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Planning a trip to Lapland and eager to witness the elusive Northern Lights? This Ivalo tour offers a genuine slice of Arctic life, combining wilderness adventures with local traditions. It’s designed for those seeking an authentic experience away from crowded tourist spots, with small-group intimacy and personalized touches that make it memorable.
What makes this tour stand out? For us, it’s the balance of adventure and comfort—riding in a snowmobile-pulled sleigh, feeding reindeers, and enjoying a homemade three-course dinner by an open fire. The chance to see the Northern Lights over Lake Inari adds an extra layer of magic. One thing to keep in mind: seeing the aurora isn’t guaranteed, so patience and luck are part of the package.
This experience is perfect for travellers who love nature, culture, and a bit of adventure. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, the small group size ensures a friendly, authentic vibe. It’s a well-rounded option for those wanting to explore Lapland’s winter wilderness, with the comfort of local guides who know the area intimately.
Key Points
- Authentic Arctic Experience: Small group tours led by local guides ensure personalized attention and genuine insights.
- Unique Wilderness Travel: Snowmobile-pulled sleigh rides through frozen lakes and forests create memorable, scenic moments.
- Cultural Encounters: Meet and feed friendly reindeer and visit a traditional wooden cottage and teepees on a small island.
- Culinary Delight: Enjoy a homemade three-course meal, with options for fish, reindeer, or vegetarian dishes, cooked over an open fire.
- Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Reserve now, pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
- Ideal for Nature & Culture Lovers: Perfect for those seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path Arctic adventure.
An In-Depth Look at the Ivalo: Lake Inari Northern Lights Tour
Looking for more options in Ivalo? Here are some other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary Breakdown
The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in Ivalo, making logistics straightforward for travelers staying locally. After a short drive to the tour’s base near the center of Ivalo, you receive warm thermal clothing and sturdy shoes—an important detail given the chilly Arctic temperatures. That’s a big plus because you won’t need to worry about layering up yourself or lugging extra gear.
Next, you head out to the small village of Koppelo, about 15 minutes away. Here, you’ll hop into a snowmobile-pulled sleigh, a highlight for many. The sleigh is covered with reindeer hides, adding to the traditional Lappish vibe and providing a cozy, insulated ride. As you glide through the snow-covered landscape, you’ll feel the quiet of the wilderness, broken only by the sound of the snowmobile’s engine and the crackling of the fire looming ahead.
The ride leads to Lake Inari, famed for its stunning, icy expanse and the chance to see the Northern Lights in their full glory. The stop at the lake is a peaceful moment—imagine sitting by the frozen water, wrapped in warm layers, hoping for a glimpse of green or pink shimmering overhead. The tour hosts, Tina and Tapio, own this small family business and live on a nearby island, adding a personal touch and guaranteeing an authentic experience.
The Wilderness & Aurora Viewing
Once at the lakeside, you’re encouraged to relax, take photos, or simply soak in the silence. Several reviews mention that this quiet, natural setting enhances the magic of the Northern Lights when they appear. As one guest put it, “You might find yourself mesmerized by the stillness, and if you’re lucky, the aurora dances right above you.” However, it’s worth noting that some visitors, like Ylenia, expressed a wish for longer stays in the tent to better enjoy the aurora viewing and hot drinks—a tip for future travelers to consider if Aurora hunting is your main goal.
Reindeer Encounters and Traditional Dinner
Back on the island, you’ll have the chance to meet and feed the reindeer—an activity loved by most. The reindeer are friendly and used to visitors, creating a close-up, tactile experience that adds to the cultural authenticity. This is more than just a photo op; it’s a moment that helps you connect with Lapland’s Sami traditions.
Afterward, a delicious homemade three-course dinner is prepared over an open fire inside a traditional wooden cottage and teepees. The menu typically features local fish or reindeer, but vegetarian options are available if requested beforehand. Guests consistently praise the meal for its freshness and authenticity, with some describing it as a warm, hearty conclusion to the chilly evening.
Return and Reflection
The tour wraps up after around four hours, with a return drive to Ivalo. Many reviewers, including Ylenia, expressed a desire to extend the experience—perhaps in a warmer setting or with more time for hot drinks. Still, most appreciate the intimate size of the group (limited to 12 participants), which fosters a friendly atmosphere and personalized attention from guides like Tina and Tapio.
What’s Included & Practicalities
For $187 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package. Included are hotel pick-up and drop-off, warm thermal clothing and shoes, a snowmobile sleigh ride, the chance to feed reindeers, and the homemade dinner. The small group setting (limited to 12) ensures everyone gets attention, and the flexibility of booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance makes it accessible.
The tour’s duration is around 4 hours—perfect for an evening out without feeling rushed. It runs from various start times depending on availability, so you can choose what suits your schedule best.
The Experience Provider
Ivalo Safaris is the company behind this tour, a family-run operation led by Tina and Tapio. Their local knowledge shines through in the personal touches—like the island visit and the homemade meal—that elevate the experience from a typical tour into something more heartfelt and genuine.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience works best for travelers who are eager to embrace Lapland’s natural beauty and cultural traditions. It suits those who appreciate authenticity over luxury, and don’t mind the cold in exchange for genuine Arctic encounters. If you’re someone who enjoys quiet, scenic moments—waiting for the Northern Lights in a peaceful setting—this tour could be ideal.
It’s also great for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a manageable, friendly group atmosphere. Keep in mind, the possibility of missing the Aurora exists, so if chasing the lights is your main goal, be prepared for some patience and perhaps a second attempt.
The Sum Up
The Ivalo: Lake Inari Northern Lights Tour with Reindeer & Dinner offers a well-rounded, authentic Arctic adventure. From cozy sleigh rides across frozen lakes to feeding reindeer and enjoying a homemade meal, it’s a sincere taste of Lapland’s traditions and natural beauty. The small-group format and local guides ensure a personal touch that larger tours often lack, making it a memorable choice for those seeking a genuine Northern Lights experience away from tourist crowds.
While the possibility of seeing the aurora isn’t guaranteed, the overall package offers a balanced mix of adventure, cultural insight, and comfort. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to connect with the landscape and local Sami culture, and enjoy evening moments of stillness and wonder.
If you’re after a warm, authentic, and scenic Arctic outing, this tour is a solid pick. Just remember to keep your expectations flexible regarding the lights, but be prepared for a memorable night filled with genuine Lapland hospitality.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Ivalo’s center area, making arrangements easy.
What should I wear for the sleigh ride?
You will be provided with warm thermal clothes and sturdy shoes, so just dress in layers suitable for cold weather.
Can I request a vegetarian meal?
Absolutely. Vegetarian options are available upon request when booking.
How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, which includes transportation, activities, and dinner.
What are the chances of seeing the Northern Lights?
While the tour aims to maximize your chances, sightings depend on weather and aurora activity. Some guests see the lights, others don’t—patience is key.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, especially since reindeer and the outdoor experience appeal to all ages.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering flexibility in your plans.
Are there any safety concerns?
Standard safety protocols are followed, and the guides are experienced. Just follow their instructions, especially during snowmobile rides.
This Arctic adventure promises a genuine taste of Lapland’s wilderness, Sami culture, and the elusive Northern Lights—an experience likely to stay with you long after the snow melts.
