8-10km Husky Ride in the Taiga and Visit other farm animals

Imagine dashing through snow-covered forests pulled by a lively team of huskies, the crisp winter air filling your lungs and the excited yelps of the dogs ringing in your ears. This tour in Rovaniemi offers a chance to take the reins of your own sled, surrounded by Finland’s pristine wilderness, combined with a visit to a charming farm full of farm animals. It’s a well-rounded experience blending adventure, nature, and authentic Lapland charm.

What really caught our attention is the opportunity to become the musher, steering a real husky team through the snow — an experience that’s both exhilarating and empowering. Plus, the chance to meet reindeer, horses, ducks, sheep, donkeys, and more adds a warm, friendly touch to the wild adventure. On the flip side, some travelers might find the drive to the farm a bit lengthy — about 40 minutes from Rovaniemi — but many agree it’s worth the journey.

This tour is best suited for those who love outdoor activities, are comfortable in cold weather, and seek an authentic glimpse of Arctic life without requiring prior experience. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a family-friendly adventure or those simply eager to feel like a true explorer in Lapland.

Key Points

• Authentic husky mushering experience driven by your own, or a guide’s, skill.
• Enriching farm visit, meeting reindeer, horses, sheep, ducks, and donkeys.
• Beautiful snow-covered scenery in the Lapland taiga.
• Value for money, considering the 8-10 km ride plus farm activities and a traditional Lapish BBQ.
• Comfort and safety features like warm winter overalls and a guided, well-organized experience.
• Small group size of up to 8 travelers ensures a more personalized experience.

What to Expect from the Tour

The adventure begins with a pick-up from your accommodation in Rovaniemi**, where a friendly guide will transport you in an air-conditioned vehicle to the husky kennel and farm. This part of the trip might be a bit of a journey (around 40 minutes), but it sets the stage for the rural, untouched beauty of Lapland’s forests and farm life.

Meeting the Husky Team and Learning the Ropes

Upon arrival, you’ll receive a briefing on how to safely lead the sled, which is crucial if you plan to take the wheel. The guides, such as the highly praised Arktictopia team, are friendly and eager to share their knowledge about the sled dogs and their training routines. Travelers like Sarah noted that the tour guide is very helpful and friendly, making the whole process feel comfortable and engaging.

Regarding clothing, the guides check if your attire is suitable for the cold. Winter overalls are available if needed, helping you stay warm during the ride. Remember, the main requirement to lead the sled is being over 18, but younger guests can still enjoy a ride as passengers.

The Husky Sled Ride

Once prepared, you’ll hop into your sled and take control, with the dogs eager to get moving. The 8 to 10 km route takes you through the crude, pristine Lapland forests, with the excited barks of the huskies replacing traditional sleigh bells. The scenery is straightforwardly stunning, with snow-laden trees and the silence of the taiga broken only by the dogs’ enthusiastic yelps.

One of the reviews from Flavia highlights that the activity is around 8 km long and takes place on an iced lake surrounded by the forest. She mentions that the guides on snowmobiles supervised the activity, which added an extra layer of safety and organization.

Farm Animals and the Farm Visit

After the sled ride, you’ll visit the farm, where reindeer, horses, ducks, sheep, and donkeys await. This part of the experience is often lauded for its authenticity and warmth. As Agostina points out, the dogs are beautifully treated and the farm visit is “really nice,” providing a great contrast to the wilderness adventure.

During the visit, you’ll have a chance to ask questions about how the animals are cared for and trained. The guides’ insights are appreciated; the friendly mushers gladly share stories about their dogs and life in Lapland.

Relaxing by the Fire and Lunch

The tour wraps up with a cozy lunch around an open fire, featuring a traditional Lapish BBQ, which adds a hearty, authentic flavor to the experience. Sitting by the fire after the outdoor activities is a perfect way to warm up and reflect on the adventure, especially since reviews like Sarah’s describe the fire and farm visit as “really nice.”

The Practical Details

Duration and Group Size

This experience lasts around 4 hours and 30 minutes, making it an ideal half-day excursion. The small group size, capped at 8 travelers, ensures a more intimate feeling and plenty of opportunities for questions and interaction.

Pricing and Value

At $299.52 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience—including the husky sled ride, farm visit, and lunch. Considering the length of the sled ride (8-10 km) and the chance to see and interact with farm animals, many find this to be good value for money. The tour also includes pickup, so planning is straightforward, and there’s no need to worry about transportation logistics.

Additional Notes

• Confirmations are received at booking, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed.
• Be prepared for Arctic weather—warm clothing is essential. The guides can provide winter overalls if needed.
• The cancellation policy is flexible, allowing free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

Authenticity and Expert Insights

What sets this tour apart is the personalized experience. Reviewers like Giancarlo highlight how the sled ride, though lasting about half an hour, is very fun, and the overall experience with the animals is “bellissima” (beautiful in Italian). The guides’ friendliness and willingness to answer questions create a welcoming environment that makes the adventure feel genuine and enriching.

The scenery—snowy forests and icy lakes—provides a stunning backdrop that makes you feel immersed in Lapland’s untouched nature. The dog team, well-treated and eager, adds an element of joy and excitement that many find memorable.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for adventure lovers, family groups, or anyone wanting a hands-on encounter with huskies and farm animals. It’s suitable for most travelers, thanks to the manageable group size and inclusiveness, but it’s especially appealing if you’re interested in learning about husky training and Lapland’s rural life.

The combination of outdoor activity, cultural insight, and authentic farm interactions makes it a well-rounded choice for those wanting a genuine Arctic experience without needing prior sledding skills.

The Sum Up

This husky sled and farm visit in Rovaniemi offers a balanced blend of adventure, nature, and authentic local culture. The chance to mush your own team of huskies through the snow is truly special, and the added farm visit brings charming, memorable moments of connection with farm animals. The experience is well-organized, with attentive guides and a cozy setting for lunch afterward.

While the drive to the farm might be a minor consideration for some, the overall value, scenic beauty, and personalized touch make this tour a standout for anyone seeking a genuine taste of Lapland’s wilderness and rural life. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or family, this experience delivers a delightful mix of excitement and warmth in one of the world’s most breathtaking settings.

FAQ

How long is the husky sled ride?
The sled ride covers approximately 8 to 10 kilometers, lasting around half an hour during the tour.

Is prior experience needed to lead the sled?
No, you just need to be over 18 to lead the sled yourself. Younger guests can join as passengers.

What should I wear?
Warm, windproof clothing is necessary as temperatures can be quite cold. Winter overalls are available if requested to help stay warm.

What animals will I see on the farm?
Expect to meet and interact with reindeer, horses, ducks, sheep, donkeys, and the friendly dogs.

How long is the total experience?
It lasts about 4 hours and 30 minutes, including transport, the sled ride, farm visit, and lunch.

Is transportation included?
Yes, a pickup in Rovaniemi is offered, and the vehicle is air-conditioned.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start time.

Is this suitable for children?
While the sledding requires participants to be over 18 to drive, children can enjoy the farm visit and can ride as passengers.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes the activity guide, a warm outfit upon request, transportation, the farm visit, and a traditional Lapish BBQ lunch.

Set out on a journey that combines the thrill of husky mushing with the warmth of farm life, all set against the stunning backdrop of Lapland’s snowy forests. This tour promises an authentic, memorable Arctic experience that balances adventure, culture, and natural beauty.