If you’re planning a trip to Swedish Lapland, this dog sledding tour from Abisko to Kiruna has been catching attention for good reason. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, plenty of travelers find it to be a memorable way to experience the Arctic wilderness. It’s an activity that blends a dose of adventure with a touch of cozy Swedish hospitality, all set against the stunning backdrop of northern Sweden.
What we love about this experience is how accessible it makes dog sledding, especially with a professional musher driving the sled, ensuring safety and comfort. Plus, the opportunity to meet, pet, and cuddle the dogs adds a special, heartfelt element that makes this more than just a thrill ride. On the flip side, some might find the day a bit packed, with around three hours of driving to and from Abisko, leaving less time for actual sledding than expected.
This tour is best suited for those who want to enjoy Arctic landscapes without heavy physical exertion and appreciate a mix of adventure and cultural authenticity. If you’re traveling with a sense of curiosity, love animals, or are simply eager to see the wilderness in a way that’s both fun and relatively relaxed, this excursion could fit the bill nicely.
Key Points
- Accessible for most: The ride is driven by a professional musher, making it suitable for nearly all levels of physical ability.
- Beautiful scenery: Expect a 10-12 km circuit through some of the most scenic Arctic wilderness.
- Includes cozy Fika: Halfway through, you’ll stop at a wilderness camp for hot drinks and cinnamon buns, adding a warm touch to the day.
- Interacting with dogs: You’ll have plenty of chances to pet, cuddle, and learn about the sled dogs, which adds a personal touch.
- All essentials provided: Warm overalls, winter boots, hats, and gloves are included, so you can focus on enjoying the ride.
- Limited time on sled: Some reviews note that the actual sledding might be shorter than expected, with more time spent traveling to the site.
The Itinerary: What to Expect from This Dog Sledding Day
This tour kicks off early in the morning with a pickup from your hotel in Abisko or Björkliden around 9 am, depending on your location. From there, it’s about a 45-minute to hour-long bus ride to the dog sledding camp near Kiruna. The scenic drive itself is a nice warm-up, giving you a chance to soak in the wintry landscape and get excited about what’s ahead.
Once you arrive at the camp, the real fun begins. You’ll meet a team of enthusiastic sled dogs, eager to hit the trails. The guide will fit you with warm gear, including overalls, boots, hats, and gloves—these are all provided, so no need to pack your entire winter wardrobe. After a safety briefing, you’ll climb aboard a sled driven by a professional musher who controls the team of dogs, while you sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
The 10-12 km circuit takes you through some of the most photogenic parts of the Arctic landscape. Expect snow-covered trees, frozen lakes, and endless white horizons. The guide will share insights about the area and the dogs, making the experience both scenic and educational.
About halfway through, you’ll stop at an authentic Arctic wilderness camp, where a cozy Sami-style tent is set up. Here, the guide will build a fire, and you’ll be served warm drinks and cinnamon buns—classic Swedish Fika. It’s a perfect moment to warm up, chat with fellow travelers, pet the friendly dogs, and take photos of the snowy scenery.
After the break, it’s time to hop back on the sled for the return journey. The guide will drive the team while you enjoy the ride once again, taking in the peaceful, snowy landscapes. When you arrive back at the camp, you’ll start heading back to Abisko, arriving roughly around 4 pm.
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The Highlights: Why This Tour Stands Out
First and foremost, the scenery is truly breathtaking. The Arctic wilderness offers expansive views—think endless white snow, frosted trees, and distant mountains—making every picture you take feel like a postcard. Many reviews mention how stunning the landscape is, and the experience of being surrounded by nature’s quiet beauty is unforgettable.
The dog interaction is also a highlight. The dogs are described as friendly, adorable, and clearly loved by their handlers. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to pet and cuddle them, which adds a personal, heartwarming element to the adventure. As one review puts it, “the guides were amazing, and this is definitely an activity we would do again and again. You can see how much the guides love their dogs—and they clearly love doing this.” It’s a genuine glimpse into the bond between humans and working dogs in northern Sweden.
The Fika stop offers a lovely cultural twist. Instead of just focusing on the ride, the tour integrates a traditional Swedish coffee break, complete with cinnamon buns and hot drinks around a fire in the snow. Several guests mentioned how much they appreciated this cozy moment in the middle of the wilderness, making the experience feel balanced—adventure with comfort.
