What a husky safari really is

Dog sledding is one of the oldest ways of travelling across the Arctic, and today it is one of Lapland's most memorable winter activities. On a husky safari you sit in a sled while a team of huskies pulls you across snowy forest trails. The dogs are excited, the world goes quiet apart from the sound of paws and runners, and the experience is far more peaceful than most visitors expect.

How dog sledding works

A sled is pulled by a team of dogs, usually arranged in pairs, with the strongest and most experienced dogs at the front and the sturdy "wheel dogs" nearest the sled. Each team is led by a musher, who stands on the runners at the back, steers, and controls speed with a brake. Commands are simple: dogs respond to voice cues for going, slowing down and turning, and they love to run. If you are a passenger, you simply sit back and enjoy the view. On some tours you can swap places and try standing on the runners as the musher.

Passenger or driver?

Safaris generally come in two styles. On a passenger ride, a guide drives and you relax under blankets. On a drive-your-own-team tour, you stand on the runners and handle the sled yourself after a short briefing. Driving is more tiring and more active, but it is very rewarding. If you are not sure, ask which style the tour offers when you book.

What to expect on the day

What to wear

You will be sitting still, so you will feel the cold more than when walking. Good tour operators supply thermal overalls, boots and gloves, but you should still wear thermal base layers, wool socks and a warm hat. A scarf or buff helps against the wind. Keep your camera strap secure and carry spare batteries in an inner pocket, since cold drains them quickly.

Are husky tours ethical?

This is an important question and a good one to ask. Look for kennels where the dogs have space, rest, regular veterinary care and clearly enjoy running. Sled dogs are bred to pull, but the standard of care varies, so choose carefully and ask how the team is cared for. See our article on whether husky tours are ethical for a closer look.

When is the best time to go?

Real sled rides need enough snow, which usually means December through March. Early in the season, some operators use wheeled carts when snow cover is thin. Our guide to the best time for a husky safari explains the details.

Husky safari in Levi

Levi has a long dog-sledding tradition, and its forests suit gentle rides. Our Finland Arctic Adventure includes a 5 km Husky Safari on Day 4, set between a snowmobile safari and an evening aurora hunt. Staying in a glass igloo at Northern Lights Village Levi means you can end the day looking at the sky from your bed. If you would rather ride from Rovaniemi, try our 5 km Husky Safari and Kennel Visit.

How the dogs are cared for and trained

Sled dogs are athletes and are fed a high-energy diet, trained gradually from puppyhood and rested between runs. Many kennels keep their dogs outdoors in insulated houses, because the breeds are built for cold. A good guide will happily talk about each dog's personality, age and role in the team, and you will quickly see that every dog has its own character. Ask questions: a proud, transparent kennel is a sign of a good operation.

Is it safe for children?

Passenger rides are suitable for most children, who usually sit on an adult's lap or in a seat under a warm blanket. Ask the operator about minimum ages and whether children can join the longer routes. Dress them in extra layers, since they sit still and cool down faster than adults.

Practical tips