Kiruna: Husky Sled Ride with Traditional Lunch

If you’ve ever dreamed of gliding through snow-covered forests behind a team of lively huskies, this tour in Kiruna offers just that — plus the chance to enjoy authentic Swedish wilderness cuisine. The experience is well-rounded, lasting about three hours, and can be tailored to whether you’d prefer to steer your own sled or relax while guides take the reins. It’s a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural treats, making it a standout activity in the Swedish Arctic.

What I particularly like about this experience is the chance to choose whether you’re behind the sled or guiding your own team — giving you a hands-on or more relaxed experience. Plus, the included traditional moose meat soup is a hearty highlight, tasting like true Lapland comfort food after a brisk ride. One thing to keep in mind is the necessity to dress warmly, especially since the tour involves spending time outdoors in potentially very cold weather. While the price might seem high to some, the value includes winter gear, a guide, lunch, and transport, which can add up to an authentic Arctic adventure.

Key points / Takeaways

• Self-Drive or Guided: You can choose to steer your own husky team or sit back and let a guide handle the sled.
• Authentic Finnish-Lapland Cuisine: The included lunch of moose soup and vegetables offers a genuine taste of local flavors.
• Magical Landscapes: Expect snow-laden forests, frozen lakes, and rivers—perfect scenery for a husky ride.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, enhancing the experience.
• All Equipment Provided: The tour supplies warm clothes and boots, removing the need to pack bulky winter gear.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: You can reserve without immediate payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How the Tour Is Structured

This approximately three-hour adventure kicks off with pickup from your Kiruna hotel — if you’re within a 20 km radius — or direct booking at the kennel. Once there, you’ll be greeted by guides who are described as “very friendly” and “great,” setting a welcoming tone. The first part involves gearing up in warm winter clothes and sturdy boots—all provided—so you won’t need to worry about layering or packing heavy footwear.

You then have the choice: drive your own sled or be a passenger. If you’re like me and craving the thrill of control, steering your own team of Alaskan Huskies is an exhilarating challenge. If you prefer to soak in the scenery without the physical exertion, a guide will take over, ensuring a smooth ride. The sleds glide silently over frozen lakes and snow-blanketed forests, punctuated only by the breath of the dogs and the rhythmic sound of runners on ice.

Unique Landscape and Photographic Opportunities

As you snow through the forest sections, you’ll notice the shining snow that seems to glow under the winter sun. The scenery feels almost otherworldly, with tall trees draped in frost and the horizon stretching out in crisp, clear air. Many reviews mention how beautiful the nature is — one caller described the experience as a “total delight” with “plenty of time to play with dogs”. The ride also crosses frozen rivers and lakes, where the stillness enhances the fairy-tale feel.

The Heartwarming Lunch: More Than Just Food

After the sledding segment, you’ll settle in for a traditional Swedish lunch featuring a soup with moose meat and vegetables. This hearty meal is praised for its warmth and authenticity, a perfect reward after the brisk ride. The moose meat stew, relished by guests like Mladen, is described as “warm and comforting”, giving you a real taste of Lapland’s wilderness cuisine.

Guides and Group Size

The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making even first-timers feel comfortable. Expect a small-group atmosphere, which means more personalized attention and chances to ask questions about the local environment or husky care. The tour typically involves up to 20 km of sledding, with plenty of stops and photo opportunities along the way.

Logistics, Pricing, and Practical Details

The price covers all necessary winter gear, lunch, transport, and the guides. This all-inclusive approach means you won’t need to rent or buy equipment separately, which is a bonus considering the often high costs of winter gear rentals. The free transfer within 20 km of the kennel is a convenient perk, saving you the hassle of arranging taxis or public transport.

Booking is flexible — you can reserve now and pay later — and cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund. Durations are around 3 hours, with starting times varying, so it’s best to check availability ahead of time.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals to adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. It’s perfect for those wanting to try dog sledding for the first time or for seasoned enthusiasts eager to guide their own team. Families with children over 12 will enjoy the activity, provided they’re comfortable with cold weather and outdoor activity. It’s less suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems or allergies, but ideal for anyone craving an authentic Arctic experience.

While the cost might seem on the higher side, the inclusion of gear, lunch, and transport makes it quite comprehensive. The chance to drive or be driven, combined with stunning scenery and expert guides, offers a memorable experience that costs significantly more if you organize these parts independently. Plus, the positive reviews emphasize how guides like Julia and Mladen make the trip special through their friendliness and knowledge, adding value to the overall package.

If you’re someone who treasures authentic outdoor adventures and beautiful natural settings, this tour is a solid choice. It’s ideal for travelers who want more than just sightseeing — who seek a hands-on experience in the Arctic wilderness—plus a hearty meal afterward. This is a well-organized, enjoyable activity for those prepared for the cold, eager to learn about the local culture, and ready for a true Lapland adventure.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned dog sledding enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the knowledgeable guides, the stunning landscapes, and the authenticity of the meal. It’s not just a ride; it’s a memorable encounter with the Arctic’s best features.

Can I choose to drive my own sled?
Yes, you can opt to steer your own team of Alaskan Huskies, or you can be a passenger while a guide handles the sled.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about three hours, including transportation, sledding, and lunch.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, and the tour provides winter clothes and boots. It’s advisable to bring water to stay hydrated.

Is it suitable for children?
Children over 12 are permitted to drive the sled, but younger kids can enjoy being passengers. Always check with the provider for age restrictions.

Are there any physical restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people with back problems or allergies to animals.

What kind of scenery will I see?
Expect snow-covered forests, shining icy lakes, and frozen rivers — a truly magical winter landscape.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is transportation included?
Yes, a free transfer within 20 km of the kennel is included in the price.

What is the experience of the guides?
Guests consistently praise guides for being friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful, making the trip more enjoyable.

To sum it up, this husky sled ride in Kiruna offers a genuine taste of Arctic adventure with a touch of cultural authenticity. It’s perfect for those craving a hands-on outdoor activity, stunning winter scenery, and a hearty local meal. With flexible booking and inclusive gear, it’s a practical and memorable choice for your Lapland trip.