Sunrise Zen Husky Tour (10:00 to 13:00 – sitting on the sled)

Exploring the Sunrise Zen Husky Tour near Kiruna, Sweden

If you’re looking for a chance to see Swedish Lapland in its quiet, glowing beauty, the Sunrise Zen Husky Tour offers a gentle, memorable glimpse into Arctic wilderness. This 3-hour experience, priced at around $248 per person, combines an intimate sled ride with the chance to meet the dogs and enjoy warm refreshments afterward. Rated a perfect 5.0 based on 94 reviews, this tour is highly recommended — and for good reason.

What I love most about this experience is how personal and relaxed it feels. With a very small group limitation of only four travelers, you won’t be lost in a crowd. Instead, you get plenty of opportunity to interact with the friendly huskies, help care for them, and truly appreciate the effort that goes into their care and training. The guided sled ride through the Poikkijärvi Woods, during the early morning sunrise, offers stunning visuals that are both breath-taking and calming, making it more than just a typical adventure. Plus, the included warm gear and cozy fire hut serve to make the cold Arctic morning more comfortable and inviting.

One consideration for travelers is that children under 6 are not permitted, mainly due to the low temperatures that can be challenging or unsafe for young kids. Also, the tour’s limited group size means you need to book well in advance — most travelers plan about 87 days ahead — but this ensures you receive personal attention and a more authentic experience.

Key Points

Small Group Size: With a maximum of four travelers, the experience feels intimate, allowing for personal interaction with the dogs and guides.
Stunning Visuals: Watching the sunrise over Lapland’s wilderness, accentuated by the vibrant pastel colors, is truly unforgettable.
Hands-On Experience: You can help care for the huskies, engaging directly with these strong, cuddly dogs, which many reviews highlight as a special part of the tour.
Comfort and Warmth: Warm gear, hot drinks, and a cozy fire hut make the cold Arctic environment manageable and enjoyable.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Craig foster a friendly atmosphere and share valuable insights about the dogs and the area.
Unique Wildlife Sightings: If luck’s on your side, you might spot reindeer or moose during your ride — adding to the wilderness adventure.

In-Depth Review of the Sunrise Zen Husky Tour

Planning this tour, I was curious about what sets it apart from other Arctic dog-sledding options. The first thing that stands out is the location—about 17 km outside the main tourist hub of Kiruna, away from the crowds, in the peaceful Poikkijärvi Woods. This seclusion allows for a truly immersive experience. The pickup service is free, which makes logistics one less thing to worry about, and the entire experience is centered on providing a cozy, authentic Arctic encounter.

You arrive at the small, dedicated kennel where the 12-14 well-cared-for Huskies await your interaction. From the reviews, it’s clear that these dogs are more than just working animals — they are friendly, social, and evidently happy, having a good life after their working days. Guides like Craig seem highly committed, sharing their knowledge and creating a warm, welcoming environment. You get to help prepare the dogs for the ride, which is a rare chance to build a bond and understand what goes into sledding in these conditions.

Once suited up in provided cold-weather gear, you hop into a sledge shared with three companions. The sled is designed to keep you comfortable, and the ride itself—gliding through snow-covered forests and along frozen lakes—is incredibly scenic. Reviews frequently mention the spectacular colors of the sunrise and the quiet thrill of running the dogs over the icy wilderness. Many travelers came away remarking on how this was a “magical” and “emotional” experience — the sight of the dogs pulling in harmony and the peaceful landscape are hard to beat.

The guides are more than just drivers; they often share stories about the dogs and the local wildlife, such as reindeer or moose sightings, which add a touch of magic to the outing. After the ride, you have the opportunity to reward your team with their favorite snack, a chunk of meat, and then relax in a warm hut with hot drinks and snacks by the open fire. Not only does this add a cozy conclusion to the tour, but it fosters a sense of connection — both with the dogs and fellow travelers.

The reviews highlight the professionalism of the team and the high standard of care for the dogs. Many mention Craig and other guides as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive—making sure everyone is comfortable and informed. The tour’s focus on personal attention and small group size results in many comments about how special and memorable the experience is.

Price-wise, at $248.10, the tour is a solid value for a unique, carefully curated Arctic adventure. You’re not just getting a quick ride; you’re gaining insights, hands-on interaction, and a peaceful morning that many say surpasses their expectations. The inclusion of warm gear, hot drinks, and snacks makes the experience full and comfortable despite the cold.

A few tips: Bring face and eye covers — the cold can bite, especially when sitting still for long periods. Also, booking well in advance is wise, as the popularity means the tours fill up quickly.

Who Would Love This?

This tour is ideal for travelers who cherish authentic, small-group experiences and have a genuine interest in dogs and nature. It’s perfect for those wanting a peaceful morning immersed in the Arctic wilderness, away from the more commercialized attractions. Families with kids over six can enjoy the ride, and animal lovers will especially appreciate the opportunity to meet and care for the dogs. If your idea of a memorable holiday includes breathtaking scenery, cozy warmth, and getting to know the hardworking huskies, this tour hits the mark.

It’s also suitable for travelers looking for something relaxing rather than adrenaline-fueled — the slow, gentle ride with plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the landscape makes it accessible to most fitness levels and ages. People who value guides with a passion for their work and animals will find this experience particularly rewarding.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at 10:00 am, including transport, riding, and post-ride relaxing time.

What’s included in the price?
You get the sled ride, use of warm gear, hot drinks, snacks by the fire, and the chance to meet and help care for the huskies.

Are children allowed?
Children under 6 years old are not permitted due to the low temperatures and safety considerations.

Where does the tour take place?
The sledding occurs in the Poikkijärvi Woods, about 17 km outside Kiruna; the location offers a peaceful wilderness experience away from the town crowds.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, free pickup from designated points is included, simplifying logistics and making the experience more accessible.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

Do I need special clothing?
The tour provides cold-weather gear, but bringing face and eye protection is recommended to handle the cold wind when sledding.

Can I help care for the dogs?
Yes, part of the experience includes helping ready the huskies before the ride and securing them afterward, which many guests find enriching.

Is the sledding suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes — the ride is gentle and scenic, not physically demanding, suited for most travelers who can sit comfortably for a few hours.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its small size, personal attention, friendly guides like Craig, and the opportunity to interact directly with the dogs make it a truly authentic Arctic adventure.

In summary, the Sunrise Zen Husky Tour near Kiruna offers an excellent balance of scenic beauty, personal interaction, and comfort. If you value authentic experiences, love dogs, and want a peaceful morning in a stunning landscape, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Arctic trip. It’s a chance to connect with nature and animals in a setting that feels genuine and unhurried — a rare find among Arctic excursions.