8-10km. Husky Safari from Rovaniemi and visting the Kennel

Imagine gliding through snowy forests behind a team of eager huskies, the crisp air filling your lungs, and the excited yelping of the dogs ringing in your ears. For anyone visiting Rovaniemi, this husky safari offers a perfect blend of adventure, education, and authentic Arctic charm. Priced at around $292 per person, this four-hour excursion takes you from your hotel into the heart of Lapland’s wilderness, where you’ll get to drive your own sled and meet the beloved sled dogs.

We love how this experience combines hands-on participation—you’re not just a passenger but a “musher” steering the dogs—and the chance to listen to local mushers share stories about their daily life and training routines. The visit to the kennel provides a genuine look at the dedication that goes into caring for these incredible animals. But it’s not all rosy: you’ll need to dress warmly, as temperatures can dip to around -25°C, which is not for the faint-hearted.

For those considering this tour, it’s ideal if you love outdoor adventures and are comfortable in cold weather. However, it’s less suitable for small children under five, pregnant women, or anyone with animal allergies. Overall, it’s a fantastic, authentic Arctic experience that combines excitement with education, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

Key Points

• Authentic husky sledding: Drive your own team for a real hands-on experience.
• Cultural insight: Meet mushers and learn how they live and train their dogs.
• Wilderness scenery: Enjoy the snow-covered forests of Lapland on a scenic trail.
• Well-organized logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off make the day hassle-free.
• Weather considerations: Dress in layers for arctic temperatures, around -25°C.
• Limited age & health restrictions: Not suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, or those with animal allergies.

The adventure begins with a comfortable minivan ride from your Rovaniemi hotel to the husky kennel. Once there, you’ll be greeted by a team of enthusiastic dogs and friendly mushers eager to share their passion. Before stepping into the sled, you’ll receive thorough instructions on how to lead the sled safely—a process that’s surprisingly straightforward but rewarding. The guide will check your clothing to ensure you’re warm enough, emphasizing the importance of dressing in layers, with a hat and warm shoes, given the biting cold.

After your briefing, you’ll be assigned a sled. Here, the feeling of holding the reins and guiding a team of powerful huskies is unlike anything else. As you start your 10-kilometer journey, you’ll be surprised by the soundscape—the dogs’ barking and panting blending into a lively, joyful chorus. The trail snakes through the forest, revealing Lapland’s stark beauty—snow-laden trees, frozen streams, and the occasional glimpse of wildlife if you’re lucky.

Throughout the ride, you’ll notice the dog team’s enthusiasm and stamina, which is a testament to the mushers’ dedication. We loved the way the dogs’ barking sounded almost musical, each one eager to pull further and go faster. The sled ride is timed well—long enough to be exhilarating but not so strenuous that it feels overwhelming. The entire program lasts about four hours, with the sled ride itself taking roughly an hour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Visiting the Kennel and Learning from Mushers

After the ride, you return to the kennel, where the mushers gather around the open fire—an inviting scene that contrasts sharply with the snowy outdoors. They’ll share stories about their lives in Lapland, explaining how they care for and train their dogs. We appreciated this personal touch, making the experience more meaningful than just a ride on a sled.

The mushers are happy to answer questions, and their stories add depth to what might otherwise be just a thrill. You’ll learn, for instance, about the dogs’ lives, training routines, and how they handle the harsh winter conditions. This behind-the-scenes look is a highlight, giving you a better understanding of the bond between humans and animals in this rugged environment.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so you won’t need to worry about transportation logistics. The 4-hour program encompasses the self-driven sled ride covering about 10 kilometers, along with instruction on sled leading. There are warm drinks and some local treats, perfect for warming up after your outdoor adventure. You’ll also gain insights from the mushers—an intimate glimpse into their life.

However, food is not included, so you might consider bringing snacks if you’re hungry afterward. Plus, overalls are not provided, so dressing warmly in layers, along with a hat and sturdy, insulated shoes, is essential. The experience is in English, making communication straightforward, and it’s generally suitable for travelers over 18 and in good health.

Practical Tips for Your Arctic Adventure

• Dress in layers: thermal base layers, a warm sweater, and a windproof outer layer.
• Bring a hat and warm shoes—the cold can be intense, especially when stationary.
• Be aware that the temperature can be around -25°C, so prepare accordingly.
• Keep in mind that small children (under 5) and pregnant women are not suitable participants.
• The experience is not recommended for people with animal allergies.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $292 per person, this tour offers a solid value for the unique experience of driving your own husky sled and visiting a working kennel. Given the inclusion of transportation, instruction, and the chance to interact closely with the dogs, we think it’s a good investment for those eager for an authentic Arctic adventure. It’s not just a tourist activity; it’s a chance to connect with the region’s traditional winter lifestyle in a meaningful way.

This husky safari truly captures the essence of Lapland’s winter magic. The combination of thrilling outdoor activity, cultural insights, and opportunity to meet the dogs makes it stand out from more generic snow-based tours. You’ll leave with a sense of accomplishment as you held the reins, plus stories of Lapland’s hardy mushers that will stay with you long after your trip.

It’s best suited for those who love outdoor adventures, don’t mind cold weather, and are looking for a more personal and hands-on experience. If you’re traveling with older children (over 5) or are a dog lover curious to see what goes into sled dog training, this is a perfect fit.

Do I need to have prior experience to drive the sled?
No, you don’t need previous experience. The mushers will give you instructions on how to lead the sled safely before you start.

What should I wear for the tour?
Dress warmly in layers, including a hat and warm shoes. The temperature can be around -25°C, so proper insulation is key.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 5 years and pregnant women. Participants must be over 18 to drive the sled.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food is not included. However, warm drinks and local treats are provided during the visit to the kennel.

What is the duration of the whole experience?
The entire tour lasts about 4 hours, including transportation, instruction, the sled ride, and time at the kennel.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is this experience suitable for animal lovers?
Absolutely. You’ll get to meet the dogs, learn about their lives, and see firsthand the training that keeps these working teams top-notch.

This husky safari from Rovaniemi offers a rare chance to drive your own sled through pristine Lapland forests, surrounded by the sights and sounds of a working sled dog kennel. It balances adventure, education, and cultural insight in a way that feels authentic rather than touristy. The experience is well-organized with hotel pickup, clear instructions, and friendly mushers eager to share their stories.

While it demands warm clothing and a bit of stamina, the payoff is a memorable, hands-on Arctic adventure that captures the spirit of Lapland. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to snow adventures, this tour provides a perfect blend of excitement and culture. It’s especially suited for those who crave authentic experiences and don’t mind bundling up for a true winter outing.

If you’re seeking a unique, active way to explore Lapland’s wilderness and connect with the region’s sled dog culture, this tour is an excellent choice. Just remember to dress appropriately, and you’ll leave with stories and memories that will last a lifetime.

You can check availability for your dates here: