Imagine watching the dawn break over Swedish Lapland, with the sky painted in soft pastels and the crisp air tingling on your skin. For nearly three hours, you’ll glide through the snow-blanketed forests of Kiruna on a dog sled pulled by a team of energetic Alaskan Huskies. This is the Sunrise Zen Husky Tour, a carefully curated experience that combines adventure, nature, and a chance to connect with some of the friendliest working dogs in the world. Priced at about $248 per person, it’s a step beyond a typical sightseeing trip — a genuine slice of Arctic life, designed for those who appreciate both thrill and tranquility.
We love how this tour offers a small-group experience, limited to just four travelers, which ensures personalized attention and plenty of time to interact with the dogs. The use of warm gear and the cozy hut after the ride are thoughtful touches that make the cold weather totally manageable. One of the best parts? The opportunity to meet and help care for the huskies, adding a layer of authenticity and connection you don’t often find in commercial tours.
A possible consideration is the timing, as the tour starts at 10 a.m., meaning you’ll need to be prepared for early cold conditions and perhaps pack extra face and eye covers — especially if you’re sensitive to the chill. This experience is best suited for adventurers who love animals and outdoor scenery, as well as those looking for a peaceful, yet exhilarating, morning in the Arctic wilderness. If you’re curious about the lives of sled dogs or simply want a quieter, more personal Arctic encounter, this tour could be a perfect fit.
Key Points
- Small Groups for personalized experience and close interaction
- Authentic Husky Interaction including helping care for the dogs
- Beautiful Arctic Scenery with a sunrise backdrop and potential wildlife sightings like reindeer or moose
- Comfort and Warmth provided with gear, hot drinks, and a cozy fire hut
- Limited Booking (averaging 87 days in advance) to ensure exclusivity and attentive guides
- Ideal for animal lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a serene, memorable Arctic adventure
A Detailed Look at the Sunrise Zen Husky Tour
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Location and Accessibility
Located approximately 17 km outside Kiruna’s main tourist hub, the Sled Dog Kennel is a peaceful spot away from bustling crowds. The tour includes free pickup, which makes planning easier, especially if you’re staying in central Kiruna. This remote setting contributes significantly to the feeling of being truly immersed in Lapland’s wilderness, far from the noise of city life.
What the Tour Includes
When you book the Sunrise Zen Husky Tour, you’re signing up for a 3-hour experience that covers more than just the ride. The package includes use of cold-weather gear, ensuring you stay warm despite the Arctic chill. After the sledding, you’ll relax in a fire-heated hut with a hot drink and a snack, turning a cold outdoor adventure into a cozy, human connection experience.
The Itinerary: Step-by-Step
Pickup and gear-up are the first steps. Guides will collect you from your accommodation or designated spot in Kiruna, then take you to the kennel where you’ll change into thermal clothes. This early stage sets the tone for comfort and preparation. Once dressed, you’re transported into the Poikkijärvi Woods, a dark, pristine forest area perfect for a sunrise trek.
The sled ride itself is a shared experience; you’ll sit on a sled capable of holding four people, comfortably absorbing the stunning views. The guide drives the team, giving you a chance to simply enjoy the ride and take photographs of the landscape and the dogs.
Meeting and Caring for the Huskies
What makes this tour special — according to reviews — is the opportunity to meet and help care for the dogs. As you prepare for the sled ride, you can help ready the huskies, securing them before and after the trip, and even giving a favorite treat afterwards. This hands-on aspect elevates the experience from passive sightseeing to active engagement, which many reviewers find rewarding.
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The Experience of the Ride
Expect to glide through wild forest paths and potentially see reindeer or moose if luck is on your side — a highlight for many travelers. The breath-taking colors of the Arctic sunrise will be a constant backdrop, creating perfect photo moments. The dogs are described as well-behaved and friendly, adding to the sense of camaraderie and trust that develops with these working animals.
Post-Ride Comfort
After the sledding, you’ll return to the fire hut for a warm drink and a snack. The fire and cozy atmosphere turn a brisk outdoor activity into an inviting environment for conversation and reflection. Many reviews emphasize how well the guides manage to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere, making this more than just a tour — it feels like visiting friends in their winter home.
Price and Value
At about $248, this tour might seem costly — but consider what you’re getting: a personalized experience, interactions with huskies, and stunning scenery that’s hard to replicate. The fact that it’s booked an average of 87 days in advance indicates strong demand and perceived value. The experience includes all necessary gear and hot drinks, which helps offset the cold.
Reviews and Authentic Feedback
A quick glance at reviews reveals consistent praise. Travelers frequently mention the friendly staff, lovely dogs, and beautiful paths. One reviewer simply said, “Brilliant experience. Lovely staff. Very friendly,” while another noted, “Getting to play with the dogs was wonderful!” The emphasis on small groups and quality interaction is clear. Multiple reviewers also remark on the peaceful, emotional connection with the dogs and the beautiful surroundings, making this a memorable, heartfelt experience.
Practical Tips
- Dress warmly, especially with face and eye covers if you tend to feel the cold.
- Be prepared for potentially early morning or late sunrise conditions.
- If you’re interested in helping care for the dogs, communicate this beforehand.
- Book well in advance — especially during peak winter months — to ensure a spot.
- Remember, children under 6 are not permitted due to low temperatures.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience suits animal lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful, authentic Arctic adventure. If you enjoy small-group settings and want a personalized experience with knowledgeable guides, this tour delivers. It’s ideal for those who appreciate the quiet beauty of Lapland’s wilderness and want to connect with the huskies beyond just riding on a sled.
However, if you’re looking for a fast-paced or adrenaline-filled sled ride, this might feel a bit subdued. It’s more about the companionship of the dogs and the serenity of the sunrise than high-speed thrills.
Final Thoughts: Is This Experience Worth It?
For travelers who want more than just a quick dog sled ride, the Sunrise Zen Husky Tour offers a rare chance to connect with the dogs, enjoy stunning natural scenery, and experience a peaceful morning in the Arctic. The personal attention and small group size make it stand out, ensuring that you won’t feel like just another tourist. The warmth of the hut and hot drinks post-ride make it a comfortable, well-rounded adventure.
While the price might seem high, the quality of interaction, beautiful setting, and authenticity provide solid value. It’s a great choice for nature lovers, animal enthusiasts, and those looking for a memorable Arctic moment. This tour will leave you with lasting memories of Lapland’s quiet magic — a true highlight of a trip to Swedish Lapland.
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
The Sunrise Zen Husky Tour runs for approximately 3 hours, including pickup, the sled ride, and the time in the hut.
What is included in the price?
Your fee covers cold-weather gear, hot drinks, snacks, and guidance. The opportunity to meet and help care for the dogs is also part of the experience.
Is the tour suitable for children?
No, children under 6 years old are not permitted due to the cold temperatures.
Where does the tour take place?
It starts at the Sled Dog Kennel, about 17 km outside Kiruna, with free pickup included.
What should I wear?
Dressing warmly is essential. The tour provides gear, but bring warm layers, face and eye covers, and warm gloves for extra comfort.
Can I see wildlife during the tour?
Yes, travelers have reported possibly seeing reindeer or moose during the ride.
How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 4 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts for a full refund.
This adventure offers a beautiful blend of wilderness, animal interaction, and Arctic serenity. If you’re after a meaningful, well-organized, and intimate husky experience, this tour in Kiruna might just be your perfect winter highlight.