Levi: Husky Adventure Self-Drive Safari 15km

Setting out on a husky sledging adventure in Lapland offers a unique glimpse into Finland’s winter wonderland. This tour, offered by Polar Lights Tours, provides a self-drive husky safari that combines adrenaline, stunning scenery, and a touch of local folklore—all within a manageable three-hour window. It’s a fantastic way for travelers to get up close and personal with the Arctic wilderness, especially if you’re after something hands-on and memorable.

One of the standout features of this experience is driving your own team of lively Alaskan huskies, which adds a layer of excitement and personal achievement. The scenery on the route is breathtaking, with expansive snowy landscapes that make every moment feel like stepping into a Christmas card. A possible consideration is the cost, which some might find steep at $366 per person, but many agree the value lies in the authentic, well-organized nature of the tour and the chance to drive the sled yourself.

This tour is ideal for those who want an active outdoor experience, enjoy animals, and are interested in local culture. It’s less suitable for very young children (under 4 years old) and those with mobility limitations, but for most winter adventurers, it offers a genuine, fun-filled glimpse of Lapland’s wilderness.

Key Points

Authentic Self-Drive Experience — You get behind the sled, steering a team of huskies across 15-18 km, making it more engaging than just riding along.

Stunning Scenic Views — The landscape of Lapland’s snowy terrain is truly spectacular, perfect for photo opportunities and creating memories.

Cultural Touches — The post-safari visit to the cozy Kammi by the fire introduces you to Finnish folklore and legends, enriching the experience.

Well-Organized & Knowledgeable Guides — The guides are friendly, clear, and handle safety instructions well, making beginners feel confident.

Flexible & Comfortable — Warm clothing is provided if needed, and the tour runs rain or shine, ensuring no weather can spoil the fun.

Good Value for Nature & Culture Lovers — For the cost, you’re not only getting a scenic adventure but also a taste of local traditions and the chance to pet the dogs afterwards.

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure kicks off at Levi Center, Hissitie 11, easily accessible and convenient for most travelers staying in Levi or nearby. A short 15-minute bus transfer whisks you from the center to the family-run husky farm, setting a relaxed tone for the day. The farm isn’t just a staging ground; it’s a hub of the local husky, horse, and reindeer life, adding an authentic touch to the experience.

The Safety Briefing and Instructions

Upon arrival, the guides, including friendly and knowledgeable staff, provide a 15-minute safety and driving briefing. They’re clear without overloading you with technical jargon, making sure everyone feels comfortable before hitting the snow. The instructions cover how to steer the sled and handle the dogs, which is especially helpful for first-timers. Multiple reviews mention how well the guides facilitate the experience, with Camille Monteiro noting “The guide was in front on a snowmobile, supporting us all the way,” which reassures beginners.

The Husky Safari Itinerary

The core of the tour is the 15-18 km self-drive sled ride. You’ll be paired with a husky team, two persons per sled, allowing you to take turns being the driver and the passenger. During the ride, you’ll glide through Lapland’s pristine snow-covered landscape, with the landscape shifting from dense forests to open plains. The views are captivating and perfect for photographs, as noted by a traveler who said, “The snowy landscape is beautiful.”

The guides typically lead the group with a snowmobile, ensuring safety and providing some excitement. The shift midway allows both participants to try steering the sled, which many find both fun and rewarding, as Camille pointed out, “You can swap drivers and both get an experience on how dog sledding is done.”

The Dogs and Post-Ride Interaction

The huskies are the real stars—friendly, energetic, and incredibly well cared for. After the ride, you’ll have time to pet and learn about the dogs, which adds an extra layer of connection to the animals. Several reviews highlighted this part as a favorite, with guests appreciating the opportunity to get close to the dogs and enjoy their playful personalities.

Warming Up in the Kammi

Following the ride, everyone gathers in a cozy Kammi (sauna hut) warmed by an open fire. Here, you’ll enjoy a hot juice and snack, creating a perfect moment to relax and share stories about the adventure. As GetYourGuide traveler shared, “We warm up in a small cabin by the fire with a hot juice and a brioche,” which sounds just right after a chilly sledding session.

Cultural Insights and Folklore

An unexpected but appreciated element is the cultural aspect—learning about Finnish folklore and legends surrounding huskies and mythical creatures. This adds depth to the experience, connecting you with local traditions and stories that have shaped the region’s culture.

Practical Details and Group Dynamics

The tour is designed for small groups, usually no more than 6 participants, which makes for a personal and engaging experience. The entire activity lasts about 3 hours, including transportation, safety briefing, the sled ride, and the warm-up. The price of $366 reflects the inclusion of transportation, the guided sled experience, and the warm drinks, which many see as reasonable for such an authentic adventure.

Reviews and Feedback

Most reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. Claude from Switzerland called it a “great experience,” noting how “the instructions are clear, and steering the sled is no problem.” Others appreciated the organized support—a guide on a snowmobile leading the way, which reassures less confident drivers.

Some reviewers do mention the ride length—around an hour, as Camille highlighted—which is enough time to enjoy the scenery and meet the dogs without feeling overly exhausted. Fabienne from Germany mentioned that “the drinks and snacks could have been more for the price,” but overall, guests find the tour offers good value considering the experience and cultural elements.

Weather and Clothing

The tour runs rain or shine, which is typical of Lapland adventures. The provided advice to bring warm clothing is sound, as temperatures can drop quickly in winter. The tour operator offers warm clothes if needed, so you can focus on the fun without worrying about the cold.

This self-drive husky sled tour is especially suited for adventure seekers who want to actively participate in their Arctic experience. It’s perfect if you’re keen on animals, enjoy scenic outdoor activities, and want a taste of local culture. Families with children over 4 years old can often participate, depending on their comfort level with outdoor activities and cold weather.

It’s a fantastic option for those wanting more than just a ride—they get to drive the sled, learn about husky life, and enjoy the Arctic landscape firsthand. However, if you’re after a quick, less involved tour, or are on a tight budget, you might find other options more suitable.

This Levi Husky Self-Drive Safari offers an engaging, authentic way to experience Lapland’s winter beauty. The chance to steer your own team of lively huskies across snow-dusted forests and open fields makes for a memorable adventure. The tour’s combination of scenic views, cultural storytelling, and animal interaction creates a well-rounded experience that appeals to outdoor lovers, animal enthusiasts, and those curious about Lapland’s traditions.

While the price might seem steep to some, many find it justified by the personal involvement in the sled ride, the quality of the guides, and the opportunity to connect with the dogs and local folklore. The tour’s small-group format ensures a friendly, personal atmosphere that makes you feel part of something special, not just a tourist.

If you’re after a genuine taste of Lapland’s wilderness and are eager to try your hand at dog sledding, this adventure is likely to deliver more than enough joy and breathtaking memories—all wrapped in a cozy, cultural package.

How long is the husky sledding part of the tour?
The self-drive husky sledding covers approximately 15-18 km, lasting about an hour of active driving, with additional time for instructions and rest.

Is warm clothing provided?
Yes, warm clothes are available if needed, but it’s recommended to bring your own layered winter gear to stay comfortable.

Can I swap drivers during the sled ride?
Absolutely. The tour allows you to switch between driver and passenger midway, so both can experience steering the sled.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation to and from Levi Center Hissitie 11, the guided husky safari, and hot juice and snacks afterward.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children over 4 years old can participate; however, very young children or those with mobility issues might find it less suitable.

What should I expect at the end of the ride?
After the sledding, you’ll have a chance to pet the huskies, learn about them, and enjoy traditional Finnish folklore stories by the fire.

What’s the weather like, and does it affect the tour?
The tour runs rain or shine, so dress appropriately. Cold, snowy, or clear weather all add to the adventure and scenery.

This self-drive husky safari is a solid choice for travelers eager to experience the authentic Arctic thrill, connect with the local culture, and enjoy the stunning Lapland landscape in an active, fun way.