How to get to Kiilopaa for Your Winter Adventure
Getting to your starting point is the first step of any trip, and for your winter adventure with us, that means reaching Kiilopaa. It might feel like a remote destination, but don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.
There are three main ways to get here: flying to Ivalo (the closest option), flying to Rovaniemi, or starting your journey from Helsinki. Each route has its own pros and cons, and we’re here to help you pick the one that suits you best.
Let’s break it down and get you on your way.
Fly to Ivalo
Ivalo is the closest airport to Kiilopaa. Once you land at Ivalo, it’s a 30 minute bus journey to Kiilopaa Fell Centre (which is here) and then a short walk (around 10 minutes) to your cabin. Buses normally run after every flight and also run back to the airport in time for flights leaving but we always recommend that you check the timetable here. The timetable is updated every month so if (for example) you’re not joining us until March, the timetable won’t be updated until mid/end February.
Ivalo airport is tiny (we mean TINY!) so it’s a breeze through security and you’re likely to be the only flight landing at that time so it’s rare you’ll experience any luggage delays.
As you exit the airport, you’ll see the coach directly opposite the entrance. Just get on, tell the driver you want to go to Kiilopaa and pay for your fare! You don’t need to pre-book tickets.
It’s mostly indirect flights that fly to Ivalo and they’re slightly more expensive than the other options but it’s the easiest in terms of transfers.
Fly to Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi airport is a 3.5hr bus journey from Kiilopaa which is why flights are less expensive than the alternative of flying to Ivalo. You can often get direct flights to Rovaniemi as this is a very popular area of Finland, especially around Christmas time as it’s the home of the famous Santa Claus Village!
Buses don’t always run after every flight so this is something that you need to factor in when flying to Rovaniemi. You should always checked the bus timetable here BEFORE you book your flight. The starting point is “Lentoasema Rovaniemi” which is Rovaniemi airport and your end point is “Kiilopaa (Inari)”
The bus from Rovaniemi airport to Kiilopaa costs around €50 each way so this is something you should to factor in when booking your flights.
Fly to Helsinki
Flying to Helsinki will probably offer you the least expensive flights but it will be the longest journey! You’ll land at Helsinki airport and then need to jump on an overnight sleeper train to Rovaniemi. The train takes between 11 and 12 hours and can cost anywhere between €65-€265 (prices depend on the type of cabin and how far in advance you book). As the train journey is so long and is normally through the night, we’d recommend you book a sleeper cabin! You can check the costs & timetable for your specific journey here.
Once you get to Rovaniemi train station, you’ll need to hop on the bus to join us in Kiilopaa (an additional 3.5hr journey and an additional €50 in cost). You should check the bus timetable here BEFORE booking your flight & train. If you choose to fly to Helsinki, and overnight train to Rovaniemi, then the starting point for this bus journey will be “Rovaniemi railway station (Rovaniemi)” and the end point is “Kiilopaa (Inari)”
Ready to start your adventure?
Whichever way you choose to get here, we can’t wait to welcome you to Kiilopaa and kick off your winter adventure. Remember, the journey is part of the experience, so take the time to enjoy it - whether it’s the scenic train ride, a snowy bus journey, or a quick hop from the airport.
We also encourage everyone to travel as sustainably as possible. Consider choosing direct flights, taking the train, or offsetting your carbon footprint with organisations like the Clean Air Task Force. Every small step helps keep these beautiful landscapes pristine for future generations.
So, pack your bags, plan your route, and get ready for an unforgettable trip. See you soon!
