Imagine zipping across icy lakes on a snowmobile, then settling down for a peaceful session of ice fishing, all amidst the stunning snow-covered forests of Lapland. That’s essentially what this Rovaniemi Ice Fishing & Snowmobile Safari promises—and from reviews and descriptions, it sounds like a genuinely memorable experience.
What really draws us in is how this tour combines the thrill of adventurous snowmobiling with the tranquility of traditional ice fishing, all wrapped up in the breathtaking environment of Lapland. Plus, the chance to warm up by a campfire with sausages and hot drinks adds a cozy touch that makes the day feel complete.
But, of course, it’s not all perfect—cold weather and the unpredictability of fishing may not be everyone’s cup of tea. It’s a tour best suited for those comfortable with winter outdoor activities and who enjoy scenic exploration. If you’re after a balanced mix of adventure and cultural experience, this could be a great pick.
Key Points

- Stunning scenery of Arctic forests and frozen lakes offers great photo opportunities.
- Expert guides share stories and insights, making the experience informative and engaging.
- Two-in-one adventure combines snowmobiling and ice fishing, maximizing your time in Lapland.
- Warm campfire with sausages and hot drinks offers a cozy break in the winter landscape.
- Flexible options for sharing snowmobiles or driving alone, with safety instructions and gear included.
- Suitable for those who enjoy outdoor winter activities, with some considerations for cold weather and fishing luck.
What Is the Rovaniemi Ice Fishing & Snowmobile Safari?

This experience is designed to give you a taste of Lapland’s winter lifestyle—combining adventure with authenticity. For about four hours, you’ll navigate through snowy forests and across a frozen lake on a snowmobile, then try your hand at ice fishing guided by local experts.
The whole idea is simple but engaging: enjoy the scenic views of Arctic wilderness, learn about the local ecosystem, and share some good food and stories by the fire. It’s a well-rounded snow-based activity that’s suitable for beginners, with no previous experience needed.
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Why This Tour Stands Out
One of the big pluses is the stunning scenery. You’ll be driving through vast, snow-covered forests and across a pristine lake, with plenty of opportunities for photos. According to reviews, guides are knowledgeable and friendly, sharing fun facts about the wildlife and environment, which adds depth to the trip.
Another highlight is the combination of activities—the thrill of snowmobiling paired with the peaceful art of ice fishing. Plus, the campfire experience with sausages and hot drinks provides a warm, social end to the adventure, which many travelers find memorable.
A Possible Drawback
While most reviews are glowing, it’s worth mentioning that fishing involves some luck. Several travelers say they didn’t catch any fish, though they still enjoyed the experience. Also, the cold can be intense if you’re not dressed properly, so packing warm clothing is essential.
If you’re not comfortable on snow or prone to cold, you might find parts of this tour challenging. Plus, the tour lasts about four hours, which can feel long if you’re not into outdoor winter sports.
The Itinerary: What to Expect

Meeting and Pickup
Most travelers are picked up from either the Santa Claus Village or the city office in Rovaniemi. Expect a warm welcome from your guides, who will outfit you with winter clothes, snowmobile gear, and safety instructions. The pickup and equipment are included, so you don’t have to worry about packing or renting gear separately.
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Snowmobile Safari
Once geared up, you’ll hop onto a snowmobile—usually with two adults sharing one vehicle—and head out across the Arctic landscape. The ride covers approximately 20 kilometers, with guides leading the way through scenic forests and across the frozen lake. For those wanting more control, single-driver options are available for an extra fee.
The ride is described as beautiful and well-paced—not too long but enough to enjoy the thrill of speeding over snow and taking in the views. Some reviews mention the extent of the scenery, noting how peaceful and pristine the environment feels.
Ice Fishing Experience
After the ride, your group will arrive at a frozen lake for ice fishing. You’ll learn how to drill a hole through the ice and try your luck at catching fish. Guides are praised for their patience and thorough explanations, making it accessible even for beginners.
Whether you catch a fish or not, the experience is relaxing—sitting quietly on the lake, surrounded by snow, with the cold air invigorating. Many reviews mention how fun and authentic this part of the experience feels, especially with the added touches of hot drinks and sausages cooked over the campfire.
Campfire and Food
A key component is the cozy campfire, where you’ll enjoy sausages, hot drinks, and sometimes marshmallows. This is often described as a highlight, offering a warm break amid the chilly surroundings. Guides share stories and information, making the gathering both social and educational.
Returning
After the fishing and fire, you’ll hop back onto the snowmobiles for the return journey. The entire process, from pickup to drop-off, takes around four hours, delivering a full but manageable taste of Lapland’s winter life.
What Travelers Say

