Kemi-Tornio: Husky Sled Ride with Hot Drink is a perfect introduction to Arctic adventures in Finland’s Lapland. For $221 per person, you get about 2.5 hours of pure winter fun, starting with a cozy transfer from Kemi to a genuine husky kennel. During this experience, you’ll drive your own dog sled over a 5 km trail through snow-covered forests and frozen swamps, with the chance to meet Alaskan huskies up close. We loved how authentic and hands-on this adventure felt, especially because it’s a self-driven sled—not a touristy ride but a real mushing experience. Plus, the included warm clothing ensures you’re comfortable despite the cold, and the hot drink at the end is a lovely touch.
One of our favorite aspects is the personal interaction with the huskies. Meeting these energetic, friendly dogs and learning about their daily lives adds a genuine touch to the tour. The scenery, with snow-blanketed trees and the vast, frozen landscape, is nothing short of breathtaking. However, a potential consideration is that this activity involves physical effort, as you’ll be driving a sled—so it’s best suited for those in good shape and comfortable with outdoor winter activities. It’s ideal for animal lovers, adventure seekers, or anyone curious about the real life of working sled dogs in Lapland.
This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor experiences and are interested in learning how to mush, as well as those wanting a balanced mix of excitement and education in a small-group setting. Families with older children or teenagers who are physically capable will also find it engaging. If you’re looking for a unique, personal experience with stunning scenery and friendly guides, this could be one of your highlights in Lapland.
Key Points
- Authentic experience: Drive your own dog sled, not just sit back and be a passenger.
- Close contact with huskies: Meet and pet Alaskan huskies and learn about their lives.
- Beautiful scenery: Cross snow-covered lands and frozen swamps in Sea Lapland.
- Well-prepared for cold: Warm clothing provided ensures comfort.
- Family-friendly: Children ride in parents’ sleds; suitable for active families.
- Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with full refund.
A Deep Dive into the Husky Sled Experience
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Starting Point and Transportation
The adventure begins at the Sea Lapland Safaris safari house in Kemi. The meeting point at Lumilinnankatu 15c is easy to find, and if you opt for the pickup from Tornio-Haparanda hotels, the minivan or bus with the safari logo will come to fetch you. This added convenience means you don’t have to worry about transport logistics, especially after a long day of sightseeing.
The transfer itself is brief but scenic, giving you a last glimpse of the town before heading into the wilderness. We appreciate this seamless start, as it lets you focus on the upcoming adventure rather than navigating unfamiliar roads.
Preparing for the Ride
Once at the kennel, you’ll be handed warm winter clothing—including a full overall, shoes, wool socks, and gloves—so you’re ready for the elements. It’s a thoughtful touch, especially since cold weather can quickly sap comfort if you’re unprepared.
The guides, fluent in Finnish and English, will give safety instructions and demonstrate how to handle the sleds. They strike a balance between thoroughness and friendliness, which helps novice mushers feel confident. Watching the instructors handle the dogs and see how to steer and brake provides an invaluable foundation for your turn behind the sled.
The 5 km Self-Drive Sled Ride
Here’s where the magic happens. You and a companion will take turns driving your own sled along a 5 km trail that winds through frozen landscapes. The trail crosses over snow-covered forests and swamps, offering views of Sea Lapland’s pristine nature.
The sensation of mushing—steering a team of lively huskies across the snow—is exhilarating. We loved the feeling of independence and the sense of connection to these incredible animals. It’s a rare chance to mingle with working sled dogs and see firsthand their strength and enthusiasm.
The trail’s terrain varies, making the ride engaging and lively. The guides are nearby, ready to assist if needed, and they share stories about the huskies’ lives and the art of dog sledding, adding educational value.
More Great Tours NearbyMeeting the Huskies and Learning Their Lives
After the ride, you’ll return to the kennel, where you’ll have time to pet the dogs and take photos. The guides discuss their daily routines, training, and care, which deepens your appreciation for these hardworking animals. The friendly Alaskan huskies are eager for cuddles and attention, making for memorable moments.
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Warming Up with a Hot Drink
No Arctic adventure is complete without something warm inside—so the tour includes a hot drink served back at the safari house. It’s a cozy moment to reflect on the ride, chat with your fellow mushers, and soak in the winter landscape.
Final Thoughts
The entire experience is about authenticity—driving a sled yourself, interacting with genuine working huskies, and traversing spectacular natural scenery. It’s a well-rounded activity that combines adventure, education, and comfort.
Analyzing the Value
At $221, this tour offers a hands-on mushing experience seldom available in larger, more commercial operations. The inclusion of warm clothing and a hot drink adds value, especially considering the outdoor gear often needed in Arctic conditions. While the price might seem steep for some, remember that you’re paying for a personal, memorable activity with knowledgeable guides, not just a scenic ride.
The small group setting ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, and the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours ahead provides peace of mind. The self-driving element is what sets this experience apart—allowing you to truly feel like a musher rather than a passive passenger.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This activity suits adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor winter sports and are comfortable handling physical activities in cold weather. It’s ideal for animal enthusiasts and those seeking a genuine connection with working sled dogs. Families with children over 18 (or younger children in suitable sleds) will find it engaging, but those looking for a relaxed, scenic tour might prefer other options.
Final tips: Wear sturdy, warm clothing, and be prepared for outdoor exposure. Bring your camera and a sense of adventure—this is one experience you won’t forget easily.
FAQs
Is the sled ride suitable for children? Children can ride in their parents’ sleds, but they need to be old enough and physically able to handle the outdoor activities. Always check with the provider if you have specific age or size concerns.
What is included in the price? The tour includes warm winter clothing, a 5 km self-drive dog sled ride, and a hot drink after the ride.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your schedule shifts.
Do I need to have previous experience with dog sledding? No, the guides will give safety instructions and demonstrate handling, making it accessible for beginners.
Is the experience physically demanding? Yes, driving a sled requires a bit of strength and comfort outdoors, but it’s manageable for most active people in good health.
What should I wear? The tour provides full warm gear, but layering with thermal underwear and warm accessories is recommended for extra comfort.
The Kemi-Tornio Husky Sled Ride with Hot Drink offers a genuine, engaging Arctic adventure. It’s perfect for those wanting to try mushing firsthand, meet adorable huskies, and enjoy Finland’s winter wilderness. With its balance of activity, education, and comfort, it makes for a memorable highlight of any Lapland itinerary.
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