Kiruna: Guided Afternoon Drive Your Own Dog Sled Tour

Key Points

• Duration: 4 hours of outdoor adventure in Kiruna, Sweden
• Experience: Drive your own dog sled through snow-covered Lapland countryside
• Guides: Expert guides provide safety instructions and share insights about huskies and Lapland
• Highlights: Sunset views, polar night atmosphere, handling well-trained huskies
• Inclusions: Warm clothing, shoes, and a traditional Swedish Fika in a Nordic tent
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants for a personalized experience

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Kiruna: Guided Afternoon Dog Sled Tour in Swedish Lapland

The Kiruna: Guided Afternoon Drive Your Own Dog Sled Tour offers an authentic way to explore the snowy wilderness of Norrbotten County, Sweden. With a 4-hour duration, this tour is perfect for those looking to experience traditional dog sledding in a compact, well-organized outing. It departs from Malmvägen 9B, the Kiruna Lapland Tourist center, and features a small group size, limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention from expert guides.

This tour costs price details are not specified, but what stands out is the inclusion of warm winter clothing and shoes—a practical benefit for those visiting in colder months. The tour is suitable for most people under 95 years old, but not for anyone older. Pickup is included from specific Kiruna locations, with punctuality usually observed, though pickups can occur up to 10 minutes after the scheduled start time.

Sledding Through the Snow-Laden Swedish Lapland Countryside

Participants get the chance to barrel through snow-covered terrain along the Kalix River. The experience is centered on handling the huskies and driving your own sled, a sustainable form of transportation dating back to 1980 BC. As you glide through the white wilderness, you’ll notice stunning sunset views and the peaceful ambiance of the polar night.

The snowy landscape is a key highlight, with the sparkling scenery lit by the fading daylight. The guided route offers a chance to observe the Lapland countryside in a dynamic and exhilarating way, giving a real sense of connection with nature and the traditional methods of travel used by Sami people.

Meeting the Huskies at Kalixforsbron

The tour begins at Kalixforsbron, where you meet the well-trained huskies and get dressed in warm winter gear provided on-site. The guides perform a detailed safety briefing and demonstrate how to harness and handle the dogs before setting off into the snowy landscape.

Handling the huskies is made accessible for beginners, with clear instructions, making this activity ideal for first-timers. The guide’s expertise ensures a safe and enjoyable experience, and the dogs’ care is evident from the warmth and attention given to them. After the sledding segment, you’ll enjoy a rest next to an open fire inside a Nordic tent, where the experience continues with a traditional Swedish Fika.

The Joy of Driving Your Own Dog Sled

The core of this experience is the opportunity to take the reins yourself. Travelers are taught how to handle and harness the dogs before setting off. The well-trained huskies are eager to pull, and working together with them creates a sense of teamwork and accomplishment.

Participants take turns steering the sled, sharing the experience so everyone has a chance to drive or sit back. The guides remain close, ensuring safety and sharing interesting insights about the dogs and Lapland’s wildlife and culture. The rhythm of the sled and the soundscape of barking huskies add to the adventure’s authenticity.

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Warming Up with Swedish Fika and Open Fire

After the exhilarating sled ride, the tour includes a cozy break next to an open fire inside a Nordic tent. Here, traditional Swedish Fika is served—typically a hot drink and biscuits—creating a perfect moment to relax and reflect on the experience.

The Fika offers a genuine taste of local culture, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the excursion. The warmth from both the fire and the friendly guides makes this a memorable part of the journey, especially under the polar night sky.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

Booking this tour is flexible, with options for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, giving flexibility to plans. The activity’s live guide communicates in English, making it accessible for international visitors.

The tour duration is 4 hours, with start times available depending on the day. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the pickup service is convenient for those staying within Kiruna town. It’s important to note that pickup is not available outside Kiruna or from the Icehotel, so transport arrangements should be considered in advance.

Practical Tips for Participants

Travelers should bring warm clothing, a camera to capture the stunning scenery, and a scarf for extra comfort in the cold. Since two participants share one sled, they will take turns steering and sitting, which keeps the experience interactive.

The activity is not suitable for individuals over 95 years old, but most other ages should find it accessible, provided they are comfortable in winter conditions. The provided gear and clear instructions make this activity manageable even for beginners.

What Reviewers Highlight Most Positively

Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, who are described as friendly, caring, and well-educated about the dogs and the area. The dogs receive constant praise for being well cared for and friendly, adding to the tour’s authenticity.

The scenery and overall experience consistently earn high marks, with travelers noting the beautiful landscape and sunset views. The inclusion of hot drinks and biscuits after sledding appears to be a well-appreciated feature, providing a warm end to the adventure.

The Unique Appeal of This Tour

What sets this experience apart is the focus on self-driving the husky sled, giving a hands-on feel not always available in similar tours. The combination of outdoor activity, wildlife interaction, and culture makes it especially appealing for those seeking an authentic Arctic adventure.

Plus, the small group setting and expert guides promise a personalized, safe environment, perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to try dog sledding.

Limitations and Considerations

While the gear provided keeps participants warm, one review mentions that movement can be limited, making it feel quite cold during the ride itself. Dressing in additional layers is recommended for comfort.

Pickup limitations mean travelers outside Kiruna town will need additional transportation. Also, the activity is not suitable for those over 95 years old, so it’s better suited for most healthy participants.

Final Thoughts on the Kiruna Dog Sledding Adventure

The Kiruna: Guided Afternoon Drive Your Own Dog Sled Tour offers a genuine, well-organized way to experience Lapland’s winter wilderness. The hands-on sledding, stunning scenery, and warm Swedish Fika combine to create an authentic Arctic adventure that appeals to outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.

The small group size ensures intimacy, while the expert guides make safety and learning a priority. With high ratings, especially for guides and scenery, this tour remains a top choice for those wanting to try dog sledding in Sweden.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 4 hours, including sledding, safety briefing, and the Fika break.

What is included in the price?
Participants receive warm winter clothing and shoes, plus hot drinks and biscuits after the ride.

Can I drive the sled myself?
Yes, the activity is designed so that you can take the reins, with guides explaining how to handle the huskies.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most participants under 95 years old can join, and the experience is generally family-friendly.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, a camera, and a scarf for added protection against the cold.

Are the huskies well cared for?
Absolutely—reviews repeatedly emphasize how well-treated and friendly the dogs are.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Malmvägen 9B, the Kiruna Lapland Tourist center.

Is pickup available outside Kiruna town?
No, pickup is limited to certain locations within Kiruna.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for seniors?
It is not recommended for anyone over 95 years old.

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