Rovaniemi: Daytime Husky Safari

Rovaniemi’s Daytime Husky Safari offers a true taste of Lapland’s wilderness with a hands-on husky sled ride that’s perfect for adventure lovers. This experience is more than just a scenic ride; it’s an engaging encounter with the iconic Alaskan huskies and their caretakers. You’ll learn how to steer your own team, listen to captivating stories, and enjoy the peaceful winter landscape that makes Lapland magical. What stands out most are the knowledgeable guides—many of whom receive high praise for their friendliness and expertise—and the stunning scenery that makes every moment memorable.

Two things I particularly like about this safari are the opportunity to drive the sled yourself—which adds an exciting, personal touch—and the warm hospitality afterward, with hot drinks and stories by a campfire. However, one consideration is the timing and logistics: you need to be punctual for your pickup and ready when the group departs, as missing the start means missing out with no refund. The price of around $202 per person is fair, especially considering all the included gear, transfers, and the chance to interact directly with the huskies.

Key points / Takeaways

Authentic Husky Experience: You get to drive your own sled and interact closely with the dogs, making it a genuine wilderness adventure.
Expert Guides: Guides like Mario and Artemis are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, enhancing the experience with stories and tips.
Stunning Arctic Scenery: Expect snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and peaceful wilderness—all part of the backdrop for your ride.
All-Inclusive Comfort: Warm winter suits, boots, and hot drinks are included, making sure the cold doesn’t spoil your fun.
Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours and pay-later options provide peace of mind in planning your trip.
Family Friendly & Social: Suitable for children (who can ride in the sleighs), and group sizes tend to be manageable, ensuring a friendly atmosphere.

Entering the Arctic Wilderness

From the moment you arrive at the Safartica office, the organization is clear and professional. With pickup included, you’ll meet your guide an hour before departure at Koskikatu 9, so punctuality is key—miss the pickup, and you’ll miss the safari. Many reviews mention how well the guides prepare you for the cold and explain what’s to come. The guides, like Mario from Baba Husky, are lauded for their professionalism and friendly manner, answering every question with patience and insight.

Expect to be dressed in high-quality winter clothing, including overalls and boots, provided to ensure you’re warm and comfortable. The gear is a big plus, especially since many reviewers mention the cold can be intense—wind chill at -29°C was not uncommon. This gear allows you to focus on the fun rather than battling the elements.

Once at the kennel, the huskies eagerly greet you. The guide walks you through their stories, sharing details about their breed, personalities, and care. Many travelers, like the reviewer who noted “Mario was informative and friendly,” appreciate hearing about how the dogs are treated and get a chance to interact, petting them before and after the ride.

The Husky Sled Ride: A Personal Adventure

The centerpiece of this experience is the 20-30 minute sled ride, covering about 5km. Two people share a sled, with children comfortably riding in the sleigh, which is a thoughtful touch for families. The thrill of driving your own team is the highlight for most—some reviewers mention swapping drivers or dogs mid-ride, which keeps it engaging.

The terrain varies from snow-covered forests to lakes, providing scenic variety and a sense of wilderness that makes the ride feel authentic. The reviews rave about how the dogs are eager and happy, clearly enjoying their work, which adds to the overall positive atmosphere. One guest described it as “the funnest activity in Lapland,” and many note the longer, more immersive ride as a significant advantage over shorter excursions.

During the ride, you’ll feel the power of the dogs as they pull your sled through snow and over frozen lakes. The silence of the Arctic, broken only by the panting of the huskies and the squeak of snow, creates a calming yet exhilarating environment. Several reviewers appreciated the opportunity to stop and take photos, as well as the chance to swap mushers, adding a personal touch.

Post-Ride Stories and Comfort by the Campfire

After the ride, you’ll return to the kennel area where hot drinks and biscuits are served. Many reviews highlight this part as charming and cozy, often sitting by an open fire while hearing stories about the dogs from the guides. It’s a relaxing way to wind down, especially after the adrenaline of sledding.

One reviewer praised the “informative and friendly” guides, noting how they made the experience more meaningful with stories and insights. It’s an opportunity to pet the huskies again, take photos, and get a deeper understanding of their lives and personalities. Interestingly, some guests expressed a desire for more time petting the dogs or an option to buy snacks, suggesting that a small addition like a snack bar could elevate the experience even more.

The Value of the Experience

At $202 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded Arctic adventure. The price includes warm clothing, transfers, a kennel visit, the sled ride, and hot drinks, making it a good deal considering the personalized nature of the experience. The reviews consistently state that despite being a bit pricier than some competitors, the quality, guide expertise, and the chance to actually drive the sled make it worthwhile.

Reviews mention that “great value for money” and highlight the length of the ride and the interaction with dogs as particular strengths. The small group size and attentive guides ensure you don’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd, making it more intimate than larger commercial tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari suits travelers seeking an authentic, hands-on experience rather than just a scenic drive. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers who want to learn about huskies, drive a sled, and enjoy Lapland’s snow-covered landscape. If you’re a dog lover or want a memorable story to tell at home, this experience is hard to beat.

It may not be ideal if you’re after a quick, superficial ride or if strict timing is difficult—arriving late means you miss out, with no refunds. Also, be prepared for the cold; gear is provided, but warm socks and gloves are recommended.

The Sum Up

The Rovaniemi Daytime Husky Safari is a well-loved activity that combines education, adventure, and scenic beauty into one package. Many reviewers highlight the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, which elevates the experience beyond just a ride. The chance to drive your own sled, meet the dogs, and enjoy the tranquility of Lapland’s wilderness makes it a highlight of any Arctic trip.

It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate genuine, interactive encounters—dog lovers, families, and adventure seekers. While the price may seem high initially, the quality, authenticity, and unforgettable memories make it a solid investment. If you want a real taste of Lapland’s snowy heart, this safari is a superb choice.

FAQ

How long does the husky safari last?
The activity lasts about 2 hours, with approximately 20-30 minutes of sledding, depending on the tour and group.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers winter clothing, transfers, a kennel visit, the husky ride, and hot drinks with biscuits. Guides speak English and provide safety instructions.

Do I need to be experienced to drive the sled?
No experience is necessary; guides demonstrate how to steer, and you’ll be given clear instructions before the ride.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children can ride in the sleigh, making this a family-friendly activity.

What should I wear?
Warm, layered clothing is recommended, but winter suits, boots, and gloves are provided to ensure you stay comfortable in Arctic temperatures.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transfers from the Safartica office are included, but you must be punctual for your scheduled pickup.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving flexibility in planning.

Can I swap drivers or dogs during the ride?
Some reviews mention the ability to swap mushers, which keeps the experience engaging.

Will I get time to pet the huskies?
Yes, after the ride, you’ll have opportunities to interact and pet the dogs, though some guests wish for a bit more time.

Is the experience suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, many travelers mention how welcoming and well-organized the guides are, making it easy to enjoy solo.

In essence, this safari offers a memorable, authentic Arctic adventure that’s as much about the connection with the dogs as it is about the scenic landscape. It’s a worthwhile splurge for anyone wanting to see Lapland in a way that’s engaging, educational, and fun.