Spend a day outdoors exploring wild food and foraging in Northern Lapland. This experience offers a hands-on way to learn about nature’s own ingredients while moving through forests and natural landscapes.
Guided by experienced local guides, you’ll head out from Ivalo into the surrounding wilderness. Along the way, you’ll learn to identify and gather a variety of wild plants, berries, mushrooms, and other natural food sources. The experience goes beyond foraging, as your guide shares practical knowledge and personal experiences of wild food, including foraging, fishing, outdoor cooking, and traditional ways people have sourced food from nature in northern Lapland.
You’ll also gain valuable insights into how these natural resources have traditionally been used by the Indigenous Sámi people, as well as the sustainable and ethical practices that help preserve the region’s delicate ecosystem.
During the day, we gather around an open fire to prepare and enjoy lunch, using wild ingredients collected along the way.
This experience is perfect for nature enthusiasts, culinary adventurers, and those seeking a deeper connection with the environment. The content of each excursion is shaped by what nature has to offer at that particular time of year. From spring greens and summer herbs to autumn berries and mushrooms, every season brings different opportunities to explore wild food. This makes each visit unique and offers a great reason to return at another time of year.
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FAQ
Do I need any prior knowledge of foraging?
What kind of wild food will we find?
Is it safe to forage and eat wild plants and mushrooms in Finland?
What do I need to bring?
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Phone or camera (and a power bank if needed).
- Sunglasses, lip balm, and sunscreen (depending on weather conditions).
- Mosquito repellent (depending on the season).
- Snacks and water: Snacks are provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own favorites.
What is the cancellation policy?
- Cancellation fee of 100% is charged if cancelled 7 days or less before the event.
- Cancellation fee of 50% is charged if cancelled 30 days or less before the event.
- Cancellation fee of 30% is charged if cancelled 45 days or less before the event.
Please note
- Please arrive at Xwander Basecamp 15 minutes before the start time.
- Family-friendly: This experience is suitable for families, with children aged 4 or older.
- Physical requirements: The tour takes place outdoors, so participants should be prepared for varying weather conditions.
- Accessibility: The experience is not fully accessible by wheelchair due to the nature of the terrain and activities. Contact us for accessible options of this tour.
- Clothing and Gear: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. Dress in layers, bring a long-sleeved shirt and long pants, and wear comfortable outdoor shoes with good socks.
- Cold weather policy (-25°C and below or challenging conditions): In very cold or demanding weather, we will contact you to assess the situation together before the activity. There is no additional fee if the activity is cancelled by Xwander.
- Minimum age of the passengers is 4 years.
- Animals or pets are allowed.
Find full FAQ from here
Book with Confidence
- Local family owned business
- Personalized service
- Flexible itineraries
- Small group sizes
Price Includes
- Equipment needed for foraging for the duration of the activity
- Guide services
- All activities listed in the tour description
- All meals and/or snacks listed in the tour description
- Transfers to the tour locations and back, with departure and return at Xwander Basecamp in Ivalo center.
- Pick-up from selected locations in the area (select your nearest location at checkout).
Price Excludes
- Extra transfers for example from Inari, Nellim, Kakslauttanen, Kiilopää or Saariselkä (on request / extra fee).
- Optional add-ons (extra fee): extend the adventure – pair this tour with a bushcraft camp, fatbiking, or a Midnight Sun hike.
- Personal travel insurance (required).