Kiruna: Northern Lights Dog Sled Tour with Swedish Fika

If you’re dreaming of witnessing the Northern Lights while feeling the thrill of a dog sled ride, this tour offers an authentic taste of Lapland’s winter wonderland. We’ve looked into this experience carefully, and it seems to strike a wonderful balance between adventure, comfort, and cultural charm.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines the raw beauty of the Arctic wilderness—crisp snow, huskies eager to run—with cozy moments like warming up with Swedish fika. Plus, the included winter gear and free transfers add a layer of convenience that makes it accessible even for those new to cold-weather adventures. One thing to consider: the 2.5-hour duration is fairly short, so if you’re craving a longer sledding experience, you might want to explore other options. But for a taste of Arctic magic, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a well-organized, authentic, and camera-worthy outing. It’s suitable for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and are comfortable in winter gear, but not for very young children, pregnant women, or anyone with back problems. If you’re visiting Kiruna and want a memorable Arctic highlight, this dog sled tour offers a genuine glimpse into the Lapland lifestyle.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Ride a dog sled pulled by lively Alaskan Huskies through snowy landscapes.
• Comfort and Convenience: Winter gear and boots are provided, along with free transfers within 20 km.
• Cultural Touch: Enjoy a cozy Swedish fika (warm drink and cookies) during a short break.
• Photographic Opportunities: Keep your camera handy for Northern Lights and stunning winter scenery.
• Time-Efficient: At 2.5 hours, it’s a manageable experience for most travelers.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for older children but not recommended for those under 2, pregnant women, or with back issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Northern Lights Dog Sled Tour

When considering whether this tour is right for you, it’s important to understand what it includes and what you can expect from start to finish. The adventure begins with a free transfer from your hotel within a 20-kilometer radius of the kennel in Kiruna. This small but thoughtful touch means you won’t need to worry about finding your way to the starting point in the early morning or late evening. Just provide your hotel name, be ready 5-10 minutes early, and the transport will take care of the rest.

Once at the kennel, you’ll be warmly welcomed and fitted in warm winter clothing and sturdy boots. This is crucial, given how biting the cold can be, especially when you’re sitting on a sled or standing still for photos. The gear feels comfortable but effective, helping you stay warm during your approximately 2.5-hour excursion.

The core of the experience is sitting on a dog sled pulled by energetic Alaskan Huskies. You’ll have the opportunity to climb aboard and feel the power of the dogs as they glide across the snow. The route takes you through the pristine wilderness surrounding Kiruna, with snow-laden trees and glittering ice forming a picture-perfect Arctic backdrop.

The guide, speaking excellent English, will provide insight into the dogs, sledding techniques, and the landscape. While the focus is on enjoying the ride, you might also want to stay alert for the chance to catch the spectacle of the Northern Lights overhead. If the Aurora appears, you’ll have plenty of chances to snap photos and marvel at the celestial display, which is the real highlight of Arctic winter nights.

Midway through, you’ll pause at a cozy cabin for a Swedish fika—a warm drink and cookies. This short break offers a chance to rest, chat, and soak in the serene surroundings. Many reviews mention how charming and authentic this moment feels, emphasizing the warmth and hospitality of Lapland culture. The cabin is heated and welcoming, a stark contrast to the outdoor cold.

After the break, you’ll hop back onto the sled for a short return trip under the moonlit sky, with snow shining softly under star and moonlight. The entire experience is designed to be both exhilarating and relaxing, giving you a full sensory immersion in the Arctic environment.

The Value of This Tour

The price includes not just the ride, but also the winter clothing and boots, which is a significant plus—we’ve all been on excursions where we wished we’d brought warmer gear. Plus, the free transfer within 20 km makes it easier to plan your day without added transportation stress. The short duration makes it a perfect sampler for those with limited time or looking for an introduction to dog sledding.

Based on reviews, travelers appreciate the professionalism and friendliness of the guides. One comment notes that the guide was “friendly, informative, and made us feel safe,” which adds to the overall comfort level. Another mentions how the Huskies are lively and well-cared-for, making the ride not just about the scenery but also about connecting with these spirited animals.

While the tour doesn’t include a full meal, the cozy fika in the warmth of the cabin makes up for it by providing a comforting, cultural touchstone after the outdoor adventure. If you’re craving a longer or more intense sledding experience, you might look for other options, but for a half-day intro, this tour delivers a good balance of adventure, culture, and comfort.

Practical Tips for Participants

Dress in layers—the cold can be biting, especially once the sun sets. Comfortable, thermal underlayers plus a good insulated coat will keep you cozy. Don’t forget water—staying hydrated is still important in cold weather.

Arrive punctually at the pickup point, prepared for outdoor conditions. The tour is not suitable for young children under 2, pregnant women, or those with back problems, given the physical nature of sitting on a sled and the cold environment.

If you’re hoping to photograph the Northern Lights, bring a camera with good low-light capabilities and be ready to be patient. The guide will point out the best moments, but Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity.

The Sum Up

This dog sled tour near Kiruna offers an authentic Arctic adventure, combining the excitement of mushing with the cozy charm of Swedish fika. It’s ideal for travelers who want a manageable, well-organized experience that captures the essence of Lapland’s winter magic without requiring a full day or complicated logistics.

The inclusion of winter gear, free transfers, and friendly guides makes it a convenient option, especially for those new to Arctic excursions. While it’s not an all-day or ultra-intensive sledding tour, it provides a memorable snapshot of the region’s natural beauty and the thrill of husky-powered travel.

If you’re looking to experience the Northern Lights in a fun, safe, and comfortable setting, this tour is likely to meet and even exceed your expectations. It’s a solid choice whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family (older children), craving a genuine taste of Lapland’s winter wilderness.

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FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides free transfers within a 20 km radius of the kennel in Kiruna. Just provide your hotel name when booking, and be ready at the hotel lobby 5-10 minutes before the scheduled pickup.

What should I wear?
You’ll be provided with winter clothes and boots, but it’s recommended to wear layers underneath—thermal underwear, a warm sweater, and a waterproof coat will keep you comfortable in the cold.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 2.5 hours, including the ride, break, and transfer time. The sledding itself is around that length, offering a good balance for most travelers.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
While the Northern Lights are a highlight, sightings depend on weather and solar activity. If visible, your guide will help you capture photos and enjoy the spectacular display.

Is this suitable for children?
It’s suitable for children over a certain age, but not for children under 2 years old. Also, those with back problems or pregnant women are advised to consider other options, as sitting on a sled for a while can be physically demanding.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring water and dress warmly in layers. The provided gear will cover you outdoors, but personal preferences for additional warmth or camera equipment are up to you.

This tour is an accessible and authentic way to experience the Arctic’s husky-powered magic. Whether you’re after a memorable photo of the Northern Lights or a fun outdoor adventure, it offers genuine Lapland charm at a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here: