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Exploring the Saariselkä Ice Fishing Tour to Lake Inari: A Genuine Arctic Adventure
This comprehensive review covers the popular Ice Fishing Tour departing from Saariselkä to Lake Inari, a journey that promises a taste of authentic Lapland wilderness. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve experienced this trip firsthand, highlighting the highlights, practical details, and what you can expect along the way.
What truly makes this tour appealing is the chance to learn ice fishing with a knowledgeable guide, combined with scenic snowmobile rides and the chance to see reindeer — all wrapped up in a warm, friendly atmosphere. One standout feature is the inclusion of all fishing equipment and warm clothing, making it accessible and comfortable even for first-timers.
On the flip side, a possible consideration is the unpredictability of weather, which can affect the experience or lead to cancellations. Travelers who love outdoor adventures, authentic cultural encounters, or simply want to witness Finland’s stunning winter scenery will find this tour a compelling choice.
Key Points
- Authentic Arctic Experience: Guided ice fishing on Lake Inari combined with snowmobile rides.
- Comfort & Convenience: All necessary equipment and thermal clothing are provided, making it easy to join without prior gear.
- Scenic Journey: Travel in an air-conditioned minibus through snowy landscapes, with a highlight being the peacefulness of Lake Inari.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable local guides like Max and Miko make the experience more informative and enjoyable.
- Cultural Encounters: Potential reindeer sightings and the chance to learn about local traditions.
- Value for Money: A five-hour trip blending adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural richness at about $205 per person.
An In-Depth Look at the Saariselkä Ice Fishing Tour
If you’re contemplating booking this tour, here’s what you can expect from start to finish. It’s not just about catching fish — it’s about soaking up the Arctic atmosphere, learning some traditional skills, and enjoying the stunning winter scenery.
Looking for more options in Saariselka? Here are some other experiences worth considering.
The Pickup & Initial Briefing
The adventure begins with a pickup around 9:30am, starting at your Saariselkä accommodation or nearby bus stops such as the Holiday Club or Northern Lights Village. The transportation is by air-conditioned minibus, which ensures comfort as you head into the winter wilderness.
Before leaving, you’ll receive thermal clothing and shoes at the Ivalo Safaris office, a thoughtful touch considering the extreme cold. Reviewers like ShuLi_H appreciated this, noting that warm insoles are recommended to stay cozy during the fishing session. The guides are quick to ensure everyone is dressed properly, which makes a difference in how much you enjoy the day.
Scenic Drive to Lake Inari
The journey itself is part of the charm. Traveling through snow-covered landscapes, you can admire the vast silence and beauty of the Finnish north. Lake Inari, one of the largest and most iconic lakes in Finland, is your final destination. Brenda_T described the scenery as “beautiful view and silence”, highlighting how peaceful and untouched this part of Lapland feels.
The drive takes approximately 20-30 minutes, giving you time to get excited for the activities ahead.
Snowmobile-Sleigh Ride to the Frozen Lake
Once at the lake, the highlight is the snowmobile-pulled sleigh ride. This unique mode of transport is both fun and practical, helping you cover the snow-covered terrain comfortably. Reviewers like Angelo_G praised the “fun” and “accommodating” guides, noting how riding the sleigh added a special touch to the trip.
This part of the experience offers great photo opportunities — the wide, icy expanse and surrounding snow-tipped trees create a truly picturesque setting. It also builds anticipation for the main event: ice fishing.
Ice Fishing: Patience, Skill, and Chance
Equipped with your own fishing rod and clear instructions from your guide, you’ll then try your luck at ice fishing. The guides are experienced and responsible, making sure everyone understands how to drill a hole and handle the fishing gear.
Although none of the reviews mention catching fish, the focus remains on enjoying the act of fishing, the environment, and the sense of accomplishment. ShuLi_H noted that even without catching fish, the experience was “very fulfilling and fun”. The activity is designed to be accessible, even for beginners, and the guides take care to make everyone feel comfortable.
Waiting for bites, you’ll be surrounded by stunning winter views, with the quiet of the frozen lake creating a meditative atmosphere.
Lunch & Campfire Relaxation
After some time trying your luck, you’ll settle around a campfire for a warm lunch and hot drinks. This is a lovely way to refuel after the outdoor activities. The reviews mention that the food was delicious, and the experience of sitting by the fire in the snowy wilderness adds a warm, communal feeling.
This break is important — the contrasting warmth of the fire and food against the icy environment creates a memorable, cozy moment. It’s also a chance to chat with your guides and fellow travelers about the day’s adventures.
Return Sleigh Ride & Wrap-up
The tour wraps up with the return sleigh ride back to the meeting point. The entire experience lasts around 5 hours, a good length to enjoy the activities without feeling rushed.
The small group size — limited to 10 travelers — helps foster a more intimate, personalized atmosphere. Guides like Max and Miko are highly praised for their professionalism and friendly approach, making even beginners feel safe and included.
Overall Value & Practical Considerations
At approximately $205.20 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded package of adventure, cultural insight, and scenic beauty. The inclusion of all necessary gear and transportation simplifies planning and reduces extra costs.
For travelers seeking an authentic, hands-on experience that combines outdoor fun with cultural elements like reindeer sightings and traditional Finnish hospitality, this trip hits the mark.
However, keep in mind that weather conditions can influence the experience. The tour providers have a flexible cancellation policy, with options for a full refund if weather cancels the activity. It’s wise to dress warmly, even with the provided clothing, and be prepared for potential cold or snow.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This ice fishing trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures and want to get a real sense of Arctic life. It’s ideal for those who appreciate learning new skills, like fishing, or simply want a peaceful day immersed in Lapland’s stunning winter scenery. It’s also great for families and small groups, thanks to its intimate size and friendly guides.
While it’s not solely a fishing expedition, the emphasis on cultural authenticity, scenic rides, and cozy lunch makes it a well-rounded experience. It’s especially perfect for those interested in experiencing traditional Finnish outdoor activities in a relaxed, guided setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the tour last?
The whole trip takes about 5 hours, from pickup to drop-off, providing enough time for scenic drives, sled rides, fishing, and lunch.
What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, fishing equipment, warm clothing, a guided experience, and lunch with hot drinks. Most equipment and gear are provided, so you don’t need to bring your own.
Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides are experienced and responsible, offering clear instructions. The activity is designed to be accessible, even if you’ve never tried ice fishing before.
What should I wear?
Warm clothing is provided, but it’s advisable to wear warm insoles or additional layers if you tend to get cold. Pack a hat, gloves, and thermal socks for extra comfort.
What if the weather is poor?
The tour has a full refund policy if canceled due to weather conditions. The guides will monitor weather and will reschedule or refund if conditions are unsuitable.
Are reindeer sightings likely?
While reindeer are mentioned as a feature of the tour, reviews don’t specify if they are guaranteed. Nonetheless, they are common in the area and could be part of the experience.
How many people are on the tour?
The tour usually has a small group size, capped at 10 travelers, which enhances personalization and interaction.
To sum it up, this Saariselkä ice fishing adventure offers a genuine taste of Arctic life wrapped in scenic beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor fun. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a curious traveler, or someone looking to experience Lapland’s quieter charms, it stands out as a memorable day in the Finnish winter. The combination of guides’ expertise, beautiful landscapes, and cozy lunch makes it a worthwhile choice for many seeking an authentic Arctic experience.
