Arctic Tent Sauna Experience with Ice Swimming

Our review of the Arctic Tent Sauna with Ice Swimming in Lapland offers a glimpse into a quintessential Arctic experience that blends relaxation with invigorating wilderness. While we haven’t personally braved the cold, this tour has garnered a solid 5-star rating from travelers who have. It’s an excellent choice for those craving an authentic Arctic adventure, especially if you enjoy combining physical challenge with serene natural beauty.

Two things stand out about this experience. First, the privacy and intimacy of the custom-designed tent, which comfortably accommodates up to eight guests, makes it feel like a private retreat in the wilderness. Second, the well-organized nature—including indoor showers, towels, and optional catering—ensures comfort even after plunging into the icy water.

One consideration? The cold conditions mean it’s not suitable for everyone—especially those with heart issues, respiratory problems, or who aren’t comfortable swimming. But for adventurous travelers looking to push boundaries safely, this tour offers a memorable Arctic highlight. It’s best suited for couples, families, or small groups seeking an authentic, active experience in Finland’s winter wonderland.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Combines traditional Finnish sauna with the thrill of ice swimming.
• Small Group Comfort: Limited to 8 guests, ensuring a personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• Natural Setting: Hosted at Rahajärvi camp near Lake Inari, offering stunning wilderness views.
• Flexible Options: Add guided activities or catering for a more customized experience.
• Convenient Access: Located just 15 minutes north of Ivalo; transfer options available.
• Great Value: For $136, you get a full 1.5-hour sauna experience along with showers, towels, and toiletries.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Arctic Tent Sauna Experience

Imagine stepping out from a cozy, heated tent into the crisp, icy air of Finnish Lapland. That’s pretty much what this Arctic Tent Sauna & Ice Swimming Tour promises. It’s a chance to experience one of Finland’s most iconic winter traditions—sauna followed by a dip in icy water—without sacrificing comfort. From the moment you arrive at Rahajärvi camp, you’re immersed in a natural setting that feels like a secret retreat.

What makes this experience especially appealing is the carefully designed environment. The custom-built tent for up to 8 guests offers a warm sanctuary where you can relax before and after plunging into the chilly lake water. The indoor showers and modern toilet facilities mean you won’t feel like you’re roughing it, which adds to its appeal for travelers who want adventure but also value comfort.

Another highlight is the optional add-ons—guided activities or catering—that can elevate the experience beyond just sauna and ice swimming. It’s a good choice for those who want a more tailored Arctic adventure. But it’s also straightforward enough for first-timers looking to tick off a bucket-list item in a safe, manageable setting.

What’s Included and What To Expect

For $136 per person, the tour offers a 1.5-hour sauna session in a private tent, with the option of adding a transfer service from Ivalo, Saariselkä, or Inari. The facilities include towels, soaps, shampoos, along with indoor hot showers and a toilet—details that Travelers appreciate, based on reviews emphasizing comfort and convenience.

Once at Rahajärvi, you’ll find the ice hole prepared and waiting. The natural surroundings are quiet and pristine, perfect for disconnecting from daily routines. The actual process usually involves warming up in the sauna, then taking a dip in the ice hole, and repeating this cycle a few times. From the reviews, it sounds like guides are attentive and helpful, offering safety tips for ice swimming, which is reassuring for beginners.

You might opt for additional guided activities—such as snowshoeing, ice fishing, or even a reindeer safari—or enjoy a self-catered open fire dining tent to round out your day. The experience can be as simple or as involved as you prefer, making it flexible for different travel styles.

The Sauna & Ice Swimming Ritual

The core of this experience is the contrast—the extreme cold followed by a heated sauna. Travelers consistently mention how invigorating and refreshing it is, with many describing the ice dip as both challenging and surprisingly enjoyable. As one reviewer put it, “It was a cool experience. We were able to alternate between going to the sauna and taking an ice bath (4 times in total). During the ice bath, we were accompanied by a guide. The guide was nearby the entire time.”