Safety and comfort are well covered. Since a professional musher drives the sled, even those who aren’t physically fit or comfortable with handling a sled can enjoy the experience. Warm clothing, boots, and gloves are included, which is essential given the cold climate. This thoughtful preparation makes the activity accessible and enjoyable for most.
Price and Value: Is It Worth It?
At $261 per person, this tour is a significant investment but offers good value for the experience. It includes transportation, warm gear, the sled ride, and Fika—things that could add up if you tried to organize independently. When you consider the opportunity to interact with the dogs, enjoy the stunning scenery, and experience Swedish hospitality in one package, it’s a well-rounded outing.
However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the sledding itself might be shorter than expected, with a little over an hour of actual riding time. Most of the tour is spent traveling to and from Abisko and preparing for the ride. If your main goal is a long sledding experience, you might find this a bit light, but if you’re happy with a scenic ride and some meaningful dog interaction, it hits the mark.
Practical Tips: Making the Most of Your Day
- Bring snacks and a packed lunch. Since there’s no food available at the camp and the drive takes several hours, packing a light lunch or snacks is wise. Several reviews suggest bringing your own, as it keeps you energized and ready for the adventure.
- Dress warmly and in layers. The provided gear is a great start, but layering is always best in cold climates.
- Be prepared for sharing. Up to four people can be on one sled, so it’s a good idea to coordinate with travel companions if you prefer more privacy.
- Photography is a must. The scenery is stunning, and the dogs, as well as the landscape, make for incredible photos.
- Arrive early for pickup. The tour starts with a pickup at designated hotels or stations, so be punctual to avoid missing out.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience appeals most to adventurers seeking a scenic, authentic Arctic experience without complex physical demands. If you love animals and are curious about the life of sled dogs, you’ll find this particularly rewarding. It’s also well-suited for travelers who appreciate well-organized tours, since everything—from gear to transportation—is taken care of, allowing you to focus on enjoying yourself.
While children over 5 years old are allowed, keep in mind that the experience involves outdoor winter conditions and a fair amount of sitting on a sled. Families with younger children might want to consider their comfort level with the cold and the length of the ride.
Those looking for a quieter, nature-focused activity will find this a peaceful yet exhilarating way to see the Arctic landscape. It’s perfect for travelers who want a memorable story to tell, rather than just a quick thrill.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel or station in Abisko or Björkliden are included. However, transportation from Kiruna back to your accommodation is not.
How long is the sled ride?
You’ll enjoy a 10 to 12 km circuit through Arctic wilderness, with the actual sledding time being roughly an hour or slightly more, depending on conditions.
What should I bring?
It’s recommended to bring snacks and a packed lunch since there are no food options at the camp. Dress warmly in layers, and don’t forget your camera.
Is this activity suitable for children?
Children over 5 years old can participate, but keep in mind the outdoor winter setting and the need for warm clothing. Always check with the tour provider if you have concerns about younger children.
What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers transportation to and from the camp, warm winter gear, the sled ride, and Fika—hot drinks and cinnamon buns.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You also have the option to reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility.
From Abisko: Dog Sledding Excursion to Kiruna with Fika
“A fabulous day – loved the dogs! Great we had an unplanned chance to visit the ice hotel too but would be great to combine these activities into a …”
Final Thoughts
This dog sledding trip from Abisko to Kiruna offers a blend of adventure, cultural charm, and natural beauty. It’s especially suited for those who want a taste of authentic Arctic life without worrying about managing the dogs themselves. The guides’ warmth and knowledge, combined with the friendly dogs and stunning scenery, create a well-rounded experience.
While the actual sledding time might be shorter than some expect, the opportunity to pet the dogs, enjoy Fika in a snowy setting, and take in sweeping landscapes still makes this a worthwhile outing. It’s a chance to connect with nature, meet some incredible animals, and create stories worth sharing.
If you’re after a gentle but authentic Arctic adventure with a cozy touch, this tour is likely to meet your expectations. Just remember to come prepared with snacks, dress warmly, and keep an open mind for a day full of snowy beauty and furry friends.
Happy planning, and enjoy your Arctic adventure!
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