Kiruna: Northern Lights Dog Sled Tour with Swedish Fika

Imagine gliding quietly through the snowy wilderness of Lapland, huskies pulling your sled under a vast, star-studded sky. That’s exactly what this Northern Lights Dog Sled Tour in Kiruna offers. With a duration of about 2.5 hours, this adventure takes you through the icy landscape, with the chance to see the Aurora Borealis dancing overhead—if luck is on your side.

Run by Lapland Wilderness Tours AB, this tour is a wonderful mix of thrill, comfort, and authentic Arctic charm. You’ll be picked up from your hotel within a 20 km radius, bundled in warm winter gear, and led into the wilderness by experienced guides. The highlight? The pure joy of steering or riding with Alaskan Huskies and capturing photos of the northern lights if they appear.

Two aspects truly stand out for us: First, how well they prepare you with clothing and boots, making sure you’re warm and comfortable despite the cold. Second, the cozy Swedish fika — warm drinks and cookies — offered during a short break in a heated cabin, which is a simple but genuine way to connect with local tradition.

A possible consideration? The duration is relatively short, so if you’re after a longer or more intense sledding experience, this might feel somewhat light. But for most, the balance of adventure, comfort, and cultural touchstones makes this a wonderful choice.

This tour suits travelers looking for an authentic, accessible Arctic experience—especially those who appreciate cozy breaks, beautiful scenery, and the chance to see the Northern Lights without a full-day commitment.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Glide through Lapland’s snowy wilderness pulled by lively Huskies.
• Comfort and Convenience: Warm clothing, boots, and free transfers within 20 km make the trip hassle-free.
• Cultural Touch: Enjoy a traditional Swedish fika with hot drinks and cookies in a cozy cabin.
• Photo Opportunities: Capture the Northern Lights, Huskies, and snow-covered landscapes.
• Short but Sweet: At 2.5 hours, it’s an ideal introduction to winter adventures in Kiruna.
• Suitable for Most: Not recommended for children under 2, pregnant women, or those with back problems but accessible to many other travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour

Starting with a free pickup from your hotel within a 20 km radius, the experience begins with a warm welcome from your guide—likely a friendly, English-speaking expert who knows the best spots to spot the Aurora Borealis and has a good handle on Arctic safety. The convenience of included winter clothes and boots means you avoid lugging bulky gear or worrying about staying warm—something we’ve heard many travelers appreciate, especially those visiting with just carry-on luggage or unprepared for Arctic temperatures.

Once at the kennel, you’ll get a quick briefing and be outfitted in high-quality winter clothing. This preparation is crucial: Lapland’s winter temperatures can easily dip below freezing, and proper layers make all the difference. The guide will then introduce you to the Alaskan Huskies, lively, friendly dogs bred for pulling sleds. Many reviews mention how enthusiastic and well-cared-for the dogs seem, adding to the genuine feel of the experience.

Climbing onto the sled, you’ll be gently pulled through the snow-covered landscape, with the huskies working efficiently and happily. The scenery varies from open snowfields to wooded areas, providing endless opportunities for stunning photos. Our guide, Maja, or similar, will likely share insights about the dogs, the landscape, and the local environment, enriching the experience with stories and facts.

The chance to see the Northern Lights is one of the main draws. While nature always has an element of unpredictability, many travelers have been lucky with visible auroras on this tour. As one review noted, “We loved the way the lights flickered above us, turning the night sky into a magical show.” You’re encouraged to take photos, but the quiet, almost meditative pace of the sledding allows for plenty of awe and appreciation.

After about an hour of sledding, the group takes a short break in a warm, cozy cabin. Here, you can enjoy a Swedish fika—warm drinks like coffee or hot chocolate, paired with cookies. This small pause offers a chance to chat with fellow travelers, share impressions, and warm up before heading back into the cold. The cabin’s warmth and inviting atmosphere add a lovely, authentic touch to the overall experience.

The return trip is equally magical, with the moonlight reflecting off snow and ice, and the huskies pulling you gently back toward the starting point. Many reviews emphasize how peaceful and surreal the journey feels, especially under a clear Arctic sky.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers winter clothing and boots, ensuring comfort and warmth, and the free transfer service that makes logistics simple and stress-free. You also get a hot drink and cookies in a heated cabin, a small but appreciated gesture that enhances the overall value.

Meals are not included, so if you’re after a full-day adventure or specific dietary needs, you might want to plan accordingly. However, since the tour is relatively short and focused, it works well as a standalone activity or a warm-up to other Kiruna experiences.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Dress in layers: Even with the provided gear, layering helps you stay comfortable, especially during the short break.
• Arrive on time: Promptness ensures you don’t miss the pickup or parts of the experience.
• Bring a camera and water: Capture the moment and stay hydrated in the cold.
• Not suitable for children under 2, pregnant women, or people with back issues—this activity involves riding on a sled pulled by dogs.
• Weather: Be prepared for cold, possibly windy conditions. The experience runs in winter months when daylight is limited, but that’s all part of the Arctic charm.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

If you’re seeking an intimate, authentic Arctic adventure that balances excitement with comfort, this dog sled tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for first-timers or those short on time but eager to see the Northern Lights and experience genuine Lapland hospitality. The included gear and cozy fika make the trip accessible and enjoyable, even for travelers unaccustomed to Arctic climates.

The chance to interact with friendly Huskies, enjoy the peace of snowy wilderness, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis makes this a memorable highlight of any trip to Kiruna. It’s a great way to experience a traditional form of transportation that has connected Arctic communities for generations.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including pickup, sledding, and break time.

Is transportation included?
Yes, free transfers are available within a 20 km radius of the kennel, making logistics straightforward.

Do I need to bring my own clothing?
No, the tour provides winter clothes and boots, ensuring you stay warm during the experience.

Can I see the Northern Lights?
While the tour offers a good chance to see the Aurora Borealis, sightings depend on weather and solar activity. The guide will advise the best spots for viewing.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 2 years, and pregnant women or individuals with back problems may want to consider their participation carefully.

What should I bring?
Bring water to stay hydrated and a camera to capture the incredible scenery and Aurora Borealis if visible.

What’s not included?
Meals are not included, but hot drinks and cookies are served during the break.

How fit do I need to be?
The activity involves sitting on a sled pulled by dogs; no strenuous physical effort is required.

Is the experience weather-dependent?
Yes, the Northern Lights and snow conditions depend on weather, so flexibility in plans can be helpful.

Final Thoughts

This Northern Lights Dog Sled Tour in Kiruna offers a well-balanced introduction to Arctic winter life—combining adrenaline, natural beauty, and local culture in a package that’s accessible and authentic. The included cozy fika and high-quality gear help make it a comfortable and memorable experience, especially for those trying sledding for the first time.

While it’s not an all-day adventure, its compact length makes it ideal as a core activity or a highlight within a broader trip to the region. Whether you’re eager to see the Northern Lights, meet friendly huskies, or just enjoy a quiet moment in the snow, this tour delivers on all fronts.

For travelers who value genuine experiences, good value, and the chance to connect with the Arctic environment in a personal way, this is a tour worth considering. Just remember to dress warmly, be ready for the cold, and keep your camera close—because this might be one of those rare nights when everything aligns for an unforgettable Arctic memory.

You can check availability for your dates here: