If you’re dreaming of a winter adventure in Lapland, this combo tour of husky and reindeer sledding in Levi promises a memorable blend of adrenaline, tranquility, and stunning scenery. While it’s not an exhaustive wilderness expedition, it offers a taste of authentic Arctic life, perfect for those looking to connect with nature and animals alike.
What makes this experience stand out? First, you get to meet and interact with the friendly huskies and majestic reindeer—a highlight for animal lovers. Second, the thrilling husky sled ride offers a rush of cool air and a sense of teamwork, while the peaceful reindeer sleigh provides a calmer, contemplative journey. Lastly, the warm drinks and snacks offered after the rides turn this adventure into a cozy, social experience, wrapping up your day in comfort.
A possible consideration is that some guests, based on reviews, found the husky ride somewhat smaller and more controlled than expected, with the dogs appearing more like regular dogs than the high-energy racers often pictured. If you’re seeking a long, high-speed sledding adventure, this might feel a touch limited, but it still offers plenty of charm and authenticity for most.
This tour suits those seeking a family-friendly, scenic, and culturally rich experience. It’s ideal for anyone wanting a taste of Lapland’s iconic animal encounters without the need for strenuous physical activity or extensive time commitments.
Key Points
- Authentic animal encounters with friendly huskies and majestic reindeer
- Guided by experienced mushers ensuring safety and fun
- Balance of excitement and relaxation with both husky and reindeer rides
- Includes warm drinks and snacks to keep you cozy after the rides
- Short, manageable rides suitable for most ages and mobility levels
- Limited food and drinks options outside the included hot beverages
The Experience: What to Expect in Detail
Looking for more options in Lapland Finland? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Convenient Pickup and Drop-off
The tour starts with a pickup in a black minivan from a designated meeting point in Levi, making logistics straightforward. This transport service is especially helpful in snowy conditions, ensuring you arrive warm and ready.
Safety & Preparation
Before you hop onto any sled, you’ll receive a quick safety briefing from the guides—most notably, the professional mushers who lead the sleds. They’ll explain how to handle the sled and what to do during the ride, ensuring everyone feels confident and secure. The guides are experienced and patient, often sharing insights into their daily life in Lapland.
Husky Sled Ride: Around 1.5 km
The highlight for many is the 1.5 km husky sled ride, guided by a musher. You’ll sit in a traditional sled, being pulled through snowy forests and open landscapes. The dogs are well-trained and friendly, often described as energetic yet gentle. One reviewer, Yung, mentioned that their husky, Skyla, was “so cute,” highlighting the friendly nature of the dogs.
Some critical notes from reviews reveal that the huskies don’t always resemble the typical racing dogs seen in photos. Instead, they look more like regular dogs with some having blue eyes, and the rides are often in circles or pre-set tracks rather than long, free-range runs. This might be a slight letdown for thrill-seekers expecting a high-adrenaline experience but still offers a charming, guided adventure.
More Great Tours NearbyReindeer Sled Ride: Around 500 meters
Following the husky ride, you’ll experience a peaceful reindeer-drawn sleigh ride. The reindeer are calm and majestic, and cozy blankets are provided to keep you warm. This segment of the tour is often described as relaxing—some guests, like Lucy, enjoyed the gentle rhythm of the reindeer hooves and wished it lasted longer. It’s a perfect counterbalance to the excitement of husky sledding.
Visiting the Animals & Free Time
After the rides, you’re free to walk around the area and take photos with the animals. Enthusiasts might appreciate the chance to snuggle the reindeer or pet the huskies if the guides permit. The tour also offers a kota, a traditional Finnish shelter, where you can warm up and enjoy hot drinks and cookies.
Scenic Landscapes & Authentic Atmosphere
Throughout the tour, expect beautiful views of snow-covered terrain, lakes, and forests. Although the route may vary depending on weather and trail conditions, guides aim to provide the most scenic and safe experience possible. This flexibility ensures your safety and comfort, especially in unpredictable Arctic weather.
Return and Reflection
By the end of the experience, you’ll be transported back to Levi, filled with fresh mountain air, photos, and stories to tell. The overall duration is manageable for most, making it a great addition to a day of Levi sightseeing.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The price of $170 per person covers pickup and drop-off, hot drinks and cookies, and your huskies and reindeer rides. The husky sled is about 1.5 km long, guided by a professional musher, while the reindeer ride covers roughly 500 meters.
Food and additional drinks aren’t included, so if you’re craving a hearty meal afterward, plan to explore local cafes or bring snacks. Keep in mind that card payments might sometimes be unreliable at the remote camp, so bringing cash or an alternative payment method is wise.
Practical Tips for Your Sledding Adventure
- Dress warmly: Layer up with thermal clothes, waterproof outerwear, hats, gloves, and insulated shoes—Lapland can get extremely cold, especially in February or January.
- Be punctual: Arrive at least 10 minutes early to avoid missing your departure time; late arrivals aren’t eligible for refunds or rescheduling.
- Prepare for weather variability: In extremely cold conditions (-30°C or below), the tour might be rescheduled or refunded.
- Bring a camera: The scenery is stunning, and opportunities to photograph animals and landscapes are plentiful.
- Consider physical limitations: This tour isn’t suitable for children under 3, mobility-impaired guests, or those with certain health issues, including heart problems or high blood pressure.
Authentic Reviews from Guests
While most reviews are positive, some guests noted that the husky experience might not match expectations. One reviewer mentioned that the dogs didn’t look like the high-energy huskies in promotional images, and the route was a small circle rather than a lengthy adventure. They felt the ride was more of a “guided tour” than a wild sled run.
Conversely, others loved the friendly nature of the dogs and found the reindeer ride calming and scenic. Lucy, who enjoyed both parts, mentioned she’d prefer the reindeer ride to be a bit longer and in her own control, which hints at some guests wishing for more independence.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a gentle, scenic introduction to Lapland’s famous animal activities. It’s ideal if you want authentic interactions with animals, memorable photo opportunities, and a taste of local culture. Those looking for extremely adrenaline-pumping rides or long sled runs may find this tour somewhat limited.
The Sum Up
This husky and reindeer sledding combo offers a charming mix of adventure and relaxation in the heart of Lapland. You’ll get to meet friendly animals, enjoy scenic winter landscapes, and warm up with hot drinks after your rides. While some might wish for longer or more lively sledding, the authentic, guided nature of this experience makes it a worthwhile option for those seeking a gentle Arctic adventure.
The clear value lies in the opportunity to connect with Lapland’s iconic animals while enjoying well-organized logistics and cozy amenities. It’s best suited for travelers who want a memorable, family-friendly activity that combines scenic beauty with cultural authenticity—without the need for extreme physical exertion or high-speed thrills.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off in a black minivan from the designated meeting point, making it easy to focus on the experience rather than logistics.
How long is the husky sled ride?
The husky sled ride is approximately 1.5 kilometers long, guided by a professional musher, offering a manageable yet scenic adventure.
Can I interact with the animals?
You can enjoy photos and pet the reindeer. Interaction with huskies might be limited to the ride itself, depending on the guide’s policies.
What should I wear?
Dress in warm, layered clothing, including waterproof outer layers, insulated shoes, hats, and gloves. Proper attire ensures comfort despite the cold temperatures.
Is the tour suitable for children or mobility-impaired guests?
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 3, babies, or guests with mobility issues, due to the nature of the sled rides and safety considerations.
Can I cancel if I change my plans?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility for your travel plans.
This combo experience in Levi offers a balanced taste of Lapland’s wilderness, animal encounters, and scenic beauty—ideal for those eager to soak up the Arctic vibe in a relaxed, authentic way.
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