Rovaniemi: Snowmobile and Ice Fishing Adventure with Lunch

Thinking about adding a snowy thrill to your Rovaniemi trip? This Snowmobile and Ice Fishing Adventure offers a taste of Arctic wilderness, blending adrenaline with cultural charm. You’ll spend about five hours exploring the frosty landscapes on a snowmobile, trying your hand at ice fishing, and finally enjoying a warm, hearty lunch cooked over a campfire.

What really catches our eye about this experience is how it combines multiple activities that complement each other — snowmobiling, fishing, and sharing stories over a traditional Finnish meal. Plus, the reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and good value for money. A potential drawback? The activity requires some driving, so it’s not ideal if you’re uncomfortable on snowmobiles or traveling with very young children. Nonetheless, this tour suits adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a genuine Arctic experience.

If you’re after a well-organized day that mixes excitement with cultural insights and beautiful scenery, this tour could be just the thing. It’s especially suitable if you’re looking for an activity that stands out from typical sightseeing — rather, it’s about actively participating in local traditions while soaking in the Arctic landscape.

Key Points

• Adventure and scenery: You’ll get to drive a snowmobile through forests and over frozen lakes, with views that truly capture Lapland’s rugged beauty.
• Cultural flavor: The guides share insights into Finnish life, and you get to try traditional reindeer soup along with the ice-fishing experience.
• Good value: For around $215, you’re getting roughly five hours of guided activities, equipment, transportation, and a delicious meal.
• Authentic experience: Making your own hole in the ice and cooking what you catch makes this feel genuinely local.
• Comfort and safety: Winter clothing is included, and guides are experienced. Just remember to be on time for the meeting point.
• Mixed activity: It’s a perfect combo for those who want a bit of everything—scenery, culture, adventure, and tasty food.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Breakdown: What to Expect on the Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off at the Safartica Office in Rovaniemi. Punctuality is crucial — arriving late means missing out, and refunds aren’t provided if you’re not there on time. You’ll meet your guides and get assigned shared snowmobiles (two people per machine). The activity lasts about five hours, with driving time around three hours, depending on weather and your comfort level.

Snowmobiling: The Heart of the Adventure

Driving a snowmobile through the Lapland wilderness is an experience in itself. From the reviews, it’s clear that guides are attentive and helpful, making sure everyone feels comfortable, especially if this is your first time. The views are nothing short of breathtaking — snow-covered forests, frozen rivers, and open lakes — all framed by the crisp winter air.

Many visitors comment on how long and scenic the ride is. One reviewer noted, “The ride is quite long, both on iced river and in the woods,” which means you really get a good chunk of time to enjoy the ride without feeling rushed. The guides typically rotate drivers so everyone gets a turn in the seat, though you should be comfortable with a bumpy, icy track.

Ice Fishing: The Finnish Way

Ice fishing in Lapland isn’t about catching fish every time — it’s about the experience and connection to local traditions. You’ll learn how to drill a hole in the ice and set up your rod. Several reviews mention how fun and engaging this part is, even if catching fish is hit or miss. One reviewer said, “Ice fishing was fun and nice to see the process of making your own hole,” adding a layer of authenticity that many travelers really appreciate.

The guides often prepare the lunch during this stage, cooking a warm, hearty soup over a campfire. If luck is on your side, you might catch something to add to your meal; if not, the soup and reindeer stew are still delicious and satisfying after a cold day.

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The Campfire Lunch

A highlight for many is the reindeer soup and the cozy setting. Reviewers rave about how tasty the soup is, cooked fresh and served hot by the fire. One mentions the experience as “like a fairy tale,” sitting in a mountain hut in the middle of the forest, sipping hot cranberry juice, and warming up after the snowmobile ride.

The lunch is an excellent way to relax and swap stories with fellow travelers. It’s a genuinely Finnish experience — simple, hearty, and perfect after a morning of adventure.

Scenic Return and Cultural Insights

After lunch, you’ll head back to Rovaniemi, passing by lookout points and spots that showcase the expansive, untouched wilderness. Guides are often eager to share insights about Finnish life and the natural landscape, giving your trip a cultural dimension beyond just the physical activities.

Practical Details: What It’s Like on the Ground

Transportation and Group Size

Transportation is included from the meeting point, and the group size is manageable, typically with guides leading smaller groups. A shared snowmobile means you’ll be sharing the driving duty with a partner, which adds a social element to the day.

Duration and Timing

The tour runs about five hours — making it a solid half-day activity. Starting times vary, so you’ll want to check your booking for available slots. The activity ends back at the meeting point, so it’s easy to plan the rest of your day around it.

Price and Value

At $215 per person, you’re getting a lot of activity plus equipment, transportation, and a meal. Many reviews highlight the good value — especially considering the variety, scenery, and authentic experience. For outdoor activities in Arctic conditions, the included gear and winter clothing are a big plus, ensuring comfort and safety.

What to Bring

A driver’s license is essential if you plan to drive the snowmobile, and you should dress warmly — layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy boots are advisable. The tour provides winter clothing, but it’s smart to bring gloves, hats, and thermal wear to stay comfortable.

Accessibility and Restrictions

This experience isn’t suitable for infants or very young children. Pregnant women and those with fragile musculoskeletal systems are advised against participating. Drivers must be 18 or older with a valid license, and the activity involves some risk, with insurance options available on-site.

What the Reviews Say: Authentic Voices

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, describing them as friendly, patient, and incredibly helpful. One said, “Vasi made the experience truly unforgettable,” emphasizing how much guides can influence your enjoyment.

Many highlight the stunning scenery — “The scenery is stunning in every direction,” and “the views from the lookout point are incredible,” show how memorable the landscape is. Multiple comments mention the delicious food, especially the reindeer soup, which many say exceeded expectations.

Some reviewers mention how cold it can be, but with the gear provided, they stayed comfortable. One told us, “Absolutely freezing but such a fun experience,” which signals the importance of proper clothing and preparation.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure is ideal for travelers craving an active day in the snow, with a taste of Finnish culture. It suits those who don’t mind a bit of cold, enjoy scenic drives, and are eager to try traditional activities like ice fishing. It’s perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, or families with older children (over 4 years old), looking for a memorable Arctic experience.

If you’re after a luxury or relaxed experience, this might feel a bit rushed or physical. But if you’re open to getting your hands dirty and enjoying the outdoors in true Lapland style, this tour can be a highlight of your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 4 to 14 are seated in a sled behind the guides’ snowmobile, so older children who enjoy outdoor adventure may find it fun. However, it’s not suitable for infants under 3 years old due to the outdoor nature and physical demands.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes shared snowmobiles (two per machine), driving time of about three hours, transportation, a guide, winter clothing, ice fishing equipment, lunch, and hot drinks.

Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, if you want to drive a snowmobile, you must be 18 or older and hold a valid driver’s license.

How long is the snowmobile ride?
Expect about three hours of driving, with scenic routes over lakes and through forests. The guides ensure everyone gets a turn to drive.

What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license if you’ll drive, and dress warmly with layers, waterproof gear, gloves, and a hat. The tour provides winter clothing, but extra layers help.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Flexibility is offered with the ‘Reserve now & pay later’ option.

Final Thoughts

This Rovaniemi snowmobile and ice fishing tour offers a well-rounded Arctic experience that balances adventure, culture, and comfort. It’s perfect if you want to feel the pulse of Lapland’s wilderness while enjoying authentic local flavors. The guides’ expertise, stunning scenery, and hearty lunch make it a worthwhile addition to any winter itinerary.

While it’s not for the faint of heart or very young children, it suits travelers who appreciate active outdoor pursuits and are eager to connect with Finnish traditions. This tour stands out for its engaging activities, genuine atmosphere, and the chance to create memorable stories of snow, ice, and warm soup in the Arctic.

Enjoy your Arctic adventure — it’s a day you’re unlikely to forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: