From Kiruna: Northern Lights Guided Husky Sledding Adventure

Review of the From Kiruna: Northern Lights Guided Husky Sledding Adventure

If you’re dreaming of zipping through snowy forests under a star-studded sky, this husky sledding tour from Kiruna might be just what you need. It offers a chance to handle your own team of lively huskies in the dark, with the potential reward of witnessing the northern lights dancing overhead—a true Arctic highlight. The experience lasts about 3.5 hours, includes gear and guidance, and is capped at just four participants, making it an intimate adventure.

Two things I really like about this tour. First, the personalized nature of sled driving—you’re not just sitting in the back but actually learning how to harness and steer the dogs, which makes it more immersive. Second, the opportunity to see the Aurora Borealis adds an extra layer of excitement, especially when the guide Gaspers proactively stops the van to allow photos if the lights appear. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that Northern Lights sightings depend on weather and solar activity, so there’s no guarantee of seeing the lights, but the experience itself remains memorable regardless.

A minor point to keep in mind is the cold weather—although winter gear is provided, layering is your best bet to stay warm. Also, some reviewers mentioned that the guides are excellent at giving instructions and sharing their knowledge, but if you’re hoping for a lot of storytelling, you might find the focus is mainly on safety and logistics. Still, for those craving an authentic Arctic adventure, this tour hits the mark.

Key points / Takeaways

• Intimate Small Group: Limited to just four participants, ensuring personalized attention and a quieter experience.
• Hands-On Sled Driving: Learn to harness and steer the huskies, making this a truly participatory activity.
• Northern Lights Potential: Proactively searched for aurora activity, but sightings can’t be guaranteed due to natural factors.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Rebecca and Martina are praised for their friendliness, patience, and clear instructions.
• Authentic Arctic Setting: Zip past snow-covered trees, frozen lakes, and marshlands, with a true sense of wilderness.
• Warmth and Comfort: All necessary winter gear is provided, but layering under is recommended for extra warmth.

Entering the Arctic Wilderness: What the Tour Offers

This husky sledding adventure starts with a convenient pickup from central Kiruna, making logistics straightforward. You’ll be transported to Kalixforsbron, a small hamlet where the true Arctic action begins. Once there, you’ll meet your guide and the friendly huskies, eager to get moving. The guide, often someone like Rebecca or Martina, will give you a thorough safety briefing, explaining how to harness and steer your team, regardless of your prior experience.

Dressing warmly is essential. The tour provides a snowsuit, winter boots, gloves, hats, and socks, but layering underneath is always wise. Once suited, you’ll listen to your guide’s instructions, which are detailed but friendly, ensuring everyone feels confident before hitting the trail. The ride itself lasts about an hour, during which you’ll be pulled safely through the snow-laden landscape, passing frozen lakes, tall trees, and marshlands that seem to glow in the moonlight.

One of the best parts? The interaction with the dogs. Many reviews mention how well-cared-for and friendly the huskies are, and how satisfying it is to help prepare them, stretch their legs afterward, or just watch their enthusiasm. As Martina put it, “Driving your own sled is a one of a kind experience,” and many find this participatory element makes the outing memorable.

The Aurora Borealis — An Unpredictable but Magical Bonus

A major highlight is the chance to observe the northern lights. Guides like Gasper are praised for their proactiveness, stopping the van if there’s a hint of aurora activity. As Anna noted, “He saw the glow of the aurora borealis and stopped the car to let us take some pictures.” While the lights aren’t guaranteed—since they’re a natural phenomenon—the effort to spot them is part of what makes this tour special. Even if they don’t appear, the dark, star-lit sky alone offers a stunning experience.

Warming Up by the Campfire

After your sled ride, you’ll return to a cozy camp, where an open fire awaits. Here, you’ll enjoy hot drinks like coffee or tea, along with cookies and a traditional Swedish fika. Many reviews, including Roberta’s, emphasize how nice it is to warm up in a Nordic tipi and relax after the outdoor activity. It’s a genuine touch that makes the experience feel authentic and welcoming.

Logistics, Duration, and Price

The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours including transportation, briefing, sledding, and the campfire. Pickup options are available from key locations in Kiruna—Camps Ripan, Stora Coop, Malmvägen 9B (the new Kiruna Tourist Center), and Pub Eden—making it accessible. The price of $235 per person reflects the inclusive nature: winter gear, guide, sledding experience, and the campfire treat are all covered.

Given the small group size, this experience offers great value for those wanting a personalized, participatory Arctic adventure. It’s particularly suited for travelers who love outdoor activities, enjoy engaging with animals, and are comfortable in cold weather.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This activity is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to steer their own husky team and share an authentic Arctic experience. It’s also well-suited for nature lovers interested in the possibility of northern lights and the serene beauty of winter landscapes. Because the experience requires dressing warmly and handling outdoor conditions, those comfortable with cold weather will get the most enjoyment.

It’s ideal for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers who value small-group intimacy and guides who are friendly and informative. If you’re looking for a luxury tour with plush amenities, this isn’t it—this is about connecting with the wilderness in a genuine way.

People over 95 years old are advised against participating, and anyone with mobility issues should check with the provider about suitability. No experience is necessary, but an open mind and love of nature will make the experience all the more rewarding.

Practical Tips for Your Husky Sledding Adventure

• Dress in layers under the provided gear for maximum warmth.
• Bring a scarf to protect your face from the cold wind.
• A camera is optional but recommended—your guide will stop for photos if conditions allow.
• Be prepared for darkness and cold; even in winter, temperatures can be intense.
• Listen closely to your guide’s instructions—they’re designed to keep you safe and make the experience smooth.
• Don’t worry if you’re nervous; many first-timers find the sled driving exhilarating and manageable with guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides like Rebecca do a great job explaining how to harness and steer the sled, making it accessible even if you’ve never done it before.

What should I wear?
All essential winter gear is provided, but layering underneath is wise. Bring a scarf for extra face protection.

Can I see the northern lights on this tour?
While the tour includes a proactive search for aurora borealis, sightings depend on weather and solar activity, so they can’t be guaranteed.

How long is the sledding portion?
The actual sled ride lasts about 1.5 hours, with additional time for briefing, transfer, and campfire relaxation.

Is the group size really limited to four people?
Yes, the small group size makes the experience more intimate and personalized.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in case of weather or changes in plans.

Are meals and drinks included?
Yes, cookies, tea, and coffee are included after the sledding, around the campfire.

Is transportation included?
Pickup and drop-off are included from designated locations in Kiruna, with a short drive to Kalixforsbron.

What guides will I meet?
Guides like Rebecca or Martina receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and clear instructions.

What’s the best time of year to do this?
Winter months, when snow is abundant and the landscape is stunning, are ideal. The tour duration and availability vary, so check ahead.

To sum it up, this husky sledding tour from Kiruna is a solid choice for travelers seeking a genuine, participatory Arctic experience. The chance to steer your own team of dogs, combined with the hope of catching the northern lights and warming by a campfire, makes it memorable. It’s best suited for those who love outdoor adventures, don’t mind the cold, and want an authentic taste of Lapland’s wilderness. With knowledgeable guides and a small group setting, you’re in good hands for a safe, fun, and truly Nordic outing.