Snowmobile Safari to Lake Inari, meet & feed Reindeers, Lunch

If you’re dreaming of spending a day in the heart of Lapland’s snowy wilderness, this snowmobile safari might just be the adventure you’re looking for. While I haven’t done it myself, I’ve gathered enough details and traveler insights to give you a clear picture of what to expect. This tour combines the thrill of zooming across frozen trails with the charm of meeting reindeer and enjoying a hearty wilderness lunch.

What really caught our attention are the well-organized nature of this experience and the opportunity to get close to reindeer, which isn’t always part of winter excursions. Plus, the included hotel pickup simplifies logistics in what can be a remote landscape, making it easier to focus on the fun. On the downside, the price might seem a little steep at over $200 per person, but considering everything that’s included, many find it worth it.

If you’re someone who loves outdoor adventures, appreciates cultural touches like reindeer feeding, and enjoys authentic, well-structured tours, this safari could suit you perfectly. It’s also a good pick if you want a blend of excitement and relaxation in a stunning winter setting. However, if solo driving or very small group experiences are your priority, be aware there’s a supplement for single snowmobiles.

Key Points

• Accessible and Convenient: Hotel pickup and drop-off make this easy to fit into your plans.
• Well-Organized: From thermal clothing to guided instructions, everything is geared toward safety and comfort.
• Rich in Nature and Culture: Meet reindeer, visit a traditional teepee, and enjoy local cuisine.
• Good for Thrill-Seekers: The snowmobile ride is a highlight, especially on scenic frozen trails.
• Value for Money: Price includes gear, lunch, and transportation — a comprehensive experience.
• Limited Group Size: Max 8 travelers, creating a more intimate atmosphere.

What to Expect from the Tour

This three-and-a-half-hour experience is designed to give you a taste of Lapland’s wintry landscape combined with some cozy, cultural moments. It starts with a quick warm-up at the office in Ivalo, where you’ll be fitted with thermal clothing. That’s a smart touch—being properly dressed makes a big difference when you’re out on the snow, and it’s all included, saving you from packing bulky gear.

From there, it’s a short minibuss ride to Koppelo village, a charming starting point for the adventure. Here, you’ll receive detailed driving and safety instructions—crucial in ensuring everyone feels confident behind the snowmobile controls. The small group setting, capped at 8 travelers, means a more personalized experience, which most reviews seem to appreciate.

The Snowmobile Ride & Scenic Views

The highlight for most is the snowmobile journey along the frozen Ivalo river. The snowmobiles are shared two-per-vehicle, which is a great setup if you’re traveling with a partner or friend. We loved the way guides kept a steady pace, making it accessible for those with some snowmobiling experience but also safe for beginners.

Traveling along the snow-covered trails offers a chance to really soak in the wintry landscape—think shimmering ice, snow-laden trees, and the vast silence that only winter can bring. Some reviews mention that the ride is “a bit monotone as it stays mostly on the lake,” but most found the scenery captivating enough to overlook this.

Meeting Reindeer & Visiting the Wilderness Camp

After the snowmobiling, you’ll visit a small island where the guides live, complete with a traditional Lappish teepee. This is where the experience shines—meeting the reindeer is a delightful highlight. Many travelers comment on how friendly and well-cared-for these animals are, and it’s genuinely a great photo opportunity.

The reindeer are not just for show—they’re part of the local culture, and the chance to feed and interact with them adds a special touch. The guides are knowledgeable, making the interaction more meaningful, which is a recurring theme in reviews praising the professionalism of the staff.

The Wilderness Lunch

No trip to Lapland would be complete without tasting some of the local flavors. The included lunch served around an open fire offers traditional dishes like reindeer or salmon soup, BBQ sausages, and vegetarian options if you request. Travelers mention that the food is hearty and satisfying, perfect after a chilly outdoor adventure.

The berry juice and blueberry cake are nice touches, adding a sweet finish to the meal. An open-fire setting enhances the rustic, authentic feel of the experience, making it more than just a meal—it’s a memorable part of the journey.

Practical Details & Considerations

The tour is priced at around $202.38 per person, which some may see as on the higher side. But when you factor in gear, transportation, lunch, taxes, and insurance, it’s fairly comprehensive. Many reviews highlight the value, particularly the included thermal clothing, which saves you from packing bulky winter gear.

The group size is limited to 8, fostering a more relaxed, intimate atmosphere. If you prefer solo snowmobiling, there’s a single snowmobile supplement available for $65. Keep in mind that drivers need a valid license, and children are seated in a sledge behind the guide’s snowmobile, making it suitable for families with older kids (over 140 cm tall).

You should also be aware of the self-liability fee of up to 700 euros in case of an accident, so driving responsibly is important. Weather can influence the tour—if conditions are poor, the activity might be canceled or rescheduled, but the provider offers a full refund if that happens.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adventure lovers who want a mix of activity, culture, and scenic beauty in winter. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with a partner or friend, as sharing snowmobiles enhances the fun, but single options are available if you prefer solo driving.

The inclusion of reindeer feeding and cultural elements makes it appealing to those interested in Sami traditions and authentic local experiences. If your goal is to see Lapland’s snowy wilderness with the comfort of guided logistics and included gear, this tour ticks those boxes.

However, it’s less suited for travelers seeking a solitary, high-adrenaline thrill (since the snowmobiles are shared), or those who don’t enjoy group activities. Also, due to the outdoor nature and remote location, it’s best for those comfortable with winter weather and physical activity.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup by minibus from Ivalo area hotels is included, making it easy to access the rural starting point without worrying about transportation.

What should I wear?
Thermal clothing is provided at the office, so you only need to dress warmly—think layers, thermal base layers, hats, and gloves. The provided gear keeps you warm during the snowmobile ride.

Can children participate?
Children over 140 cm in height can sit behind an adult on the snowmobile, with children seated in a sledge when riding with guide. For younger kids or very small children, check with the provider to see if that suits your plans.

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides provide driving and safety instructions, and the shared snowmobiles mean you won’t be solely responsible for driving if you’re a beginner.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the snowmobile, thermal equipment, transfers, lunch, fuel, taxes, and insurance. Vegetarian options are available upon request.

What happens in case of bad weather?
Tours require good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including transfers, instruction, snowmobiling, and lunch.

Are there additional costs?
Single snowmobile supplement costs $65. If you have an odd group number, someone might ride as a passenger or in a sledge unless they pay for a single snowmobile.

Final Thoughts

This snowmobile safari to Lake Inari offers a well-rounded taste of Lapland’s winter magic. It’s practical, organized, and packed with authentic touches like reindeer interaction and traditional Sami cuisine. The small group size and knowledgeable guides create a warm, personalized atmosphere that makes the experience memorable.

While the price might give some pause, the inclusive nature of gear, transportation, and lunch helps justify it for many travelers. It’s best suited for those who want a mix of adventure, cultural exposure, and scenic beauty, rather than a high-adrenaline solo thrill.

If you’re looking for a manageable, memorable way to explore Lapland’s winter landscape with friendly guides and meaningful cultural moments, this tour is worth considering. Just be prepared for the cold, follow safety instructions, and enjoy the unique experience of snowmobiling across frozen lakes and meeting reindeer in their natural environment.

Hope this helps you decide if this Lapland adventure fits your travel style! If you have more questions or want tips on other activities in the area, just ask.