Rovaniemi: 7km Self-Drive Husky Sleigh Ride Adventure

Planning a winter escape to Lapland? If you’re craving a hands-on, memorable experience, the 7km self-drive husky sled ride in Rovaniemi might be just what you’re looking for. This tour promises the thrill of controlling your own team of energetic huskies while winding through some of Finland’s most stunning snowy scenery.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? We love the fact that you get to be the musher, guiding your own sled — no passenger seat here. The chance to bond with the huskies and learn about their personalities from passionate guides adds a genuine touch of authenticity. Plus, the beautiful winter landscapes, with frozen lakes and snow-blanketed forests, truly take your breath away.

However, a consideration worth mentioning is the extra fee for winter gear and snowboots—10 euros per person—so come prepared or plan to rent. This might be an added expense for some, but it’s a small price to pay for comfort in such cold conditions.

This experience suits adventure lovers, animal enthusiasts, and families alike. If you’re eager to actively participate in Arctic activities and enjoy personalized, small-group tours, this is a solid choice.

Good To Know

• Hands-on adventure: You control your own husky sled, making the experience more immersive.
• Stunning scenery: The tour offers picturesque views of Lapland’s lakes and forests.
• Expert guidance: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and often speak multiple languages including French and Spanish.
• Authentic connection: Bonding with the huskies reveals their unique personalities and enhances the experience.
• Comfort options: Gear rentals are available, but need to be ordered in advance.
• Small group setting: Limited to nine participants, which promotes a more intimate experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Pick-Up & Introduction

Starting with hotel pickup, the tour ensures a hassle-free beginning. Our experience on Wonderlapland’s tour involved being collected from our accommodation, which saves you the bother of navigating icy roads or finding meeting points. Once at the kennel, you’ll meet your guides and the adorable huskies, who are clearly well-loved and cared for.

Husky Kennel Visit & Instructions

Before setting off, expect a briefing and instructions from experienced mushers. Guides are often praised for their passion and knowledge, making the learning process approachable whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned adventurer. They’ll explain how to handle the sled and give tips on steering and braking.

The visit to the kennel is where you’ll see the various dogs, each with their own personality—some eager, others calm but equally devoted. As a reviewer from France noted, the guides “give interesting explanations on the center and the sporting activity of the dogs,” which helps deepen your appreciation for these animals.

The 7km Self-Driven Sled Ride

Once ready, you’ll hop into your sled and start your journey. The self-driven aspect means you’re in charge, but guides are nearby for support if needed. The trail takes you through frozen lakes and snow-laden forests, with views that often leave visitors breathless.

Travelers have remarked on the exhilaration of controlling your own team, especially when the dogs surge forward with enthusiasm. The effort required isn’t physically taxing—more of a fun coordination challenge—yet the emotional reward of bonding with the huskies is undeniable.

Throughout the ride, you’ll experience the quiet beauty of Lapland’s wilderness, punctuated only by the sounds of barking huskies and the swish of the sled across the snow. The guides keep the atmosphere lively and informative, sharing insights into sledding techniques, the dogs’ personalities, and the history of husky travel.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Relaxing in a Finnish Kota or Tipi

After the ride, it’s time to warm up and unwind. The tour includes access to a traditional Finnish kota or tipi, where a crackling fire creates a cozy ambiance. Here, you can enjoy warm drinks and biscuits, a perfect way to relax and share stories about your adventure.

Many reviews highlight the friendly and welcoming atmosphere, especially when guides answer questions and talk about the dogs. Laura from France appreciated being able to pet the dogs and called the landscape “magnificent,” emphasizing how the scenery and companionship elevate the experience.

Additional Insights

The experience offers a peek into husky life and the skills involved in sledding, which is often appreciated by those interested in Arctic culture. It’s not just about the ride — it’s also about understanding these remarkable animals and the tradition of sled travel.

Practical Details & What You Need to Know

Duration & Group Size

The entire tour lasts about 4 hours, with the actual sled ride covering 7 km. The group is limited to 9 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience. However, reviewers noted that sometimes the group size exceeded expectations, with at least 15 people, so it’s worth confirming this detail when booking.

Price & Value

At $236 per person, this tour offers a hands-on experience that’s hard to match elsewhere. The price includes pick-up and drop-off, a guide, the dog kennel visit, instructions, the self-driven sled ride, plus warm drinks and cookies.

While gear rental (snowboots and overall) costs an extra 10 euros per person, many consider it a small addition for added comfort in freezing weather. The value lies in the participation aspect—you’re not just watching but actively driving your own team, which makes the cost worthwhile.

Accessibility & Requirements

Participants are advised to request winter gear beforehand, as the tour does not automatically include these. The small group setting enhances safety and makes for a more intimate experience, especially suitable for families or small groups.

Flexibility & Cancellation

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now, pay later. This flexibility is ideal if your plans might change.

Multilingual Guides

The guides are fluent in several languages, including French, English, Spanish, Catalan, and Persian, which broadens accessibility for international travelers.

Authentic Reviews & Insights

From the 24 reviews, a consistent theme emerges: guides are passionate and knowledgeable. A Belgian traveler rated it 5/5, calling the guide “top,” while a French reviewer appreciated the “magnificent landscape” and being able to pet the huskies, which added a personal touch.

Several travelers also appreciated the stunning scenery, describing the landscapes as “magnificent” and “incredible.” The friendly atmosphere and enthusiasm of the staff received high praise, making the experience feel genuine and welcoming.

One reviewer from Switzerland mentioned their disappointment about larger group sizes, which indicates that sometimes the small-group promise isn’t always perfectly maintained. Nevertheless, the overall sentiment remains positive, especially regarding the authenticity and scenery.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This self-driven husky sled adventure is perfect for travelers who want to actively participate in their Arctic experience rather than just observe. The small-group format encourages interaction and personalized attention, while the stunning natural scenery provides breathtaking photo opportunities and memorable moments.

The knowledgeable guides help deepen your understanding of huskies and sledding traditions, adding educational value to the excitement. Plus, the opportunity to bond with the dogs and the cozy finish in the kota or tipi make this a well-rounded Arctic activity.

While the additional gear fee might be a consideration, most find it worthwhile for the comfort and safety it provides in the cold. The price point is justified by the immersive, participative nature of the experience, making it a worthwhile investment for adventure-seekers.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a hands-on, authentic Arctic adventure that combines thrill, scenery, and cultural insights, this 7km husky sled ride ticks all the boxes. The chance to drive your own team of huskies makes it a highlight for those eager to do more than just watch.

It’s also ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends who want something memorable and engaging. Just remember to reserve gear in advance, and be prepared for the cold — but the warmth you’ll feel from the companionship of the dogs and guides makes it all worthwhile.

This tour offers great value for anyone looking to create lasting Arctic memories, with the added bonus of learning about one of Lapland’s most iconic traditions.

FAQ

Do I need to have experience with huskies or sledding?
No, guides give detailed instructions on how to handle the sled, making it accessible even for beginners.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off from your Rovaniemi accommodation.

Can I rent winter gear on-site?
Gear such as winter overall and snowboots are available for an extra 10 euros per person and must be requested in advance.

How long is the actual sled ride?
The sled ride covers 7 km, but the full experience lasts approximately 4 hours including transfers, instructions, and breaks.

Are the guides multilingual?
Yes, guides speak French, English, Spanish, Catalan, and Persian, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, and consider renting gear if you don’t have suitable winter clothing. The tour provides warm drinks and biscuits to help you warm up afterward.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

You can check if your dates are available here: