From Abisko: Dog Sledding Excursion to Kiruna with Fika

Experience the Arctic Wilds with Abisko’s Dog Sledding Excursion to Kiruna

For anyone seeking a breath of genuine Arctic adventure, the Dog Sledding Excursion from Abisko to Kiruna offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, authentic activity, and friendly guides. Priced at around $261 per person and lasting about 7 hours, this tour takes you behind the scenes of Sweden’s winter wilderness, with a scenic bus ride, exhilarating sled ride, and a warm break for traditional Fika. It’s a well-rounded experience for those wanting to connect with nature and meet some adorable sled dogs.

What we love most about this trip is how smoothly it combines adventure and comfort. The professional musher driving your sled ensures safety and ease, so even if you’re not a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, you can enjoy the thrill of the Arctic wilderness. Plus, the interaction with the dogs—petting, cuddling, and watching them in action—adds a heartfelt touch. The cozy stop at an authentic Arctic camp with steaming cinnamon buns and hot drinks creates a perfect balance of adrenaline and relaxation.

One thing to keep in mind is the duration of travel to and from Abisko—about three hours each way—which eats into the time spent actually sledding. If you’re hoping for a longer, more immersive dog sledding experience, this tour offers a taste rather than a full day of riding. But for those who appreciate a well-organized, scenic day trip with ample photo opportunities, it hits the mark.

This adventure suits travelers who enjoy scenic landscapes, wildlife encounters, and cultural touches like Fika. It’s also ideal if you’re traveling with family or friends and want an activity that’s accessible for almost everyone, thanks to the professional guidance and safety measures.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Ride through scenic wilderness behind friendly, well-cared-for dogs.
• Ease of Participation: Professional musher drives the sled, making it accessible for most physical levels.
• Cultural Touch: Enjoy traditional Swedish Fika at a remote camp with hot drinks and cinnamon buns.
• Scenic & Interactive: Absorbing views and close encounters with the dogs make it memorable.
• Logistics & Comfort: Includes pickup and drop-off from select Abisko hotels, warm clothing, and gear.
• Limited Time in Wilderness: About half the day is transit; actual sledding is roughly 10-12 km.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Sledding Adventure

The Journey Begins with Comfort and Convenience

Starting from your hotel in Abisko, you’ll hop on a comfortable bus transfer to Kiruna—a journey that takes roughly three hours round-trip. The pickup times are flexible depending on your accommodation, with options like Hotell Fjället at 9 AM or Abisko Mountain Lodge around 9:15-9:30 AM. This transportation is included, removing logistical stress and allowing you to relax or enjoy the Arctic scenery en route.

The Sled Ride: A Half-Day Highlight

Once at the sledding camp, you’ll meet your team of enthusiastic sled dogs. These animals are the stars of the day, and as reviews show, guides love their dogs deeply, which shines through in their explanations and care. The sleds are driven by a professional musher, ensuring safety while allowing you to sit back and soak in the panoramic views. You might find yourself enjoying up to 12 km of sledding—a considerable stretch that offers plenty of pictures and quiet moments in the stark winter landscape.

Guides typically run the sled, so your role is to enjoy the ride, take photos, and perhaps get involved in petting and cuddling the dogs during breaks. This interaction is a highlight for many, as one reviewer noted, “I kept walking up and down the line to give them all pats.” The dogs clearly love their work, trotting along happily, eager to run, which you’ll notice firsthand.

Midway Pause at an Arctic Camp

Around the halfway point, your group will stop at a remote Arctic camp—a cozy, authentic setting. Here, a fire is lit, and hot drinks are served, often coffee or tea, along with warm cinnamon buns. This is more than just a snack; it’s a chance to slow down, chat with guides, and appreciate the silence and beauty of the snow-covered wilderness.

This stop is also a great photo opportunity and a chance to observe the dogs up close. As one reviewer mentioned, “the guides were amazing, and the dogs were the noblest and cutest I have ever seen.” It’s these small, genuine moments that make the day special.

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Returning to Abisko

After the Fika and interaction with the dogs, your sled will head back to the camp, and you’ll board the bus for the return trip. The entire experience offers a good balance—enough sledding to feel like an adventure without it dominating the day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Your package covers pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Abisko or Björkliden, along with warm overalls, boots, hats, and gloves—all you need for a comfortable day in the cold. Also included is a hot drink and cinnamon bun at the camp, making the experience cozy and memorable.

However, meals are not included, so bringing a packed lunch is highly recommended since there’s no option to buy food at the camp. Also, pickup and drop-off in Kiruna are not included, but the shuttle from Abisko is seamless and convenient.

Considerations for Travelers

While most reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and the dogs’ friendliness, some mention the length of transit time—about three hours each way—might be a consideration if you’re short on time or prefer more time in the wilderness. Also, children under 5 are not suitable, which is typical for these kinds of activities due to safety concerns.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

For $261, you’re getting a full-day experience that includes transport, gear, guiding, and a cultural stop. The value lies in the combination of scenic beauty, animal interaction, and culture. The professional guidance ensures safety and a friendly atmosphere, making it accessible for nearly all ages and fitness levels. The inclusion of warm clothing means you’re ready to face the cold without extra expense or hassle.

Keep in mind, this isn’t a long sledding marathon but a taste of something many find unforgettable. It’s perfect for those who want a balanced, scenic adventure without the physical demands or complexities of a multi-day expedition.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity that offers a close-up with Arctic wildlife and scenic views, this is ideal. It’s also well-suited for travelers who value authentic local experiences—like tasting Swedish Fika—and appreciate guides who genuinely love their dogs. Nature lovers and those wanting a gentle adventure will find this trip hits just the right note.

However, if you’re after more extensive sledding or a more immersive wilderness experience, you might feel this is a bit brief. Also, if you prefer to stay within Kiruna itself or want a more flexible day, other options may suit better.

The Sum Up: The Real Deal in Arctic Adventure

This dog sledding tour from Abisko to Kiruna offers a solid balance of scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and adventure. With experienced guides and adorable sled dogs, it’s a charming way to experience the Arctic without the need for extreme physical effort or complex planning. The included warm Fika and interaction with the dogs add heartfelt touches that make the day memorable.

It’s best suited for those who want a taste of Arctic wilderness, enjoy animal encounters, and value professional guiding. Families or casual travelers will appreciate how accessible and well-organized it is, while the stunning scenery and friendly guides ensure lasting memories for everyone.

If you crave a genuine, scenic, and heartwarming experience in northern Sweden, this trip fits the bill nicely. Just remember to bring your packed lunch, dress warmly, and prepare for a day filled with joy and spectacular views.

FAQ

Is pickup from my hotel included? Yes, pickup from select hotels in Abisko or Björkliden is included, with specific times depending on your location.

How long is the drive to Kiruna? About three hours each way, making up a significant part of the day but allowing time for the scenery and travel comfort.

What’s the duration of actual dog sledding? You’ll enjoy roughly 10-12 km of sledding, which is about 1-2 hours, with stops for photos and interactions.

Are warm clothes provided? Yes, warm overalls, boots, hats, and gloves are included to keep you comfortable in the Arctic cold.

Can children participate? Not under 5 years old, due to safety reasons and activity demands.

What should I bring? Pack snacks and a lunch, as no food is available at the camp, and bring your camera for all the photo moments.

Is this activity suitable for all fitness levels? Yes, since a professional musher drives the sled, physical agility is less of a concern.

What are the highlights? Scenic Arctic views, interacting with friendly sled dogs, and enjoying traditional Swedish Fika in a remote camp.

How do reviews describe this experience? Most reviews rave about the guides’ friendliness, the dogs’ cuteness, and the stunning landscapes.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This dog sledding adventure blends natural beauty with heartfelt animal encounters, offering a memorable taste of Arctic life. Whether you’re a wildlife lover, a cultural explorer, or simply after a scenic escape, it’s a well-organized and authentic experience worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: