Ivalo is a village located near Ivalo River in Lapland, Northern Finland. As of the 2019 census, it has a population of over 6,900. It isn’t as famous as other destinations in Finland, but don’t let that fool you, because the activities and things to do here will definitely wow the travel enthusiast in you! Ivalo is close to the famous resort village called Saariselkä. Tourists from all over the world flock to this part of Finland mainly because of the many snow sports opportunities such as skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. Aside from winter sports, there are also hiking trails that travelers can explore. During the summer, activities that you can enjoy include canoeing, fishing, mountain biking, and gold panning. There are great places to stay as well, including Airbnb vacation rentals. Whether you want to play snow sports, hike the trails, or maybe witness the famous Midnight Sun, we’re giving you a few more ideas on how to spend your time in this part of Finland, so definitely check out these top things to do in Ivalo, Finland!
1. Watch the magical Aurora Borealis (from USD 143.0)
Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, is a phenomenon caused when charged particles from the sun enters the Earth’s magnetic field. The collision in our atmosphere is what produces these magical lights. Ivalo being in Lapland is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights, so you should definitely check out the skies, especially if you’re going here in the months of September and March. There are several Aurora Borealis tours to join if you want to watch this spectacular phenomenon with other people.
Lake Inari Northern Lights Safari from Ivalo
Duration: 4 hours
2. Go on a snowmobile safari and wildlife spotting tour (from USD 183.0)
If you’re thinking about where to take your significant other in Finland, there’s an activity perfect for couples to do, and that’s going on a snowmobile tour! Joining a tour makes it even more convenient because you won’t have to worry about the equipment - the tour organizer will provide what you’ll need, including thermal equipment and lunch. Some tours will include trips to the frozen Ivalo River, and most packages are accompanied by an experienced guide and hotel pick up.
Snowmobile Safari to visit Reindeers at Wilderness camp, including lunch
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
3. Join a husky sledding tour with Extreme Huskies
Perhaps, the most famous breed of dogs in Finland is huskies. Their thick fur makes them suitable pets in a cold place such as Ivalo. If you’re a husky lover, joining a husky sledding tour will make you remember your time in Ivalo for a lifetime! One particular tour organizer is Extreme Huskies. It is located along Puhakantie Road. The tour usually lasts for about two hours, but you can opt for different kinds of programs. It includes hot coffee and light snacks. Before sledding, you will get the chance to meet and greet - and possibly pet - the huskies who will power your sled!
Extreme Huskies
Address: Puhakantie 56, Ivalo 99800 Finland
Website: Extreme Huskies
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4. Visit Wild Spirit Park
Wild Spirit Park is a shelter for rescued animals in Finland. The park was built by a couple who has so much love and compassion for animals. Among the animals living in their care are raccoons, wild boars, arctic foxes, goats, dogs, and huskies. The beauty of paying Wild Spirit Park a visit is that you will get the chance to interact with these lovely animals - imagine petting an arctic fox! A visit to the park typically lasts for about two to three hours. Don’t let the opportunity to connect with these rescued animals pass you by!
Wild Spirit Park
Address: Inarijärventie 374, 99800 Inari, Finland
Website: Wild Spirit Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
5. Take a trip to Saariselkä
Saariselkä is a resort village situated in the northern part of Finland. It is known for having several hiking trails and skiing tracks. It is home to the famous Kultamuseo (Gold Museum Tankavaara), where you can learn about the history of gold panning. Polar Night Jazz is the place to be if you want to watch concerts and other events. There are also several restaurants that serve authentic Finnish food such as Wanha Waskoolimies and Restaurant Kaunispään Huippu. These are but a few of the things that you’ll enjoy doing in this village, and it is just 30 kilometers (about 18 miles) away from Ivalo.
6. Go ice-fishing at Lake Inari (from USD 157.0)
Have you ever tried fishing on ice? If not, why not join an ice-fishing safari on Lake Inari? For five hours, you’ll be accompanied by a professional guide who will teach you everything you need to know about ice fishing. A trip to the snowy wilds around Ivalo is included in this tour, and lunch is part of the package. All equipment will be provided by the organizer of the tour, which includes a snowmobile and thermal suits. They will also pick you up from your place! How convenient is that?
Lake Inari Ice-Fishing Safari from Ivalo
Duration: 4 hours
Explore Ivalo and nearby destinations
These are but a few of the things that await you in the Gateway to the North, and there’s still a lot more for you to discover! The most important part of your tour here is to let yourself enjoy these things to do in Ivalo, Finland.
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