Authentic Reindeer Experience, Ice Fish & Lunch in the Wild

Planning a trip to Lapland and eager to explore genuine Arctic culture? This small-group tour in Finland’s Lapland offers a balanced mix of reindeer encounters, ice fishing, and a cozy lunch in the wilderness. Although it’s only four hours long, it packs a punch with authentic activities that genuinely connect you to the local traditions and natural beauty of the region.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it’s designed for intimate groups — a maximum of eight people — which means plenty of personal attention from knowledgeable guides. The focus on authenticity and local culture really shines through, from feeding reindeer to grilling your own fish over a campfire. The only minor consideration is that the tour’s timing varies, so you might want to double-check availability and start times. This adventure is perfect for travelers seeking a small, genuine Arctic experience that’s both fun and educational, especially if you’re interested in local traditions rather than just chasing the Northern Lights.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a personalized experience and more interaction with guides.
• Authentic activities like feeding reindeer and ice fishing provide insight into local Sami culture.
• Beautiful natural scenery and opportunity for memorable photos of the Northern Lights and starry sky.
• Tasty, traditional lunch grilled over campfire, including hot drinks and local snacks.
• Guides are local and knowledgeable, adding depth to every activity with stories and tips.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later policies for peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Lapland’s Wilderness and Culture

This tour takes you into the heart of Lapland’s untouched wilderness, starting with a convenient pickup from your accommodation in the Levi area. The journey takes about 35 minutes to reach the small village of Lompolo, where the real adventure begins. Here, you’ll step away from the tourist crowds and into a space where nature and Sami traditions are alive and well.

The small group size (capped at 8 people) is a real plus, ensuring a relaxed vibe and plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get personalized insights. The experience is led by a local guide, which makes all the difference when it comes to understanding the stories behind each activity — from reindeer herding to the nuances of ice fishing.

Meet and Feed Reindeer at the Farm

One of the main highlights is visiting a reindeer farm, where you’ll meet these iconic animals up close. Unlike larger tours that might only showcase a handful of reindeer, you’ll find this farm extensive and friendly, allowing you to feed the reindeer and learn about their role within Sami culture.

Multiple reviews comment on how much fun it is to work with the reindeer: “The reindeers were fun to work with,” says a traveler, highlighting how interactive and relaxed the atmosphere is. You’ll hear stories from your guide about how reindeer herding has been part of Sami life for generations. For those interested in souvenirs, antlers are available for purchase — just remember to bring cash!

Ice Fishing in the Arctic

Following the reindeer encounter, the adventure shifts to ice fishing — a quintessential Lapland activity. You’ll be equipped with fishing gear and shown how to drill through the ice to catch perch, a staple fish of the region. This activity is more than just a photo op; it’s a true taste of local life, and many reviews mention how well-organized and authentic this part of the tour is.

Once you’ve caught your fish, you’ll head inside a traditional ice fishing hut to grill your catch over a campfire. This hands-on experience brings a satisfying sense of accomplishment and a genuine connection to the environment. You’ll enjoy hot drinks and local snacks, creating a cozy atmosphere despite the cold outdoors. Reviewers rave about the delicious dishes and the warm camaraderie during this part of the tour — “the dishes and desserts… were delicious,” one reviewer shares, emphasizing the culinary side of this Arctic adventure.

A Traditional Lunch in the Wilderness

The highlight for many is the lunch — a simple, hearty meal cooked over the campfire. You’ll savor fresh fish, likely perch, accompanied by hot drinks and possibly traditional snacks. It’s a chance to relax in the quiet of the wilderness, with stunning views that are perfect for photos, especially if the Northern Lights make an appearance.

Even if the sky remains cloudy, the warmth of the campfire and the company of your guides make this a memorable experience. The sense of being in a traditional Lapland setting — with a rustic wooden hut and a crackling fire — makes it feel authentic rather than touristy.

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Northern Lights and Starry Skies

While the focus of this tour isn’t solely on Northern Lights hunting, many participants manage to capture stunning photographs of the aurora borealis and the star-studded sky during the evening hours. Even if the lights are elusive, the atmosphere created around the campfire, lit by stars and possibly the Northern Lights, offers a magical moment.

Several reviews highlight how beautiful the scenery is, noting that even without a sighting of the aurora, the experience remains special due to the pristine nature and peaceful environment.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour lasts about four hours, with start times varying based on availability. It’s priced at $283 per person, which, considering the personalized nature of the activities and inclusion of transportation, gear, lunch, and guide, represents good value for a genuine Arctic experience.

Included in the price are pickup and drop-off, thermal jackets if needed, guidance, fishing equipment, campfire snacks, lunch, and the reindeer farm visit. The tour is designed for travelers who want an authentic, hands-on introduction to Lapland’s natural and cultural heritage.

Transportation is by mini van, and the experience is suitable for most travelers, though it’s not recommended for children under 4 years old. Make sure to dress warmly — outdoor clothing and shoes are a must — as you’ll be spending time outside in cold conditions.

What Travelers Say

Feedback from previous participants is glowing: “We had a wonderful authentic experience,” reports Melinda, praising the personal touch of guides like Heli. Barbara appreciated the pristine nature and the small group size, which made everything feel intimate and relaxed. Ella highlighted the well-organized nature of the tour, the delicious food, and the caring attitude of the guides. Several reviews emphasize how much effort guides put into making sure visitors feel welcome and part of the Lapland tradition.

Final Thoughts

This Authentic Reindeer Experience with ice fishing and a rustic lunch offers a wonderful window into Lapland’s traditions and natural beauty. It’s especially ideal for travelers who value small-group intimacy, cultural authenticity, and hands-on activities. It’s not a tour for those expecting luxury, but rather a genuine, heartfelt encounter with the Arctic environment.

You’ll leave with vivid memories, photos of starry skies, and a deeper appreciation for the Sami way of life. The combination of reindeer, fishing, and outdoor cooking provides a perfect balance of activity and relaxation in one of Europe’s most stunning wilderness areas.

If you’re after a meaningful, engaging, and authentic Arctic adventure that emphasizes local traditions and natural beauty, this tour is an excellent choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 4 years old, mainly because of outdoor conditions and activity nature.

What should I bring?
Warm outdoor clothing and shoes are essential. The tour operator provides long thermal jackets if needed, but dressing in layers is always wise.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately four hours, with varying start times depending on availability.

Are meals included?
Yes, a hearty lunch cooked over the campfire, along with hot drinks and local snacks, are part of the experience.

What is the group size?
Limited to a maximum of eight participants, ensuring a personal, intimate experience.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your accommodation in the Levi area are included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for travel plans.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s natural wonders and cultural richness — perfect if you’re eager to connect with the land and its people beyond the typical tourist fare.

You can check availability for your dates here: