Looking for an authentic Lappish lunch in Ivalo? The best meals come paired with unforgettable winter adventures. My top picks include the classic snowmobile safaris, where you’ll warm up with home-cooked local specialties inside a traditional teepee. The ice fishing tours really shine, serving fresh-caught fish or reindeer meat (vegetarian dishes available) in cozy wilderness huts. For something more modern, the electric snow scooter tours offer equally satisfying wilderness lunches.
What makes these experiences special is the intimate setting – small groups, local guides sharing cultural insights, and even friendly reindeer dropping by. These aren’t just meals; they’re authentic slices of Lappish life.
Let’s explore the top lunch tours worth your time in Ivalo.
Key Points
- The Snowmobile Safari offers a homemade Lappish-style lunch in a traditional teepee, providing a unique cultural dining experience.
- The Ice Fishing Tour includes a lunch featuring local reindeer meat or fish, along with vegetarian options, in a cozy Lappish teepee setting.
- The Electric Snow Scootering Experience provides a hearty meal to refuel participants during their full-day adventure exploring pristine snowy landscapes.
- Lappish teepees are used as the dining setting for several excursions, offering a traditional and cozy atmosphere for lunch.
- The tours are led by local experts Tina and Tapio, who provide insight into Lappish life and traditions during the lunch experiences.
Ivalo: Snowmobile Safari, Meet&Feed Reindeers, Inc Lunch
The Ivalo: Snowmobile Safari, Meet&Feed Reindeers, Inc Lunch tour offers a delightful and immersive Lappish experience. This 195-minute adventure takes participants on a small group tour with a local guide at Lake Inari.
Guests will visit the home island of Tina and Tapio, where they’ll enjoy a homemade Lappish-style lunch in a traditional teepee.
The highlight of the tour is the snowmobile driving experience along the frozen Ivalo River and Lake Inari, covering a total trail distance of about 25-30 km. Participants can swap driving roles during the tour and marvel at the stunning winter landscapes.
The tour also includes the opportunity to meet and feed friendly reindeer, providing a unique chance to learn about these iconic animals and Lapland life.
Priced from $189.18 per person, this tour is limited to 8 participants and has a minimum age requirement of 12 years.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it’s a must-try for couples, friends, and solo travelers visiting Ivalo.
Read our full review: Ivalo: Snowmobile Safari, Meet&Feed Reindeers, Inc Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
From Ivalo: Ice Fishing Tour to Lake Inari, Including Lunch
A 4-hour ice fishing adventure on the stunning Lake Inari awaits visitors departing from Ivalo. Priced from $168.04 per person, this tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with an additional charge for those staying in Saariselkä, Kakslauttanen, or Kiilopää.
Thermal clothing is provided, and you will travel to the Koppelo village by snowmobile and sleigh.
Under the guidance of local experts Tina and Tapio, guests will learn the art of ice fishing, with rods supplied. Lunch, featuring local reindeer meat or fish, as well as a vegetarian option, is served in a traditional Lappish teepee by an open fire.
Visitors can also expect to enjoy hot berry juice and the opportunity to meet friendly reindeer during this authentic cultural experience.
The tour earns a respectable 4.4/5 rating, with positive feedback on the cozy atmosphere and delicious lunch.
Whether you’re an avid angler or simply seeking a unique Lappish adventure, this ice fishing excursion promises memorable scenery and experiences.
Read our full review: From Ivalo: Ice Fishing Tour to Lake Inari, Including Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Electric Snow Scootering, Lunch and Ice Karting Full Day
Departing from Ivalo, an exhilarating full-day adventure combines electric snow scootering, a hearty lunch, and the thrilling experience of ice karting.
First, you’ll explore the snowy landscapes on an electric snow scooter, gliding silently through the pristine wilderness. After working up an appetite, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch, refueling for the next activity.
The highlight of the day is ice karting on a frozen lake. Adrenaline rushes as you navigate the icy track, pushing the limits of your driving skills. The small group size ensures personalized attention from the knowledgeable guide, who’ll teach you the techniques to master this unique winter sport.
Throughout the day, you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at the breathtaking Arctic scenery, from snow-covered forests to the frozen lake.
This all-inclusive experience offers a well-rounded taste of Lapland’s winter wonders, creating memories that will last long after the adventure ends.
Read our full review: Electric Snow Scootering, Lunch and Ice Karting Full Day Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for These Lunch Experiences?
The dress code for these lunch experiences is typically casual and comfortable. Diners should wear clothes that are suitable for the weather and the type of dining experience, but there’s no need for formal attire.
Are Vegetarian/Vegan Options Available at the Lunch Locations?
Vegetarian and vegan options are often available at local lunch spots, though selection may be limited. It’s best to check with the specific restaurant or cafe beforehand to ensure they can accommodate any dietary requirements.
Do the Lunch Experiences Accommodate Food Allergies and Dietary Restrictions?
Many lunch experiences in the area can accommodate food allergies and dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Guests should notify the hotel in advance to ensure their needs are met.
What Is the Average Duration of the Lunch Experiences?
The average duration of the lunch experiences is typically 1-2 hours. Many restaurants in the area offer flexible menus that can accommodate various dietary needs, ensuring an enjoyable dining experience for all guests.
Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees Associated With the Lunch Experiences?
Most lunch experiences in Ivalo don’t have any additional costs or fees beyond the meal itself. Some may offer optional add-ons like drinks or desserts for an extra charge, but the core lunch experience is typically all-inclusive.
Recap
Ivalo offers a variety of exciting lunch experiences. Visitors can embark on a snowmobile safari, meet and feed reindeers, or enjoy a day of electric snow scootering, ice karting, and ice fishing on Lake Inari. These activities provide a unique and memorable way to experience the winter wonderland of Lapland while enjoying a delicious local lunch. Travelers looking for an adventure-filled day in Ivalo won’t be disappointed.