Ivalo: Snowmobile Safari, Meet and Feed Reindeers with Lunch

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Lapland’s winter magic, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Arctic adventures. It combines a gentle snowmobile ride, the chance to meet reindeers, and a home-cooked lunch in a traditional teepee, all led by friendly local guides. With a small group of up to eight people, it feels personal enough to ask questions and enjoy a relaxed pace while soaking in the stunning scenery.

One thing we really appreciate about this experience is how accessible it is for first-time snowmobilers. The track is planned to match various skill levels, so even newcomers won’t feel overwhelmed. However, travelers should be aware that participants need a valid driving license (A1, T, A or B category), and if you’re traveling in a group with an odd number of guests, someone will sit as a passenger or in the guide’s snowmobile, which adds a fun social element. This tour is perfect for adults, especially those eager to combine outdoor adventure with culture, but it’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those over 95.

Key Points

• Small group experience fosters a personalized and relaxed atmosphere.
• Authentic cultural moments include meeting reindeers and enjoying local food.
• Suitable for beginners with well-planned tracks and clear instructions.
• Stunning scenery around Lake Inari creates beautiful photo opportunities.
• Flexible options for snowmobile driving and swapping places.
• Includes warm clothing and gear to stay comfortable in the cold.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Itinerary and Experience

This roughly 3-hour adventure kicks off with a warm welcome at the Ivalo office, where you’ll be dressed in thermal clothing and shoes—crucial for staying cozy in the Arctic chill. Once suited up, you’ll hop into a minibus for a short 10-minute drive to the lakeside, where the snowmobiles are patiently waiting. This short transfer is a nice touch, allowing you to focus on the fun ahead rather than the logistics.

The snowmobiling itself covers approximately 25-30 km along frozen lakes and river tracks, designed to suit most skill levels. A local guide will give thorough instructions, making it a fantastic option if this is your first time handling a snowmobile. The trail offers a gentle thrill as you glide over the snow, with your guide sharing insights about the landscape and local life along the way.

The Unique Island Visit

Midway, you’ll visit the home island of Tina and Tapio, the friendly owners of the small family-run company. This is where the tour truly stands out. Tina’s passion for sharing her homeland shines through as she introduces you to her reindeers, which are famously friendly and curious. You’ll have the chance to feed them and take photos, gaining a genuine connection with these iconic Arctic animals.

According to one reviewer, Tina and her husband are “exceptional people,” and the experience on their island really adds a personal, authentic touch to the day. The reindeer are described as “very sweet,” and the chance to interact with them isn’t just a photo op, but a real moment of connection in the vast Arctic landscape.

Lunch in a Traditional Teepee

After the reindeer encounter, it’s time to settle down for a homemade Lappish lunch around a campfire inside a warm teepee. The menu typically features local fish or reindeer, giving you a taste of the region’s hearty cuisine. The setting is cozy, surrounded by breathtaking views of the snow-covered wilderness, and complemented by hot drinks, making it a perfect moment to relax and soak in the scenery.

Guests have highlighted the lunch as a highlight, describing it as “pleasurable and in line with expectations,” with some noting that it’s a bit on the pricier side but worth the experience. This part of the tour offers a genuine opportunity to connect with local culture beyond just the outdoor activities.

Return Journey and Flexibility

After lunch, you’ll make your way back to Ivalo, with the option to swap seats if you’re sharing a snowmobile with others. For groups with an odd number, one person rides as a passenger or in the guide’s snowmobile, which reviewers found to be a fun way to share the experience. This flexibility ensures everyone can enjoy both driving and observing, making the trip inclusive and engaging.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Personal Touch and Authenticity

This isn’t just a fast-paced snowmobile ride—it’s a genuine cultural experience. Tina and Tapio’s hospitality shines through, making the island visit a highlight. Reviewers mention how the interaction with reindeers and the homemade lunch add depth to the day, making it more than just adrenaline-fueled fun.

Scenic Beauty

Lakeland views around Lake Inari are undeniably stunning. The frozen landscape, vast skies, and peaceful wilderness create endless photo opportunities. We loved how the tour balances adventure with the tranquil beauty of Lapland, giving you plenty of time to appreciate nature’s quiet grandeur.

Beginner-Friendly Approach

For those new to snowmobiling, this tour is a fantastic introduction. The trail is planned with safety and ease in mind, and the local guide will give clear handling instructions. We also appreciate the small group size (max 8 people), which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable for first-timers.

Cultural Connection

Feeding reindeers and enjoying a traditional meal in a teepee provides a glimpse into the local Sami culture. It’s a meaningful addition that elevates this from a typical Arctic tour to an immersive cultural outing.

Practical Details and Value

Price and Inclusions

At $203 per person, this tour offers good value for a multi-faceted experience. It includes snowmobile driving, transfers, thermal clothing and helmets, as well as the homemade lunch. The fact that fuel, taxes, and insurance are covered means fewer hidden costs and peace of mind.

Considerations

If you want a single snowmobile, it costs an additional $65, which might be worthwhile if you’re keen on more independence. The tour is designed for adults, with a minimum age of 12 to ride as a passenger, and valid driver licenses are required. The self-liability fee of €700 in case of accidents is standard for Arctic activities but worth noting for safety-conscious travelers.

Timing and Group Size

Check availability for specific starting times, as the tour duration of approximately 3 hours includes all activities and transportation. The small group size means you’ll get personalized attention, but it also means booking in advance is recommended during peak seasons.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a combination of adventure and culture, and want to experience Lapland with a local touch, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for first-time snowmobilers who want guidance and reassurance, as well as those interested in reindeer encounters, authentic local food, and scenic winter landscapes.

However, it’s best suited for adults or older teens, given the age restrictions and the need for a valid driver’s license. Those looking for high-adrenaline, long-distance snowmobile rides might find this a bit too gentle, but for a balanced introduction to Arctic winter life, it’s spot on.

The Sum Up

This tour delivers an engaging slice of Lapland’s winter scene, blending adventure with authentic cultural experiences. The chance to drive a snowmobile, meet reindeers, and share a hearty meal in a traditional teepee makes it a well-rounded outing for curious travelers. The small group size and friendly local guides help create a warm, personal atmosphere, offsetting the chilly outdoor elements.

While it’s not the cheapest option available, the value lies in the mix of scenery, cultural insight, and the opportunity to try snowmobiling in a safe, guided setting. The experience of feeding reindeers and enjoying a homemade lunch in such a pristine environment is hard to beat for those wanting a genuine taste of Lapland.

This tour will suit adventure-seekers with a cultural streak, those new to snowmobiling, and anyone wanting to capture the essence of Arctic life while surrounded by breathtaking winter views.

FAQ

Do I need a driver’s license to participate?
Yes, you need a valid driver’s license (A1, T, A or B category) to drive the snowmobile. Make sure to bring it along as it’s required for participation.

Is this tour suitable for children?
This experience is designed for adults, with a minimum age of 12 for accompanying passengers. Children under 12 are not permitted, mainly for safety reasons.

Can I swap driver and passenger roles?
Absolutely. If you’re sharing a snowmobile, the tour allows swapping places mid-way, so everyone can have a turn driving or riding as a passenger.

What should I wear?
The tour provides thermal clothing, shoes, and helmets, but it’s wise to dress warmly in layers underneath. Bring gloves, a hat, and possibly sunglasses, as the snow glare can be intense.

How long is the snowmobile ride?
The snowmobile track covers about 25-30 km, with the entire tour lasting approximately 195 minutes, including transfers, instruction, the island visit, and lunch.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a homemade lunch featuring local fish or reindeer is included, served around a campfire inside a traditional teepee.

What if I want a single snowmobile?
That’s available for an extra $65 per person. It might be worth it if you prefer more independence, but the shared option is well-suited for most travelers.

This comprehensive, authentic experience offers a genuine glimpse into Arctic life, making it a standout choice for travelers seeking both adventure and cultural connection in Lapland.