Rovaniemi: Northern Lights and Husky Sleigh Ride

If you’re dreaming of a winter wonderland in Lapland, this tour offers a mix of classic Arctic activities: a 5-km husky sled ride and a chance to catch the Northern Lights. It’s a solid option for travelers who want a taste of authentic Arctic life without spending days on the ice.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines dog sledding—which is genuinely fun and memorable—with a potential sighting of those famous dancing auroras. Plus, the included winter gear means you don’t have to pack bulky layers. On the downside, the tour is a bit pricey compared to what you get, and the Northern Lights are never guaranteed—they depend on weather and solar activity.

This experience is best suited for those who want a well-organized, authentic Arctic adventure that’s relatively short and manageable. It’s perfect if you’re curious about huskies, love starry skies, or want a warm story to tell back home about your winter in Finland.

Key Points

• Authentic husky sled ride with knowledgeable guides
• Chance to see the Northern Lights (weather permitting)
• All necessary winter clothing provided
• Approximate duration of 3.5 hours, making it a manageable experience
• Pickup and drop-off included from key locations in Rovaniemi
• Cost around $260 per person, offering good value for the combined activities

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is This Tour Really About?

This tour is a chance to enjoy classic Arctic experiences in a compact, 3.5-hour window. It’s designed for travelers who want to combine the thrill of dog sledding with the awe of Northern Lights searching, all wrapped in the cozy atmosphere of Lappish winter.

You’ll start by meeting your guide at your hotel or designated pickup point near Rovaniemi, then head out to a charming farmhouse where the huskies are kept. Here, you’ll get to meet the dogs—an experience many reviews highlight as a highlight itself—and prepare for your 5-km sled ride. The ride itself is driven by a farmer and takes you across snow-covered forests and frozen lakes, which is an experience in itself, especially if you’re a first-timer or an animal lover.

Following the sled ride, you’ll be driven to a quiet forest or lakeside spot, where, if weather cooperates, you’ll try to catch the Northern Lights. You might find that cloud cover or solar activity influences the visibility, so patience and a bit of luck are part of the deal.

The Husky Sled Ride: What to Expect

The huskies are not just props—they’re central to this experience. Guides are often knowledgeable and friendly, sharing insights about the dogs and the history of sledding in Lapland. Many reviews mention how the guides put them at ease, answer questions, and really care about the dogs’ well-being.

The sled ride itself varies slightly depending on weather and snow conditions, but generally lasts around 20-30 minutes. It’s a fun, physically engaging activity—no experience necessary—and you’ll get to sit back and enjoy the snowy scenery.

Several reviews mention that the guide Pietro or others are especially friendly, making the experience more personal. Some mention that more grit in icy areas or clearing snow could improve the ride, but overall, it’s a memorable way to spend part of your Arctic day.

Chasing the Northern Lights: How Likely Is It?

While the Northern Lights are a major draw, they’re not guaranteed—and that’s true with most aurora tours. The tour includes a drive to a dark, serene spot where you’ll have a good chance to see the dancing lights if the sky is clear and solar activity is high.

Many travelers mention that cloudy weather or a lack of auroras didn’t spoil their experience, since the sled ride and starry sky were still breathtaking. One reviewer even said, “we didn’t manage to see aurora, but the ride with the huskies was great,” which captures how sometimes the journey and scenery can be just as rewarding as the lights themselves.

Guides often go the extra mile, trying additional spots or stops to increase your chances, but ultimately, nature’s unpredictability is part of the game here.

What’s Included and How Does It Value?

For $260, you’re getting a comprehensive package: the sled ride, winter clothing, hot blueberry juice, and Northern Lights search if weather allows. This all-inclusive approach makes it easier—you don’t need to worry about packing snow gear, and the hot drink adds a cozy touch after being out in the cold.

Many reviews emphasize the quality of the guides and how well-organized the trip is. The pickup and drop-off from designated spots also add convenience, especially if you’re staying in Rovaniemi’s main areas.

However, some might see the price as a bit steep, especially considering the short duration and the fact that Northern Lights sightings are not guaranteed. Still, when you factor in the expert guidance, warm clothing, and the unique experience of sledding with huskies, it’s a fair value for many.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Experience: A Closer Look

Imagine yourself bundled up in overalls, boots, and gloves—all provided—and then sitting comfortably, wrapped in the warmth of a sled pulled by enthusiastic huskies. The snow-covered landscape around you sparkles under the starry sky, and if Lady Luck is on your side, green ribbons of the Aurora Borealis will dance above.

Many travelers describe the sound of the sled runners gliding over the snow as peaceful, and the smell of the cold winter air as invigorating. You’ll likely meet friendly guides who share stories about the dogs, the land, and the Northern Lights, making the experience both fun and educational.

Post-ride, a visit to a forest or lakeside for potential Aurora spotting adds an extra layer of anticipation. Even if the sky remains cloudy, many report that the whole experience—the sled ride, the starry sky, and the quiet wilderness—makes it worthwhile.

Limitations and Considerations

The main thing to remember is that Northern Lights sightings depend heavily on weather and solar activity. If you’re visiting during a cloudy spell or during a period of low solar activity, the lights might not appear. Several reviews mention that Northern Lights were not seen despite the effort, but most still found the overall experience memorable.

This tour is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, as the activities involve physical activity and uneven terrain. Children under 11 must be accompanied by adults, so it’s geared more toward families or groups with kids over that age.

The length of the sled can vary depending on weather, and the snow conditions may influence how long and how comfortably your ride feels.

Final Thoughts

This Rovaniemi tour offers a pretty authentic taste of Arctic life—a mix of dog sledding and Northern Lights chasing. You’ll leave with stories of friendly huskies, starry skies, and maybe, just maybe, the green glow of the auroras overhead.

It’s best for those who value guides with genuine knowledge, appreciate well-organized activities, and don’t mind the uncertainty of nature’s light show. The included winter gear, warm drinks, and small group size keep things comfortable and intimate.

While it isn’t the cheapest Arctic experience out there, it’s a solid choice if you want a balanced, memorable adventure that captures some of the magic of Lapland. Just keep your expectations realistic regarding the Northern Lights—they’re a bonus, not a guarantee.

FAQs

Will I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
It depends on the weather and solar activity. The tour includes a drive to a dark spot for viewing, but sightings aren’t guaranteed. Many travelers do see them, but it’s weather-dependent.

What is included in the tour?
You get a guide, winter clothes (overalls, boots, gloves), a 5 km husky sled ride, hot blueberry juice, and a Northern Lights search by car if conditions are favorable.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3.5 hours. The start time varies based on the season and availability, so check your booking details.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 11 must be accompanied by a paying adult. It’s best for families with kids comfortable in cold weather and active environments.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. It’s a flexible option if your plans are uncertain.

Does the tour accommodate special needs?
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users or pregnant women due to the physical nature of the activities.

What should I wear?
The tour provides winter overalls, boots, and gloves, so you just need to dress warmly underneath. Layering is recommended, especially for the Northern Lights viewing.

All in all, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience some of the best parts of a winter trip to Lapland. It’s not perfect, but if you’re looking for dog sledding, starry skies, and the possibility of auroras, it ticks many boxes.

You can check availability for your dates here: