Saariselka: Ice Fishing Safari to Lake Inari, including Lunch and Meeting Reindeers

This immersive Arctic day tour offers a perfect mix of wilderness adventure, cultural heritage, and peaceful natural beauty. Departing from Saariselkä in the morning, you’ll journey by comfortable minibus through snow-laden forests and icy river valleys, heading north to the majestic Lake Inari—Lapland’s third-largest lake and one of its most spiritually significant sites in Sámi culture.

Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed by a Sámi host and introduced to their reindeer, which play an essential role in the traditional way of life in the north. You’ll have the opportunity to feed these gentle creatures, take photos, and learn about reindeer herding, an age-old tradition still practiced today. This personal encounter provides a glimpse into the deep bond between the Sámi people and their land.

Next, it’s time for the main adventure—ice fishing on Lake Inari. Equipped with warm overalls and all the necessary gear, you’ll walk or ride a short distance onto the thick ice. Your guide will demonstrate how to drill through the frozen surface and set up your line before helping you try your luck at catching perch, whitefish, or Arctic char beneath the ice. Surrounded by snow-covered silence and vast Arctic skies, the peacefulness of the moment is an experience in itself.

To complete the day, gather around a crackling open fire by the lakeside or in a traditional wooden shelter (kota) where a hearty wilderness lunch will be prepared. Enjoy fresh fish (when possible) or a rustic local dish, accompanied by hot drinks and stories from your guide about life in Lapland, the Sámi, and the surrounding nature.

This tour offers not only a hands-on activity but also a chance to connect with the Arctic environment in a personal, authentic, and slow-paced way. Whether you’re a curious traveler or a nature enthusiast, this day on Lake Inari brings together everything that makes Lapland so special.

Approximately 5 hours

• Full-day guided safari from Saariselkä to the iconic Lake Inari
• Traditional ice fishing experience on the frozen lake
• Feed and interact with reindeer at a Sámi farm
• Enjoy a hot wilderness lunch cooked over an open fire
• Learn about Sámi culture and Lapland’s winter lifestyle from your guide

Prices start from 139 EUR (exact pricing may vary based on group size and additional services).

• Guiding
• Transfers by minibuss and snowmobile sledges
• Thermal clothing (thermal overalls, boots, gloves and snowmobile helmet)
• Fishing equipment
• Lunch and hot drinks

• No prior fishing experience necessary
• Ice fishing holes are shared among participants
• Sightings of reindeer are guaranteed at the farm
• Vegetarian meal options available upon request
• Available from December to mid-April, depending on ice conditions
• Small group size for a personal experience