Sunrise Zen Husky Tour (10:00 to 13:00 – sitting on the sled)

If you’re dreaming of a morning adventure in Swedish Lapland, the Sunrise Zen Husky Tour offers a serene and authentic way to start your day. Guided by experienced local operators, this tour combines the thrill of a dog sled ride with the peaceful beauty of the Arctic wilderness. With a perfect balance of adventure and comfort, it’s easy to see why it garners a perfect 5-star rating from those who’ve tried it.

What we really love about this experience is how intimate and well-organized it is — small groups ensure personal attention, and the opportunity to meet and care for the huskies makes it more than just a ride. Plus, the stunning dawn light over Lapland creates a picture-perfect backdrop that’s hard to beat. The only thing to consider is the price point—at around $248 per person, it’s an investment, but one that many say is absolutely worth it for the quality and authenticity.

This tour suits travelers who want an authentic Arctic experience that’s both fun and meaningful. If you’re a dog lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful moment in winter’s hush, this is a memorable choice.

Key Points

• Authentic husky sled experience set in the peaceful pre-dawn hours of Lapland
• Small group size (max 4 travelers) for a more personal, immersive adventure
• Opportunity to meet and care for the dogs, adding a friendly, hands-on element
• Includes warm gear, hot drinks, and snacks to keep you comfortable in the cold
• Scenic beauty of the Arctic wilderness with potential wildlife sightings like reindeer and moose
• Professional guides ensure safety and expert insights throughout the tour

An In-Depth Look at the Sunrise Zen Husky Tour

Starting Off: Early Morning Pickup and Preparation

The journey begins with a free pickup from your accommodation in Kiruna, making logistics one less thing to worry about. You’ll be transported to the roughly 17km away kennel, away from the crowds, setting the scene for a more authentic experience. Once there, you’ll change into warm, provided clothing, crucial for comfort in Lapland’s chilly temperatures, especially during a dawn outing.

The staff clearly prioritize safety and comfort, and their friendly, professional attitude is apparent from the start. As some reviews note, “the staff was lovely and very friendly,” which makes all the difference when you’re about to spend hours in the cold.

Meeting the Huskies: Friendly, Well-Handled Dogs

One of the highlights is meeting the 12-14 Alaskan Huskies. These dogs are described as “super friendly and well-behaved,” which is important for those who might be new to sledding or nervous around dogs. Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed helping to care for and prepare the dogs, like giving them treats or securing them after the ride. This adds a personal touch that transforms the experience from a simple ride into a shared adventure with these gentle, strong animals.

The dogs are clearly loved and well cared for, which is evident from the reviewers noting that “the dogs enjoy a royal life after retirement” and are “very social and happy.” This attention to animal welfare makes the experience feel more genuine and ethical.

The Sled Ride: Scenic, Peaceful, and Comfortable

The main event is a roughly 3-hour sled ride, with a shared sled accommodating four people. Sitting comfortably on the sled, you’re driven by an experienced guide through the Poikkijärvi Woods, an area chosen for its stunning scenery and lack of crowds.

We loved the way the dawn light sets the forest aglow with crystalized pastel colors, creating a truly breath-taking view. The ride is described as relaxing and scenic, not just adrenaline-pumping — perfect for those who want to absorb the Arctic’s tranquility. As one reviewer put it, “an experience made even more special by the quiet and the beauty of the wild paths in the forest,” with the chance of seeing reindeer or moose adding a touch of the wilderness’s unpredictability.

Caring for the Dogs and Connecting with Nature

After the ride, you’ll get the chance to treat the huskies with their favorite meat snacks, a thoughtful touch that many visitors appreciate. The guides often invite you to help secure the dogs back in their kennels, fostering a sense of involvement and connection.

Warming Up: Comfort and Hospitality

The tour culminates with a visit to a cozy fire hut, where you can enjoy a hot drink and snacks. Many reviews emphasize how warm and inviting this part of the experience is, providing a perfect contrast to the cold outside. The fire hut isn’t just a place to warm up—it’s a chance to share stories, reflect on the morning, and bond with fellow travelers in a relaxed setting.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Personal, Small-Group Experience

The limit of just four travelers per tour ensures you won’t feel like just another face in a crowd. This intimacy allows guides to provide more personalized insights about the dogs, the landscape, and local life. Reviewers frequently mention how “small groups” and “friendly staff” made the tour feel special.

Authentic Connection with the Huskies

Unlike larger commercial operations, this kennel emphasizes care and respect for the dogs, which translates into a more genuine experience. Meeting, feeding, and caring for the huskies makes you forget you’re just a tourist — you become part of a dog-powered adventure.

Scenic and Peaceful Setting

The choice of the Poikkijärvi Woods as the route’s centerpiece means you’ll be surrounded by pristine Lapland wilderness, with only the sounds of the snow crunching under the sled and the dogs’ paws. Several reviews note the “wild paths” and the potential for wildlife sightings, adding excitement to the tranquility.

Practical Details Enhance Value

The tour includes all necessary gear, so you don’t need to bring extra layers or worry about cold. Plus, the hot drinks and snacks are appreciated, especially considering the early start and outdoor conditions. At $248.10, many find the price justified by the quality of the experience, professional guidance, and the chance to interact closely with the dogs.

Reliability and Positive Feedback

Consistently rated 5 stars, this tour’s reviews highlight friendly guides and memorable moments. Travelers call it a “brilliant experience” and “an unforgettable morning,” which is a strong testament to its quality.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience appeals to nature lovers and dog enthusiasts seeking a peaceful, authentic Arctic adventure. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer small group settings and want to connect with local operators and animals rather than a mass-tour approach. Since children under six aren’t recommended due to cold temperatures, it suits those with slightly older kids or adults looking for a quiet, reflective morning.

If you’re after high-energy adrenaline, you might prefer a different, more intense sledding experience. However, if you want a calm, scenic ride that combines the beauty of Lapland with the companionship of friendly huskies, this tour fits perfectly.

The Sum Up

The Sunrise Zen Husky Tour offers an authentic glimpse into Arctic life, blending breathtaking scenery with the charm of huskies and the quiet of the early morning wilderness. The small-group approach means you won’t feel rushed or just another ticket sale — every moment feels personal. The opportunity to meet and care for the dogs adds a layer of connection that many travelers cherish long after they return home.

While the price might seem steep to some, the quality of guides, the stunning views, and the genuine care for the animals make it a worthwhile investment for anyone wanting a memorable Arctic experience. It suits those who value authenticity, tranquility, and connection with nature and animals.

If your goal is to witness the Arctic at dawn while cuddling a team of happy, well-cared-for huskies, this tour delivers on every front. It’s a peaceful, beautiful, and meaningful way to start a day in Lapland.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free pickup from your accommodation in Kiruna, simplifying logistics and making the entire experience more seamless.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 3 hours, from pickup to drop-off, with the sled ride itself lasting around that time.

Can I participate if I’ve never been sledding before?
Absolutely. The tour is designed for all levels, with guides handling the sled and ensuring safety. The focus is on enjoying the scenery and the company of the dogs.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing is provided, but it’s a good idea to bring extra layers, especially warm hats, gloves, and face covers — the reviews suggest bringing face/eye protection for the cold.

Are children under 6 allowed?
No, children under 6 are not recommended due to the low temperatures and safety considerations.

What’s included in the price?
All necessary cold-weather gear, hot drinks, snacks, and the guiding services are included. The small group size enhances the personal touch.

This husky tour near Kiruna promises a peaceful, authentic Arctic adventure that’s perfect for those seeking scenic beauty, animal companionship, and a touch of local magic.