Rovaniemi: Private Self-drive husky sledding Aurora tour

The Rovaniemi: Private Self-drive Husky Sledding Aurora Tour offers an authentic chance to navigate your own husky sled through the pristine snows of Lapland. Priced at a rate that includes pickup from select locations in Rovaniemi, this 3.5-hour experience provides a very private setting, away from crowds, where the peacefulness of the forest takes center stage. The tour is ideal for those seeking a personal adventure, with a focus on learning how to drive a husky sled while enjoying stunning natural scenery and the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights.

This tour departs from key points in Rovaniemi, including Arctic Circle Husky Park, EuroPark, and Hotel Metsähirvas. The experience includes a safety briefing, a 5-kilometer sled ride through snow-covered woods, and a relaxing stop at a wilderness campfire to warm up with hot juice and snacks. An extra highlight: the chance to see the Northern Lights, provided the skies are clear, thanks to the minimal artificial light pollution near the area.

While the tour is praised for its personalized, private group setup and knowledgeable guides, it does require participants to be prepared for outdoor winter conditions. The experience is suitable for those who enjoy active, outdoor pursuits and are comfortable with potentially cold weather. A key consideration: the tour does not supply thermal clothing, so dressing warmly in layers and gloves is essential.

Key Points

• Private self-drive husky sledding through Lapland’s snowy forests
• 3.5-hour experience including campfire break with warm juice and snacks
• Potential Northern Lights viewing if skies are clear
• Pickup from multiple Rovaniemi locations
• Guided safety briefing and sled-driving instructions included
• Suitable for travelers seeking an intimate, outdoor adventure without crowds

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point: Rovaniemi’s Most Convenient Pickup Locations

The tour begins with a pickup from three main points: Arctic Circle Husky Park, EuroPark, and Hotel Metsähirvas. These options make access simple for visitors staying in different parts of Rovaniemi. The pickup time is at 20:00, and transportation is included in the 3.5-hour total experience.

Travelers should arrive dressed in warm clothing and gloves, as the activity takes place in the winter wilderness. The pickup process ensures a smooth start, and from there, a short drive takes guests to the small husky kennel where the adventure begins.

Learning to Drive a Husky Sled in Lapland

Upon arrival at the husky kennel, guides provide a safety briefing and clear instructions on how to drive a husky sled. This part of the tour is designed to be accessible, offering participants the opportunity to experience the thrill of steering their own team of energetic huskies.

The guide is available to answer questions and assist during the sledding portion, which covers a total of approximately 7 kilometers—initially 5 kilometers through the forest, then another 2 kilometers back to the kennel after the campfire stop.

The Scenic Snowy Forest Route

The route takes place in a remote area, far from any buildings, roads, or artificial lights. As a result, the landscape features snow-covered trees and peaceful wilderness. The 5-kilometer sled ride offers plenty of opportunity to enjoy the serenity of Lapland’s winter while maneuvering your own sled.

Because the area is free from light pollution, the probability of seeing the Northern Lights on a clear night is high. The natural setting enhances the feeling of being immersed in the Arctic environment, with silence only broken by the sound of barking huskies and the swoosh of the sled.

Campfire Break: Warming Up in the Arctic Wilderness

Midway through the tour, guests stop at a wilderness campfire to relax and warm up. The hot juice and snacks provide comfort after sledding in the cold. This pause also offers a chance to soak in the surrounding natural beauty and, if conditions permit, catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights dancing overhead.

The campfire experience is simple but effective, emphasizing the peaceful, untouched nature of Lapland. Since light pollution is minimal, this stop enhances the potential for Northern Lights viewing, adding a magical element to the journey.

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Returning to the Kennel and Post-Tour Transportation

After the campfire, participants drive the sled back to the husky kennel, covering another 2 kilometers. Once back, transportation takes guests back to their original pickup points. The entire activity duration of 3.5 hours is designed to balance excitement with comfort, making it suitable for those who want a manageable yet memorable Arctic adventure.

What Sets This Tour Apart: Privacy and Personal Experience

Unlike larger group husky safaris, this experience is strictly private, meaning participants have a more intimate encounter with the sledding activity. The guided instructions and personal sleds allow for a more hands-on, engaging experience.

The tour’s emphasis on safety, combined with the opportunity to drive the sled yourself and enjoy the natural beauty of Lapland, makes this a standout option for travelers who value authenticity and personal interaction. On top of that, the potential to see the Northern Lights adds a special, unpredictable element to the adventure.

Important Practicalities and Restrictions

Participants should dress warmly and bring gloves, as the activity takes place outdoors in cold conditions. The tour does not provide thermal clothing, so layering is recommended.

Certain items are not allowed on the tour for safety and safety compliance, including pets, weapons, baby strollers, mobility scooters, and fireworks. Also, smoking and alcoholic drinks are prohibited during transport and on-site.

The tour starts at 20:00, and the duration varies slightly depending on pickup location. The experience is not suitable for unaccompanied minors or individuals with certain restrictions, such as non-folding wheelchairs or baby carriages.

The Challenge and Joy of Sled Driving

Driving your own husky sled requires some physical effort and attention to safety instructions. The guide ensures that even first-timers feel confident managing their sleds. The pace is steady, and the environment is tranquil, making it suitable for those comfortable in winter conditions.

Participants can enjoy the companionship of happy huskies, known for their energetic and friendly nature, which adds an extra layer of delight to the journey.

The Experience Provider: North Tours Oy

This tour is operated by North Tours Oy, a provider known for arranging outdoor Arctic experiences. Their focus on private groups and flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, adds convenience for travelers planning their Arctic adventure.

Final Thoughts on the Husky Sledding Aurora Tour

The Rovaniemi private self-drive husky sledding tour offers a personalized, peaceful adventure in the winter wilderness. The chance to drive your own sled, pause at a campfire, and possibly witness the Northern Lights makes it a compelling choice for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking an authentic Arctic experience.

While it requires warm clothing and some physical involvement, the intimate setting and stunning scenery justify the effort. If you are looking for a private, guided experience with opportunities to connect with the natural environment and husky team, this tour meets those desires well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
Yes, if the skies are clear, the minimal artificial light pollution makes it possible to see the Northern Lights.

What should I wear for the tour?
Warm clothing and gloves are essential. The tour does not include thermal wear, so layering is recommended.

How long is the sled ride?
The total sledding distance is approximately 7 kilometers—5 kilometers through the forest and 2 kilometers returning to the kennel.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The activity is best suited for those comfortable with winter outdoor conditions; unaccompanied minors are not allowed.

Are the sleds self-driven?
Yes, participants learn to drive their own husky sleds with guidance and safety instructions provided.

What kind of group size is this tour?
The experience is private, designed for individual groups, which offers a more intimate setting.

How do I get to the pickup points?
Pickup is included from three designated locations in Rovaniemi, making access straightforward.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Is transportation included after the activity?
Yes, transportation back to the original pickup points is provided after the sledding and campfire stop.

What is the best time to book?
Check availability for evening departures starting at 20:00; book early for better flexibility and availability.

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