Ivalo: Reindeer Herders and Winter Fishing With Lunch

Ivalo, the captivating winter wonderland of Finland, beckons adventurers to enjoy its enchanting traditions. This 6-hour small-group excursion combines the thrill of reindeer herding and the tranquility of winter fishing, offering a unique glimpse into the local Sami culture. Set out on a snowmobile sleigh ride, savor a hearty lunch, and discover the enchanting beauty that lies beneath the ice. Prepare to be swept away by the charm of Ivalo’s untamed landscapes.

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Key Points

A 6-hour small-group experience offering reindeer herding and traditional Finnish winter fishing activities in Ivalo.
Includes a snowmobile sleigh ride to interact with a reindeer herd, learn fishing techniques, and enjoy a warm Sami hut lunch.
Personalized experience with a maximum group size of 8 participants and a live English-speaking guide.
Warm clothing rental is included, but the activity is subject to weather conditions with a temperature limit of -20°C.
Vegetarian lunch option available, and dietary preferences should be communicated during booking, which offers a "reserve now & pay later" option.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Experience Reindeer Herding and Finnish Winter Fishing

Visitors can enjoy the traditional practices of reindeer herding and Finnish winter fishing during this 6-hour small-group experience.

First, they’ll take a snowmobile ride to a reindeer herd, where they can feed the animals and snap photos.

Next, they’ll learn traditional fishing methods, including checking nets and ice fishing.

Lunch is served in a warm Sami hut, featuring hearty reindeer soup or a vegetarian alternative, along with homemade berry juice.

With round-trip transportation and warm clothing rental included, this activity offers an authentic taste of Finnish winter culture.

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Small Group Excursion With Live Tour Guide

This small-group excursion is led by a live tour guide who provides narration in English.

The group size is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience. Guests will embark on a snowmobile sleigh ride to the reindeer herd, where they can feed and interact with the animals.

After, they’ll engage in traditional Finnish winter fishing techniques, checking nets and ice fishing.

Lunch is served in a warm Sami hut, featuring homemade reindeer soup or a vegetarian option, along with berry juice.

Warm clothing is available for rent, and the activity is subject to weather conditions.

Pricing and Booking Details

The price for this small-group excursion starts from $433.93 per person.

This small-group excursion starts from $433.93 per person, offering an intimate experience in Finnish winter traditions.

Fortunately, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Even better, you can reserve your spot without upfront payment by opting for the "reserve now & pay later" option.

Just be sure to provide your hotel name or pickup address when booking, along with any dietary preferences or allergies.

With a maximum of 8 participants, this intimate experience promises a chance to fully learn about the traditions of reindeer herding and Finnish winter fishing.

Pickup and Itinerary Overview

To begin the excursion, the tour starts with a pickup from Ivalo or the surrounding areas, which incurs an additional fee of €45 per person.

Once gathered, the group embarks on a snowmobile sleigh ride to the reindeer herd, where they can feed and photograph the animals.

The experience then transitions to traditional Finnish winter fishing, including:

Checking fishing nets
Ice fishing
Enjoying a homemade lunch of reindeer soup or vegan wild mushroom soup, along with berry juice, in a warm Sami hut.

The tour provides all necessary winter clothing for rent and lasts approximately 6 hours.

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Snowmobile Ride to the Reindeer Herd

Following the pickup from Ivalo or the surrounding areas, the group hops aboard snowmobile sleighs for a thrilling ride to the reindeer herd.

Traversing the snowy landscapes, the snowmobiles glide across the frozen terrain, allowing participants to take in the stunning Arctic scenery.

Arriving at the reindeer enclosure, the group has the opportunity to feed the gentle creatures, learning about their important role in the local Sami culture.

This hands-on experience offers a unique chance to connect with the reindeer and appreciate the traditional herding practices that have sustained the region for generations.

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Traditional Fishing Methods and Ice Fishing

After the snowmobile ride, participants dive into the traditional fishing methods and ice fishing activities.

They learn to check the fishing nets and try their hand at ice fishing. The experience offers a glimpse into the time-honored practices of the local Sami culture:

Checking traditional fishing nets
Drilling holes in the ice
Baiting hooks and lines
Pulling up the catch
Observing the process of ice fishing

Participants gain an appreciation for the resourcefulness and skills required to survive the harsh Finnish winters through this hands-on fishing adventure.

Lunch in a Warm Sami Hut

After the traditional fishing activities, participants gather in a warm Sami hut for a delicious lunch.

The menu features homemade reindeer soup or a vegan wild mushroom soup, accompanied by fresh berry juice. The reindeer soup is a hearty, flavorful dish made with tender meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices.

For vegetarians, the wild mushroom soup offers a savory, plant-based alternative. Both options are served with the refreshing berry juice, providing a burst of natural sweetness to complement the meal.

Participants can enjoy this traditional Sami fare in the cozy, intimate setting of the hut.

Important Considerations and Recommendations

While the Reindeer Herders and Winter Fishing in Ivalo activity offers a unique cultural experience, there are a few important considerations for participants.

The Reindeer Herders and Winter Fishing in Ivalo activity offers a unique cultural experience, though there are important considerations for participants.

The activity isn’t suitable for children under 5 or wheelchair users. Visitors should dress warmly in thermal clothing, as the activity takes place in winter conditions with a temperature limit of -20 degrees.

A vegetarian lunch option is available upon request, and any dietary preferences or food allergies should be provided when booking.

The activity is also subject to weather conditions, so participants should be prepared for potential changes or cancellations.

Not suitable for children under 5 or wheelchair users
Dress warmly in thermal clothing
Temperature limit of -20 degrees
Vegetarian lunch option available upon request
Activity subject to weather conditions

Common Questions

Can I Bring My Own Fishing Equipment?

No, you cannot bring your own fishing equipment. The activity includes the use of traditional fishing methods and equipment provided by the tour operator. All necessary fishing gear is included in the tour price.

Is There an Age Limit for Participants?

The activity is not suitable for children under 5 years old or wheelchair users. The recommended age for participants is 5 and above, as the tour involves outdoor winter activities in cold conditions.

What Happens in Case of Adverse Weather Conditions?

The activity is subject to weather conditions, with a limit of -20 degrees. If weather conditions are too severe, the tour may be canceled, and you will receive a full refund.

Can I Take the Snowmobile for a Solo Ride?

No, participants cannot take the snowmobile for a solo ride. The activity is designed as a guided group experience, and the snowmobile is used to transport the group to the reindeer herd. Solo riding is not included in the itinerary.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Snacks or Drinks?

No, you don’t need to bring your own snacks or drinks. The activity includes a homemade lunch with reindeer soup or vegan mushroom soup, and berry juice. Any special dietary needs can be accommodated upon request.

The Sum Up

This captivating 6-hour excursion offers a unique opportunity to take in the enchanting winter landscape of Ivalo. Participants can expect an exciting snowmobile ride, hands-on experience with reindeer herding and traditional Finnish fishing, along with a warm lunch in a cozy Sami hut. With all necessary winter gear provided, this small-group adventure is a must-do for those seeking an authentic taste of Finland’s captivating winter traditions.