Inari, Finland, is a small, picturesque town located in the heart of Finnish Lapland. It is situated just north of the Arctic Circle, which means it experiences long, dark winters and short, light summers. Despite the cold and the darkness, Inari is a thriving community with a rich culture and a wealth of things to see and do.
What to Do?
One of the main reasons people visit Inari in the winter is to experience the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis. These shimmering, colorful lights are caused by solar particles colliding with Earth’s atmosphere, and they can be seen in the sky on clear nights. The best time to see the Northern Lights in Inari is from late September to early April when the sky is at its darkest. Many tour companies in the town offer guided Northern Lights tours, which often include transportation to a secluded viewing spot and hot drinks to keep you warm as you gaze up at the sky.
Reindeer have played a central role in the culture and economy of Finnish Lapland for centuries. Reindeer riding is a great way to get in touch with the local culture and learn about the traditional way of life in the region. Inari is also home to a large reindeer farm, where visitors can take guided rides through the snowy forests on the backs of these majestic animals. The reindeer rides usually take place on a sleigh pulled by the animals, and they are a fun and exciting way to explore the snowy landscape.
If you’re looking for a more active way to enjoy the great outdoors in Inari, there are plenty of options. The town is surrounded by vast forests crisscrossed by a network of cross-country ski trails. These trails are groomed and maintained, and they offer a great way to explore the snowy landscape and get some exercise at the same time. If you don’t have your skis, you can rent them from one of the many local ski shops.
Another popular winter activity in Inari is snowshoeing. Snowshoes are large, flat frames that you strap onto your boots, which allow you to walk on top of the snow rather than sinking into it. Many guided snowshoeing tours in Inari are available, which take you through the forests and over frozen lakes and rivers. These tours are a great way to see the region’s beauty up close and get some exercise at the same time.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at ice fishing. Inari is home to many lakes and rivers that freeze over in the winter, and these frozen bodies of water are home to various fish, including pike, perch, and trout. There are several designated ice fishing spots where you can rent a hole in the ice and try to catch your dinner.
In addition to these outdoor activities, there are many other things to see and do in Inari. The town is home to several museums, including the Siida Museum of the Sámi People, which tells the story of the indigenous people of Finnish Lapland. The museum is located in a beautiful building designed to look like a traditional Sámi tent, and it features exhibits on the history, culture, and way of life of the Sámi people.
No matter what you choose to do, a trip to Inari in the winter is sure to be an unforgettable experience. The town’s stunning natural surroundings and the many exciting activities make it the perfect destination for a winter getaway.
Inari Gear
Some Inari gear for your trip!
Recommendations
I recommend these businesses if you would like to book a tour. Inari is a tiny town, and there are only a few hotels. Make sure to book in advance, especially during the Christmas season!
Probably the best website to start planning your trip to Inari.
The best restaurant in Inari and you can make reservations!
Check out the local Sami museum.
My other recommendation is also to shop at the local grocery store! It has food, wine, and beer. And the next store is a fantastic gift shop. Can’t miss it as they are in downtown Inari.
