Saariselkä: Husky Safari with Aurora Borealis Hunt

Imagine gliding through silent, snow-covered forests pulled along by a team of Siberian huskies, with the night sky flickering with the Northern Lights overhead. That’s exactly what this Husky Safari with Aurora Borealis Hunt offers — a chance to experience the Arctic wilderness in a way that feels both authentic and exhilarating. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but from detailed reviews and the itinerary, it’s clear this activity balances adventure, comfort, and that touch of magic that makes Lapland so special.

What we love about this experience? First, the extended husky ride offers a genuine feel of what it’s like to be pulled by a team of energetic dogs through pristine forests. Second, the Northern Lights hunt combines the thrill of a night-time adventure with the chance of catching that elusive aurora. The only possible drawback? It’s a self-driven sled, so you need to be comfortable with handling the reins — which might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility restrictions or injuries. But if you’re someone who loves outdoor pursuits and authentic Arctic encounters, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

This experience is best suited for adventure-minded travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, are comfortable in cold weather, and want a deeper connection with the landscape and wildlife of Lapland. It’s also ideal for those seeking a small-group, personalized experience since participation is limited to just 10 people.

Key Points

• Authentic husky experience with approximately 8 km of sledding through Arctic forests.
• Northern Lights hunting in a cozy tipi with a warm drink, increasing your chances to see the aurora.
• Thermal clothing provided, but bring your own warm layers and accessories.
• Pickup and transportation included, making logistics easier in Saariselkä.
• Self-driven sleds require some comfort with managing reins; guides monitor from snowmobiles.
• Limited group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Husky Safari

Setting the Scene: From Saariselkä to the Wilderness

Your journey begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Saariselkä, with options at key locations like Holiday Club Saariselkä, Valo Finland, or Lapland Hotels Riekonlinna. The transport to the Wilderness Center takes about 20 minutes, giving you just enough time to get excited about the adventure ahead. This setup is thoughtful — it cuts down on logistical worries and allows you to focus on the experience.

Once at the Husky Farm, you’re greeted by your Husky Guide, who will give a safety briefing and instructions on how to handle your sled. The staff provides thermal overalls, boots, and gloves — essential gear for staying warm in the sub-zero temperatures. You’re encouraged to bring your own warm clothes, hat, and gloves too, as weather conditions can change unexpectedly.

The Husky Ride: A Genuine Arctic Experience

The highlight of the tour is the approximate 8 km sled ride through snow-laden forests. Unlike guided tours where someone else does the driving, this one is self-driven, putting you in charge of your sled. The guide remains close, monitoring from a snowmobile, ready to step in if needed. This setup appeals to those who want more than just a passenger experience; it’s about feeling the power of the dogs and navigating the trail yourself.

The dogs are Siberian huskies — energetic, friendly, and incredibly well-trained. They thrive in cold weather and are accustomed to pulling sleds through the Arctic landscape. We loved the way the dogs eagerly responded to commands, adding a sense of teamwork and connection to the ride. That said, if you’re not confident managing a sled or have mobility issues, it’s worth noting that a driver can be arranged for an extra fee, but this should be arranged in advance.

Scenic Beauty and Authenticity

As you glide through the snow-draped pines, you’ll notice how quiet and peaceful it is — a stark contrast to busy cities. The night sky above is often clear, and if luck’s on your side, you might catch a shimmering display of the Northern Lights. Several reviews mention the “stunning views” and how the Northern Lights added an almost surreal glow to the experience, making it unforgettable.

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The Cozy Tipi Break

After the sledding, you’ll have a chance to rest in a traditional tipi with a fireplace. Here, you can enjoy a warm drink while chatting with your guide and fellow travelers. This moment of warmth and relaxation is crucial, especially after the cold ride. It’s also your best chance to spot the aurora borealis if it hadn’t appeared earlier — the tipi’s location away from light pollution gives a good vantage.

Logistics and Practicalities

The entire tour lasts about 3 hours, including transportation, briefing, sledding, and the tipi break. The group is limited to 10 participants, which makes for a more personalized and less rushed experience. You’ll want to dress warmly — layers, hat, gloves — because Arctic temperatures can drop unexpectedly.

The tour costs $295 per person, which puts it in a moderate range considering the length and authentic nature of the experience. The inclusion of thermal clothing, transportation, and a warm drink enhances the value, especially since booking multiple activities separately could quickly add up.

Reviews and Real-World Impressions

Hearing from others adds depth to our understanding. One reviewer, Harumi, called this “a must-do activity” and appreciated the close proximity to Saariselkä and Ivalo — meaning less travel time and more time on the snow. She praised the ability to enjoy the Finnish forest and the Northern Lights — emphasizing how the scenery and the experience make this tour stand out.

Another reviewer highlighted the longer sled ride compared to other options, suggesting that the extended time is a real plus — giving you a more genuine feel of what it’s like to work with the huskies over a longer stretch.

Considerations for Travelers

While the experience is generally well-reviewed, it’s important to remember that you need to be physically fit, especially since you are self-driving your sled. The no shortcuts policy means you’re out in the wilderness for the duration, so prepare for varying weather conditions and potentially cold wind. Also, you should inform the provider if you’re unable to drive due to injury or other reasons; arrangements can be made, but with an additional fee.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This husky safari offers a genuine Arctic adventure, blending the thrill of mushing with the serene beauty of snow-covered forests. It’s perfect if you’re a traveler seeking authentic experiences rather than a touristy ride — you’ll get close to the dogs, feel part of the landscape, and have a real shot at witnessing the Northern Lights in an intimate setting.

The small group size and personalized guide ensure you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd. Plus, the combination of adventure and comfort — thermal clothing, a warm tipi, and transport included — makes this a well-rounded choice for Arctic explorers.

If you’re not comfortable with managing a sled yourself, consider the optional driver arrangement, but for many, the self-driven aspect adds to the fun and sense of achievement. It’s a chance to connect with the landscape and animals in a way few other Arctic activities offer.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
You get thermal clothing (overalls, boots, gloves), roundtrip transportation from Saariselkä, husky sled driving and safety instructions, an approximately 8 km husky ride, and a warm drink.

Are the thermal clothes enough to stay warm?
The thermal clothing provided helps a lot, but you should also bring your own warm clothes, hat, and gloves because weather can change quickly and feeling comfortable is key.

Can I drive the sled myself?
Yes, the tour is designed as self-driven sleds, with instructions provided. If you can’t drive due to injury or other reasons, you should inform the tour operator in advance — an additional driver can be arranged for a fee.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts around 3 hours, including transportation, briefing, sledding, and the tipi stop.

What should I wear for this activity?
Layered clothing, warm hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes are recommended. The provided thermal clothing will help, but dressing warmly is always better.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 11 years old, mainly due to the physical nature of sledding and safety considerations.

What if the Northern Lights don’t appear?
While the tipi break offers a good chance to see the aurora, weather and solar activity determine visibility. The tour is designed to maximize your chances, but natural phenomena can’t be guaranteed.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and roundtrip transport from designated Saariselkä locations are included, making it convenient to focus on the experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change.

Final Thoughts

This huskies and Northern Lights tour presents a compelling mix of adventure, authenticity, and Arctic magic. It’s a standout for those who want to drive their own sled and enjoy the quiet beauty of Lapland’s winter wilderness. The added chance of catching the aurora borealis makes it even more special — an experience that can become a highlight of any trip to Finnish Lapland.

The small group size and thoughtful logistics help create a comfortable yet immersive experience, especially for those eager to connect with the landscape and animals. While some may prefer a guided sled, many will find that managing their own team of huskies adds a memorable element of accomplishment.

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or simply seeking a chance to witness the Northern Lights in a genuine setting, this tour offers a well-balanced introduction to Lapland’s wintry charm. It’s a fantastic way to spend an evening in the Arctic, with memories that will last far beyond the snow.

You can check availability for your dates here: