From Kiruna: Northern Lights Guided Husky Sledding Adventure

If you’re heading to Kiruna and craving a genuine Arctic experience, a guided husky sledding tour might just be the highlight of your trip. This tour offers a chance to drive your own sled with friendly huskies, explore snow-covered wilderness at night, and, if luck is on your side, catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights dancing overhead.

We love how this adventure combines authentic dog sledding with the magic of a dark winter night — it’s a chance to feel truly immersed in the Arctic environment. The opportunity to interact with the huskies and learn about their care adds a personal touch many other winter activities lack. Plus, the cozy campfire and Swedish fika at the end make it a well-rounded, memorable outing.

One aspect to consider is that Northern Lights sightings can’t be guaranteed — nature has its own schedule. Also, the tour is relatively short at 3.5 hours, so if you’re after a longer experience or want to combine multiple activities, you’ll need to plan accordingly.

This tour suits adventurers, nature lovers, and those seeking memorable photos of the starry night and aurora, especially if you’re comfortable in cold weather and want to try something uniquely Arctic.

Key Points

• Authentic husky sledding: You get to drive your own sled and learn how to harness and steer the dogs.
• Stunning scenery: Travel over snow-covered lakes, marshlands, and forest, illuminated by the night sky.
• Northern Lights potential: A chance — though not a guarantee — to see the aurora borealis dancing above.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides who prepare you thoroughly and support first-timers.
• All gear provided: Warm clothing, boots, gloves, hats, and socks are included, so you can focus on the experience.
• Cozy end to the night: Warm up with hot drinks and Swedish cookies around a campfire in a traditional Nordic tipi.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Arctic Adventure

This tour from Kiruna is a well-organized way to enjoy the Arctic winter in a hands-on way. It begins with a pickup from several central locations in Kiruna, including Camp Ripan and other convenient spots in town. After a roughly 30-minute drive to the husky camp at Kalixforsbron, you’ll meet your guide and the team of eager huskies.

The Preparation and Instruction

Before you hit the trails, you’ll be fitted with winter gear — a snowsuit, boots, gloves, hats, and socks — all provided. This lets you focus on the fun rather than battling the cold. Your guide will walk you through safety instructions and show you how to harness the dogs, giving you confidence to steer your own sled.

Many reviews highlight the friendly, clear guidance of the guides. As one reviewer noted, “Rebecca, our dog sled guide, was fantastic — very friendly, clear in her instructions, and mindful that none of us had driven a sled before.” This support is crucial, especially for first-time mushers, and it ensures everyone feels comfortable taking the reins.

The Sledding Experience

Once ready, you’ll head out into the dark, snowy wilderness. Expect to zip past frozen lakes, snow-covered trees, and marshlands. The scenery, especially under a clear night sky, is magical — the kind of moment that makes you feel like you’re in your own winter fantasy.

The actual sledding lasts about 1.5 hours, during which you’ll take turns being the driver and passenger. Many reviewers describe it as a thrilling, authentic experience that’s unlike anything they’ve done before. “Driving your own sled is a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” wrote one happy participant, emphasizing how personal and engaging the activity is.

The Northern Lights

While the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, guides and travelers alike agree that the possibility of seeing them adds an extra layer of excitement. One reviewer recounted how their guide, Gasper, was proactive — stopping the van to allow photos of the aurora when it appeared during the return trip. The lights are unpredictable, so if they appear, it’s a bonus. Even if they don’t, the star-studded sky, combined with the peaceful ride, makes for a memorable evening.

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The Cozy Campfire

Back at Kalixforsbron, after the sled ride, you’ll gather around an open fire in a traditional Nordic tipi. Here, you can warm up with hot drinks and indulge in Swedish cookies (fika). Many travelers describe this as a delightful ending, combining warmth and camaraderie after the cold outdoor adventure. One reviewer called it “a very nice and peaceful ride,” which underlines how the tour balances excitement with moments of quiet reflection.

The Detailed Itinerary

The tour kicks off with a pick-up from centrally located Kiruna sites, including Camp Ripan, Pub Eden, and Stora Coop. Expect a roughly 30-minute drive to the husky camp at Kalixforsbron.

