Rovaniemi: Husky Safari & Campfire BBQ 610 km SelfDrive

If you’re dreaming of an authentic Lapland experience that combines adrenaline, nature, and genuine connection with huskies, the Rovaniemi Husky Safari & Campfire BBQ might just be your perfect match. Though I haven’t personally strapped into the sled, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear this is a bucket-list-worthy adventure for those seeking a taste of Arctic life, away from crowds and commercialized tours.

What sets this tour apart? First, it offers self-driving husky sledding, giving you the rare opportunity to take the reins and feel the raw power of these incredible dogs. Second, the guides are praised for their friendliness and expertise, making the experience both fun and educational. Third, the chance to witness Lapland’s summer and autumn beauty—think lush greenery, golden hues, and roaming reindeer—adds a scenic element that makes this more than just a drive.

One thing to consider? The tour’s duration is about 5 hours, which might be a bit long if you’re short on time or prefer a quicker outing. It’s best suited for active travelers, dog lovers, or anyone eager to enjoy an authentic, intimate adventure in Finland’s northern wilds.

Good To Know

• Self-driving experience: You get behind the sled and learn to mush from skilled instructors.
• Small group size: Max 8 people, ensuring personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.
• Beautiful scenic backdrop: Autumn foliage, reindeer, and elk sightings enhance the adventure.
• Authentic connection: Meet and pet the huskies, creating a genuine bond with the dogs.
• Guided expertise: Guides like Baiba, Max, and Elena are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Includes a cozy campfire BBQ: End the day with a warm meal in Lapland’s natural setting.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Husky Safari & Campfire Experience

The Itinerary and What You’ll Do

The tour typically lasts around 5 hours, starting with a hotel pickup (remember to be ready 10 minutes early). Once at the husky farm, you’ll meet the adorable, friendly huskies—some of whom are puppies, adding an extra layer of cuteness. The group is intentionally kept small (up to 8 people), which means more personal interaction and plenty of time to pet and photograph the dogs.

The core highlight is the 6-10 km self-driving husky sled tour. Under the guidance of a skilled instructor, you’ll learn to steer your team, feeling the thrill of power and speed as you glide through the scenic trails. Reviewers like Margarette and Emma rave about how “the dogs were so cute and gentle,” and how “the scenery when you are driving is incredible.” You’ll likely feel a rush of excitement, especially as you master the art of mushing, which some described as both “magical” and “really fun.”

The Trail and Autumn Scenery

Unlike winter snow trails, the autumn months reveal a different kind of beauty in Lapland. Expect lush, green forests, vibrant leaves, and golden hues. The tour notes that reindeer and elk can often be seen roaming freely, adding to the sense of being in untouched nature. Emma mentions the “scenery when you are driving” as a major highlight, and guides like Baiba and Elena make sure to share insights into the landscape and local wildlife.

Meeting the Huskies

A big part of the appeal is the personal interaction with the dogs. Reviewers mention the affectionate, gentle nature of the huskies, emphasizing how excited and eager they are to pull the sled. After your drive, you’ll have time to pet the huskies and even meet some puppies. Sanjiven describes the energy of the dogs as “infectious,” which captures how much fun and joy these animals bring to the experience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Campfire BBQ

As your adventure concludes, you’ll gather around a cozy campfire for a barbecue. This is a perfect way to unwind and reflect on the day. Although details about the food are not extensively described, the inclusion of a campfire BBQ offers a warm, authentic finish to your outdoor adventure—something reviewers appreciated, especially on cooler autumn days.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Group Size and Comfort

Keeping the group small (max 8) means you’ll receive more personalized attention, which enhances safety and learning, especially for beginners. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward. Remember to arrive prepared with comfortable shoes, a passport or ID, and any personal items you might need.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour provides winter overalls suitable for adult sizes, which are essential if the weather turns chilly, even in autumn. It’s recommended to wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for outdoor activity. Since the focus is on the experience rather than packing heavy gear, just keep essentials like your ID and some snacks handy.

Ensuring Flexibility

One attractive feature is the reserve-now, pay-later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours before. This flexibility is helpful if your plans shift, especially during unpredictable weather seasons.

Accessibility and Restrictions

The tour is not suitable for pets, large luggage, or mobility scooters, emphasizing its focus on outdoor activity and safety. Smoking, alcohol, fireworks, and littering are prohibited to preserve the natural setting.

Authentic Experience from Real Travelers

Based on reviews, the guides are consistently praised for their friendliness and knowledge. Baiba, Max, and Elena are singled out as making the experience “wonderful” and “magical.” Emma notes that her guide Max was “lovely and so were the people at the husky farm,” which speaks to the welcoming atmosphere.

Travelers also love the opportunity to pet and meet the huskies post-drive, making the experience more personal. Sanjiven shares that “the energy from the huskies was so infectious,” capturing how lively and engaging the dogs are.

The scenic autumn backdrop is a standout, with many mentioning the vivid colors and the chance to see reindeer and elk in their natural habitat. These sightings add a layer of authenticity and connection to Lapland’s wilderness.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and want to connect with nature and animals on a deeper level. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo explorers looking for a small-group, personalized experience. Dog lovers and those eager to learn mushing will find this especially rewarding.

If you’re after a quick, high-energy activity, this might not fit into your tight schedule. However, for those wanting a meaningful and scenic day in Lapland, this tour offers excellent value and unforgettable memories.

Final Thoughts

The Rovaniemi Husky Safari & Campfire BBQ offers a genuine, hands-on look at life in Lapland. The chance to drive your own sled through stunning autumn scenery is rare and memorable, especially when combined with meeting friendly huskies and relaxing by a campfire. The small group sizes, expert guides, and authentic vibe make this a standout choice for those craving something more personal and meaningful.

While it’s a longer tour, the rich scenery, the bonding with the huskies, and the cozy conclusion make it well worth the time. If you love dogs, adventure, and nature, this experience is likely to leave a lasting impression—and maybe even a new furry friend.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the provided details don’t specify age restrictions, the small group size and outdoor nature suggest it’s best for kids comfortable in outdoor environments. Check with the provider for specific age guidelines.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, along with warm clothing suitable for outdoor activities. The tour provides winter overalls for adults, so dress in layers underneath.

Will I be able to pet the huskies?
Yes, reviewers mention that after the sledding, there’s plenty of time to pet the huskies and even meet some puppies, making for a warm, personal interaction.

How long is the self-driving sled ride?
The sled ride covers approximately 6-10 km, depending on the conditions and group pace. It’s enough to feel the thrill without being overly strenuous.

What is included in the BBQ?
While specific details aren’t provided, the tour includes a cozy campfire setting for a barbecue, likely featuring warm, hearty fare typical of outdoor Finnish meals.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled activity, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

To sum it up, this tour combines adventure, scenery, and authentic interaction with Lapland’s iconic huskies. It’s perfect for those wanting to experience the wilderness in a personal, memorable way, making it a standout choice for your Finnish adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: