Inari & Ivalo
Located in the far north of Finnish Lapland, Ivalo and Inari offer travellers a unique combination of pristine Arctic wilderness and authentic Sámi culture. The two settlements lie only about 40 kilometres apart and are often visited together as part of journeys through Finland’s northernmost region.
Ivalo is the main arrival point for travellers exploring this part of Lapland. Situated along the Ivalo River about 20 kilometres south of Lake Inari, the village serves as the transport and service hub for the region. Ivalo Airport provides convenient access to northern Lapland, with regular flights from Helsinki and seasonal international connections. From here, travellers can easily reach wilderness lodges, national parks and remote Arctic landscapes.
Just north of Ivalo lies the village of Inari, widely recognised as the cultural centre of the Sámi people in Finland. The village sits on the shores of Lake Inari, one of the largest lakes in the country, surrounded by vast forests and open tundra landscapes. A highlight of the area is the Siida Sámi Museum and Nature Centre, which offers insight into Sámi culture, history and traditional livelihoods.
The wider Inari region attracts travellers looking for some of Europe’s most well-preserved and uncrowded wilderness areas. National parks, wilderness reserves and remote lakes provide excellent opportunities for outdoor experiences throughout the year.
In summer, the midnight sun shines for weeks, allowing visitors to explore the region’s forests, rivers and fells around the clock. In winter, the long polar nights bring ideal conditions for viewing the Northern Lights, making the area one of Lapland’s most rewarding destinations for aurora watching.
The Inari region also offers visitors an opportunity to learn about Sámi culture and traditions. The Sámi are the only officially recognised indigenous people of the European Union and have lived across the northern regions of Finland, Norway, Sweden and Russia for centuries. In Finland, their cultural and linguistic self-government is represented by the Sámi Parliament, located in Sajos in Inari village.
Today, Sámi culture blends traditional and modern ways of life. While many traditional practices such as reindeer herding remain important, Sámi communities also live and work in contemporary settings while maintaining strong cultural traditions, languages and celebrations.
Together, Ivalo and Inari provide an excellent base for exploring the far north of Finnish Lapland, combining authentic Arctic culture, untouched wilderness and unforgettable Northern Lights experiences.
