Rovaniemi: Private Self-drive husky sledding Aurora tour

If you’re dreaming of venturing into the snowy wilderness of Lapland and feeling the thrill of controlling your own team of huskies, this private self-drive husky sled tour might catch your eye. It’s a chance to enjoy the quiet beauty of Finland’s Arctic landscape while taking charge of your own sled, with the bonus of a cozy campfire and, if luck’s on your side, a stunning Aurora display.

What we really like about this experience is the sense of privacy and intimacy it offers, making it ideal for those looking for a more personal encounter with nature. Plus, the guided safety briefing ensures you’re comfortable behind the sled’s controls, even if you’re new to this kind of adventure. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that Northern Lights are not guaranteed, as they’re a natural phenomenon, which can be a bit frustrating when you’re hoping for that extra touch of magic.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want more than just a typical ride—they’re eager to drive their own husky team and enjoy the tranquility of the snow-covered forest. It’s also perfect if you appreciate a private experience away from crowds, and don’t mind dressing warmly for the outdoor elements. If you’re after a straightforward, unpretentious Arctic adventure that combines excitement with serenity, this could be a great pick.

Key Points

• Private and exclusive experience with your own husky sled
• Includes a campfire stop with hot juice and snacks
• Offers a safety briefing and instruction for first-timers
• Potential for Aurora viewing in a low-light environment
• Remote location ensures peace and quiet
• Duration of 3.5 hours provides a solid, immersive experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Husky Sled Tour

This tour begins with a convenient pickup from your chosen location in Rovaniemi—whether it’s your hotel, a central park, or a specific pickup point. From there, you’ll head to a small husky kennel where your guide will introduce you to the team and give a safety briefing. The instructions are straightforward and designed to boost your confidence, especially if you’re new to sledding.

Once geared up with warm clothing (note: thermal gear isn’t provided, so dress accordingly), you’ll hop onto your own husky sled. The ride through a snow-blanketed forest is about 5 kilometers long, offering a peaceful, scenic journey. The environment is incredibly quiet—except for the panting of eager huskies and the crunching snow beneath your sled.

The highlight of the trip is the campfire stop, set in the wilderness. Here, you can warm up with hot juice and snacks while soaking in the pristine surroundings. If the sky is clear and the Northern Lights are active, this is when you’ll get the best chance to see the auroras dancing above you with little to no artificial light pollution interfering. Many travelers have described this moment as “absolutely amazing and magic,” with one reviewer saying, “We spotted little aurora on the way back—unforgettable moments” (Marcin, Ireland).

After the break, you’ll return to the kennel and enjoy a short 2-kilometer sled ride back, completing the 3.5-hour experience. The entire activity is private, meaning your group won’t be mixed with strangers, which really elevates the sense of intimacy and control.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour starts with a pickup from one of three locations in Rovaniemi, giving you flexibility depending on your accommodation. After a scenic drive to the husky kennel, your guide provides safety instructions and briefing, which is helpful whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or new to sledding.

The main sledding portion takes you through serene, snow-covered woods, where the huskies’ enthusiasm adds a lively touch to the peaceful surroundings. A stop at the campfire is not just a warm-up but a real chance to connect with the wilderness—many travelers find this the most memorable part of the trip.

The return journey is equally scenic, with another 2 kilometers of sledding, before heading back to your pickup point. The entire experience lasts about 3.5 hours, including transportation, making it a manageable but immersive Arctic adventure.

What You Need to Know

What to bring: Dress warmly—think layers, gloves, and sturdy footwear—as thermal clothing isn’t provided. It’s best to be prepared for potentially cold conditions, especially when stopping at the campfire.

What’s not allowed: To keep the experience safe and enjoyable, certain items are prohibited, including pets, weapons, baby strollers, mobility scooters, and anything that could interfere with the natural environment or safety protocols.

Northern Lights: While many guests hope to catch a glimpse, it’s important to remember that the aurora is a natural event, and sightings can’t be guaranteed. Clear skies increase your chances, but patience and a bit of luck are needed.

Group size: It’s a private tour, so your group will be the only ones on the sleds, which means more personalized attention and a quieter, more relaxed experience.

Cost and value: The tour offers a lot—private control, scenic snow-covered forests, campfire warmth, and potentially awe-inspiring Aurora views. Compared to longer or more commercial husky rides, this one emphasizes intimacy and the chance to learn how to drive the sled, which adds value.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One traveler from Ireland shared, “This was absolutely amazing and a magic evening. Brilliant crew, fantastic and happy dogs, and we spotted little aurora on the way back. Unforgettable moments.” This highlights how many find the guide’s professionalism and the dogs’ energy to be standout aspects.

Another point that comes through is how quiet and peaceful the experience is, especially in a location free from city lights. The chance to see the Northern Lights in such a pristine environment makes it worthwhile for many, even if the lights don’t appear every single night.

More Great Tours Nearby

Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the price, you get a personalized husky sledding experience with clear safety guidance, along with the option to see the Northern Lights in a setting far from artificial lights. If you’re a fan of outdoor adventures, love animals, or simply want a more private Arctic moment, it’s a solid choice.

However, if you’re traveling with very young children, or if you prefer longer rides or a more structured group experience, this might feel a bit limited. It’s also worth noting that thermal clothing isn’t included, so preparing for the cold is on you.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy self-guided activities, appreciate quiet, scenic landscapes, and value personal space. It’s also great for those wanting to learn how to drive a husky sled rather than just sit as a passenger. If seeing the Northern Lights is a priority, and you’re flexible about the chance, this tour offers a promising opportunity.

FAQs

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed? No, the lights are a natural phenomenon, so sightings depend on weather and solar activity. Clear, dark skies increase your chances, but it’s not a certainty.

How long is the sled ride? The main sledding portion covers about 5 kilometers, plus a 2-kilometer return ride, within a total duration of 3.5 hours including stops.

Do I need to have experience? Not at all. The guide provides a safety briefing and instructions, making it suitable for beginners.

What should I wear? Warm clothing and gloves are essential. Since thermal gear isn’t provided, dress in layers, including waterproof outerwear if possible.

Can I drive the sled if I’m traveling alone? The tour is private, so your group will be the only ones on the sleds, and you can choose to drive or let a guide do the driving.

Is this suitable for children? The tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, and some restrictions apply (e.g., non-folding strollers aren’t allowed). It’s best suited for older children comfortable outdoors.

What if I have allergies or dietary restrictions? These should be communicated at least 24 hours in advance so the provider can accommodate your needs during the campfire break.

How do I get picked up? Pickup options include several locations in Rovaniemi, with details provided at booking. The pickup is included in the tour fee.

Is thermal clothing provided? No, so you’ll need to dress warmly, ideally in layered, insulating clothing.

What’s the environment like? Expect peaceful, snow-laden forests with minimal light pollution, perfect for quiet reflection or Aurora viewing if conditions are right.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a personalized Arctic adventure that combines excitement, nature, and a touch of magic, this private self-drive husky sled tour is worth considering. The chance to drive your own team, sit around a campfire in the wilderness, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights makes for a genuinely memorable experience. It’s a thoughtful choice for those wanting an authentic, peaceful slice of Lapland’s winter beauty, especially if you appreciate the quiet and the company of happy, well-loved huskies.

While it’s not the most action-packed or long-duration tour, what it offers—intimacy, scenic beauty, and a chance for a genuine connection with nature—resonates deeply with many travelers. Just remember to bundle up and keep your expectations flexible regarding Aurora sightings. For a peaceful, private Arctic moment, this tour checks many boxes.

You can check availability for your dates here: