Autumn Husky Ride on Wheels, Apukka Resort Rovaniemi

Planning a trip to Rovaniemi? If you’re craving a taste of authentic Arctic adventure that’s both fun and educational, the Autumn Husky Ride on Wheels at Apukka Resort might just be what you’re looking for. This tour offers a chance to learn about sled dogs, enjoy a scenic ride through Finnish forests, and connect with the region’s iconic huskies—all in a family-friendly setting.

What makes this experience stand out? First, we love how it combines adventure with education. You’ll get to meet the dogs, learn about their lives, and even participate in training activities. Second, the opportunity to drive a team of huskies on a trek through the woods is a thrill that’s hard to match. However, it’s worth noting that this tour lasts about an hour and a half, which might feel a bit quick for some enthusiasts wanting a more extended experience. It’s particularly well-suited for families and travelers seeking a gentle, informative introduction to huskies and Arctic life.

If you’re interested in a practical, engaging, and authentic Arctic experience that’s accessible for most ages, this tour offers excellent value. Just keep in mind, it’s not suitable for children under four, so younger kids will need to look elsewhere for their adventure fix. This is a delightful way to connect with the Finnish wilderness and its most lovable residents—the huskies.

Key Points

• Family-Friendly: Suitable for most ages, with the exception of children under 4.
• Educational and Fun: Learn about the lives of Arctic sledge dogs and their training.
• Scenic Forest Trek: Experience a picturesque ride through Finnish woods.
• Interactive: Opportunity to help train huskies and enjoy close contact with puppies.
• Comfortable and Convenient: Pickup offered from central Rovaniemi, plus a mobile ticket option.
• Value for Price: At roughly $179 per person, it offers a well-rounded, memorable Arctic experience.

A Closer Look at the Husky Ride Experience

The tour begins at the Apukka Resort Adventures, conveniently located in Rovaniemi. The meeting point at Tutkijantie 28 is easy to find, and booking is straightforward, with most travelers reserving about 18 days in advance—indicating decent demand and planning ahead.

Once assembled, the experience kicks off with an introduction to the husky dogs’ daily lives. The owners take pride in their huskies, with one even remembering the names of over 70 dogs—a testament to the close bond between the team and its handlers. This personal touch is often highlighted in reviews, with travelers appreciating the genuine warmth of the guides.

The highlight for many is the sled dog ride. After receiving simple, clear instructions, you get to drive a team of five dogs. The ride itself is described as a “speedy” trek through Finnish forests and fields, offering nature lovers a chance to enjoy the vibrant autumnal scenery—or the lush greenery depending on when you visit. Travelers report that huskies love to run, and it’s evident that their enthusiasm adds a lively energy to the experience.

Following the ride, the group gathers around a campfire or cozy shelter where everyone can sip hot berry juice. This moment of warmth and conversation offers a wonderful chance to reflect on what you’ve learned and connect with guides and fellow travelers. It’s these personal touches that make the tour memorable.

Reviewers like Thomas described it as a “loved every minute,” emphasizing how much they learned about huskies and enjoyed playing with puppies. He adds that he experienced just how strong and talented these dogs are, which is a common sentiment among participants. The clear instructions and the opportunity to drive a husky team made it a highlight, especially for dog lovers or anyone curious about Arctic life.

The Value of the Experience

At nearly $180, this tour is a solid value for those interested in learning about huskies and experiencing a hands-on adventure. The inclusion of pickup and mobile ticketing simplifies logistics, and the small group size—limited to 14 travelers—ensures a more intimate and engaging experience.

While it is relatively short—about 1.5 hours—the mix of education, activity, and scenery makes it a worthwhile investment. It’s especially appealing for those who prefer a relaxed pace but still want an active outdoor experience.

What to Expect on the Tour

Itinerary Breakdown: The tour starts with a warm welcome at the meeting point. After a brief introduction, you’re introduced to the huskies and their handlers, who share insights into their training and daily lives. You’ll learn that the owner knows every dog by name, which adds a personal touch.

Next, it’s time to gear up—most participants receive instructions on how to drive the sled team. Then, with some assistance, you’ll set off on a trek through the Finnish woods—a scenic, wind-in-your-hair ride that showcases the autumnal or verdant landscape depending on the season.

During the ride, the dogs pull the sled happily, their love for running palpable. Afterward, everyone gathers around for hot berry juice, a cozy moment where you can ask questions and chat about huskies’ lives.

Group Size and Duration: The tour is capped at 14 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal and engaging. The total duration is approximately 90 minutes, making it suitable even for travelers with tight schedules.

Transport and Accessibility: Pickup is offered, which is convenient, and the ticketing is mobile-friendly—no paper tickets needed. The tour is designed to be accessible to most travelers, although it’s not suitable for children under 4.

Why This Tour Resonates with Travelers

Many reviewers highlight the authenticity of the experience. As Thomas noted, he appreciated the precise instructions and the opportunity to drive the dogs. Others mention how friendly and knowledgeable the guides are, making the learning process enjoyable.

The opportunity to play with husky puppies adds an extra layer of charm, especially for those traveling with children. The combination of scenic rides and interactive learning offers a rounded Arctic adventure that’s more than just a scenic tour—it’s an up-close encounter with the region’s beloved working dogs.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, dog lovers, nature enthusiasts, and curious travelers. It’s perfect if you want a light outdoor adventure that balances active participation with education. Since it’s suitable for most travelers except very young children, it’s accessible for a wide range of ages.

If you’re seeking an intense, long husky safari or a winter snowmobile ride, this tour might feel a bit brief. But if you value learning about Arctic dogs and enjoying scenic forest rides, you’ll find this tour highly rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but it’s not suitable for children under 4 years old. Kids older than that generally enjoy the interactive and scenic nature of the experience.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, pickup is offered from your accommodation or a designated meeting point, making logistics easier for travelers.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including the riding and socializing time.

Can I participate in driving the huskies?
Yes, after receiving clear instructions, you’ll have the opportunity to drive a team of five huskies through the Finnish landscape.

What should I wear?
While not explicitly detailed, dressing warmly in layers is advisable, especially if you visit during cooler months. Expect to be outside for part of the experience.

What is the cost, and is it good value?
At $178.94 per person, it offers a well-rounded, memorable Arctic experience, especially considering the educational component and inclusion of hot berry juice.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour requires good weather to operate. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Final Thoughts

The Autumn Husky Ride on Wheels at Apukka Resort provides a unique blend of adventure, education, and scenic beauty. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking to connect with Arctic wildlife in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. The opportunity to drive a team of huskies and learn about their lives makes this a memorable addition to any Rovaniemi itinerary.

This tour is particularly well-suited for visitors who want a meaningful, hands-on experience rather than a quick sightseeing ride. It’s a wonderful way to appreciate the dedication of Arctic dog trainers and the strength and spirit of huskies—truly a highlight for animal lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

While it might not satisfy those seeking an exhaustive husky safari, its charm lies in the personal touch and educational value. For travelers after a genuine, heartwarming encounter with Finnish wilderness and its heroic dogs, this tour offers a lot of value and a chance to create lasting memories.