Rovaniemi: Daytime Husky Safari

The Rovaniemi: Daytime Husky Safari offers a genuine taste of Arctic adventure in Lapland, Finland, for $202 per person. With a duration of 2 hours, this tour combines a 20-30 minute husky sled ride of around 5 km with an engaging kennel visit. The experience includes winter clothing and transfers, making it accessible even in cold temperatures. The guided tour in English ensures clear explanations and safety, while hot drinks and biscuits by the campfire add cozy comfort after the ride. This tour is especially suitable for those wanting a hands-on husky experience and an introduction to the Lappish wilderness, though it’s important to arrive on time at the designated meeting point.

While some reviews highlight a slightly higher price compared to similar activities, the quality of the guides, the care for the huskies, and the opportunity to drive your own sled make it feel like good value. The tour’s small group setting and focus on genuine interaction with the dogs add a personal touch that many travelers appreciate. For anyone seeking an authentic, well-organized husky adventure in Lapland, this experience offers both fun and education in a stunning winter landscape.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $202 per person for a 2-hour experience that includes a 20-30 minute sled ride.
• Location and Meeting Point: Starts at the Safartica Office in Rovaniemi; pickup is included, and punctuality is important.
• Includes Winter Gear: Warm clothing, boots, and overalls are provided for comfort in Arctic weather.
• Experience Highlights: Hands-on sled driving for two persons per team, an informative kennel visit, and storytelling about the huskies.
• Post-Ride Comfort: Hot drinks and biscuits around the campfire create a warm finish to the excursion.
• Excellent Reviews: Consistently praised for knowledgeable guides, friendly dogs, and beautiful scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Meeting Point and Logistics in Rovaniemi

The tour begins at the Safartica Office (Koskikatu 9), with specific pickup times based on the scheduled departure—9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, or 1:00 PM. It is crucial to arrive at least one hour before the activity starts to avoid missing the experience, as the tour begins once the group is ready. Transfers are included from the meeting point, but note that time spent in transfers does not count toward the actual 2-hour safari duration.

For those requiring different pickup locations, prior arrangement is possible during booking. Changes or missed pickups will result in missed safaris, which are non-refundable.

The Husky Sled Ride Experience

The main activity involves driving a sled pulled by Alaskan huskies, with two persons per team. The 20-30 minute ride covers around 5 km of scenic Lapland wilderness, including forest trails and Arctic landscapes. Children typically ride in a separate sledge, allowing families to enjoy the adventure together.

The guide demonstrates how to steer the sled, ensuring participants feel confident during the ride. Some reviews mention the option to swap drivers mid-ride, which adds flexibility and fun. The terrain varies, with some riders praising the longer routes through woods and over frozen lakes, making the journey visually captivating.

Visiting the Husky Kennel and Learning About the Dogs

Before the ride, visitors are welcomed at the husky kennel, where guides share stories and facts about the dogs. This part of the experience is well-organized and offers the chance to interact with the huskies. Many comments highlight the friendly, well-cared-for dogs and the informative nature of the guides, who carefully explain the huskies’ breeding, care, and personalities.

Post-ride, there is usually time to pet the dogs, although some reviews suggest more opportunities for interaction would be appreciated. The kennel visit emphasizes the small, family-run operation that prioritizes animal welfare.

Weather Preparedness and Clothing

The tour provides winter clothing, boots, and overalls to help guests stay warm despite temperatures that can reach -10°C or colder. Reviewers recommend bringing extra warm socks and gloves for especially cold days, as wind chill can make conditions more intense. The clothing offered is generally praised for being sufficient to keep participants comfortable during the sled ride.

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Guides and Personal Attention

Guides are noted for their knowledge, friendliness, and patience. Many reviews mention guides like Mario and Artemis as particularly helpful and engaging. They answer questions, ensure safety, and make the experience enjoyable, whether by sharing stories or providing clear instructions.

The tour runs smoothly, with small group sizes allowing for a more personalized experience. Guides take care to explain each step, from fitting gear to driving the sled, making it accessible for first-timers.

Scenic Arctic Wilderness and Photo Opportunities

Many travelers highlight the beautiful landscape encountered during the sled ride. Forest trails, open lakes, and snow-covered trees provide a stunning backdrop for photos. The longer route through the woods and over frozen lakes is frequently praised for its picturesque views, making this a great activity for capturing memorable moments.

Some reviews mention the sunset lighting adding to the scenery, enhancing the overall visual experience. The environment is quiet and peaceful, with the absence of noise emphasizing the tranquility of the Arctic.

Post-Ride Relaxation and Hot Drinks

After the sled ride, participants gather around a campfire to enjoy hot drinks and biscuits. This cozy moment allows for relaxing conversations, sharing impressions, and learning more about the huskies from guides. The warmth and hospitality help round out the experience, especially after being outdoors in the cold.

Some reviews suggest that additional options, such as food or snacks in the hut, could further enhance the experience, though the included hot drinks are generally well received.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Husky Activities

This small-scale operation differs from larger husky farms by focusing on personal interaction and driving your own sled rather than just riding as a passenger. Travelers frequently mention the length of the ride and the quality of the dogs as key advantages.

While the activity is slightly more expensive than some alternatives, many feel it offers excellent value given the quality of guides, the authenticity of the experience, and the care for the husky team.

Who Will Love This Adventure?

This tour is ideal for adventurers seeking a hands-on experience in Lapland’s wilderness, especially those interested in driving their own sled. Families, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate personalized attention and beautiful scenery will find it rewarding. The small group size makes it perfect for those wanting a more intimate encounter with the huskies and guides.

It is, however, important to arrive on time and be prepared for cold weather. The activity suits those comfortable with outdoor winter conditions and eager to learn about and interact with friendly, well-cared-for huskies.

Final Thoughts on the Rovaniemi Husky Safari

The Rovaniemi: Daytime Husky Safari offers a well-organized, authentic Arctic adventure that combines driving a sled with a kennel visit and scenic views. The tour’s emphasis on small groups and personal interaction with the dogs makes for a memorable experience. The inclusion of warm gear and hot drinks ensures comfort, even in Arctic cold.

While the price is slightly higher than some alternatives, the quality of guides, the beautiful landscapes, and the care for the huskies justify the cost. This tour is especially suited for those wanting a genuine sled-driving experience and a meaningful connection with the dogs that pull you through Lapland’s winter wonderland.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is included in the tour?
  The experience includes winter clothing, transfers, a kennel visit, a husky sled ride of about 5 km, and hot drinks with biscuits.

• How long does the entire tour last?
  The total duration is 2 hours, with 20-30 minutes of actual sled riding.

• What is the meeting point?
  The tour starts at the Safartica Office (Koskikatu 9) in Rovaniemi, with pickup included. Punctuality is essential.

• Can children participate?
  Yes, children can enjoy the sled ride, often riding in a separate sledge, and are included in the overall experience.

• What should I wear?
  The tour provides winter clothing; however, it’s advisable to bring extra warm socks and gloves for added warmth.

• Is the experience suitable for beginners?
  Yes, guides demonstrate how to steer the sled, making it accessible for first-time mushers.

• Are the huskies friendly?
  Absolutely, the dogs are well looked after, friendly, and eager to participate in the ride.

• What makes this tour stand out?
  The personalized sled-driving experience, the beautiful scenery, and the knowledgeable guides differentiate this activity from larger or more generic husky tours.

  You can check availability for your dates here:
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