Rovaniemi: Apukka Husky Adventure 7km, self-driven

Location: Lapland, Finland
Price: $245 per person
Rating: 4.6/5 (from 1331 reviews)
Duration: Approximately 3 hours, including transfers and breaks
Supplier: Apukka Resort Oy

A Glimpse into the Husky Adventure

Imagine stepping into a snowy landscape where howling huskies eagerly await your command. For around $245 per person, this self-driven 7-10 km husky sled ride from Rovaniemi offers a mix of thrill, education, and genuine connection with these extraordinary dogs. The experience begins with a transfer from the city center or Santa Claus Village to the cozy Apukka Resort, where the adventure kicks off amidst pristine Arctic scenery.

What we especially love about this trip is how it combines interactive mushing—giving you the chance to control your own sled—and the opportunity to pet and learn about the huskies that pull the sled. Plus, the guides are knowledgeable and attentive, making sure everyone feels safe and informed. On the downside, some might find the actual riding time shorter than expected, with reviews noting about 15 minutes of sledding, but the overall value remains high given the unique experience and care involved.

This adventure suits travelers looking for an authentic, hands-on Arctic activity without the multi-day commitment. It’s perfect for those who want to drive their own sled and get closer to the dogs, rather than just observe. It’s an excellent choice for families, dog lovers, and anyone eager to experience the true spirit of Lapland’s wilderness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Mushing Experience: You get to drive your own husky sled, giving an active role in the adventure.
• Well-Cared-for Huskies: The dogs are happy, well-treated, and eager to run, as seen in countless reviews.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect snowy forests, frozen lakes, and Arctic landscapes that make every moment picture-perfect.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable staff provide detailed information about the huskies and ensure safety.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Reserve now and pay later with full refunds up to 24 hours before.
• Suitable for Active Travelers: This tour requires some physical control and body strength—not ideal for pregnant travelers or those with mobility issues.

A Closer Look at the Husky Adventure

The experience is designed to be as interactive and engaging as possible. After being warmly dressed in winter clothing, including thermal overalls, boots, mittens, and a balaclava, you’ll meet the friendly huskies at a nearby farm, just a short walk from the resort. The guides, like Janne or other staff, introduce you to the dogs, sharing stories about their personalities, training, and care. Many reviews highlight how well the dogs are looked after, with visitors mentioning that the dogs seem happy and excited to run.

The Sled Ride: A 7-10 km Journey

Once suited up, you’ll be assigned a sled—either as a driver or passenger—and set off across the wintery landscape. This is where the real thrill begins. You will control your own team of huskies, learning how to give commands and work with your dogs. Many travelers report how exhilarating and empowering it feels to be in the driver’s seat, especially as the dogs surge forward with eager energy.

Several reviews, like Bob’s, emphasize the adrenaline rush that lasts for nearly the entire ride: “the first 30 seconds… the realisation that no one else is in charge of your pack was quite the buzz.” You’ll feel the cool wind on your face and see the snow-covered forests and frozen lakes whiz by, creating a truly Arctic postcard scene.

Petting and Learning

After the ride, there’s plenty of time to pet the dogs and learn more about their lives. Many reviews praise the friendly guides, who happily share insights into husky training, feeding, and rescue stories. One visitor even described cuddling a shy rescue dog—a heartwarming reminder of how much these animals are loved and cherished.

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The Post-Ride Comforts

To warm up after your sledding adventure, you’ll enjoy a hot drink and biscuits around a fire in a traditional teepee or cozy shelter. These moments of relaxation are one of the tour’s highlights, especially after a cold, exhilarating ride.

What’s Included and What to Expect

• 7-10 km husky ride (though some reviews note it may be closer to 15 minutes, the ride itself is a significant highlight)
• Husky petting time post-ride
• Hot drink and biscuits to warm up
• Winter clothing: thermal overalls, boots, socks, mittens, and a balaclava are provided
• Transfers: from Rovaniemi or Santa Claus Village are included if booked in advance

Important considerations:
Participants should possess sufficient physical fitness and body control, as guides do not act as sled drivers. Cars, buses, or Ubers may be needed for transportation if your pickup details are not clear, which some reviews found slightly confusing.

Authenticity and Care for the Huskies

One of the most consistently praised aspects of this tour is the care and treatment of the huskies. Reviews mention how happy and well-fed the dogs are, with many stories about puppies and rescue dogs being part of the farm. The guides take the time to share stories about each dog’s personality and history, illuminating how these animals are part of a family rather than just working dogs.

Visitors note that the guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate, making the experience both safe and educational. Many reviewers say they appreciated the extra time spent with the dogs after the ride, cuddling puppies and learning about their care.

Practical Considerations

Pricing at $245 per person can seem steep, but when you consider the personalized experience, quality of care for the animals, and scenic value, it offers respectable value. Compared to multi-day safaris or less interactive tours, this provides a satisfying balance of adventure and education.

The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users, due to the physical nature of controlling a sled and the uneven terrain.

Booking flexibility is a plus, with the option to reserve and pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it easier to plan your Lapland trip without stress.

Summary: Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for active travelers who enjoy hands-on experiences and are comfortable in cold weather. Dog lovers will find the opportunity to pet and learn about the huskies especially rewarding. Families with older children or teenagers who enjoy outdoor activities will appreciate the thrill of driving a sled and the chance to connect with the dogs.

If you’re seeking a genuine Arctic experience that blends adventure, scenery, and animal welfare, this tour hits all those marks. It’s a well-organized activity that prioritizes safety and the dogs’ wellbeing, which reviewers consistently praise.

Final Thoughts

The Apukka Husky Adventure offers a solid value for an authentic, interactive Arctic experience. The chance to drive your own sled across snow-laden forests and lakes is unforgettable, especially with guides who are friendly and knowledgeable. The well-cared-for huskies, the stunning landscape, and the warm post-ride hospitality combine to make this a highlight of any trip to Rovaniemi.

While the ride duration might be shorter than some hope, the quality of the experience and the connection with the dogs more than compensate. It’s perfect for adventure-minded travelers eager to step into a genuine winter fairytale.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the husky ride suitable for everyone?
This activity requires a certain level of physical fitness and body control, as guides do not act as sled drivers. It’s not suitable for pregnant travelers, people with mobility issues, or wheelchair users.

How long is the actual sled ride?
Most reviews mention about 15 minutes of riding, but the overall experience including briefing, petting, and warming up lasts around 3 hours.

What clothing is provided?
The tour offers thermal overalls, boots, woolen socks, mittens, and a balaclava to keep you warm and comfortable in the cold.

Can I drive the sled myself?
Yes, you are encouraged to control your own sled. Guides help with instructions, and some reviews highlight how exciting and empowering it is to mush your own team.

Is transportation included?
Transfers are included if booked through the tour provider, with pickups from Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village. Some reviews found communication about pickups slightly confusing.

Are the huskies well-treated?
Absolutely. Reviewers consistently praise how happy, well-cared-for, and loved the dogs are. Guides share stories about their training and rescue histories.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing flexibility and peace of mind when planning your trip.

This husky adventure from Apukka is a genuine highlight for anyone looking for a hands-on Arctic experience. With friendly guides, happy dogs, and breathtaking scenery, it’s a trip that leaves you with lasting memories of Lapland’s magic.

You can check availability for your dates here: