Rovaniemi Husky Safari & Campfire BBQ 610 km SelfDrive

If you’re dreaming of a winter escape that combines the thrill of mushing your own team of Siberian huskies with the quiet beauty of Lapland, this tour might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t done it myself, my research and countless reviews suggest it’s a truly memorable experience for those seeking authentic Arctic adventures.

What sets this tour apart? First, the chance to drive your own sled really offers a sense of freedom and accomplishment. Second, the scenery—snow-dusted forests and frozen lakes—is stunning and perfect for photography lovers. One thing to keep in mind: since it’s a self-drive experience, a certain level of comfort with handling the sled is helpful. This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a hands-on, authentic experience, and it’s particularly suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities and don’t mind chilly weather.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Authentic self-driving husky sled experience that offers a real sense of adventure
• Beautiful Arctic scenery with snow-covered forests and lakes
• Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the overall experience
• Includes a cozy campfire and BBQ, adding a warm finish to your day
• Price offers good value for the full four-hour outdoor adventure
• Limited group size makes for a more personalized experience

An Introduction to the Husky Safari Experience

This tour is designed for travelers eager to dive into the heart of Lapland’s wilderness and get a true feel for the Arctic environment. Unlike larger, more commercialized sled rides, this experience emphasizes self-driving—giving you not just a thrill but also a sense of mastery over your sled and team of huskies.

What I love about this experience is how it balances adventure with authenticity. You’re not just sitting back; you’re actively involved, making it a fulfilling experience whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a curious beginner. The scenery and the interaction with the dogs make it special, and the addition of a campfire BBQ at the end provides that perfect, warm finish.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour requires a bit of physical effort and comfort with cold weather. If you’re worried about handling a sled or just prefer more relaxed activities, this might be a more challenging choice. But for those who want to feel the Arctic wind on their face and drive through pristine wilderness, it’s an excellent pick.

This tour tends to attract travelers who are looking for genuine Arctic experiences, those who cherish outdoor activities, or anyone wanting to tick off a major bucket list item. It’s not overly commercialized or crowded, which makes it feel more personal and memorable.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

The tour kicks off at 11:00am, with pickup offered if needed, making logistics relatively straightforward. You’ll start at a secluded husky farm far from the tourist crowds, ensuring a peaceful, authentic setting.

Stop 1: Rovaniemi – Here, you’ll get your first taste of the Arctic landscape. Unlike some busy tourist spots, this farm emphasizes a genuine experience, allowing you to feel immersed in Lapland’s quiet beauty. The snow is thick, the air crisp, and the scenery is a photographer’s dream.

The main event? Driving your own sled. You’ll receive a brief lesson, so even if you’ve never mushied before, you’ll feel confident on the snow. Multiple reviews highlight the helpfulness of guides like Marti and Bailba, who make sure everyone navigates the sleds safely and enjoys the ride. “They let you drive,” one guest mentioned, which is a big plus for people craving independence and a sense of achievement.

The sled team is made up of friendly, eager huskies. Reviewers consistently rave about how well-cared-for and happy the dogs appear. “The dogs were very friendly,” said one guest, and others noted they were eager to run, making the ride lively and exciting.

As you glide through the snow, you’ll experience silent, snow-covered forests and frozen lakes that stretch out in every direction. Many reviews mention how beautiful and picturesque the scenery is—the perfect backdrop for photos you’ll cherish forever.

The duration of about four hours covers enough ground to feel like a proper adventure but isn’t so long that it becomes exhausting. The pace is leisurely enough to take in the views, chat with guides, and enjoy the physical activity of mushing.

The Campfire and BBQ

After the sledding fun, everyone gathers around a warm fire for some well-deserved comfort. This is where the experience gets a cozy, communal feel. Guests can warm up with berry juice and sausages, a classic Lapland treat. The reviews emphasize how this part of the tour enhances the authenticity—it’s not just about the ride but about experiencing the culture and warming your hands in true Arctic style.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Guides and Personalization: Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their helpfulness and friendliness. Marti and Bailba, in particular, stand out for their attentive care and knowledge. They provide simple, practical instructions that make even beginners feel comfortable behind the sleds.

The Husky Team: The animals are clearly loved and well-maintained. Guests describe them as friendly, eager, and cared for, which is key to a positive experience. The dogs can’t wait to go, infusing each ride with energy and enthusiasm.

Scenery: From snow-laden trees to serene lakes, the views are described as breathtaking. Many mention how perfect the setting is for photography—so don’t forget your camera.

Driving Your Own Sled: This is often the highlight. Several guests describe it as thrilling and empowering. One reviewer said, “Long ride. They let you drive,” emphasizing the authentic hands-on aspect. It’s a rare opportunity to control your own team in this setting.

Additional Activities: The post-ride barbecue around the fire is a classic Lapland experience that adds a warm conclusion to the outdoor adventure. It’s a chance to relax, chat, and share stories while warming up from the chilly ride.

Price and Value Analysis

At about $306.90 per person, this tour offers a lot for the money. Four hours of sledding, the chance to drive, the interaction with huskies, and the cozy barbecue make it a comprehensive Arctic experience.

While it might seem a bit pricey, reviews suggest that the quality of guides, the authenticity, and the intimate group size (max 72 people) justify the cost. Guests consistently mention the personalized feel, with many describing it as more hands-on than larger tours.

The inclusion of pickup and mobile tickets adds convenience. Plus, the fact that the tour is free to cancel up to 24 hours in advance provides peace of mind if your plans change.

Practical Considerations

This tour is generally suitable for most travelers, as most can participate. However, expect to be outdoors for a few hours in cold weather, so warm clothing is essential. Warm clothes are provided, but layering your own base layers is advisable, especially if you tend to get cold.

Some reviews mention the slight uphill challenge when pushing the sled, which could be a consideration for families or less mobile travelers. Children might consider the activity suitable depending on their comfort with cold and outdoor activities—while not explicitly family-focused, the friendly dogs and scenic ride could appeal to adventurous families.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurers who love outdoor activities and want a genuine Arctic experience. If you’re a dog lover or have always wanted to drive a sled, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s also well-suited for couples or small groups seeking a memorable, authentic adventure.

If you’re someone who values guided support, beautiful scenery, and the chance to interact with well-cared-for huskies, you’ll find this tour rewarding. But if you prefer a more relaxed, less physically involved trip, consider whether handling a sled is right for you.

The Sum Up

The Rovaniemi Husky Safari & Campfire BBQ offers a well-rounded Arctic experience that combines the thrill of self-driven dog sledding with the tranquility of Lapland’s winter landscape. Its excellent guides, happy huskies, and scenic views make it a standout activity for those wanting an authentic taste of Arctic life. The cozy campfire at the end adds a warm, social touch that rounds out the adventure perfectly.

This tour is best suited for travelers who crave hands-on experiences, love animals, and are prepared for outdoor winter conditions. It’s a fantastic way to make lifelong memories, especially if you’re eager to try mushing yourself and enjoy the natural beauty of Finland’s snowy wilderness.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally open to most travelers, it involves outdoor activity in cold weather and some physical effort with sled pushing. Families with children comfortable in winter conditions and enthusiastic about outdoor adventures might enjoy it, but it’s best to check specific age recommendations.

What should I wear?
Warm clothes are provided, but layering your own thermal base layers is advisable. Think insulated gloves, warm hats, and waterproof outer layers to stay cozy during the ride.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around four hours, including pickup, the sled ride, and the campfire barbecue.

Is it a group activity?
Yes, the tour can accommodate up to 72 travelers, but reviews mention a more personal, small-group feel, especially if you book early or as part of a smaller group.

Can I drive the sled myself?
Absolutely. Guests often praise the opportunity to drive, with instructions provided to ensure safety and confidence.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the sledding experience, a guide, warm clothing, and the campfire BBQ. Pickup is offered as well, making logistics easier.

If you’re after an authentic, hands-on husky adventure in Lapland that combines scenery, animals, and culture, this tour hits all those marks. Just be prepared for cold weather and a bit of physical effort, and you’ll come away with stories to cherish long after you leave the Arctic behind.