Ivalo: A Sleighride and an Evening in the Backcountry

Lapland , Finland

Ivalo: A Sleighride and an Evening in the Backcountry

Active

(1 reviews)

5h - 7h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

If you get lucky during a stay in the villages or resorts you might see the northern lights. But best way to experience them is far away from street lights and light pollusion.

Seeking out the backcountry with a knowledgeable local guide is an excellent way to appreciate these natural wonders without an embellishment. Simply put, come and see for yourself – no promises
necessary.

Viewing the northern lights on a lake is magical especielly with the moon light. Enjoy the warmth of a camp fire while waiting the auroras to show up.

Tips: Don't book any aurora safaris when it's snowing. It's like wanting to see the sun at night. (Which actually is possible in Lapland during summer months because of the midnight sun)

Available options

Ivalo: A Sleighride and an Evening in the Backcountry

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Snacks

All Fees and Taxes

Warm winter clothes

Detailed itinerary

After getting dressed up warmly we'll drive with my car to a more distant lake where we will start a tour on the lake with snowmobile and sleigh. The lake is without any light pollution which make's it really ideal for spotting the northern lights. During the sleighride we will make a camp fire and enjoy food and drinks by fire.

A ride on the lake in moon light is also a very special experience.

What's not included

Alcoholic Beverages

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The first house on your left.

About Lapland

Lapland is the northernmost and largest region of Finland, known for its pristine wilderness, the Arctic Circle, and unique cultural heritage of the Sami people. It's a destination for those seeking northern lights, reindeer herding, and outdoor adventures in a rugged, beautiful landscape.

Top Attractions

Santa Claus Village

A year-round Christmas-themed attraction where you can meet Santa Claus and cross the Arctic Circle.

Cultural 2-4 hours Free entry, activities vary

Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)

One of the most spectacular natural phenomena, best viewed in winter under clear skies.

Nature Overnight or evening trips Free to view, tours vary

Levi Ski Resort

A popular ski resort offering skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Adventure Full day or multi-day trips Moderate to expensive

Must-Try Local Dishes

Reindeer Stew

A traditional dish made with reindeer meat, potatoes, and vegetables, slow-cooked to perfection.

Dinner Contains meat, can be adapted for dietary restrictions.

Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

A creamy soup made with fresh salmon, potatoes, and dill, often served with rye bread.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian by omitting salmon.

Cloudberry Jam (Lakka)

A sweet jam made from cloudberries, a rare and delicious Arctic berry.

Dessert Vegetarian, vegan if made without gelatin.

Popular Activities

Skiing Snowmobiling Hiking Reindeer safaris Northern lights viewing Spa visits Cozy café hopping Visiting Sami villages

Best Time to Visit

December to March (Winter), June to August (Summer)

Winter is ideal for northern lights, snow activities, and Christmas markets. Summer offers midnight sun, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

Winter: -20°C to -30°C, Summer: 10°C to 20°C Winter: -4°F to -22°F, Summer: 50°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Finnish, Swedish, Sami
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (GMT+3 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Lapland is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of the harsh winter conditions and remote areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of icy roads and weather conditions
• Carry a charged phone and emergency supplies
• Dress appropriately for the weather

Getting there

By air

Rovaniemi Airport • 10 km from city center
Kittilä Airport • 94 km from Levi

By train

Rovaniemi Railway Station

By bus

Rovaniemi Bus Station, Kittilä Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary form of public transport in towns. Schedules can be limited in rural areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Rovaniemi City Center Kittilä

Day trips

Pyhä-Luosto National Park

120 km from Rovaniemi • Full day

A stunning national park with hiking trails, waterfalls, and unique geological formations.

Saariselkä

250 km from Rovaniemi • Full day or overnight

A popular destination for winter sports, including skiing, snowmobiling, and reindeer safaris.

Festivals

Christmas Markets • December Midnight Sun Film Festival • June

Pro tips

Visit in shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and unique experiences
Book tours and accommodations well in advance, especially in winter
Dress in layers and be prepared for rapidly changing weather
Try local delicacies like reindeer meat and cloudberries
Respect Sami culture and ask for permission before taking photos of people or sacred sites