Kiruna: Morning Dogsled Ride with Swedish Fika

If you’re dreaming of a true Arctic adventure, this morning dogsled ride in Kiruna offers a gentle, immersive taste of winter in northern Sweden. While I haven’t done this exact tour myself, the reviews and details paint a picture of a calm, scenic journey that’s particularly suited for those wanting a laid-back but authentic dogsled experience. What really caught our eye are the opportunity to ride as a passenger in a well-organized small group and the delicious Swedish fika served amidst the snow-laden landscape. One thing to keep in mind is that this tour isn’t designed for thrill-seekers looking for high-speed sledding; instead, it’s about enjoying the scenery and the company of eager huskies.

This experience is ideal if you’re after a relaxing morning outing that combines nature, culture, and a taste of local hospitality. It’s particularly good for travelers who enjoy gentle adventures, photography, or simply want to see how Arctic life feels from the seat of a sled. Keep in mind, it’s not suited for children under five, wheelchair users, or those with a weight over 309 lbs. Still, if you’re in Kiruna and looking for a memorable start to your day, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Gentle, guided dogsled ride suitable for all ages above five, focusing on scenery and husky interactions.
• Small group setting for personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Includes warm clothing and comfortable winter gear, so you don’t need to bring your own.
• Swedish fika at a fire in the wild, offering delicious coffee, tea, and cake—perfect for warming up and relaxing.
• Beautiful winter landscapes through pine forests, frozen bogs, and along the Torne River Valley—ideal for photos.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later, making it easy to plan.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

This 2.5-hour experience begins with a hotel pickup in Kiruna, so you’re whisked away comfortably to the starting point within a 20 km radius. Once there, you’ll get outfitted with warm, high-quality gear—think overalls, boots, knitted socks, hats, mittens, and balaclava—to beat the cold. The included gear is well thought out, but bringing your thermal layers and comfy clothes will still keep you cozy.

The actual sled ride is about 13 kilometers through stunning winter scenery. You’ll sit as a passenger in a sled, pulled by a team of enthusiastic huskies. The guides are seasoned mushers who love sharing stories about their dogs and life in the Arctic. As you glide through snow-covered pine forests and across frozen wetlands, you’ll have plenty of chances to snap photos—especially since weather permitting, this is a prime time for winter photography.

Midway through, the journey pauses at a scenic spot where you’ll enjoy Swedish fika—hot coffee or tea, accompanied by cake—around a crackling fire. This moment is as much about experiencing the Arctic’s quiet beauty as it is about re-energizing. The warmth of the fire, the delicious treats, and the crisp winter air combine into a truly memorable experience.

The Huskies and the Guides

From what we gather in reviews, the huskies are eager and lively, clearly enjoying their work. “Feel the energy of eager huskies as they pull the sled,” is a simple but telling way of describing the experience. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, willing to chat about the dogs and the local environment. This personal touch adds a lot to the tour, making it less of a manufactured attraction and more of an authentic encounter.

Some reviewers mention how the guides are attentive and eager to share their passion, which makes the entire journey feel genuine. Plus, because it’s a small group—limited to 8 participants—you get the chance to ask questions and connect with the guides easily.

The Food and Fika – A Highlight

What sets this tour apart is the Swedish fika, which is more than just a snack. Sitting by a fire in the Arctic, enjoying warm cake and beverages, really captures the spirit of Lapland hospitality. Reviewers have raved about the delicious treats, describing the fika as a cozy, warming pause amidst the snowy landscape. It’s a lovely touch that makes the experience more complete—an authentic taste of local culture combined with the adventure.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re after a calm, scenic introduction to dogsledding, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy Arctic nature at a relaxed pace without the adrenaline rush of high-speed sledding. It suits travelers who appreciate storytelling, photography, and cultural touches like fika.

It’s also suitable for families with children over five, provided they’re comfortable in the cold and happy to sit in a sled for a couple of hours. However, it’s not meant for thrill-seekers or people with mobility restrictions.

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The Practicalities

This experience offers pick-up and drop-off from your Kiruna hotel within a 20 km radius, which simplifies logistics. The tour price includes all necessary outdoor gear, so you don’t need to pack special clothing—just bring your thermal layers, hat, and gloves if you prefer.

The small group size means fewer crowds and more personal attention, which many travelers find enhances the overall feel. Booking is flexible with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later—great for planning uncertainty.

What Are the Downsides?

While this tour is beautifully curated, it’s important to note what it doesn’t include. If you’re looking for an adrenaline-fueled dash, this isn’t the ride for you—it’s about soaking in the winter landscape while enjoying an authentic, leisurely sled ride. Also, since it’s a passenger experience, those wanting to drive their own team will need to look elsewhere.

Weather can affect the scenery and photography opportunities, but the tour’s flexible scheduling and guidance should help you make the most of it. The group size is limited, so booking in advance is wise if you’re set on doing it.

Final Thoughts

This morning dogsled ride with fika in Kiruna offers a peaceful, cultural slice of Arctic life. It’s an experience that combines gentle adventure, stunning scenery, and warm hospitality—perfect for travelers who want a taste of genuine Lapland without pushing physical limits. The included outdoor gear and small group size make it practical and personal, while the fika adds a delightful local touch.

If you’re visiting Kiruna and crave a calm, authentic Arctic outing that balances scenery with culture, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate nature, good company, and a cozy break amid the snow.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel within 20 km of the Kiruna Homestead are included, making it a hassle-free experience.

What should I wear?
While outdoor clothing including an overall and winter boots are provided, it’s best to wear warm, thermal layers underneath, along with a hat, gloves, and suitable clothes for cold weather.

Can I bring my own camera?
Absolutely. The tour offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially if weather conditions are clear and snowy.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children over 5 years old can participate, provided they’re comfortable sitting in a sled and in the cold.

How long is the actual sled ride?
The sled ride covers about 13 kilometers, giving you plenty of scenic views without feeling rushed.

What makes the fika special?
The fika is enjoyed in a scenic Arctic setting around a warm fire, featuring coffee or tea and cake—adding a cozy, cultural touch.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the group size?
Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is the experience guided in English?
Yes, the guides speak English and will share stories about the huskies and local environment.

You can check availability for your dates here: