Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
If you’re dreaming of a winter escape that combines thrilling outdoor activity with touching encounters with adorable dogs, the Pyhätunturi Husky Safari might just be your perfect match. This 1.5-hour experience in Lapland offers a 30-minute husky sled ride across snowy forest trails, a visit to a private husky farm, and a cozy stop for hot berry juice around a campfire.
What we love about this tour is the genuine opportunity to meet and hear stories about the dogs, along with the chance to glide through the snowy wilderness in a traditional sled. It’s a family-friendly adventure that manages to be both simple and memorable. The only notable consideration is its limited duration and the fact that transportation and winter gear aren’t included, so some planning is required.
This experience suits those seeking an authentic, hands-on Arctic activity, especially families or anyone curious about husky life. If you’re after a quick, charming taste of Lapland’s wilderness accompanied by friendly guides, this safari is worth considering.
Key Points
- Authentic Husky Experience: Meet and learn about the dogs directly from knowledgeable guides.
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for children over 4 (with precautions), and enjoyable for all ages.
- Scenic Wilderness: Glide through snowy forests with stunning views typical of Lapland.
- Short & Sweet: Ideal if you want a brief but memorable Arctic adventure.
- Additional Costs: Transportation and winter clothing are extra, so plan accordingly.
- Limited Duration: At around 1.5 hours, it’s a quick introduction rather than an extended tour.
What to Expect from the Pyhätunturi Husky Safari
The experience starts at the Pyhä Husky Farm—a privately owned operation located at Molkankummuntie 225, in Kemijärvi. You’ll need to arrive on time for your scheduled start, and if arriving by your own vehicle, bring your winter gear — the farm does not provide it. For those booking transport, pickups from Pyhä begin roughly 30 minutes prior, and from Luosto about 45 minutes beforehand.
The Husky Sledge Ride – 30 Minutes of Arctic Fun
The highlight is the 6-husky sledge ride that covers approximately 3-5 km of snowy trails. Guiding you through the pristine winter landscape, your sled will be driven by a professional guide, while you and your companions sit comfortably being pulled through the snow.
One adult must always drive the sledge, which means you’ll be sharing the experience or swapping off at the halfway point if there are two adults. Children under 4 years are not allowed to participate due to safety reasons, as the cold and the speed can be too much for very young bodies. The sleds can seat two adults and children, with arrangements possible for infants sitting on laps or for families needing to split into different sleds to ensure safety and comfort.
Meeting the Dogs & Learning Their Stories
After the ride, your guide will introduce you to the adorable huskies, sharing stories about their lives and what it takes to mushing through winter. As one reviewer from Ireland put it, “The dogs were quite chilled (for huskies) and so it was really family friendly & great for kids,” highlighting how laid-back and approachable the dogs are.
Cozy Campfire & Hot Berry Juice
Post-sled ride, you’ll gather in a warm hut with a campfire, where steaming berry juice awaits. This is a charming moment to relax, chat, and soak in the winter scenery. The storytelling element adds a personal touch to the tour, making it more than just a quick sled ride.
The Practical Details
The price of $165 per person reflects the full experience, including the guided tour, farm visit, and hot drinks. However, note that winter clothing and shoes are not included—you’ll need to bring your own or add rental during the booking process. This is important because Finnish winters can be brutally cold, and being properly dressed makes all the difference in comfort and safety.
Transportation isn’t part of the package, so if you’re not staying close by, adding a transfer is recommended. The farm’s location offers a peaceful, genuine setting away from crowds, but arriving on time is key.
Safety & Restrictions
Given the nature of husky sledding, certain restrictions apply: children under 4 can’t participate, and pregnant women or those with back issues or low fitness levels might find the activity less suitable. The maximum weight limit is 150kg (331 lbs), ensuring sleds remain safe and manageable.
Group Size & Family Dynamics
The sleds are filled to capacity—two adults and some children per sled—and the guides sometimes allow children to sit on laps if they’re small enough. However, families may be split across multiple sleds depending on size and safety considerations. For those who prefer to avoid mushing altogether, a special musher can be arranged, but this requires booking in advance at an additional cost.
Authenticity & Authentic Arctic Vibe
One of the aspects most appreciated in reviews is the knowledgeable guides who share stories and answer questions, adding depth to the experience. The quiet, snowy wilderness combined with the sight of playful huskies creates a genuine Lapland atmosphere that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.
Multiple reviews highlighted how the guides’ friendliness and expertise made the adventure memorable. For instance, a German traveler said, “The guide and the entire team were super friendly and helpful,” which underscores the importance of well-trained staff in making your experience smooth and enjoyable.
Analyzing Value: Is It Worth It?
At $165, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to husky mushing with an authentic farm visit, storytelling, and warm drinks. While the duration isn’t long, the price reflects the personal attention, the quality of the huskies, and the scenic wilderness. If you’re after a quick but meaningful Arctic experience, it’s quite competitive.
However, keep in mind that extras like winter clothing and transportation are additional costs, so budget accordingly. For travelers staying in Pyhä or nearby, this tour offers excellent value as a straightforward, family-friendly activity that captures some of the magic of Lapland.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This safari is best suited for families with children over 4, couples wanting a manageable outdoor adventure, or anyone curious about huskies and mushing but not wanting hours on a sled. It’s also ideal if you’re looking for a short, scenic glimpse of Lapland’s wilderness that fits into a broader trip.
Those who enjoy learning from guides and hearing stories about the local dogs will find this especially rewarding. If you cherish authentic, hands-on experiences in a quiet, natural setting, this tour checks those boxes.
Final Thoughts
The Pyhätunturi Husky Safari provides a delightful, authentic peek into Lapland’s winter magic. Its combination of a short sled ride, engaging stories, and cozy hot drinks makes it an appealing choice for travelers seeking a family-friendly Arctic experience.
While it isn’t an all-day adventure, it offers quality over quantity—allowing you to enjoy the charm of the huskies and the peaceful snowy landscape without feeling rushed. It’s a well-organized, personable experience that’s likely to leave you with warm memories and a newfound appreciation for these incredible working dogs.
If you’re ready to meet the huskies and glide through the snow, this tour is definitely worth considering—just be sure to dress warmly and plan your logistics ahead of time for a smooth day.
FAQ
Do I need to bring my own winter clothes?
Yes, winter clothing and shoes are not included, so it’s essential to bring warm gear or add rental options when booking.
Can children participate in the husky safari?
Children over 4 years old can join, but children under 4 are not allowed for safety reasons, due to cold and safety concerns.
Is transportation included?
No, transportation to the farm is not included but can be added during booking.
How long is the sled ride?
The ride lasts about 30 minutes, covering roughly 3-5 km through snowy trails.
Can I drive the sledge myself?
Only one adult drives at a time; the other passengers sit on the sledge. Children cannot drive but may sit on laps or share sleds.
Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews mention guides as friendly, helpful, and eager to share stories about the huskies.
Is this experience suitable for a family with young children?
Yes, for children over 4, but very young children or infants should be carefully considered due to safety and cold.
What’s included in the price?
The guided tour, husky safari, farm visit, and hot drinks are included.
What should I expect at the farm?
You’ll meet the huskies, hear stories about their lives, and enjoy steaming berry juice around a campfire.
Is the experience weather-dependent?
Yes, harsh weather can affect the tour, but this is typical for outdoor winter activities in Lapland.
To sum it up, the Pyhätunturi husky safari strikes a good balance between adventure and authenticity. Its intimate setting, friendly guides, and scenic trails make it a memorable part of any Lapland itinerary, especially if you’re traveling with family or simply want a taste of Arctic life without a long commitment. Just remember to plan your wardrobe, transportation, and expectations accordingly, and you’ll likely find this tour a highlight of your winter trip to Finland.