Ruka: 5km Husky Safari with Lunch

If you’re dreaming of a winter adventure that combines the thrill of dog sledding with authentic Finnish hospitality, this 5km Husky Safari in Kuusamo could be just the ticket. While we haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, we’ve gathered enough reviews and details to give you a clear picture of what to expect. It sounds like a fantastic experience for those wanting to get up close with huskies and enjoy a cozy, outdoor lunch.

Two things that really stand out about this tour are the personal touch of meeting the dogs and learning about their lives — which adds a meaningful layer to the adventure — and the opportunity to drive your own dog team, giving a sense of real teamwork. On the flip side, one thing to consider is the physical requirement; since you’re driving the sled, you’ll want to be comfortable with physical activity and controlling a team on sometimes challenging terrain.

This tour is especially suited for outdoor lovers who appreciate authentic, hands-on experiences and don’t mind a bit of cold weather. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a smooth mix of adventure and relaxation in a small-group setting, with enough flexibility to swap drivers if you want to try both roles.

Key Points

• Authentic Husky Experience: Meet and cuddle the dogs and learn about their lives.
• Self-Driven Adventure: You and a companion take turns driving the sled, adding a personal touch.
• Scenic Route: Glide through snowy forests and quiet swamps, enjoying nature’s winter beauty.
• Cozy Lunch: Warm up with homemade soup and hot drinks in a welcoming cabin.
• Small Group: The tour keeps things intimate, allowing for better interaction.
• Weather Preparedness: Dress warmly and be ready for outdoor conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Tour

The experience starts with a warm welcome and instructions from your guide. Since the safari is self-driven, one adult will be the driver, and the other a passenger — with the option to switch roles halfway through. The minimum age for the driver is 15 years, which makes it accessible for teens as well, but not suitable for pregnant women or those with certain physical limitations.

Once geared up, you’ll head to the sleds where the eager huskies are waiting. We loved the way the dogs are described as excited and eager, setting the stage for an energetic ride. The sled ride itself lasts approximately 30 minutes — though this can vary based on weather. As you speed through snowy forests and over frozen swamps, you’ll get a real sense of the quiet majesty of Finnish winter wilderness.

The highlight for many is the interaction with the dogs afterward — cuddling and learning about their lives on the farm. The guide will share insights into their wellbeing and the daily routines of caring for these working dogs, which adds depth to the experience. Older or younger dogs might be running around freely, providing opportunities for informal play and petting.

Following the sled ride, you’ll retreat to a nearby cabin, where hot drinks and homemade soup await. This is a cozy, grounding moment to reflect on the ride and listen to your guide share stories about life on a husky farm. Some reviews mention the warm, homemade bread as a delightful addition, enhancing the overall experience.

The Practical Details

The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, with the actual sled ride being around 30 minutes. This makes it a manageable activity if you’re on a packed itinerary, but it still offers enough time to truly enjoy both the thrill and the relaxation of the setting. The tour is rated 4.8, reflecting mostly positive feedback, though some travelers note weather conditions can influence the length and pace.

Pricing is generally reasonable considering the inclusions — a self-driven husky ride, interaction with dogs, and a hearty lunch. When you factor in the personalized experience and the chance to control your own team, it feels like good value for those who love authentic outdoor activities.

The tour is flexible — you can reserve in advance, keep your plans open, and cancel up to 24 hours ahead for a full refund. Payment is also deferred until closer to your date, which offers extra peace of mind.

The Experience Provider and Other Options

Lammintupa Winter Village, with a stellar 4.8 rating, organizes this tour. Their focus seems to be on providing genuine, small-group experiences that highlight local culture and nature. If you enjoy this style, they offer other activities like snowmobile safaris and reindeer rides, which could complement your stay in Kuusamo.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts who want a hands-on, authentic husky adventure. It’s ideal for those comfortable with physical activity and outdoor conditions. If you’re traveling with teenagers or older children (over 15, for the driving part), they’ll likely enjoy the teamwork and interaction with the dogs.

However, it may not be the best choice for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, given the activity level and outdoor setting. The cozy lunch and intimate group size make it a great option for couples, small groups, or anyone looking for a memorable winter activity that feels genuine and personal.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour requires participants to be at least 15 years old if they want to drive the sled, so older teenagers can join. The experience involves physical activity and outdoor conditions, so consider your child’s comfort with cold weather and active participation.

How long does the sled ride last?
The actual husky sled ride lasts about 30 minutes, although this can vary depending on weather and terrain conditions.

Do I need to be physically fit?
Yes, since you’ll be driving the dog team, you should be in good physical condition to control the sled, especially over challenging terrain.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in weather-appropriate clothing, as you’ll be outdoors for most of the experience. Layers, waterproof gear, and good boots are recommended.

Can I switch drivers during the ride?
Absolutely. The tour allows you to change roles halfway, so both participants can experience driving and riding.

What is included in the lunch?
A homemade soup, hot drinks, and homemade bread are served in a cozy cabin after the ride, providing warmth and nourishment.

Is there any age restriction for the driver?
Yes, drivers must be at least 15 years old.

What if the weather is bad?
The duration of the ride and overall experience may be affected. The tour is flexible with cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the activity.

This husky safari in Kuusamo offers a genuine, hands-on glimpse into the world of sled dogs and winter wilderness. The chance to drive your own team adds a satisfying sense of achievement, making it more than just a sightseeing ride. The cozy lunch and chance to meet the dogs up close make it feel warm and personal despite the cold surroundings.

If you’re after an authentic outdoor adventure that combines physical activity, beautiful scenery, and local culture, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially fitting for those who want a balanced mix of excitement and relaxation, set against the backdrop of Finnish winter magic.

However, be prepared for the cold and physical effort involved. If you’re looking for a passive, sightseeing-only experience, this may not be the best fit. For those ready to get their hands dirty and enjoy a memorable day with huskies, this could be a highlight of your trip to Ruka.

Feel free to ask if you want more details or tips on making the most of your husky adventure!

You can check availability for your dates here: