How to Get to Wilderness Hotel Inari [2025 Guide]
🏨 Introduction to Wilderness Hotel Inari
The Wilderness Hotel Inari is a stunning lakeside retreat in Finnish Lapland, located on the shores of Lake Inari, 3 km from Inari village. It’s famous for its glass-roof cabins, northern lights viewing, and authentic Arctic experiences.
But reaching this magical destination requires some planning since it’s in the far north of Finland. Here’s a step-by-step 2025 guide to help you get there smoothly.
✈️ Flying to Wilderness Hotel Inari
The easiest way to reach Inari is by flying into Ivalo Airport (IVL), the northernmost airport in Finland.
- From Helsinki: Finnair operates multiple daily flights to Ivalo. Flight time: 1 hour 45 minutes. Book tickets via Finnair.
- From Abroad: During winter, there are seasonal direct flights to Ivalo from European cities such as Frankfurt, Paris, and London.
➡️ From Ivalo Airport, Wilderness Hotel Inari is only 50 minutes (45 km) by car or transfer. The hotel offers shuttle transfers that must be booked in advance.
🚌 Getting to Wilderness Hotel Inari by Bus
You can also reach Inari by long-distance bus services.
- From Rovaniemi (gateway to Lapland): Buses take around 5–6 hours to Inari.
- From Ivalo Airport: Buses run between Ivalo and Inari village (20 minutes).
Schedules are available at Matkahuolto, Finland’s official bus network. From Inari village, the hotel is just 3 km away—a short taxi ride or pre-arranged pickup.
Please click here to get best deals for this hotel and check reviews.
🚆 Getting There by Train
There is no direct train to Inari, but you can take a train part of the way:
- Travel from Helsinki to Rovaniemi by VR overnight sleeper train. Journey time: 12 hours. Tickets via VR Trains Finland.
- From Rovaniemi, continue by bus or car to Inari (approx. 5–6 hours).
This option is scenic and eco-friendly, especially if you enjoy slow travel.
🚗 Driving to Wilderness Hotel Inari
For travelers seeking freedom, renting a car is a great choice.
- From Ivalo Airport: 50 minutes (45 km).
- From Rovaniemi: 5–6 hours (340 km).
- From Helsinki: Around 14–15 hours (1,100 km).
Winter driving requires caution—roads are well-maintained, but snow tires and experience in Arctic conditions are essential. Car rentals are available at both Ivalo and Rovaniemi airports.
❄️ Airport Transfer Service from Wilderness Hotel Inari
The hotel provides pre-booked shuttle transfers from Ivalo Airport and Inari village.
- Duration: 50 minutes from Ivalo Airport, 5 minutes from Inari village.
- Cost: Approx. €30–€40 per person from Ivalo Airport (2025 rates).
- Must be reserved in advance directly with the hotel.
This is the most convenient option, especially if arriving at night.
📌 Travel Summary Table
| Mode of Transport | From Helsinki | From Rovaniemi | From Ivalo Airport | Time | Cost (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Flight + Transfer | 1h 45m flight + 50m transfer | — | 50m | €150–€250 flight + €30–40 transfer | |
| 🚌 Bus | 15–16 hrs (Helsinki–Inari via Rovaniemi) | 5–6 hrs | 20m | €40–€70 | |
| 🚆 Train + Bus | 12h train + 5–6h bus | — | — | €80–€120 | |
| 🚗 Car | 14–15 hrs | 5–6 hrs | 50m | Rental + fuel |
🏔️ Final Tips for Reaching Wilderness Hotel Inari
- Flights + hotel transfer are the quickest option for most international visitors.
- Budget travelers may prefer bus + train combinations from Helsinki.
- Always check bus and flight schedules in winter, as Arctic weather can cause delays.
- If renting a car, be prepared for snowy roads and icy conditions.
❓ FAQs About Getting to Wilderness Hotel Inari
Q1: What is the nearest airport to Wilderness Hotel Inari?
The nearest airport is Ivalo Airport (IVL), 50 minutes away.
Q2: Does Wilderness Hotel Inari provide airport transfers?
Yes, pre-booked shuttles from Ivalo Airport and Inari village are available.
Q3: Can you take a train to Inari?
No, trains only go as far as Rovaniemi. From there, you must take a bus or drive.
Q4: How far is Wilderness Hotel Inari from Helsinki?
About 1,100 km—14–15 hours by car, or 1h 45m by flight.
Q5: Is it possible to see the Northern Lights at Wilderness Hotel Inari?
Yes! The hotel is one of the best spots in Finnish Lapland for aurora viewing, especially between September and April.
✅ Conclusion: Getting to Wilderness Hotel Inari in 2025 is part of the adventure. The fastest route is flying from Helsinki to Ivalo and booking a hotel transfer, but buses, trains, and self-drive options are available for budget and scenic travel. Once you arrive, the wilderness, northern lights, and unique Arctic experiences make the journey worthwhile.