This highlights not just the physical act but the safety and support provided, which is crucial in freezing conditions. The guides are attentive, ensuring guests are comfortable and safe, especially when it comes to drinking plenty of water and knowing when to stop.

From the perspective of value, the $136 price is quite reasonable considering what you get—an authentic, memorable Arctic adventure with showers, towels, and a natural setting, along with the possibility to extend it with extra activities or catering.

The Experience Provider and Accessibility

Operated by Xwander Nordic, this tour is tailored for small groups, keeping the atmosphere cozy and personal. The limited group size (up to 8 participants) ensures everyone gets individualized attention, making it ideal for travelers who prefer a more intimate experience.

Accessibility-wise, the location is just 15 minutes north of Ivalo, easily reachable by car. For those who prefer, transfer services can be arranged from Ivalo, Saariselkä, or Inari, although these do cost extra (around $10 to $20 per person). This flexibility helps travelers who want to avoid the hassle of self-driving in winter conditions.

The tour is offered in English and Finnish, making it accessible for international visitors. It requires participants to bring warm clothing, swimwear, a towel, and a waterproof camera, but it’s not suitable for individuals with heart problems, respiratory issues, or non-swimmers.

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Authenticity and Practical Considerations

What really sets this tour apart is its authenticity. You’re not just watching others do it—you’re in the middle of it, surrounded by Finnish wilderness, feeling the stark cold, and hearing the crackle of the fire. Reviews praise the “well-organized transfer” and “the guide’s attentiveness,” reinforcing that this is a safe, fun, and genuinely Arctic experience.

The value for the price is noteworthy. For just over a hundred dollars, you get a genuine, hands-on Arctic activity that’s both physically challenging and deeply refreshing. Plus, the inclusion of showers and toiletries means you can return to your accommodations feeling clean and revitalized.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to embrace the Finnish winter head-on. It’s suitable for couples, families, or small groups looking for a memorable activity that combines physical exertion with natural beauty. Since it’s not ideal for non-swimmers or those with health issues, it’s best for people in good health and comfortable with some cold exposure.

If you’re seeking a unique story to tell and don’t mind the cold, this activity makes a strong case for being one of the most authentic winter experiences in Lapland. It’s also a good option if you want flexibility—adding guided activities or catering can tailor the day to your interests.

The Sum Up

The Arctic Tent Sauna with Ice Swimming is a well-organized, authentic Arctic adventure that balances thrill and comfort. For $136, travelers receive more than just a sauna; they get a genuine taste of Finnish winter culture amid stunning natural surroundings. The emphasis on safety, the small groups, and the thoughtful facilities make it a standout activity for those willing to brave the cold.

It’s especially suited for travelers who crave active, memorable experiences and are comfortable with the idea of ice swimming. If you’re looking for a value-rich, authentic Arctic activity that creates stories to last a lifetime, this tour deserves a spot on your Lapland itinerary.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Transportation is not included by default but can be added for around $10 from Ivalo or $20 from Saariselkä or Inari. The camp is located about 15 minutes north of Ivalo.

How long does the experience last?
The core activity lasts about 1.5 hours, but total time including transfers and optional add-ons can vary.

What should I bring with me?
Bring warm clothing, swimwear, a towel, and a waterproof camera to capture the moment. The facilities include towels, soaps, and shampoos.

Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides are on hand to give safety tips, making it accessible for first-timers. However, it’s not recommended for non-swimmers or those with respiratory or heart issues.

Can I add extra activities or catering?
Yes, optional guided activities and catering are available, including a self-catered dining tent for a full day experience.

What if the weather is extremely cold or conditions are frozen?
The tour is adaptable, with the camp and guides ensuring safety even in colder conditions. Some reviews note flexibility in rescheduling if needed.

Is the experience family-friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for families and small groups, but children must be comfortable with cold water and swimming.

What is the group size?
Limited to 8 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking also allows you to reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

This Arctic Tent Sauna with Ice Swimming offers a blend of adventure, nature, and Finnish tradition, all wrapped up in a cozy, well-organized package. Whether you’re seeking a challenge or just a memorable story from Lapland, this activity fits the bill.

You can check availability for your dates here: