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

If you’re dreaming of witnessing a Lapland sunrise pulled by a team of cuddly huskies, the Sunrise Zen Husky Tour from Kiruna offers an inviting glimpse into Arctic adventures. This three-hour excursion is designed for those who want a peaceful, authentic outdoor experience with a personal touch — small group sizes, knowledgeable guides, and plenty of opportunities to interact with the dogs.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines scenic beauty with hands-on fun, including helping care for the huskies. We also appreciate the relaxed pace, allowing you to truly soak in the tranquil wilderness. However, keep in mind the cold can be intense, so proper gear and warm clothing are essential. This experience suits travelers seeking an intimate, memorable Arctic moment rather than high-adrenaline thrills.

Good To Know

• Small group size (max 8 travelers) ensures a personal, uncrowded experience.
• Expert guides lead you through scenic forest trails in a relaxed, friendly way.
• Customized interactions with the huskies, including helping to care for them.
• All necessary cold-weather gear is provided, making sure you’re warm and comfortable.
• The tour includes hot drinks, snacks, and a cozy fire hut for warming up after the ride.
• Photographic opportunities are abundant, especially during the sunrise over Lapland.

An In-Depth Look at the Sunrise Zen Husky Tour

The Itinerary: From Pickup to Fire Hut Relaxation

Starting at 10:00am, the tour begins with a complimentary pickup from Kiruna, making logistics straightforward. The approximately 17 km journey takes you to the husky kennel—an area away from the main tourist hubs, offering a more authentic and less crowded setting. Once there, you’ll change into warm clothing provided by the operators, ensuring you’re ready for the chilly morning ahead.

The highlight is the sled ride through the Poikkijärvi Woods — a dense, quiet forest that transforms into a canvas of pastel colors as the sun rises. The guide will drive the sled, but you’ll have the chance to meet, feed, and help care for the 12-14 Alaskan Huskies, an aspect highly praised by reviews for its personal touch and connection to the dogs.

The Scenic Husky Sled Ride

The sled is designed for four people, which means you’ll be sharing the experience with a small group, often just a handful of participants. This setup fosters a warm, friendly atmosphere where conversation and photos flow naturally. The ride itself is more about relaxing with nature than adrenaline-fueled speed — perfect for soaking in the scenery.

Expect to see wildlife, such as reindeer or moose, if luck is on your side. As noted in reviews, the wild forest paths and frozen lakes create a stunning backdrop for photos and quiet reflection. The guides are praised for their expertise and friendliness, often sharing insights into the dogs, the landscape, and local wildlife.

Interacting with the Huskies

Many reviews mention how the experience isn’t just about the ride — it’s also about meeting the dogs. Visitors get to help ready the team, secure the harnesses, and even give the huskies a special treat — their favorite chunk of meat. This hands-on involvement fosters a genuine connection with the animals, which many travelers find touching and memorable.

Warming Up and Resting

After about an hour of sledding, you’ll arrive at a cozy fire hut. Here, you can sip hot drinks and nibble on snacks while sitting by the open fire. Guests consistently praise the warmth and comfort of this part of the experience, especially after enduring the cold outdoors.

The guides often encourage guests to help feed and care for the dogs again before departure, making the entire experience feel more like a visit to a friend’s home rather than a staged tour.

The Return and Reflection

The return trip to Kiruna involves a relaxed drive, allowing you to unwind and chat about the morning. Many reviewers mention feeling rejuvenated and grateful for the peace and natural beauty they experienced, often describing it as a “magical” morning.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Small Group & Personal Attention

With a cap of just eight travelers, the tour offers an intimate environment. This fosters a more personal connection with both the guide and the huskies. Reviewers like Brian and Laetitia mention the friendly staff and the quality of interaction as key highlights.

Expert Guides & Friendly Huskies

Guides are described as knowledgeable and approachable, making the experience informative and fun. The huskies themselves are well-trained, socialized, and clearly loved by their caretakers, which visitors notice and appreciate.

Scenic Wilderness & Wildlife Sightings

The wild forest trails, lakes, and reindeer sightings make the ride more than just a dog sled adventure; it’s a peek into Lapland’s pristine environment. The sunrise adds a layer of magic, with pastel colors illuminating the landscape — a true highlight for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Inclusive & Comfortable

All necessary cold-weather gear is provided, so you don’t need to worry about layering or bringing special equipment. The inclusion of hot drinks, snacks, and the fire hut means the experience remains cozy and welcoming, even for the most temperature-sensitive travelers.

The Value of the Experience

At $248.10 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded package of scenery, wildlife encounters, and personal interaction with the huskies. Considering the all-inclusive nature—transport, gear, food, and guide—many reviewers feel they received good value, especially given the small group size and the authentic, hands-on approach.

Most travelers book around 87 days in advance, which underscores its popularity and the need to plan ahead during peak seasons. The tour’s limited capacity and personalized nature make it feel more like a special outing than a typical tourist trap.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for animal lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those wanting a serene Arctic morning. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy small-group, authentic experiences and don’t mind the cold — the provided gear ensures comfort. Families with children over 6, who can handle the weather, will find it engaging and educational, especially with the chance to interact with the dogs.

However, if you prefer high-speed, adrenaline-pumping rides, this might not be your first pick. Also, those with mobility issues may want to check accessibility, as the tour involves outdoor trails and cold conditions.

Final Thoughts

The Sunrise Zen Husky Tour offers a peaceful yet exhilarating way to experience the Arctic wilderness, combining scenic beauty, wildlife, and genuine connection with friendly huskies. Its small-group setting, expert guides, and inclusive environment make it an excellent choice for travelers seeking authentic Lapland memories.

While it’s priced at a premium, the value lies in the quality of interaction, the stunning environment, and the cozy breaks that make the cold feel inviting rather than overwhelming. Whether you’re a dog lover or simply craving a quiet moment in nature’s majesty, this tour promises an experience you’ll remember long after the snow melts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately three hours, including pickup, sledding, and the fire hut experience.

Is pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers free pickup from Kiruna, making logistics simple and hassle-free.

What should I wear?
All cold-weather gear is provided, but wearing thermal layers, a hat, gloves, and sturdy boots is recommended for comfort.

Can I help care for the dogs?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention helping to prepare and feed the huskies, which adds to the authentic feel of the experience.

Is this suitable for children?
Children over 6 years old can participate, provided they can handle the cold and outdoor conditions.

What wildlife might I see?
Reindeer and possibly moose are sightings reported on the tour, making it even more special.

How many people are in each group?
A maximum of eight travelers ensures a personalized, intimate experience.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In summary, the Sunrise Zen Husky Tour blends scenic serenity, animal interaction, and genuine Arctic charm into a memorable three-hour experience. It’s ideal for those looking for a peaceful yet authentic adventure in Swedish Lapland, offering great value for anyone eager to connect with nature and its best friends—the huskies.