Levi: Follow the Elves One Day Husky Safari – A Heartwarming Arctic Adventure
If you’re dreaming of frosty landscapes, energetic huskies, and a true taste of Lapland’s wilderness, the Follow the Elves Husky Safari in Levi offers a memorable day out. For around $641 per person, you’ll spend roughly five hours exploring snowy trails on a self-driven sled, guided by experienced instructors. The tour takes you through pristine winter scenery, where you’ll get to drive your own team of lively Alaskan huskies over 20 to 45 kilometers of snow-covered terrain.
Two things we love about this experience are the hands-on aspect of driving the sled — making it more than just a sightseeing tour — and the chance to enjoy a picnic lunch by a campfire in the middle of the wilderness. It’s the kind of activity that mixes adventure with authentic Arctic charm, perfect for those who want to get their blood pumping and their hearts warm. However, it’s worth noting that the tour is not suitable for children under 13 or pregnant women, which could be a consideration for families or expectant travelers. This safari suits adventurous souls or anyone eager to experience the true essence of Lapland’s snowy wilderness.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Authentic Husky Sledding: Drive your own team of energetic huskies across Lapland’s snowy trails.
- Cultural Experience: Gain insights into the local Lapland tradition of sled dog handling.
- Beautiful Scenery: Glide through snow-covered forests and open wilderness, ideal for photography.
- All-Inclusive: Pickup, drop-off, warm overalls, and a picnic lunch included.
- Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 6 participants for a more personal experience.
- Weather-Resilient: Runs rain or shine, so dress warmly and be prepared for any conditions.
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An Honest Look at the Husky Safari Experience
Starting Point and Transportation
Your adventure begins at the Hissitie 11 bus stop in Levi’s center, conveniently located across from the parking lot and next to a Kotipizza restaurant — easy to spot. The tour includes pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward, especially if you’re staying in Levi. After settling in, you’ll hop onto a bus or coach for about 15 minutes to reach the starting location.
This transportation setup is ideal for travelers who value convenience and don’t want to worry about navigating Finnish winter roads. It also emphasizes that the tour is designed to be accessible, with the transportation seamlessly linked to the activity.
Safety and Instruction
Once at the starting point, you’ll receive a 15-minute safety briefing and instructions from your guide (who speaks English and Finnish). This is crucial since you’ll be handling a team of 4-6 huskies and driving your own sled. The staff does a good job of ensuring everyone feels confident before hitting the trails, which is especially helpful if it’s your first time mushing.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Main Experience: Self-Drive Husky Sledding
The core of this tour is the self-driven sledding adventure. You’ll be behind the sled’s reins, steering a team of lively, well-trained Alaskan huskies. The range of 20-45 km allows for a good balance between thrill and endurance, ensuring you get to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.
Reviews highlight how well-supervised the activity is, with travelers appreciating the guidance provided. One said, “Very nice activity, well supervised, in a magnificent setting,” which captures the overall vibe. The guides are experienced, attentive, and ready to help if you’re unfamiliar with sled handling.
Scenic Trails and Authentic Wilderness
As you glide through the snow, you’ll see Lapland’s signature landscapes — snow-dusted trees, open fields, and quiet forests. The snowmobile-free trails allow for a peaceful, almost meditative experience, with the only sounds being the panting of your dogs and the swish of the sled.
Photographers and nature lovers will love the stunning vistas along the route. The scenery is often described as breathtaking, with reviews mentioning “magnificent setting” and “beautiful landscapes.” It’s a photographer’s dream, especially when the light hits the snow just right.
Lunch and Rest Breaks
Midway through the journey, you’ll stop for a picnic lunch by a campfire. The meal is included, and the experience of eating outdoors, wrapped in warm clothes with the scent of burning wood, adds a memorable touch. This break offers a chance to relax, chat with fellow participants, and soak in the winter tranquility.
Returning and Reflection
After the sledding concludes, you’ll hop back onto the bus to return to Levi. The entire experience, including transfers, lasts around five hours, which gives you plenty of time to enjoy the activity without feeling hurried.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This safari appeals most to adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those eager to try something truly authentic in Lapland. It’s perfect for travelers who want to drive their own sled, rather than just riding as a passenger, and who appreciate well-organized tours with small groups. Because it’s suitable for ages 13 and up, it’s also a good fit for teenagers and adults.
However, if you’re pregnant or traveling with very young children, this might not be the right choice. Plus, since the tour takes place rain or shine, be prepared for winter weather conditions — dress warmly and in layers.
A Complete Breakdown of the Day
Itinerary and What to Expect
Start at Levi Center Hissitie 11: The meeting point is straightforward, with clear signage. The tour begins with a short transportation ride to the activity location, giving you a chance to appreciate Levi’s winter landscape on the way.
Safety briefing and instructions: An important step that ensures you’re familiar with handling the sled and understanding safety protocols. The guides are experienced and speak both English and Finnish, making communication clear.
Guided tour through pristine wilderness: Over the next four hours, you will drive your own husky team along snowy forest trails and open plains. The terrain is farmed or natural, depending on snow conditions, but always stunning.
Lunch break: Set in the middle of the wilderness, the picnic lunch by fire is a highlight, allowing you to unwind and chat with others while enjoying the winter scenery.
Return journey: The ride back to Levi is a relaxed reflection on the day’s highlights. You’ll arrive back at the starting point, with plenty of photos and memories to cherish.
What makes this experience stand out?
Two standout features are the self-driving element, which gives you a sense of accomplishment and a more intimate connection with the dogs and nature, and the stunning vistas along the trail, often described as magnificent. The small group size ensures personalized attention, making the experience feel special.
The included warm overalls are a thoughtful touch, ensuring you stay comfortable despite the cold. The professional guidance makes even beginners feel confident behind the sled, which is why so many reviewers mention feeling safe and well cared for.
Considerations and Tips
While the tour is weather-proof, it’s wise to dress in warm, layered clothing to handle the outdoor conditions comfortably. Remember, the activity is not suitable for children under 13 or pregnant women, so plan accordingly.
Also, the cost reflects a full day of activity, including transportation, equipment, lunch, and expert guidance. For those who cherish authentic Arctic experiences, it’s a worthwhile investment.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
Given the included transportation, gear, a full-day adventure, and authentic interaction with Lapland’s iconic huskies, the price of $641 is reasonable. You’re not just paying for a ride — you’re actively participating in a centuries-old tradition, making it more immersive than a simple sightseeing tour.
It’s especially valuable for those keen on self-guided sledding — a rare experience that offers independence, physical engagement, and a genuine connection with the dogs. It’s a well-organized activity with excellent reviews attesting to its safety, scenery, and overall satisfaction.
The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience?
This Husky Safari in Levi is ideal for travelers who want to actively participate in an Arctic adventure, rather than just observe. It’s suited for those with a sense of adventure, an interest in dogs or outdoor pursuits, and a desire to see Lapland’s winter beauty up close.
If you’re after stunning snowy views, a personal connection with the dogs, and a cultural experience wrapped in a small-group setting, this tour delivers. It offers genuine, hands-on fun that will make your trip to Lapland truly memorable.
While it’s a bit on the pricier side, the value lies in the fully guided, immersive experience and the chance to create lasting memories of your Arctic adventure. Perfect for the curious, the adventurous, and those seeking an authentic taste of Lapland’s snowy heart.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from Levi center, making it easy to join without extra logistics.
How long does the activity last?
The entire experience, including transfers and lunch, lasts around five hours with a start time you can check in advance.
Can I drive the husky sled myself?
Absolutely. The tour is centered around self-drive sledding, where you handle a team of 4-6 huskies.
What is the distance covered?
The sledding route spans approximately 20-45 kilometers, offering a substantial and scenic ride.
Is this activity suitable for children?
It’s suitable for those 13 years and older. It’s not recommended for younger children or pregnant women.
What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers. The tour provides warm overalls, but you should wear thermal clothing, gloves, and a hat.
What is included in the price?
Pickup and drop-off, husky sledding, picnic lunch, and warm overalls are included.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour runs rain or shine. Just dress appropriately for the weather.
Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak both English and Finnish, ensuring clear instructions and safety guidance.
Is the experience safe?
Yes, the activity is well supervised, and guides are experienced to ensure safety throughout the adventure.
This one-day husky safari in Levi offers an enriching blend of adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery. It’s a chance to connect with the essence of Lapland and take home stories of snowy trails, wagging husky tails, and the silent beauty of the Arctic winter.
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