Kemi-Tornio: Husky Sled Ride with Hot Drink

If you’ve ever dreamed of mushing your own team of energetic Alaskan huskies across snow-blanketed landscapes, this Husky Sled Ride with Hot Drink tour in Kemi-Tornio offers just that—plus a few genuine surprises. This experience, hosted by Sea Lapland Safaris, combines the thrill of controlling your own dog sled over 5 km of pristine Arctic terrain with the cozy warmth of a hot drink afterward, making it a well-rounded adventure suitable for many travelers.

What we love most is the opportunity to become a musher for a day, steering your own sled and learning about the life of these incredible working dogs. However, it’s good to consider that this experience requires participants to be physically fit and at least 18 years old to handle the sled safely. It’s ideal for those craving authentic Arctic activities who don’t mind bundling up and getting a little muddy (well, snowy). If you’re after a genuine, hands-on Arctic encounter with stunning views and knowledgeable guides, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: Drive your own dog sled over a scenic 5 km trail in Sea Lapland’s well-organized setup.
• All-inclusive: Warm clothing, safety instructions, and a hot drink are included, making it easy to focus on the fun.
• Expert guidance: Guides like the friendly staff at Sea Lapland Safaris are knowledgeable, making sure you feel confident mushing your team.
• Ideal for adventurers: Suitable for those in good physical condition and comfortable handling a sled.
• Authentic Arctic scenery: Expect views over frozen lands and swamps, offering a real taste of Lapland’s pristine nature.
• Authentic interaction: After the ride, you can pet the huskies and learn about their daily lives, adding a personal touch.

An In-Depth Look at the Husky Sled Experience

Starting Point and Practicalities

The adventure begins at the Sea Lapland Safari house on Lumilinnankatu in Kemi. Here, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff who will outfit you in warm overalls, shoes, wool socks, and gloves—a necessity for coping with the Arctic chill. The importance of proper clothing cannot be overstated; Lapland winter can be harsh, and staying warm ensures you enjoy every moment without discomfort.

Once dressed, a short transfer takes you to the husky kennel. The transport is convenient and helps set the scene for the day’s adventure, taking you from the cozy safari house into the heart of the Arctic wilderness. There, the kennel staff will give safety instructions and show you exactly how to handle and steer a dog sled. They are approachable and happy to answer questions, which enhances the experience and helps even beginners feel confident.

The Self-Driving Sled Ride

This is a self-driving activity—you and your partner will take turns mushing the sled along a 5 km trail. The route is carefully chosen to showcase the best of Sea Lapland’s natural beauty, running across frozen lands and swamps that glow under the winter sun. The trail’s length is perfect: enough to build an adrenaline rush and give you a real taste of mushing, yet manageable for those new to sledding.

The guide will brief you on how to control the sled, handle the dogs, and ensure safety. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to experience the thrill of steering your own team over snow-covered terrain, feeling the power of the huskies pulling you forward. The guides have experience with the dogs and will help you if needed, making the activity accessible even for first-timers.

Meeting the Huskies and Learning About Their Lives

One of the most heartwarming parts of this tour is the chance to meet the Alaskan huskies up close. After your ride, you’ll have time to pet the dogs and take photos, which many reviewers find to be a highlight. The guides, likely including friendly staff like those praised in reviews, share stories about the dogs’ daily routines, personalities, and roles in the kennel.

In one review, a guest called the experience “amazing,” emphasizing the knowledgeable guides and the authentic interaction with the huskies. You might find that these dogs are more than just working animals—they’re part of the family, well-loved and cared for in a setting that emphasizes respect and care.

Warming Up With a Hot Drink

Following the exhilarating sled ride, everyone gathers back at the safari house to warm up. The included hot drinks—typically tea or coffee—are the perfect way to relax, share stories, and reflect on the experience. You’ll appreciate this cozy moment after braving the cold, and it’s a great opportunity to chat with guides and fellow travelers about the scenery or the dogs.

Additional Details and Practical Tips

• The experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours in total, which makes it a manageable part of a day exploring Lapland.
• Group sizes are small, which means more personal interaction and better chances to ask questions or get a photo with the dogs.
• The tour is offered in English and Finnish, with guides who are both professional and approachable.
• Cancellation policies are flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—adding peace of mind when planning your trip.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $221 per person, this experience might seem a bit steep, but considering the inclusion of clothing, safety briefing, the sled ride, and a hot drink, it offers good value for a hands-on Arctic adventure. The chance to drive your own sled and get close to the huskies makes this a memorable highlight for winter travelers who want more than just sightseeing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous souls eager to actively participate in a traditional Arctic activity. It’s perfect for dog lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and travelers who don’t mind getting a little snowy and muddy. Since the tour involves handling a sled, participants should be physically fit and at least 18 years old, but children can join as passengers in a second sled.

Ideal for those who want an authentic, hands-on experience with genuine huskies, this tour also appeals to travelers looking for a photo-worthy moment amidst stunning winter landscapes. If you’re after a relaxing, yet adventurous Arctic activity that combines nature, culture, and a bit of adrenaline, this sled ride ticks all those boxes.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For anyone visiting Kemi or Tornio and craving an authentic Lapland experience, this husky sled ride offers a genuine taste of Arctic life. The self-driving element makes it stand out from more passive sightseeing options, giving you a real connection to the landscape and the dogs. The guides’ friendly demeanor and knowledge make it approachable, even for beginners.

The stunning scenery, combined with the opportunity to meet and pet huskies, creates a warm, memorable experience that’s worth the investment. The included warm clothing, hot drinks, and small group setting ensure comfort and intimacy, making this a highlight of a winter trip to Lapland.

Whether you’re a dedicated adventurer or just seeking a unique Arctic activity, this tour balances fun, authenticity, and scenic beauty—delivering a true winter wonderland experience.

FAQs

Do I need to be experienced to drive a dog sled?
No prior experience is required. The guides will give safety instructions and show you how to handle the sled before you start your ride.

Is warm clothing included?
Yes, the tour provides all necessary winter gear, including overalls, shoes, wool socks, and gloves, to keep you warm and comfortable.

Can children participate?
Children can ride in the same sled as their parents, but the driver must be at least 18 years old and physically fit to handle the sled.

How long does the activity last?
The total duration is approximately 2.5 hours, including dressing up, transfer, the sled ride, and warming up afterward.

What kind of scenery will I see?
You’ll traverse over frozen lands and swamps, enjoying the raw beauty of Sea Lapland’s vast winter landscape.

Is transportation to the kennel included?
Pickup is available from selected hotels in Tornio-Haparanda, and the transfer to the husky kennel is included as part of the experience.

This husky sled tour offers a genuinely Finnish winter adventure, combining the thrill of mushing with the warmth of meeting these incredible dogs and exploring the Arctic scenery. It’s an activity that’s packed with authentic moments, expert guides, and breathtaking views—perfect for anyone looking to make their Lapland trip truly unforgettable.