Snowshoeing and Ice Fishing Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Rovaniemi, Finland, and want to experience a slice of authentic Arctic life, a snowshoeing and ice fishing tour might be just what you need. We’ve looked into this experience, and it offers a fantastic way to connect with nature, learn some survival skills, and enjoy the peaceful winter landscape.

What really caught our interest is how this tour combines two activities in one—saving you time while maximizing your outdoor adventure. Plus, the inclusion of door-to-door transport makes it more hassle-free, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area or traveling with a group. However, it’s worth noting that lunch isn’t included, so you might want to plan for that separately.

This experience feels best suited for those who love being outdoors, appreciate learning new skills, and enjoy a relaxed pace. It’s a great choice for travelers seeking a genuine Arctic experience without the intensity of more extreme excursions.

Key Points

• Combines snowshoeing and ice fishing for a well-rounded Arctic adventure
• All equipment and winter clothing are provided, making it accessible for most travelers
• Includes hot drinks and grilled sausages over an open fire, adding a cozy touch
• Small group size (max 8) ensures a more personal, engaging experience
• An ideal activity for nature lovers and those curious about wilderness skills
• Booked around 68 days in advance on average, so plan early

An Honest Look at the Experience

The Snowshoeing and Ice Fishing Tour in Rovaniemi, offered by Wild About Lapland, has earned a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 33 reviews. With a price tag of approximately $132 per person, it’s a fair investment for anyone wanting to make the most of their time in Lapland.

What’s Included and What’s Not

When you book this tour, everything needed for the activities—snowshoes, ice fishing gear, professional guide, and winter gear—is included. You’ll also be treated to traditional Finnish snacks and hot drinks around a campfire. The tour even offers hotel pick-up and drop-off if you’re staying outside the city center, which is a real plus.

However, lunch isn’t included, so if you’re hungry after the activities, you’ll need to plan that in. Alcoholic drinks are also extra, and since the tour lasts about four hours, it’s a good idea to bring some personal snacks for extra energy.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour begins with a pickup from Wild About Lapland’s meeting point in Rovaniemi. From there, you’ll be taken to a peaceful spot in the Arctic wilderness, away from the city’s hustle and bustle. Once there, your guide will give some instructions on how to walk with snowshoes—a simple but crucial step to ensure everyone feels confident on the snow.

The snowshoeing part is gentle but scenic. You’ll walk through tranquil, snowy landscapes, feeling a sense of calm that’s hard to find elsewhere. The guides typically choose a quiet lake for the ice fishing, drilling a hole in the thick ice and showing you basic techniques to catch fish.

The highlight for many is the fire on the lakeshore. Your guide will teach you how to make fire without matches, which is both a fun skill and a useful survival trick. You’ll be served hot drinks and snacks while waiting — and possibly catching — your fish. Several reviews mention the pleasure of sitting around the fire in the Arctic cold, enjoying warm treats and good company.

Authenticity and Skill Building

A recurring theme in reviews is the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. Many travelers appreciated their guides’ patience and expertise, noting how they made the experience accessible and engaging. One reviewer said, “Feeling good and relax, guide is perfect,” highlighting how the tour’s approach is more about enjoyment and learning than just ticking off activities.

The fire-starting skill is particularly popular. Whether or not you catch a fish, everyone learns something new about wilderness survival. If you do catch a fish of decent size, your guide will cook it over the fire, adding to the authentic, homey feel of the experience. If the fish are undersized, they’re returned to the lake, which is an important conservation note.

The Snowshoeing Experience: More Than Just Walking

Snowshoeing in Lapland isn’t just about covering ground—it’s about feeling connected to the landscape. Some reviews mention that the snowshoeing route varies from forest trails to lakes, with the forest walk offering a bit of a challenge but more enjoyment. One reviewer said, “The forest trail was much more fun than just walking over the lake,” emphasizing how varied the terrain can be.

The snowshoes are professional-grade, handled easily even by beginners, and the guides are happy to show you the ropes. The activity is suitable for most people, though some reviews note that a bit of endurance helps.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $131.84 per person, the tour’s value lies in its all-inclusive nature and the authentic experience it offers. For outdoor lovers, this is not just about catching fish; it’s about experiencing the quiet beauty of Lapland’s winter landscape. The small group size (up to 8 participants) means you’ll get personal attention, making it easier to ask questions and learn.

Booking the tour about 68 days in advance is a smart move—winter activities tend to fill up quickly, especially in popular destinations like Rovaniemi.

The Downsides

While most reviews are positive, a few points are worth considering. Some guests felt that the snowshoeing was a bit short, or that the fishing was somewhat slow. One reviewer mentioned, “The snowshoeing part was a short walk, and the fishing was a little boring,” which suggests that if you’re after a high-adrenaline adventure, this may not be your best fit.

Also, since this is an outdoor activity, weather conditions play a role. Poor weather could lead to cancellations or a less enjoyable time out on the lake and in the snow.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts and those interested in learning wilderness skills. It’s well-suited for travelers who enjoy peaceful outdoor activities rather than high-energy excursions. It can be a great choice for couples, small groups of friends, or solo adventurers looking for a genuine Arctic experience. If you’re traveling with children, it’s best to consider their comfort with cold weather and snowshoeing, since the tour involves some physical activity and outdoor exposure.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Snowshoeing and Ice Fishing Tour in Rovaniemi offers an authentic, relaxed way to experience Arctic winter life. You’ll leave with more than just photos—you’ll have learned something new, savored warm treats, and enjoyed some of the most beautiful scenery Lapland has to offer.

The guided approach, small-group setting, and inclusive equipment make it accessible and enjoyable for most travelers. While it may not satisfy adrenaline seekers or those looking for a full-day adventure, it’s an ideal option for those wanting a peaceful, meaningful connection with the wilderness.

If you’re after a taste of real Lapland, some quiet time in nature, and a chance to pick up survival skills, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pick-up and drop-off if your accommodation is outside the city center, making it easy to join without extra hassle.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about four hours, giving enough time to enjoy snowshoeing, ice fishing, and relaxing around the fire.

What should I wear?
All professional winter clothing and boots are provided, so you don’t need to worry about chilly temperatures or freezing toes.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The guide will give instructions on snowshoeing and ice fishing, and most people find it accessible, even if it’s their first time.

Can I catch fish?
While catching fish depends on luck, many guests do get bites, especially if the fish are active. If a fish is caught and of a good size, it will be cooked for you.

Is this a family-friendly activity?
It’s suitable for most travelers who are comfortable outdoors and walking in snow. However, the physical nature and outdoor setting mean it might not be ideal for very young children.

What are the reviews saying?
Many reviewers loved the guides and the peaceful scenery. Several mention feeling relaxed and learning new skills, though some found the fishing part a bit slow.

What’s the price reflecting?
The cost covers all equipment, professional guides, snacks, hot drinks, and transport if needed. It’s a good value for an authentic Arctic experience.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour depends on good weather. If cancellations occur due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re craving a calm, authentic taste of Lapland’s winter, this snowshoeing and ice fishing tour offers just that. It’s about enjoyment, learning, and connecting with the natural beauty of the Arctic—something you’ll remember long after your trip.