Kiruna: Northern Lights Dog Sled Tour with Swedish Fika

Traveling to Kiruna in Swedish Lapland offers a front-row seat to some of the most stunning winter scenery and natural phenomena on the planet. Among the many ways to explore this frosty wonderland, a dog sled ride combined with the Northern Lights stands out as an authentic, exhilarating experience. Based on reviews and detailed descriptions, we’re here to give you a thorough look at what makes this tour a memorable highlight—and what to keep in mind before booking.

What immediately draws us to this experience is the opportunity to glide through snow-covered forests behind a team of eager huskies, the chance to see the Aurora Borealis dance in the night sky, and the cozy Swedish fika that offers a warm contrast to the cold outdoors. We also love that the tour provides winter clothing and boots, removing some of the stress of packing and ensuring comfort. That said, a possible consideration is the duration—at 2.5 hours, it’s a decent length, but some travelers might find it a bit brisk if seeking a more extended wilderness adventure.

This tour suits those looking for an authentic Arctic experience with a mix of adventure, cultural charm, and natural beauty. Perfect for first-time visitors or seasoned winter explorers alike, it offers a wonderful blend of outdoor activity and cultural comfort.

Good To Know

• Authentic Arctic Adventure: Glide through Lapland’s snowy landscapes on a traditional dog sled pulled by energetic huskies.
• Northern Lights Opportunity: Keep your camera ready for a chance to capture the Aurora Borealis in a pristine setting.
• Comfort and Convenience: All necessary winter gear and free transfers make the experience accessible and hassle-free.
• Cultural Touch: Enjoy Swedish fika—warm drinks and cookies—in a cozy cabin, adding a warm, welcoming element.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve-now-pay-later options provide peace of mind.
• Limited Suitability: Not recommended for children under 2, pregnant women, or those with back problems.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

The adventure begins with a free pickup from your hotel within 20 kilometers of the kennel in Kiruna, simplifying logistics for travelers staying nearby. The transport is punctual, and you’re advised to be ready 5-10 minutes before the scheduled start time, ensuring a prompt start. Once at the kennel, you’ll be greeted by guides and a lively team of Alaskan Huskies, eager to hit the trail.

The next step is gearing up in warm winter clothing and sturdy boots, provided at no extra charge. Several reviewers appreciate this because it removes the concern of packing bulky winter gear and ensures everyone is suitably dressed for the cold. You’ll learn a bit about the huskies and the sledding process from the guides, adding an educational element to the experience.

Climbing aboard, you’ll be on a traditional dog sled, with the guide steering and the huskies doing the work. The ride lasts roughly 2.5 hours, which is enough time to take in the peaceful snow-covered scenery and expect a few exciting moments as the sleds glide over icy trails. Those lucky enough to be out during clear nights might catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, as many reviews note the Aurora’s appearance as a highlight.

The Northern Lights and Photography

The chance to see the Aurora Borealis is a core part of this tour, and several reviews mention the spectacular sky displays. While sightings depend on weather and solar activity, the clear Arctic winter nights often deliver a show. Travelers particularly enjoyed taking photos of the colorful lights dancing above the snow-blanketed landscape, capturing memories of a truly magical moment.

If the lights do appear, you’ll want to be quick with your camera—many reviews recommend bringing a tripod or a steady hand for longer exposures. The guides are helpful in advising on how to best photograph the Northern Lights, making this a potentially rewarding photography outing.

The Cozy Fika Break

After the sledding, you’ll take a short break in a warm cabin, where hot drinks and cookies await. This feature is especially appreciated because it offers a moment of relaxation and culture, reflecting the Swedish tradition of fika. Sitting by a fire, sipping coffee, and sharing stories with fellow travelers enhances the sense of connection and comfort after the outdoor adventure.

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The Experience’s Overall Value

At around 2.5 hours, including pickup, gear, and the tour itself, this experience provides a well-rounded taste of Arctic life. The inclusion of winter clothing and free transfer service adds value, especially for travelers worried about packing or logistics. The focus on authentic dog sledding and the chance to see the Northern Lights makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a genuine, family-friendly, and memorable Arctic experience.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Dress warmly in layers—the cold can be intense, especially during the night when the lights are best seen.
• Bring water to stay hydrated, particularly if you spend an extended time outdoors.
• Since the tour is not suitable for children under 2, pregnant women, or those with back problems, consider your health and family needs before booking.
• Arrive prepared for the cold, and be ready to get on and off the sled smoothly; the guides are experienced and helpful.
• The availability and timing vary, so checking the schedule in advance and booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak Aurora viewing season.

Final Thoughts

This Northern Lights dog sled tour in Kiruna offers a satisfying blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. You’ll get to experience the thrill of driving through snow-dusted forests behind enthusiastic huskies, with the added chance to witness the Aurora Borealis—a true highlight for winter explorers. The included winter gear, cozy fika, and flexible booking options make it a practical choice for those wanting a well-organized Arctic adventure.

Ideal for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike, the tour emphasizes authenticity and comfort, making it perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers eager to embrace Lapland’s winter magic. While you might have to contend with the weather’s whims, the chance to see the Northern Lights and enjoy a traditional Swedish fika in the snow makes this experience a memorable highlight of any trip to Kiruna.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, free transfers are offered within a 20-kilometer radius of the kennel, making it easy to start the adventure without extra hassle.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing in layers is essential, and the tour provides winter gear and boots to ensure you’re comfortable for the sled ride.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is around 2.5 hours, including pickup, gear, the sled ride, and the fika break.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
While sightings depend on weather and Aurora activity, many travelers have enjoyed spectacular displays during the tour.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for travelers over 2 years old; it’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems.

What is included in the price?
The price covers winter clothing, boots, a short sled ride, and a warm fika with coffee and cookies. Meals are not included.

This dog sled tour in Kiruna combines adventure, cultural charm, and the chance to witness the Northern Lights, making it a standout activity for experiencing Lapland’s winter wonderland.

You can check if your dates are available here: