Rovaniemi Autumn Husky Safari & BBQ 610 km SelfDrive

If you’re dreaming of a unique adventure in Lapland, a self-drive husky safari might just be the experience you’re after. This tour offers the chance to steer your own team of friendly huskies through the lush forests and golden landscapes of Rovaniemi, Finland, during the vibrant autumn months. While it’s not your typical guided tour, it promises an intimate, hands-on encounter with these incredible dogs—and some equally memorable scenery.

What I really like about this experience is how it combines adventure and connection—you’re not just riding along as a passenger, but actively mushing your own team. Plus, the ending with a cozy barbecue really ties the whole experience together, giving you a taste of local Lapland flavors. On the flip side, a key consideration is that this is a self-drive tour, which might not suit everyone, especially if you’re not comfortable handling a sled or driving in potentially variable weather.

Overall, I’d say this tour works best for adventure seekers, nature lovers, or anyone who’s looking for a more personalized experience in the heart of Lapland. If you’re after a guided, structured trip, this might not be your first choice. But if you’re okay with a bit of independence and want to create some top-notch memories, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Self-drive experience gives you a sense of freedom and hands-on fun.
• Stunning autumn scenery in Lapland, perfect for photography and nature lovers.
• Authentic BBQ as a cozy end to the day, offering a taste of local flavors.
• Limited group size (max 8 travelers), providing a more personal experience.
• Safety and weather are factors to consider, as the tour relies on good weather conditions.
• Pricing at $259.50 per person offers decent value for a unique, full-day adventure.

What the Tour Is All About

This 4-hour adventure takes you into the heart of Rovaniemi’s lush forests, where you’ll get to drive your own team of huskies. It’s not a typical sled ride as a passenger; instead, you’re actively involved in mushing the dogs under the guidance of experienced instructors. This setup allows for a really immersive experience—you learn about husky handling, get close to these energetic creatures, and enjoy the thrill of guiding your own sled through vibrant Lapland scenery.

Given that this tour is available during summer and autumn, you’ll see the green forests and golden leaves instead of snow—making it a completely different but equally captivating experience. This flexibility is great for travelers visiting outside winter months who still want to enjoy a dog sled adventure.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Rovaniemi

Your adventure begins with a pickup (or you can meet at the farm) around 11:00 am. From there, you’ll head to a secluded husky farm, far from tourist spots, where the real fun starts.

Husky Handling & Mushing

Once at the farm, you’ll meet your team of friendly huskies, who are eager to go. Under the supervision of guides, you’ll learn the art of mushing—which involves controlling the sled, pacing the dogs, and understanding their behavior. Expect to spend a good chunk of time driving your own sled, with plenty of opportunities to take photos and just soak in the scenery. The guides are praised for being knowledgeable and friendly, making the learning curve comfortable for newcomers.

Scenic Journey

The landscape you’ll traverse is a vivid mix of green forests and autumn leaves, providing postcard-worthy views. Several reviewers mention how stunning the scenery is—it’s a great chance for photos and just appreciating Lapland’s natural beauty.

The BBQ Finale

After your time in the forest, you’ll wind down with a seasonal barbecue in true Lapland style. This relaxed, cozy meal offers a chance to chat with fellow travelers, reflect on the experience, and enjoy the local flavors—perhaps some grilled sausages, reindeer, or other hearty fare, depending on what’s offered.

What Reviewers Say

One traveler called it an “amazing experience” and appreciated how friendly and attentive the guide was, making sure everyone felt comfortable and happy. They especially enjoyed the personal connection with the dogs and the chance to drive their own team, which added a real sense of accomplishment.

However, there have been some hiccups. A guest shared that the pickup time was changed, and due to this, their tour was canceled, and they’re still waiting for a refund. While such cases are rare and often weather-dependent, it’s worth being flexible with your plans.

Others highlighted the stunning views and the “incredible” dogs as major highlights. One noted that their time with Mehmet, the guide, was especially memorable because of his friendly demeanor and extensive knowledge. That personal touch in guides can really make a difference.

On the downside, the weather can be a factor—warm autumn temperatures, as one review mentioned, sometimes lead to cancellations for safety reasons. This was due to the snow melting and unsuitable conditions for husky mushing, which is understandable but can be disappointing if you’re counting on this experience.

The Practical Stuff: Transportation, Timing & Group Size

Transport is straightforward—with pickup offered—and the tour starts at 11:00 am. Since it’s a small group (max 8 travelers), you’re likely to get more personalized attention, which many find valuable. The duration of around 4 hours** makes it a manageable half-day activity, leaving room for other explorations.

The price of $259.50 per person reflects the cost of the unique hands-on experience, the guide’s expertise, and the included BBQ. Considering that you’re actively involved in mushing and get to learn about the dogs, this is a fair value for those seeking a more authentic adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience appeals most to adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts who want to do more than just observe—they want to be part of the action. It suits those comfortable with driving or handling sleds and open to the possibility of weather-related cancellations. It’s also ideal if you’re interested in local culture, as the BBQ adds a warm, authentic touch.

If you’re traveling with family or children, it’s worth noting that this is generally suited for adults or older teens who can handle the physical aspects of mushing. While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the focus is on active participation rather than passive sightseeing.

Final Thoughts: Is it Worth It?

If you’re after a hands-on, immersive experience that combines adventure, scenic beauty, and some tasty local food, this husky safari is a solid pick. The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a personal touch, making it more than just a sightseeing activity.

That said, it’s not without potential pitfalls—weather can disrupt plans, and the physical act of driving the sled might not appeal to everyone. Still, for those who love dogs, scenic landscapes, and a bit of independence in their adventures, this offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s wilderness.

Overall, it’s good value for a memorable, active outing that’s entirely different from typical tours. It’s best suited for travelers who want to connect with nature and animals while enjoying the stunning autumn backdrop of Rovaniemi.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, which makes logistics easier, especially if you’re staying in Rovaniemi.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, starting around 11:00 am.

Can I participate if I’ve never mushed before?
Absolutely. The guides are experienced and will teach you the basics of mushing, so no previous experience is required.

What’s the scenery like during autumn?
Expect green forests and golden leaves, making the landscape particularly beautiful and perfect for photos.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
It’s generally aimed at adults and older teens who can handle the activity—just keep in mind the physical nature of mushing.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are unsafe or unsuitable, the tour can be canceled, and a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

How much does the tour cost?
It’s priced at $259.50 per person, which includes the guiding, husky handling, and BBQ.

What do reviews say about the guides?
Most reviews praise the guides for being friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, adding a lot to the overall experience.

What are the main downsides?
Weather cancellations and the physical aspect of driving the sled might not suit everyone. Always check the forecast and be comfortable with a bit of unpredictability.

If you’re craving a unique outdoor adventure in Lapland, this husky safari offers a memorable way to explore beyond the usual tourist spots—just be ready for some fresh air and furry friends leading the way.