If you’re heading to northern Sweden and craving a taste of authentic Arctic adventure, the Dog Sledding Excursion to Kiruna with Fika offers a memorable day out. Starting from Abisko, this roughly 7-hour experience combines the thrill of gliding through snow-covered wilderness behind a team of enthusiastic sled dogs with a cozy break at a remote wilderness camp. It’s a perfect choice for those who want a taste of real Arctic life without needing prior experience, thanks to professional guides and all-inclusive gear.
What I really like about this tour is how it balances fun and comfort. The scenery along the 10-12 km circuit is stunning—think endless white landscapes, distant mountains, and glimpses of the northern sky. Plus, the guides are clearly passionate, sharing their knowledge about the dogs and the region, which adds a layer of genuine connection to the experience. The Fika break at a wilderness camp, with piping hot drinks and cinnamon buns, feels like stepping into a cozy Scandinavian story. On the flip side, one consideration is the travel time—about half the day is spent simply getting to and from Kiruna, so this is more suited for those eager for a full day adventure rather than quick stops.
This experience offers excellent value for its price of $261 per person. It’s a well-rounded outing that combines active fun with cultural authenticity, especially thanks to the opportunity to pet and cuddle the dogs and enjoy Swedish Fika in a true Arctic setting.
Key points / Takeaways
- Authentic Arctic Experience: Glide through stunning snow landscapes behind real sled dogs, guided by experts who love what they do.
- All-Inclusive Comfort: Warm overalls, boots, hats, and gloves are provided, so you stay warm without fussing over gear.
- Guided by Passion: Guides like the ones praised in reviews really know their dogs and the local area, making the day both educational and enjoyable.
- The Fika Break: A highlight for many, enjoy hot drinks and cinnamon buns in a Sami-style tent at a remote wilderness camp.
- Photo Opportunities: Plenty of chances to capture the snowy scenery and cuddle the dogs, making it great for social media or mementos.
- Suitable for Most: The professional musher controls the sled, making this accessible even for those without a prior sledding background.
Starting Point and Transportation: From Abisko to the Arctic Wilderness
This tour begins with a scenic bus transfer from your accommodation in Abisko, with pickups available at key hotels and stations around 9:00 AM. The journey to Kiruna’s dog sledding camp takes roughly an hour, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the snowy landscape as you head further north.
What makes this transfer meaningful is how it sets the tone for the day. You’re not rushing; instead, you’re gradually shifting from everyday life into a world of snow and silence. The buses are well-coordinated, and the fact that pickup is included makes it a hassle-free start—no worries about organizing your own transport.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Abisko.
The Meet-and-Greet with the Sled Dogs: Enthusiastic, Friendly, and Well-Cared-For
Upon arrival at the camp, you’re greeted by a team of well-trained, friendly sled dogs. Many reviewers, like Lucy, comment how much they loved the dogs’ personalities and how well-cared-for they seem. Guides like “the guides love their dogs,” as one reviewer notes, which really shines through in their interactions.
These dogs are eager to run, and their happy energy is contagious. You get the chance to pet and cuddle them—something that many find to be a highlight. The dogs are often described as “noble and adorable,” and their enthusiasm makes the ride all the more special.
The Dog Sled Ride: Scenic, Safe, and Accessible
The core of this tour is the 10-12 km ride through the Arctic wilderness. A professional musher drives a sled capable of holding up to four guests, which means you’ll get a relaxed, safe experience regardless of your fitness level. The musher controls the sled, so you’re free to sit back, take photos, or just soak in the views.
The scenery along the route is exactly what you’d hope for—vast white plains, distant mountains, and the occasional glimpse of wildlife or the northern sky. The experience is described as “unforgettable” and “a once-in-a-lifetime” for many, making it clear that the landscape plays a major role in the appeal.
The Wilderness Camp and Swedish Fika: A Cozy Interlude
About halfway through your ride, you’ll stop at a remote Arctic wilderness camp. Here, your guide will build a fire and serve hot drinks along with cinnamon buns—a traditional Swedish Fika break. This moment of warmth and camaraderie feels well-earned after the brisk ride.
Many reviews, like Jesus’s, emphasize how “amazing” the guide was and how much they enjoyed the interactions with the dogs and the chance to take photos. The camp offers a chance to see and pet the dogs up close, making the experience more personal and heartfelt.
Returning and Reflecting: A Day Well Spent
After your Fika, you’ll head back to the sleds and continue the ride before returning to the camp. The return journey offers more chances to enjoy the wilderness views and take photos—many guests feel like they didn’t want it to end.
On the way back to Abisko, you’ll have time to reflect on the unique blend of adventure and culture you experienced. For many, the highlight remains the enthusiasm of the guides, the friendly dogs, and the stunning scenery.
Pricing and Value
At $261 per person, this tour offers good value, considering transportation, gear, and the guided experience. The inclusion of warm clothing and a Fika break makes it convenient, especially for travelers who want an authentic, hassle-free Arctic adventure. Some reviews suggest packing a packed lunch—since food isn’t available at the camp—to maximize your time and avoid extra costs.
Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?
This experience suits travelers who crave authentic Arctic activities but prefer a relaxed, guided experience. It’s ideal for families with children over 5, casual travelers, or anyone curious about dog sledding without needing prior experience. The professional guides and controlled sled operation make it accessible for most.
If you’re after a genuine Arctic experience with friendly guides, adorable sled dogs, and a cozy Fika break, this trip hits the mark. The scenery alone makes it worthwhile, but the chance to pet and interact with the dogs makes it truly special. It’s a day that balances adventure, comfort, and cultural insight—perfect for those who want to understand what life is like in this snowy corner of Sweden.
While the travel time might be a consideration if you’re pressed for time, most find that the authenticity and joy of the experience outweigh the slightly longer day. It’s especially suited for animal lovers, scenery seekers, and anyone eager to enjoy the true essence of Arctic Sweden.
Is transportation included? Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Abisko or Björkliden are included, making it easy to start your adventure.
How long is the dog sledding? The actual sled ride is approximately 10-12 km, which takes around 1-2 hours, depending on conditions and stops.
What should I bring? It’s best to bring snacks and a packed lunch since food isn’t available at the camp. Wear warm clothes, and the tour provides overalls, boots, hats, and gloves.
Is this suitable for children? The tour is not recommended for children under 5, but older children generally enjoy the experience, especially if they love animals.
Can I participate if I’ve never dog sledded before? Absolutely. The professional musher controls the sled, so no experience is necessary. Your safety and enjoyment are the guides’ priorities.
What’s included in the price? Warm clothing, the sled ride, and a Fika break with hot drinks and cinnamon buns are included. You’re responsible for your own food and drinks outside the Fika.
Do I need to book in advance? Yes, reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is the experience weather-dependent? As with all outdoor Arctic activities, weather can impact visibility and conditions. The tour operator will inform you if it’s canceled or rescheduled due to safety concerns.
This dog sledding adventure from Abisko to Kiruna offers a genuine, well-organized taste of Sami culture and Arctic wilderness. It’s an experience that combines the thrill of the ride with heartfelt moments petting dogs and sharing Fika—a perfect day for anyone wanting to connect with the region’s natural beauty and traditions.