Visit Inari to get a glimpse into the nomadic lifestyle of Finland’s Sámi people and enjoy outdoor pursuits amid magnificent natural scenery. This village stands on the banks of Juutuanvuono, a western section of Lake Inari, which is Lapland’s biggest lake and the setting for abundant year-round adventures. Take part in everything from husky safaris and snowmobile tours, to river cruises and fishing trips. Inari is also a great location for witnessing two spellbinding natural phenomenon, the northern lights and midnight sun.
The village is a collection of waterfront streets that are easy to navigate on foot. Find amenities such as cabins, hotels, restaurants and tour operators. Go to the Siida museum to learn about the history of the indigenous Sámi people. Browse art exhibitions, tour artisan workshops and watch concerts at Sajos, a cultural center and home of Finland’s Sámi parliament.
Accessible year-round via a lakeside trail is Pielpajärvi Wilderness Church, one of the oldest buildings in Finnish Lapland. Extend your walk to Pielpavuono Fjord, from where you can return to the village by foot or boat. Understand the importance of reindeer to the region at Petri Mattus Reindeer Farm. Discover miles of hiking trails and spot varied arctic wildlife at Lemmenjoki National Park and Kevo Strict Nature Reserve.
Inari’s other outdoor attractions are loosely split into summer and winter activities. From June to August, hike to the top of Otsamo Fell beneath the midnight sun. Experience the vast wilderness of Lake Inari on a catamaran cruise and fish for trout on the lakes and rivers.
In the snowy winters, go in search of the northern lights on a reindeer sleigh ride. Traverse the snow-covered fields on cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobile excursions. Travel through arctic forests and across frozen lakes via a husky-drawn dog sled. Drill a hole in a frozen waterbody and try ice fishing.
Inari is situated in northernmost Finland. Get here by flying to Ivalo Airport and then catch a shuttle bus from there. Alternatively, travel by cruise ship from Kirkenes.
