity’s timing—starting at 8:00 pm—lines up well with prime Aurora viewing hours, especially given the dark winter nights of Lapland. While aurora sightings cannot be guaranteed, the experience’s emphasis on patience and natural beauty makes it more about the journey than just the destination.

What’s Included and How It Works

The tour begins with a pickup from the designated meeting point at Korkiavaarantie, Inari, about 10 km from Ivalo. Small groups (up to eight) ensure a relaxed atmosphere. After a short drive, you’ll meet the reindeer, learn about their significance in Sámi culture, and get a chance to try your hand at “suopunki”, a traditional lasso technique used to catch reindeer—an activity that adds a fun, hands-on element to the evening.

As the evening unfolds, you’ll sit around a fire inside the Sámi hut, enjoying the reindeer meat soup and hot berry juice. This part of the experience is often praised for its warmth—both physical and cultural. Your hosts, Johanna and Niilo, are known for their friendliness and knowledge, making the story behind the reindeer herding traditions come alive.

Once warmed up, everyone keeps an eye on the sky, hoping to witness the Aurora Borealis. You’ll be reminded that seeing the lights depends on weather and solar activity, so patience and a bit of luck are essential. The tour ends back at the starting point, with transportation options offered from nearby towns for an additional fee.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This activity is ideal for travelers seeking more than just a quick Northern Lights chase. If you’re interested in culture, enjoy local cuisine, and are curious about the reindeer herding tradition, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a small, intimate group, as the limited size fosters better conversations and personalized attention.

It’s also a smart choice for food lovers—the soup and hot berry drinks enhance the experience with authentic flavors. The inclusion of learning about Sámi culture makes it meaningful, especially if you prefer experiences that go beyond sightseeing.

While the price of about $140 per person might seem high at first glance, the combination of culture, cuisine, scenic setting, and the potential for Aurora viewing offers solid value. Plus, the small group size and personalized explanations contribute to a memorable Arctic adventure.

Price and Logistics

At $139.63 per person, this tour sits comfortably in the mid-range for Arctic experiences. It’s remarkable value considering the inclusion of local food, cultural insights, and a chance to meet reindeer—a staple of Lapland life. The 2-hour duration is just enough to keep it engaging without feeling rushed.

Transportation is arranged from Ivalo, and options from Saariselkä or Inari are available for an extra €45 per person. If you’re staying in those towns, budgeting for this transportation makes sense, especially given the convenience and the chance to relax during the drive.

The activity’s timing at 8:00 pm aligns with the prime hours for aurora viewing, but remember that weather can cancel or delay sightings. The tour provider offers a full refund or rescheduling if poor weather prevents the Northern Lights from appearing, which adds peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

This tour is a well-rounded way to experience Lapland’s cultural heart. It’s perfect for those who want an authentic taste of Sámi life alongside the chance—though never a guarantee—to see the Aurora Borealis. The delicious reindeer soup and small group setting create a cozy, engaging atmosphere that feels less like a tourist trap and more like sharing a special Arctic evening with friends.

If you’re after a meaningful, cultural experience in a stunning natural setting, this tour offers both. It’s especially suitable for food lovers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone eager to learn about traditional reindeer herding. Just remember to dress warmly, bring patience, and enjoy the quiet magic of Lapland under the northern sky.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Transportation can be arranged from Ivalo, Saariselkä, or Inari. The tour includes pickup from the specified meeting point in Inari, with options for additional fee from Saariselkä or Inari.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If weather cancels the activity, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, starting at 8:00 pm, including the time for reindeer encounters, food, and Aurora watching.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. With a small group of eight, it’s manageable for families with children, provided they’re comfortable in cold weather.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers. Arctic evenings can be cold, especially if you’re outside waiting for the Aurora, so thermal clothing, hats, gloves, and sturdy waterproof boots are recommended.

How likely am I to see the Northern Lights?
While the tour maximizes your chances by timing it during dark hours, Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity. The host will do their best to find clear skies, but it’s not guaranteed.

What is the meal like?
The highlight is a creamy reindeer meat soup served in a traditional Sámi hut, accompanied by hot berry juice. It’s a hearty, authentic Arctic dish praised for its flavor.

Is the reindeer encounter interactive?
Yes, you’ll have the chance to meet reindeer and even try your hand at “suopunki,” the traditional lasso technique used to catch reindeer, adding an engaging hands-on element.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of eight travelers, ensuring a personal experience and more interaction with guides.

What is the main appeal of this tour?
The blend of cultural storytelling, delicious local food, reindeer interaction, and the hope of witnessing the Aurora makes this a well-rounded, memorable Arctic outing.