Saariselkä: Husky Safari with kennel visit

If you’re dreaming of a winter escape in Lapland, a husky safari might just be the coolest way to experience the Arctic wilderness. This tour, offered by Arctic Timetravels, promises a 4-hour journey filled with snowy landscapes, energetic dogs, and a chance to step into the boots of a real musher. For those considering it, you’ll find plenty to love — from the excitement of driving your own sled to the heartwarming interactions with the huskies.

Of course, there are a few things to keep in mind. The journey involves a fair bit of travel to reach the starting point, and the experience is best suited for those comfortable with winter outdoor activities and age restrictions. But if you’re after an authentic, hands-on husky experience with knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, this trip has a lot to offer.

This experience is perfect for outdoor lovers, dog enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a genuine taste of Lapland’s wilderness. It combines adventure, education, and the chance to meet some very adorable furry friends — all wrapped up in a well-organized package.

Key Points

• Authentic husky mushing: Drive your own sled through scenic snowy terrain.
• Kennel visit: Get up close and personal with the dogs, learning their stories.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, passionate guides share stories and safety tips.
• Convenient transportation: Roundtrip pickup from Saariselkä and Ivalo simplifies logistics.
• Limited group size: Small groups (max 8) ensure personal attention and better interaction.
• Value for money: At $226 per person, including gear, transport, and a kennel visit, the experience offers solid value given the duration and authenticity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins with a pick-up service from your hotel in Saariselkä or Ivalo, which we found to be very convenient. The provided transportation takes you about 45 minutes north to Veskoniemi, where the husky farm is located. This travel time is worth it — it gives you a sense of leaving behind the resort area and entering the true Arctic scenery.

The vehicle ride itself offers glimpses of the snowy wilderness, building anticipation for what’s to come. It’s a good chance to get cozy and ask your guide questions about the day ahead.

Arrival and Safety Briefing

Once at the kennel, you’re greeted by passionate guides who provide a 15-minute safety briefing. This part is crucial — they cover how to control the sled, what to expect, and some fun stories about the huskies’ lives. The small group size (limited to 8 participants) means you’ll get personalized attention, which is appreciated when handling a sled for the first time.

Mushing Through the Snow

The core of this experience is an 8-10 km sled ride. You’ll be paired with a partner and take turns driving the sled, or if you prefer, one person can drive the entire time. For many, the thrill of mushing your own team of dogs is the highlight — balancing the sled, steering through the snow, and feeling the power of the dogs beneath you.

The guides are attentive and will provide step-by-step instructions, ensuring even first-timers feel confident. We loved the way guides shared stories about the dogs’ lives and personalities, making the experience more meaningful than just a ride.

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Kennel Visit and Playtime

After the ride, you’ll visit the small but well-cared-for kennel. Here, you can interact with the huskies, petting and playing with these energetic animals. Reviewers consistently highlight how friendly and healthy the dogs appear, and the focus on quality over quantity means you won’t be overwhelmed by too many animals.

This interaction is not only fun but enhances your understanding of these working dogs, their training, and their importance in Arctic life. Many guests appreciated the stories shared about each dog, which made the experience heartfelt.

Warm Drinks and Reflection

The tour concludes with a chance to warm up in a kota (Lappish hut), enjoying a hot drink. It’s a cozy setting to rest, reflect on the ride, and chat with guides about the dogs or the Arctic environment. The hot beverage and the tranquil snow-covered surroundings provide a perfect wind-down.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The itinerary is straightforward but thoughtfully structured to maximize your experience:

• Pickup and transfer: About 1 hour total each way, giving you scenic views en route.
• Safety briefing: 15 minutes, focusing on sled control and safety.
• Sledding: Approximately 40 minutes, covering 8-10 km of snowy trails.
• Kennel visit: An hour spent playing with and learning about the huskies.
• Break and hot drink: Additional time to relax and absorb the Arctic atmosphere.
• Return transfer: About 1 hour back to your hotel.

While travel time is considerable, reviewers mention that the long drive is “no problem” because of the scenic beauty and the well-organized schedule.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $226, you get a comprehensive package: the sled ride, kennel visit, instructions, hot drink, and transportation. The gear, including warm overalls (if requested in advance), helps you stay comfortable even in the cold, which is vital considering how the Arctic can be brisk.

However, food and additional drinks are not included, so bringing a snack or extra water if you wish is advisable. The tour emphasizes the outdoor experience, so dressing warmly with proper outdoor clothing is a must.

Authenticity and Quality

The reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, highlighting their passion and willingness to share stories about the dogs and the Arctic environment. Guests particularly appreciate the small group size, which fosters a more intimate and engaging experience.

Many reviewers mention that the dogs are well cared for and clearly enjoy running, which alleviates concerns about animal welfare. The focus on quality over quantity ensures that visitors aren’t just riding a commercialized show; they’re participating in a genuine, heartfelt adventure.

Why It Stands Out

This tour’s emphasis on personal interaction, scenic beauty, and learning about husky life sets it apart from more generic rides. The ability to drive your own sled makes it a memorable adventure, especially for first-timers or those seeking an active Arctic experience.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is suited for outdoor enthusiasts comfortable in cold weather, families with children over 4 years old, and dog lovers eager for a hands-on encounter. Teenagers over 16 can take the wheel, adding an element of independence.

It’s a good choice if you want a meaningful connection with the Arctic landscape and its working dogs, and if you appreciate guides who are passionate and knowledgeable.

Considerations

If you’re not comfortable handling outdoor winter gear or if travel times are a concern, this might be less ideal. Also, those with allergies to animals should note that this experience involves close contact with huskies.

Final Thoughts

The Saariselkä husky safari offers a balance of adventure, education, and authentic Arctic charm. The opportunity to drive your own sled through snow-laden forests, combined with a warm kennel visit, provides a deeply engaging experience that even seasoned travelers find rewarding.

At a fair price, this experience delivers more than just a ride — it’s a chance to connect with Lapland’s iconic huskies and the stunning winter landscape that defines this region. Whether you’re a dog lover or simply seeking a genuine Arctic adventure, this tour offers a memorable, well-organized day out.

For those looking to experience the true spirit of Lapland, especially in a small group setting, this husky safari is a superb choice.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from Saariselkä or Ivalo is included, making it easy and hassle-free to reach the start point.

How long is the sled ride?
The sledding portion lasts about 40 minutes, covering roughly 8-10 km along snowy trails.

Can children participate?
Children over 4 years old can join with parental supervision. Kids under 12 participate as passengers, while teenagers over 16 can drive the sled.

What should I wear?
Warm outdoor clothing is essential — think thermal layers, waterproof jackets, and sturdy boots. Overalls are available if requested in advance.

What’s the focus of the kennel visit?
You’ll meet and play with the huskies, learning about their lives and how they’re cared for. The focus is on quality, with a small group to enhance interaction.

Is the experience suitable for people with animal allergies?
No, because it involves close contact with huskies.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

In sum, the Saariselkä husky safari with kennel visit offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s winter life, combining adventure, education, and heartfelt interaction. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking an authentic, small-group Arctic experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: