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Planning a trip to Swedish Lapland? If you’re after a blend of adrenaline, stunning scenery, and authentic dog-living experiences, the Sunrise Zen Husky Tour offers all that in a beautifully curated package. Although we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, detailed reviews and descriptions paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect — and it looks truly unforgettable.
What really catches our eye is the small group size—just four travelers—which seems to promise a more personalized, intimate experience. Plus, the focus on meeting and caring for the huskies adds a genuine, heartwarming touch. That said, the tour is best suited for those comfortable with cold weather and eager to see Lapland’s wilderness from a cozy sled. Be aware that children under six aren’t permitted, given the chilly conditions.
This tour ticks many boxes: scenic routes, expert guides, and a chance to connect with the dogs — all at a reasonable price considering the exclusivity. It’s perfect for outdoor lovers, animal enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to witness the Arctic’s early morning beauty in a peaceful, immersive setting.
Key Points
- Personalized Experience: Limited to only 4 travelers, ensuring personal attention.
- Authentic Interaction: Opportunity to meet, help care for, and feed the huskies.
- Stunning Scenery: Watch the sunrise over Lapland’s wilderness while riding in a sled.
- Comfort & Convenience: Use of cold-weather gear included and free transportation from Kiruna.
- Warm Up & Relax: End the tour in a cozy hut with hot drinks and snacks by a fire.
- Ideal for Outdoor & Animal Fans: Suitable for those comfortable with cold climates and eager to see reindeers or moose.
An In-Depth Look at the Sunrise Zen Husky Tour
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How the Tour Begins: Pickup and Preparation
The experience kicks off early, with a free pickup from Kiruna, about 17 km from the kennel — a huge plus for convenience. Once there, you’re fitted with warm clothes and gear provided by the tour operator, so you don’t need to worry about layering up beforehand. The guides, described as friendly and knowledgeable, are praised for their warmth and professionalism — a vital aspect when dealing with the Arctic’s demanding conditions.
The Kennel & Meeting the Huskies
The tour takes place at a small, dedicated kennel away from the busy tourist areas. This means fewer crowds, more attention for the dogs, and a genuine connection. Reviewers highlight how well-behaved and social the huskies are, noting their friendly and calm demeanor. Many travelers mention the joy of playing with the puppies and helping prepare the team, adding a layer of authenticity and involvement that’s often missing from larger tours.
Riding Through Lapland’s Wilderness
Once suited up, you’ll sit on a sleigh capable of seating four, with a guide driving the team of 12-14 Alaskan Huskies. The ride lasts roughly three hours, during which you’ll glide through the Poikkijärvi Woods, an area praised for its wild, untouched beauty.
Reviewers describe the scenery as breathtaking, especially at sunrise when the sky erupts with crystallized pastel colors. The silence of the snow-covered forest, broken only by the panting of the dogs and the soft sledge runners, creates a serene atmosphere.
Some fortunate travelers have spotted reindeer and even moose, adding to the sense of being truly immersed in Lapland’s natural environment.
The Guide and the Experience
Guides like Craig and others are lauded for their expertise and friendliness. They share insights about the dogs’ lives, training, and the art of mushing, enriching the experience beyond just the ride. The reviews emphasize the personal touch — guides taking time to explain, answer questions, and even involve guests in securing and feeding the dogs after the ride.
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Warming Up in the Hut
After the sledding, the tour wraps up with everyone gathering in a cozy fire hut. Here, you’ll be treated to hot drinks and a snack — a much-appreciated break from the cold. Reviewers mention how relaxing and welcoming this part of the experience is, with some describing it as a gentle, heartfelt end to a memorable morning.
Value for Money
At $248.10 per person, this tour is priced for an exclusive, high-quality experience. Considering the small group size, personalized attention, and the chance to interact with the dogs, many reviews suggest it offers excellent value. The included gear and transport add convenience, and the memorable scenery makes it worth every penny.
Practical Tips & Considerations
- Timing: The tour runs from 10:00 am to about 1:00 pm, aligning perfectly with the sunrise, so plan your morning accordingly.
- Clothing: While cold-weather gear is provided, dress warmly with thermal layers, gloves, and a hat, especially since the early morning can be quite chilly.
- Age Limit: Children under 6 are not permitted, mainly due to the cold and safety concerns.
- Group Size: Limited to four guests, which is ideal for those wanting an intimate experience but may fill up quickly — booking well in advance, about 87 days on average, is recommended.
- What to Expect: A gentle ride, scenic views, and lots of opportunities to interact with the huskies. Expect some standing/sitting on the sled for about three hours, so wear comfortable gear.
Additional Information
- Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before the experience.
- Availability: Most travelers can participate, but check your physical condition if you’re not used to cold weather or outdoor activity.
- What’s Not Included: While snacks and hot drinks are provided, remember to bring extra layers or face covers for wind protection, as some reviewers suggested.
Our Final Take
The Sunrise Zen Husky Tour offers an authentic, heartfelt introduction to Lapland’s wilderness and its legendary sled dogs. The small group setting, knowledgeable guides, and the opportunity to meet the dogs make it a standout choice for those wanting a personal and meaningful experience. Watching the sunrise over a snow-blanketed forest while cozy on a sled is a memory that stays long after the trip ends.
This tour is best suited for outdoor lovers, animal enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates quiet, scenic mornings in nature. The focus on interaction, the professionalism of guides, and the stunning environment all combine to make this a worthwhile splurge, especially if you’re after a genuine Arctic adventure.
While it’s not the cheapest activity in Kiruna, the value is clear once you factor in the personalized experience, the quality of the dogs, and the breathtaking scenery. If you’re looking for a peaceful yet exhilarating way to connect with Lapland’s wilderness, this is undoubtedly a top contender.
FAQ
Is transportation included? Yes, the tour offers free pickup from Kiruna, making it convenient to get to the kennel without hassle.
What should I wear? Warm clothes are essential. The tour provides gear, but thermal layers, gloves, and a hat are recommended for comfort.
Can children join this tour? Only children aged 6 and above are permitted, due to the cold temperatures and safety considerations.
How long is the sled ride? The sled ride lasts approximately three hours, giving ample time to enjoy the scenery and interact with the dogs.
What is the maximum group size? Just four travelers, ensuring a very personal experience with plenty of opportunity to interact with the huskies.
Do I get to help care for the dogs? Yes, you can help ready the dogs before the ride and secure them afterward — adding a meaningful touch to the experience.
Is this tour suitable for beginners? Absolutely. Guides are friendly and knowledgeable, and the ride is designed to be accessible to all, as long as you’re comfortable in cold weather.
What happens if I need to cancel? You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the activity, receiving a full refund.
In all, the Sunrise Zen Husky Tour combines scenic beauty, authentic animal interaction, and expert guidance into a memorable Arctic adventure. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting a serene start to a day in Lapland, with the added bonus of meeting some of the world’s most charming sled dogs.
