Meet 70 Huskies and Enjoy a Short ATV Tour with the Huskies: An Authentic Arctic Encounter
If you love dogs, especially sled dogs, and want to see how they live and work in the Arctic, this tour in Kiruna, Sweden, offers a rare glimpse. For about three hours and at a cost of $170.85 per person, you’ll meet over 70 huskies—including adorable puppies—and join a training session that showcases their pre-season work. Plus, a short ATV ride lets you follow the dogs in action, all in a private setting that feels intimate and personalized.
Two things we especially like about this experience are the opportunity to cuddle and interact with such energetic and friendly dogs, and the insight into their daily lives in the cold Arctic winters. The guiding team, led by Craig and his staff, are praised for their knowledge and warm hospitality, making the visit more enriching than just a petting zoo.
One possible consideration is the weather—since the experience is outdoors and involves dressing appropriately for rain or mud. Also, the ATV ride is only suitable for children aged 8 and above or those in good health, which may limit some families.
This experience suits dog lovers, families with children, and those curious about sled dog training and Arctic life. If you’re seeking a hands-on, authentic encounter with working dogs rather than a passive tour, this is a perfect choice.
Key Points
- Authentic Sled Dog Experience: Meet over 50 huskies and puppies, learning about their personalities and training.
- Interactive and Personal: Opportunity to cuddle, play, and connect with the friendly dogs.
- Insight into Arctic Life: Learn how sled dogs are cared for and trained in the cold, with a behind-the-scenes look.
- ATV Adventure: Follow a real training session from a sturdy ATV, giving a unique perspective on sled dog work.
- Relaxing Breaks: Enjoy tea, coffee, and snacks by an open fire, creating a cozy atmosphere.
- Family Friendly: Suitable for all ages to meet the dogs; ATV ride for kids 8+ and those in good health.
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An In-Depth Look at the Experience
Location and Duration
Set in Kiruna, this private tour from Snowdog – The Arctic Adventure Company runs for approximately three hours, making it a manageable addition to your day. Starting from Alttavaaravägen 10, the activity is available daily between 10:00 AM and 8:00 PM from December 8 to October 31, giving plenty of flexibility.
What Happens During the Tour?
We loved the way the tour begins with a warm welcome and a chance to meet all 69 adult huskies and 12 puppies. From the moment we stepped into the kennel, it was clear these dogs are well cared for—happy, energetic, and eager for attention. The guides are not just knowledgeable but also passionate, sharing stories about each dog’s personality and their roles in sled training.
Expect to spend about 1.5 to 3 hours depending on group size and interest. The first part involves getting acquainted—petting, cuddling, and learning about the dogs’ personalities. The feedback from other travelers is glowing: “Everyone was so friendly, nice and helpful,” said Leonor_N, highlighting the warm atmosphere and genuine care shown to the animals.
Behind the Scenes: Daily Sled Dog Life
After meeting the dogs, you’ll get a peek into pre-season training. This involves helping prepare a small team of sled dogs, which means harnessing and positioning the dogs for a run. Craig and his team explain how they work with the dogs in the cold Arctic winters, which adds an extra layer of appreciation for their work.
The training session is conducted from a robust ATV, allowing you to follow the team as they practice commands and harnesses. This is a special feature, giving you a close-up view of the dogs in action, which is rarely seen by casual travelers.
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The Treats and Atmosphere
After the training, the dogs receive a special treat—a chunk of meat—making it clear they are well-fed and loved. Meanwhile, you can relax by an open fire with tea, coffee, and sweet snacks. This laid-back moment offers a chance to reflect on what you’ve just seen, and the reviews confirm how much visitors appreciate this pause: “Drinking coffee by the open fire was a highlight,” Lily_M notes.
Suitability and Practical Tips
Children of all ages can meet the huskies, but the ATV ride is only suitable for kids 8+ or those in good health due to safety reasons. The activity is outdoors and involves some walking, so dress appropriately—think waterproofs, layered clothing, and sturdy shoes—as the terrain can be muddy and the weather unpredictable.
What’s Not Included?
Transportation is included, so you won’t need to worry about logistics. However, the experience encourages you to come dressed for the weather and prepared for some outdoor exposure. The cost seems reasonable given the personalized nature of the tour, the number of dogs, and the interactive components—at roughly $170, it offers good value for a premium, behind-the-scenes experience.
Authentic Reviews and Highlights
Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their friendliness and expertise. Christina_B mentions how Craig and his staff “went above and beyond,” even helping get to the train station afterward, showing this is a thoughtful, customer-focused operation.
The dogs’ well-being is also a recurring theme: “The huskies were very well treated and very happy,” says Leonor_N, reinforcing that this isn’t just a tourist attraction but a genuine working kennel.
Several visitors highlight the stunning views and the authentic outdoor atmosphere as key to making the trip memorable. Lily_M enjoyed the “coffee by the open fire,” capturing how the experience combines adventure with cozy comfort.
The Sum Up
This Meet 70 Huskies and Enjoy a Short ATV Tour in Kiruna delivers an authentic, hands-on look at what life is like for sled dogs in the Arctic. The blend of interactive dog encounters, learning about training, and off-road adventure makes it a unique experience for those interested in Arctic culture, dogs, and outdoor fun.
It’s ideal for dog lovers of all ages, families wanting a memorable activity, or anyone curious about the daily routine of sled dogs in the coldest parts of Sweden. The personalized approach, friendly guides, and genuine care for the dogs shine through, making it more than just a tourist stop—it’s a true Arctic adventure that leaves you with stories to tell.
If you’re looking for an outdoor activity that combines education, interaction, and adventure, this tour offers solid value. And with free cancellation, you can book confidently, knowing you can adjust your plans if needed.
FAQ
Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, the tour features private transportation, making logistics simple and stress-free.
Can children participate? Yes, children of all ages can meet the huskies. However, the ATV ride is only suitable for children 8 and above or those in good health for safety reasons.
What should I wear? Dress appropriately for outdoor weather, including waterproof clothing, sturdy shoes, and layers, as some walking on muddy forest trails is involved.
How long does the tour last? The activity generally takes between 1.5 and 3 hours, depending on group size and interest.
Are snacks provided? Yes, tea, coffee, and sweet snacks are served over an open fire, providing a cozy break during the experience.
Is this a private experience? Yes, the tour is private, with only your group participating, adding to its personalized feel.
What is the cost? The tour costs around $170.85 per person, which includes admission, transportation, and snacks—a fair price for this level of interaction and insight.
This tour offers a rare chance to see how sled dogs live, work, and thrive in the Arctic environment, making it a memorable addition to a trip to Kiruna for anyone fascinated by dogs, outdoor adventures, or Arctic life.