INARI GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Tracking the Riekko: A Five‑Hour Grouse Safari into Ivalo’s Wilderness
A guided, five-hour hunting safari from Ivalo that pairs an expert guide and a trained pointing dog to observe traditional willow grouse hunting and a fireside lunch.
Tracking the Riekko: A Five‑Hour Grouse Safari into Ivalo’s Wilderness.
Set in the stark, silent expanses around Ivalo, this five‑hour guided safari follows trained dogs and local expertise into remote hunting grounds to observe traditional willow grouse (riekko) hunting up close, with a cooked lunch by the fire.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Ivalo’s Pristine Hunting Grounds
The safari ventures into the wilderness areas outside Inari, where bogs, forest and rolling tundra form the backdrop for tracking and watching forest grouse in their natural habitat.
Traditional Bird Hunting, Demonstrated
Observation is central to the experience: the guide demonstrates how a pointing dog locates game and how the hunt proceeds, while participants watch — the guide is the only person who handles the firearm.
Fireside Lunch in Lapland
A cooked lunch by the fire is part of the outing, offering time to learn about local hunting traditions and the region’s wildlife in a small‑group setting.
What the day feels like
What the Safari Feels Like
Over roughly five hours, you move from meeting point to remote stands, tramping into forest and mire with a guide and a highly trained pointing dog. The dog locates hidden grouse; when it points, the guide takes the shot while guests observe the action and learn about the methods and local ecology.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this safari suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The safari is a roughly five‑hour outing, including travel time into the Ivalo wilderness.
Dress in layers and bring rain gear; wear comfortable hiking boots or rubber boots suitable for forest terrain. All hunting gear and the firearm are provided by the guide; customers are responsible for their own clothing and footwear.
A cooked lunch by the fire is included; inform the operator in advance about dietary restrictions such as gluten intolerance so accommodations can be made.
Guides carry first aid kits and have extensive first aid training. The operator may reschedule the safari in case of severe weather to ensure safety.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Do participants get to shoot during the safari?
No — participants do not shoot. The guide is the only person who handles and fires the firearm during the outing.
How long is the experience?
The safari lasts approximately five hours, including travel time.
What age is appropriate for this safari?
The safari is available for guests aged 10 and older.
Is hunting equipment provided?
Yes — all hunting gear, including the firearm, is provided by the guide; guests must bring their own clothing and footwear.
What if I have dietary restrictions?
Inform the operator in advance about dietary restrictions (for example, gluten intolerance) and the cook will accommodate your needs during the fireside lunch.
What happens in bad weather?
In case of severe weather the operator may reschedule the safari to ensure safe and optimal conditions.