A Genuine Arctic Adventure: Husky Sled Ride with Hot Drink in Lapland
If you’re dreaming of the classic Arctic experience—crisp snow, howling winds, and the thrill of mushing your own team of huskies—this Husky Sled Ride with Hot Drink tour in Kemi-Tornio offers an authentic taste of Lapland. While I haven’t personally strapped into a sled myself, the reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of a truly memorable outing.
Two standout features catch our eye: first, the chance to drive your own 5 km sled over pristine frozen landscapes, and second, the opportunity to meet and interact with Alaskan huskies—the stars of the show. A small drawback might be the physical requirement for the driver — you need to be at least 18 and fit enough to handle the sled — but if you’re up for a bit of outdoor activity, this promises to be an unforgettable Arctic experience.
This tour suits those who love hands-on adventure, enjoy meeting animals, or simply want a genuine encounter with Lapland’s wilderness. Families, couples, or solo travelers eager for an active outdoor experience will find plenty to love here.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Authentic Husky Kennel Visit: Meet Alaskan huskies and learn about their daily lives.
- Self-Driving Sled Experience: Drive your own 5 km sled over frozen lands.
- All-Inclusive Gear: Warm clothing, shoes, gloves, and socks are provided.
- Relaxing Warm-up: Hot drinks are included after the ride.
- Small Group Size: Offers a more intimate, personalized experience.
- Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with no penalty.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kemi.
What makes this tour special?
This experience is designed to give you a genuine taste of Lapland’s outdoor life. From the moment you arrive at the safari house, the focus is on safety, comfort, and authentic interaction. You’ll be warmly dressed in all the gear needed to face the cold comfortably, which is especially appreciated when dealing with outdoor winter conditions. The transfer to the husky kennel is straightforward, and the staff is clear and friendly in explaining the safety instructions and guiding you through handling the sled.
What sets this apart is the self-driving aspect. Instead of simply riding along, you’ll take turns mushing, which is ideal for anyone who wants a bit of an adrenaline rush and a chance to learn the ropes of sled handling. The 5 km trail winds over frozen lands and swamps, offering stunning views of the untouched Arctic landscape—picturesque, quiet, and surprisingly peaceful.
After the ride, you get to pet and photograph the friendly huskies, which are clearly well-cared for and accustomed to visitors. The hot drink, often a warm berry juice or coffee, caps off the experience, providing a cozy moment after your outdoor exertion.
The Itinerary in Detail
The tour begins at the Sea Lapland Safaris safari house in Kemi, where you’ll meet your guide and gear up in warm winter clothing — including an overall, sturdy shoes, wool socks, and gloves. This gear is included in the price, which adds value that many travelers appreciate, especially if you’re traveling light.
Once suited up, you’ll hop into a vehicle for a short transfer to the husky kennel. The drive itself sets the tone, as you’re already thinking about the adventure ahead. Upon arrival, the staff will give you brief safety instructions, emphasizing how to handle the sled and work with the dogs.
The self-drive sled ride lasts approximately 2.5 hours in total, but the actual mushing over the 5 km trail is the highlight. You’ll share the sled with a partner, taking turns at the controls — a practical setup for two travelers wanting to experience the thrill. The trail runs through frozen wetlands and open landscapes, offering expansive views of Sea Lapland’s natural beauty.
Throughout the ride, you’ll enjoy the sense of freedom and connection that comes from controlling your own team of energetic huskies. The dogs are eager, friendly, and well-trained, making it a joy to watch them work. As one reviewer put it, the experience is “amazing,” which echoes what many others say about the genuine interaction with the animals.
After the sledding, you’ll regroup at the safari house with a warm drink in hand. Here, there’s ample time to pet the huskies and take photos with the dogs, capturing memories of your Arctic adventure. The staff often shares interesting stories about the dogs’ lives, making the experience not just fun but educational.
Analyzing the Value
At $221 per person, this tour might seem a bit pricey, but it’s important to consider what’s included: gear, transportation, the guided sled ride, and hot drinks. Given the physical effort involved, the high-quality equipment, and the opportunity to mush your own sled, many find it offers good value.
Compared to larger group tours or less interactive experiences, the small-group format enhances the feeling of authenticity and personal attention. The ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance adds flexibility, which is often lacking in winter excursions.
The fact that children can ride safely in the sled while the driver is at least 18 means families can enjoy this experience together — kids will love meeting the dogs and feeling the Arctic wind.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Reviews Speak Volumes
With all three reviews rating the experience a solid 5 out of 5, it’s clear that participants leave satisfied. One reviewer simply described their experience as “amazing,” highlighting the emotional impact of the ride and the interaction with the huskies. The knowledgeable guides and stunning views seem to be common threads in traveler feedback, emphasizing the quality of the organization and the scenery.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This adventure is perfect for travelers looking for a hands-on Arctic experience. If you enjoy outdoor activities, animal encounters, or want to try mushing without committing to a full dog-sledding expedition, this is a great option. It’s also suitable for those who want a short, manageable excursion that captures the essence of Lapland’s wilderness.
While physically demanding, it’s not extreme — so fit and adventurous travelers will get the most out of it. Families with children are welcome, as long as kids can ride safely in the sled. And if you’re traveling in winter, this unique activity offers a wonderful way to connect with the landscape and local culture.
Final Thoughts
This husky sled tour in Kemi-Tornio offers a genuine, interactive Arctic experience. The chance to drive your own sled across snow-covered landscapes and meet the energetic Alaskan huskies makes it stand out among Lapland excursions. The included gear, warm drinks, and friendly guides add to the overall value, making this not just a ride but a memorable encounter with Arctic wildlife and nature.
For anyone craving a hands-on outdoor adventure and the joy of working with sled dogs, this tour delivers a combination of thrill, authenticity, and scenic beauty. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want to feel the spirit of Lapland’s wilderness—and come away with stories worth sharing.
FAQs
Is the clothing provided suitable for the cold?
Yes, the tour includes a full set of warm winter gear, including overalls, shoes, wool socks, and gloves, designed to keep you comfortable in Arctic temperatures.
Can I share the sled with a partner?
Absolutely. The sled is designed for two people to share, with each taking turns at the controls. This allows both participants to experience the thrill of mushing.
What is the minimum age for drivers?
The driver must be at least 18 years old and physically able to handle the sled. Children can ride in the same sled as their parents.
How long does the sled ride last?
The self-driving sled ride covers approximately 5 km and lasts about 2.5 hours in total, including preparation and briefing time.
Is this activity suitable for families?
Yes, children can ride safely in the sled, making it a great family adventure. Just ensure they meet age and safety requirements.
What should I expect after the ride?
After sledding, you’ll have time to pet and take photos with the huskies and enjoy a warm drink, creating a cozy ending to your outdoor adventure.
This tour in Kemi-Tornio offers a well-rounded, engaging introduction to dog sledding in Lapland, perfect for those eager to experience the Arctic firsthand. It balances adventure, authentic animal encounters, and scenic beauty into a package that’s as memorable as it is enjoyable.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in Kemi
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- Kemi-Tornio: Sunset Snowmobile Safari
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- HaparandaTornio: heritage cruise to Old Kemi island
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- Kemi: Museum Tour
- Ii: Easy family-friendly ice fishing trip to the sea
- Icetrek to Old Kemi
- Kemi-Tornio: Husky Sled Ride with Hot Drink
- Kemi-Tornio: Night Safari on Snowmobiles
- Kemi-Tornio: Nature tour with snowshoes