Rovaniemi: Northern Lights and Husky Sleigh Ride

Traveling to Rovaniemi in winter offers a chance to see the Northern Lights, cuddle with huskies, and feel like you’ve stepped into a snow-covered fairy tale. This tour, organized by NordicUnique Travels, promises a 3.5-hour experience full of scenic sled rides, starry skies, and hopefully dazzling auroras—but it’s worth knowing what you’re signing up for before you book.

What we appreciate about this experience is the combination of activities—a cozy husky sleigh ride through snowy forests paired with a chance to see the Northern Lights, weather permitting. It’s a well-rounded taste of Arctic life in a short time. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the Northern Lights are not guaranteed. They depend on weather and solar activity, so you might find yourself enjoying the ride more than the lights. Still, it’s an adventure that suits those who love animals, outdoor winter scenery, and a touch of magic.

This tour is perfect for travelers looking for a balanced, authentic experience, especially if they’re keen on meeting huskies and enjoying the peaceful beauty of a true Arctic night without a full-day commitment. It’s suitable for families with children over 11 and those who enjoy guided excursions with knowledgeable staff.

Key Points

• Authentic husky sled ride through snowy landscapes
• Potential Aurora viewing in a peaceful forest or lakeside setting
• Warm winter gear provided, making cold weather bearable
• Knowledgeable guides who share insights about huskies and the Northern Lights
• Flexible cancellation policy with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance
• Group size and weather dependence are factors that influence the experience

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour kicks off with a hotel pickup near Rovaniemi’s center, making it convenient for most travelers. You’ll be taken to a charming farmhouse where the husky team is waiting—an ideal spot to get familiar with the dogs and learn about their personalities from your guide, Pietro or Luka. The atmosphere is friendly, and the guides are keen to answer questions, adding a personal touch to the experience.

The husky sled ride itself covers approximately 5 km, offering a chance to glide over snow-covered trails, frozen lakes, and through winter forests. Reviewers consistently mention how magical and thrilling it is to be led by these energetic dogs—some describe it as “an experience you could never forget.” It’s also a chance to interact with the huskies, learn about their care, and enjoy the scenic beauty of Lapland.

Post-sleigh ride, the adventure continues with a drive to a remote location—either a forest or lakeside—where the main highlight awaits: the Northern Lights (weather permitting). Guides will monitor conditions and do their best to find a clear, dark spot for optimal viewing. Several reviews note that aurora sightings are unpredictable, but the effort and journey are still worthwhile. One reviewer mentioned their guide, Isaac, went the extra mile to find a good spot, even crossing international borders to catch a glimpse.

If the sky is clear, you’ll be able to marvel at the dancing lights, which are truly extraordinary when they appear. For those who don’t see the auroras, many still find the environment—under a star-studded sky, in silence—just as mesmerizing.

The Cozy Finish

After stargazing, you’ll be driven back to the starting point, often passing through snow-draped scenery illuminated by the moon. The tour wraps up with a warm treat of blueberry juice and, if the weather allows, the chance to listen to stories about Lapland’s folklore and native traditions.

The Value of the Experience

At $260 per person, this tour offers a good balance of activities. The inclusion of winter clothing—overalls, boots, gloves—ensures you stay warm without needing to rent gear elsewhere. The 5-km husky ride is a substantial length, giving you a genuine taste of dog sledding, which many reviewers describe as “amazing” and “fabulous.”

The optional Northern Lights search is a major selling point, though it’s important to recognize that sightings rely heavily on weather and solar activity. Reviewers have noted that even if the auroras don’t appear, the experience of being outdoors at night in Lapland, surrounded by snow and stars, is still worth the price.

Some mention the group size and weather conditions influencing the experience, with larger groups or cloudy skies limiting visibility. Still, guides like Luka and Pietro are praised for their friendliness and depth of knowledge, making the overall experience engaging and educational.

The Experience Itself: A Closer Look

Meeting the Huskies at the farmhouse is the first highlight. Expect a warm welcome and plenty of opportunities to pet and interact with the dogs. Many reviewers emphasize how friendly and well-cared-for the huskies are, with guides sharing interesting facts about their training and life. Pietro, in particular, receives compliments for his lively explanations and enthusiasm.

The sled ride is the core activity. The sled is quite comfortable and provides a smooth ride, often over a frozen lake or forest trail, depending on weather conditions. The length—about 5 km—means you get a good sense of what dog sledding is like without it feeling rushed. Reviewers describe it as “magical,” “thrilling,” and “a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” especially with twinkling stars overhead.

Post-sleigh activity involves a scenic drive to a remote site, which could be woods or lakeside. This is where the chance to see the Northern Lights comes into play. Guides are attentive to weather conditions, and some go beyond the basic itinerary to maximize your chances of witnessing the auroras—crucial because, as reviews highlight, sightings are not guaranteed. Still, being in the quiet of Lapland’s wilderness, waiting in the dark, has its own appeal.

Warm comfort comes in the form of hot blueberry juice and the chance to sit around a fire, sharing stories or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings. This warmth is appreciated after the cold outdoor activities.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration is around 3.5 hours; check availability for specific start times.
• Pickup is included but only from Santa Claus Holiday Village and Nordic Unique Travels Office, so plan accordingly.
• Group size varies; on weekdays and Saturdays, a minimum of 2 people is needed, while on Sundays and holidays, 4 are required for the tour to operate.
• Weather plays a big role—cloudy skies might mean no Aurora, but the sled ride can still be enjoyable.
• Children under 11 are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.
• Not suitable for pregnant women or those in wheelchairs.
• Cancellation is flexible—full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Authentic and Unforgettable Moments

From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Pietro, Luka, and Isaac bring a lot of personality and knowledge, making the journey more meaningful. The huskies are described as “lovely,” “friendly,” and “fabulous,” and those interactions add an intimate, genuine feel to the experience. Many travelers mention how the starry night sky and twinkling lights of the auroras create a truly magical atmosphere, even if the lights themselves remain elusive.

While some have missed the Northern Lights due to weather, most still find value in the experience—whether it’s the thrill of the sled ride, the companionship of the dogs, or the quiet beauty of Lapland’s winter wilderness.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adventure lovers who enjoy outdoor activities amidst stunning scenery. It’s perfect for those seeking authentic Arctic experiences without spending days in the cold. Families with children over 11 will find the pace suitable, especially if they want a memorable introduction to husky sledding and northern wilderness.

It’s also suitable for travelers who are flexible about Aurora sightings but want to enjoy the atmosphere and scenery of Lapland at night. If you’re after a romantic or peaceful escape, the snow-covered landscape and starry sky provide a quiet, awe-inspiring backdrop.

However, if your main goal is guaranteed Aurora viewing, be prepared for some uncertainty and consider this tour as part of a broader Aurora-chasing plan.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included but only from specific locations: Santa Claus Holiday Village and Nordic Unique Travels Office. Be ready 10 minutes before your scheduled time.

How long is the husky sled ride?
The sled ride covers approximately 5 km, providing a substantial experience without it being overly long or tiring.

Are winter clothes provided?
Yes, the tour includes warm overalls, boots, and gloves to keep you comfortable in the Arctic cold.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
Sightings depend on weather and solar activity so they are not guaranteed. Guides do their best to find a good viewing spot.

Is this suitable for children?
Children under 11 are allowed but must be accompanied by a paying adult. Always check your own comfort with outdoor winter conditions.

What if the weather is cloudy?
Cloudy skies might obscure the auroras, but the sled ride and the overall experience still have value, especially the peaceful nighttime scenery.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if weather or plans change.

The Rovaniemi Northern Lights and Husky Sleigh Ride tour offers a well-rounded Arctic experience—combining adventure, wildlife interaction, and scenic beauty. While the chance to see the Northern Lights isn’t guaranteed, the journey itself is often described as unforgettable. The guides’ warmth and knowledge, paired with the charm of the huskies, make it a worthwhile outing, especially for those eager to sample the true feel of Lapland.

This tour is best suited for travelers craving an authentic, engaging experience with a touch of adventure and nature. It’s a solid choice for families, animal lovers, and those who want to spend an enchanting evening beneath the stars in the Arctic wilderness.

Whether you’re lucky enough to witness the Aurora or not, this tour promises a memorable peek into the magic of Lapland’s winter landscape—a genuine adventure that captures the spirit of the north.