Authentic and scenic experiences dominate reviews. Many mention the professionalism and friendliness of guides, who are attentive, passionate, and eager to share their knowledge. For instance, one reviewer said, “Janne was so nice to share his experience as a local,” highlighting the personal touch.
The scenery gets rave reviews—”beautiful landscape,” “gorgeous forest setting,” and “stunning views” are common descriptions. Multiple travelers enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere and the adventure of driving a snowmobile across icy terrain.
Food and drinks are also a big hit. Several reviews commend the hot sausages and berry drinks at the campfire, noting how much they added to the overall experience. It’s these touches that help make the day both fun and cozy.
However, some mention fishing luck—a reminder that catching fish isn’t guaranteed, but the process and environment are still enjoyable. As one traveler put it, “We didn’t catch any fish, but we still had a great time,” emphasizing that the experience is about the journey, not just the catch.
Practical Details: Making the Most of Your Trip

Duration and Group Size
At around four hours, this tour is a solid half-day activity, leaving room for other explorations. Groups tend to be small, which creates a more intimate vibe and allows guides to give personalized attention.
Price and Value
At $184 per person, the price seems reasonable considering the inclusion of transport, gear, a snowmobile ride, ice fishing, and food. Travelers note the value for money—especially given the quality of guides, the scenery, and the unique experience.
Accessibility and Safety
The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a plus for those with mobility considerations. Safety gear is provided, and guides give thorough safety instructions—important for those unfamiliar with snowmobiling.
What to Bring
Pack warm clothing, including passport or ID, driver’s license (if you want to drive), and dress in layers. Be prepared for very cold weather—the reviews warn that it can feel like an “ice bath,” so good insulation is key.
Considerations for Families and Children
Children 0-14 are seated in a sled behind the snowmobile, supervised by an adult. Children over 140 cm who wish to sit as a passenger on the snowmobile will pay the full adult rate. Small children should be accompanied for safety reasons, but this activity is generally suitable for families with older kids who enjoy outdoor winter fun.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you’re after an adventurous yet authentic lapland experience, this tour offers a great balance of excitement and cultural insight. The scenery alone makes it worthwhile, and the guides’ expertise helps make it smooth and enjoyable—whether you’re a snowmobile novice or a seasoned rider.
It’s perfect for travelers who love outdoor activities, don’t mind the cold, and appreciate good storytelling and local knowledge. The combination of snowmobiling, ice fishing, and campfire makes for a well-rounded day in the Arctic wilderness.
However, if you’re not comfortable with cold or outdoor sports, or if fishing luck is a big deal for you, this might be less ideal. Still, even if you don’t catch fish, most find the scenery and the experience itself rewarding.
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FAQs

Do I need prior experience to do this tour?
No, the tour is suitable for beginners. Guides will give instructions, and gear is provided so you can focus on having fun.
What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation to and from your accommodation, winter clothes, snowmobile equipment, fuel, ice fishing gear, about 20 km of snowmobiling, and sausages cooked over the campfire.
Can I drive a snowmobile?
Yes, if you have a valid driver’s license, you can drive alone; otherwise, two adults share a snowmobile. Single-driver options are available for an extra fee.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Children aged 0-14 are seated in a sled behind the guide’s snowmobile and should be accompanied by an adult. Kids over 140 cm can sit as a passenger if they wish, but the full adult rate applies.
How cold will it be?
Expect it to be quite cold—think “ice bath” cold—so dressing in warm layers is essential. The tour provides gear, but good insulation and proper clothing are up to you.
What if I don’t catch any fish?
While fishing involves some luck, most reviews mention that the experience is still enjoyable regardless of the catch. The scenery, guides, and campfire moments make it worthwhile.
This tour is a solid choice if you want a genuine taste of Lapland’s winter wonderland. Its blend of excitement, cultural insights, and cozy moments make it a memorable experience—perfect for those who thrive outdoors and want to see the Arctic from a different perspective.
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