Levi: Husky Adventure Self-Drive Safari 15km

If you’re dreaming of Arctic adventures that get your heart racing and your camera clicking, the Levi Husky Adventure Self-Drive Safari might just be what you’re after. This experience offers a chance to steer your own team of lively Alaskan huskies through Finland’s stunning winter scenery. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on reviews and the detailed info, it’s clear this tour offers a memorable mix of adrenaline, natural beauty, and a taste of local Sami culture.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances thrilling activity with cultural insight. Plus, the fact that you get to drive the sled — instead of just riding along — makes it feel more personal and exciting. On the flip side, it’s not the cheapest activity, and some might find the 1-hour ride duration a bit quick for the price. Still, if you’re into unique adventures and don’t mind investing a little for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities, are comfortable in cold weather, and want a hands-on experience with the iconic huskies.

Key Points

• Self-Drive Adventure: You get behind the sled and steer your own team, adding a personal touch to your Arctic journey.
• Stunning Landscapes: Glide through the pristine snow and witness the captivating beauty of Lapland’s wilderness.
• Cultural Connection: After the ride, enjoy learning about Finnish folklore and the role of huskies in local traditions.
• Friendliest Huskies: The dogs are clearly well-loved and well-cared-for, which makes for a more genuine experience.
• Group Size & Support: Only about six guests, with guides in front on snowmobiles, making it manageable and personalized.
• Price & Duration: At $366 per person for 3 hours, it offers a substantial experience, though some reviews suggest the value could be more for the cost.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Getting There & Starting Off

The tour begins at the Levi Center, specifically Hissitie 11, across from the parking lot and next to Kotipizza. The pickup is included, which is a big plus, sparing you the hassle of arranging transportation. After about 15 minutes on the bus, you’ll arrive at the family-run husky, reindeer, and horse farm. This setting immediately sets a warm, authentic tone—this isn’t a massive commercial operation, but a genuine family business.

Safety Briefing & Instructions

Once at the farm, expect a quick but thorough safety and driving briefing. This is crucial because you’ll be in charge of your own sled, steering a team of energetic huskies. The guides are praised for being clear and helpful, which can make first-timers feel more confident. Some reviews mention that steering the sled is straightforward, and the dogs tend to do most of the work — but it’s still fun to learn how to control the sled properly.

The Husky Safari

The main event is the 15-18km self-drive husky sled ride. Two people share each sled, switching drivers halfway through. This shared experience keeps it accessible even if you’re feeling a bit unsure about handling the sled alone. The ride lasts roughly 1 hour, which some travelers find adequate, enjoying the scenery and the thrill of guiding the lively dogs. Others mentioned that longer rides might be preferable for the price, but most agree the views and the fun of driving made it worthwhile.

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The Landscape & Views

The route cuts through Lapland’s snowy wilderness, offering sweeping views of frosted forests, open tundra, and possibly glimpses of the Northern Lights if you’re lucky—and if the weather permits. One traveler noted how beautiful the snowy landscape is, which is a big part of why this experience gets high marks. The quiet of the Arctic, broken only by the panting of the dogs and the sound of the sled gliding over snow, creates an almost meditative atmosphere.

Interaction with the Huskies & Post-Ride Relaxation

After the safari, you get time to pet and interact with your husky team, which seems to be a highlight for many. The dogs are described as friendly and enthusiastic, clearly loved by their caregivers. The guide then invites you to warm up in a cozy Kammi (a traditional Sami shelter) by an open fire, enjoying hot juice and a sweet snack, often a brioche. This moment of warmth and conversation is appreciated for adding cultural depth and a feeling of authentic Lapland hospitality.

Learning About Finnish Folklore

The tour also offers a chance to hear stories about Finnish folklore and the mystical creatures of the Arctic, adding a layer of cultural richness to your adventure. It’s a small touch but one that helps connect you more deeply to the region’s traditions and legends surrounding the husky dogs.

Returning & Final Impressions

All good things come to an end, and after some photos and a few final moments with the dogs, you’re transported back to the Levi Center. The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, including transportation, safety briefing, the safari, and post-ride relaxation.

What Travelers Are Saying

The general consensus is quite positive. Claudia from Switzerland gave it a full 5 out of 5, praising the snowy scenery and the clear instructions, noting that steering the sled was easier than expected. Camille from France appreciated the guide’s support and the ability to swap drivers, making it a balanced experience. She also enjoyed petting the dogs and warming up afterward.

Some reviews did mention the price being on the higher side, with one traveler from France commenting that it felt a bit expensive for the actual ride time—only about an hour. Others felt that the value was justified by the quality of the experience, the scenery, and the chance to actively participate rather than just watch passively.

Practical Details & Considerations

Price & Value

At $366 per person, this activity is an investment. It includes transportation, the ride, hot drinks, and snacks, which adds to the overall value, especially considering the personal involvement and authentic setting. However, if you’re on a tight budget or expecting a longer ride, you might find other options that offer similar scenery at a lower cost or longer duration.

Duration & Group Size

The tour lasts roughly 3 hours, which is a fair chunk of time for an Arctic activity. The small group size, about six participants, ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd and allows for more personalized attention from guides.

Accessibility & Suitability

The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is considerate. Children under 4 aren’t allowed, likely due to safety reasons and the physical demands of the activity. If you’re traveling with older kids or adventurous friends, this becomes a memorable option.

What To Bring & Wear

Dress warmly—layers, thermal gear, and waterproof clothing are recommended. The tour sometimes provides warm clothes if needed, which helps if you forget your thermal gear or want to travel light.

Final Thoughts

The Levi Husky Adventure Self-Drive Safari offers a good balance of adrenaline, natural beauty, and cultural storytelling. It’s a well-organized experience that emphasizes participant involvement, making it more memorable than simply riding as a passenger. The scenery is stunning, and the dogs are obviously well-loved, which adds authenticity and warmth to the adventure.

This tour is best suited for those who want a hands-on Arctic experience and are comfortable in cold weather. It’s also perfect for travelers who appreciate small-group activities and are willing to invest in a quality, guided adventure.

While the ride duration might seem brief for the price, the combination of personal control, beautiful surroundings, and the chance to learn about local traditions makes it a worthwhile choice for many.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from Levi Center are included, making it easy to join without extra fuss.

How long does the whole tour last?
The entire experience is around 3 hours, including transportation, safety briefing, the ride, and post-ride relaxation.

Can I drive the sled myself?
Yes! You’ll receive instructions and then take turns driving your sled with a partner.

Are the huskies friendly?
Absolutely, the dogs are described as friendly, enthusiastic, and well-loved by their carers, which makes petting and interacting with them a highlight.

Is it suitable for children?
Children under 4 years are not allowed, mainly for safety reasons.

Is there any cultural experience involved?
Yes, after the ride, you can learn about Finnish folklore and the legends surrounding the huskies, adding a cultural layer to your adventure.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, including thermal and waterproof clothing—some gear may be provided if needed.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews praise the guides for their clarity and helpfulness, making the experience more approachable for newcomers.

What’s the scenery like?
Expect sweeping views of snow-covered forests, open tundra, and the Arctic landscape, perfect for photography.

Is the price justified?
While some find it a bit steep, many feel that the personal experience, scenery, and cultural insights make it worthwhile.

In the end, if you’re after an active, authentic, and beautifully scenic Lapland experience, this husky safari is a solid choice. It manages to be both fun and meaningful, offering a genuine taste of Arctic life and the legendary huskies that symbolize this part of the world.

You can check availability for your dates here: