A husky safari is one of the classic Lapland experiences, and the family-kennel version is the most personal. You are met at the kennel by the musher, learn how the dogs live and train, meet the puppies and adults, and then ride in a sled pulled by a team of excited Alaskan or Siberian huskies through snowy taiga forest. The dogs howl, bark and strain at their harnesses until the moment they are released, then fall silent and run, which is one of the more memorable sensations of the trip. Longer safaris of around ten kilometres give time to settle into the rhythm of the run and enjoy the forest, and they usually include a break with a hot drink or a campfire meal. The season for snow sleds typically begins in late November or December, depending on snowfall, and runs until spring. Earlier in autumn, many kennels use a cart on forest trails instead, so confirm which version is running on your date before you book.
Choose by distance and by who drives. A short ride of one or two kilometres suits young children and anyone who just wants a taste, while a ten-kilometre run in a small-group kennel gives time to enjoy the forest and a proper kennel visit. Some operators let you drive the sled yourself after a short lesson, which is more active and more tiring than riding as a passenger, and the dogs respond to a confident but calm hand. Passengers sit in the sled wrapped in blankets, which is warm enough for most people, though a wind on the lake sections can bite.
Dress warmly and sensibly. A thermal base layer, mid layer, insulated boots, a hat and good gloves matter more than a fashionable coat, and most operators provide overalls and boots to borrow if you ask. Be ready for noise and energy: the dogs are working animals and love to run, and the kennel can be loud and muddy or snowy underfoot. If you have allergies, mention them when you book. Reputable kennels will tell you about the dogs' training, rest and retirement, and you can ask how many hours of running each dog does in a week.
Book early for December and February, when demand peaks, and choose a morning slot if you can, since the light is pleasant and the dogs are fresh. A safari pairs well with a reindeer experience in the afternoon, or with a Northern Lights hunt at night for a classic Lapland day. Remember that the weather decides: if the temperature drops very low, operators may shorten runs for the dogs' comfort, and that is a good sign, not a disappointment.
What to expect
The experience
A kennel visit and a ten-kilometre ride in a husky-drawn sled through forest, with a break for a hot drink or meal.
Best time
A morning in the snow season, typically from late November or December onward.
How long
Three to four hours including transfers, the kennel visit and the run.
Tips
Confirm whether sleds or wheeled carts are running on your date, wear warm layers and boots, and expect noisy, excited dogs.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Winter visitors who want a hands-on animal experience with a small operator.
- Families
- Children enjoy the puppies and the ride; check the age rules and consider a shorter route for very young ones.
- Couples
- Share a sled through snowy forest and a hot drink by the fire.
- Pair with
- A reindeer safari on the same day or a Northern Lights hunt that evening.
- Time needed
- Half a day with transfer.
Good questions
When does the husky season start?+
Snow-sled rides typically begin in late November or December, depending on snowfall. Before that, kennels often run wheeled-cart rides, so confirm which is operating.
Can I drive the sled myself?+
Some operators offer a drive-your-own option after a short lesson, while others keep you as a passenger. Check the product details if driving matters to you.
Will I get cold?+
Wear thermal layers, insulated boots, a hat and gloves, and ask whether overalls are provided. Passengers are wrapped in blankets and usually stay warm.
Is it suitable for children?+
Most family kennels welcome children, with age rules set by each operator. Shorter routes suit younger ones better than ten kilometres.
How should I treat the dogs?+
Follow the musher's instructions, let the dogs sniff you before you touch them and avoid sudden movements. The dogs are working animals and love to run.