Once there, you’ll spend about 30 minutes on a safety briefing and getting dressed in the provided gear. This is a good time to ask questions and get comfortable with the equipment. Many reviews mention how professional and friendly guides make everyone feel at ease, even if it’s their first time handling dogs or sleds.

The guided tour itself lasts 1.5 hours, where you’ll help harness the huskies and learn how to steer your own sled. Throughout the ride, the guides check on how everyone is doing and provide insights into the dogs’ lives and the landscape.

Afterward, there’s a 30-minute break at the camp for photos or just soaking in the silence of the snow-covered landscape before heading back. The return drive is about 30 minutes, during which guides may stop to look for the northern lights if conditions are favorable.

Finally, you’ll be dropped off at your original pickup points in Kiruna, completing a 3.5-hour adventure that’s packed with authentic experiences.

The Price and Its Value

At $235 per person, this tour is a solid value considering what’s included — transportation, quality winter gear, guides, and the chance to steer your own husky sled. The small group size (limited to four participants) ensures a personalized experience, which many reviewers appreciate. The reviews repeatedly mention how friendly and supportive the guides are, making the activity accessible even for beginners.

While the cost might seem steep, think of it as an investment in a genuine Arctic experience — one that combines adventure, stunning scenery, and cultural authenticity. Plus, the moments of quiet awe watching the snow-lit landscape or hoping to catch the northern lights are priceless.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This activity appeals most to adventure-minded travelers who enjoy outdoor winter sports and want to try something different from typical sightseeing. It’s perfect for nature lovers, dog enthusiasts, and those eager to experience a classic Arctic activity with a modern, guided touch.

If you’re traveling with family members or friends who are comfortable in cold weather and want to share a unique, hands-on experience, this tour offers the perfect mix of excitement and tranquility. It’s also ideal for photographers keen to capture the snowy landscape, the huskies, and maybe even the aurora borealis if luck permits.

Final Thoughts

This Northern Lights Guided Husky Sledding Adventure from Kiruna strikes a wonderful balance between authenticity and comfort. You get to drive your own sled with the help of friendly, well-cared-for huskies, all while exploring the stunning, snowy wilderness under a starry sky. The guides’ professionalism and the cozy campfire conclude the experience on a warm, convivial note.

It’s a timeless Arctic activity that offers a true sense of place and adventure. While nature’s unpredictable, the memories of the snow, the dogs’ enthusiasm, and the hope of catching the northern lights will stay with you long after you leave.

This tour is best suited for adventurers craving a unique outdoor experience, those interested in dog sledding, or anyone wanting to add a slice of authentic Lapland to their trip. If you’re ready to embrace the cold and step into a winter wonderland, this might be your most memorable moment in Swedish Lapland.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off in Kiruna, all necessary winter gear (snowsuit, boots, gloves, hats, socks), a guide, the sledding experience, and cookies, tea, and coffee around the campfire.

How long does the tour last?
Total duration is approximately 3.5 hours, including transportation, safety briefings, the sled ride, and the campfire break.

Where does the activity start?
The pickup locations include Pub Eden, Malmvägen 9B, Camp Ripan, and Stora Coop. The activity ends back at these spots.

Can I see the Northern Lights?
The lights are a natural phenomenon, so sightings aren’t guaranteed. Guides will look for opportunities, but the aurora depends on weather and solar activity.

Is previous experience necessary?
No prior experience is needed. Guides give thorough instructions, and many reviews mention how supportive and clear they are, making it accessible for first-timers.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing and a scarf. The provided gear keeps you warm, but layering is recommended especially considering the cold outdoor environment.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s generally suitable for those in good health and comfortable in cold weather. The activity isn’t recommended for people over 95 years old.

What if the weather is poor?
If weather conditions are too severe, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled. Always check the booking policy and communicate with the provider if you have concerns.

This husky sledding tour offers a genuine taste of Arctic life, combining adventure, natural beauty, and cultural charm. Whether you’re seeking a thrill, a peaceful night under the stars, or a chance to connect with these incredible dogs, it’s a memorable way to experience Swedish Lapland.

You can check availability for your dates here: