If you’re dreaming of experiencing the magic of Lapland, a husky safari like this in Pyhätunturi offers an exciting way to connect with the wilderness and the famous Arctic dogs. While we haven’t personally strapped into the sled, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what’s on offer: a family-friendly, roughly 30-minute ride through snowy forests, combined with adorable dog encounters and cozy storytelling over hot berry juice.
What really wins us over? The knowledgeable guides, the stunning snow-covered scenery, and the intimate farm visit that brings you closer to the huskies. One potential drawback? The safari’s duration is quite short at around 30 minutes, which might leave some craving a longer adventure. Still, for those wanting a genuine, accessible taste of husky mushing in a safe setting, this tour fits perfectly — especially if you’re traveling with kids or seeking a balanced mix of activity and relaxation.
This experience is best suited for families, nature lovers, and anyone curious about huskies or wanting a memorable Arctic encounter without the intensity of longer safaris. Be prepared for some cold, dress warmly, and love dogs? Then you’ll probably love every moment.
Good To Know
- Family-friendly: Suitable for children over 4, with guided storytelling and gentle sledding.
- Authentic encounter: Meet and learn about the huskies, hearing stories directly from experienced guides.
- Scenic: Enjoy a 3-5 km ride through snowy forests, perfect for capturing photos.
- Cozy finish: Warm up with steaming berry juice around a campfire in a rustic hut.
- Limited duration: The safari lasts around 30 minutes, so plan accordingly if seeking longer rides.
- Logistics: Meet at the farm parking lot, with options for pre-arranged transportation and winter gear rental.
What to Expect from Your Husky Safari Experience
Starting from the Pyhä Husky Farm, a privately owned operation located at Molkankummuntie 225, Kemijärvi, you’ll join a small group of fellow explorers for a half-hour adventure into the Arctic wilderness. The tour is led by guides fluent in English and Finnish, who are eager to share insights into husky life and the art of mushing.
The ride itself involves being seated on a sturdy sledge pulled by a team of six huskies, which are described as relaxed and friendly — perfect for a family outing. One adult is required to drive the sledge, and sledges are filled to capacity, often with two adults and some children, though the guides sometimes facilitate switching drivers mid-ride if conditions allow.
Children’s participation is carefully considered: kids under 4 are not allowed due to safety and cold sensitivity, and even children under 6 may find the experience too chilly or overwhelming. The guides note that younger children often cry from the cold or excitement, so this tour is best for older kids who can handle the cold and speed of the sledge.
The storytelling segment takes place in a cozy hut with a campfire, where you’ll hear stories about the huskies’ lives, their training, and their role in Arctic culture. As you sip steaming berry juice, you’ll get a chance to see the dogs up close and even learn about their personalities — reviews consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, making the entire experience educational and engaging.
The Scenic 3-5 km Safari
While 5 km isn’t a marathon, it’s a good length for a beginner or family safari. The trail takes you through snow-laden trees and open wilderness, with the opportunity to snap photos of the snow-covered landscape and, if lucky, catch a glimpse of local wildlife. Reviewers mention the ride is “fantastic” and “the sledging through the snowy forest is a real highlight.”
The speed is moderate, allowing you to take in the scenery comfortably. The guides control the pace, prioritizing safety and fun, with some reviewers noting the ride is over quite quickly, but that it’s “a fantastic experience for dogs,” and that the dogs seem well-cared for and happy.
The Farm Visit and Cozy Campfire
After the ride, the group gathers in a rustic hut with a campfire, where hot berry juice is served, adding a warm, sweet touch to the chilly outdoor experience. This moment of relaxation is often highlighted by reviews as a charming way to wind down, chat about the ride, and get to know the huskies better.
This part of the experience is particularly praised for the personal touch — the guides are attentive, sharing stories about each dog, and creating an inviting, family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a real highlight for many, especially when children can see the dogs relaxing after their sled work.
Practical Details and Logistics
Meeting at the farm is straightforward — arrive on time at the parking lot, as the guides emphasize punctuality to ensure smooth operations. If you’re staying at Pyhä or Luosto, transportation can be arranged for an extra fee, with pickup times starting about 30-45 minutes before the tour.
Clothing plays a crucial role in your comfort. Winter gear (clothes and shoes) are not included in the price but can be rented or provided if arranged in advance. The guides recommend bringing your own warm clothing, as the outdoor temperatures can drop sharply.
Tour duration is approximately 1.5 hours, comprising the ride, storytelling, and hot juice, which makes for a well-paced experience that won’t leave you exhausted or cold for hours afterward.
Pricing at $165 per person reflects a value-centered offering, considering the intimate setting, knowledgeable guides, and the authentic connection with the dogs. It’s not the longest or most adrenaline-filled safari, but it’s a genuine Arctic experience that balances adventure with comfort.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyAuthenticity and Family-Friendly Nature
Many reviews praise the family atmosphere and the knowledgeable guides like Riku, who are described as helpful, friendly, and passionate about their dogs and the environment. The fact that children over 4 can take part makes it accessible for families wanting a safe, manageable introduction to husky sledding.
Children’s safety and comfort are prioritized, with the guides mentioning that they sometimes make exceptions for children under 4 if conditions are suitable, but generally, the experience is better suited for older kids. Several reviewers mention how adorable and sweet the huskies are, making it an ideal activity for animal lovers and families alike.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This safari is perfect for those seeking a family-friendly, authentic husky experience without the need for long, strenuous rides. It’s a great choice if you want a quick yet meaningful glimpse into husky life and enjoy storytelling over hot drinks.
Active travelers looking for an action-packed sled ride might find it too brief, but anyone wanting a balanced, scenic, and informative Arctic adventure will find this tour satisfying. It also appeals to travelers interested in supporting local, privately owned farms and learning about the huskies directly from guides.
Final Thoughts
The Pyhätunturi Husky Safari offers a warm welcome into the world of Arctic sled dogs, combining a memorable ride with engaging storytelling and a chance to meet the dogs up close. The experience’s value lies in its authentic atmosphere, family-friendly approach, and beautiful scenery, making it an excellent choice for first-timers or families traveling with children.
While the ride duration is short, the quality of guides, the scenic backdrop, and the intimate farm visit create a well-rounded snapshot of husky life in Lapland. It’s a good starting point for those curious about mushing, wanting a safe adventure, and eager to create lasting memories in the Arctic snow.
FAQ
Is transportation to the farm included in the tour?
No, transportation is not included but can be booked separately during the reservation process. Pickup times from Pyhä start about 30 minutes before the tour.
What should I wear for this experience?
Winter clothing and shoes are not included but can be rented or arranged beforehand. Warm layers, insulated boots, hats, and gloves are highly recommended to stay comfortable.
Can children participate in the safari?
Children over 4 years old are allowed, but children under 4 cannot participate due to safety and cold sensitivity. Keep in mind that younger kids might find the experience too cold or fast.
How long is the husky safari?
The ride itself lasts approximately 30 minutes, covering about 3-5 km through snowy forests.
Is it suitable for pregnant women or people with back problems?
The tour’s safety guidelines suggest it may not be suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems, as the activity involves riding in a sled pulled by huskies.
Can I drive the sledge myself?
Yes, one adult must drive the sledge, and sledges can be full with two adults or an adult and some children, with the possibility of switching drivers mid-ride if conditions permit.
Are the huskies well cared for?
Yes, reviews note the huskies are “super sweet” and seem well-cared for, with guides sharing stories about their personalities and training.
Whether you’re after a quick Arctic thrill, a cozy storytelling session, or an up-close encounter with adorable huskies, this tour offers a well-balanced, authentic taste of Lapland’s winter wonderland.
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