Pyhätunturi: Husky safari 5km including a farm visit

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A Genuine Look at the Pyhätunturi Husky Safari Experience

If you’re dreaming of a snowy adventure in Lapland, a huskiesafari at Pyhä Husky Farm might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of a fun, authentic, and family-friendly outing that offers a true taste of Arctic life. It’s perfect for those wanting to combine a scenic snow experience with the charm of these gentle working dogs.

What really catches our eye about this experience are three key elements: the chance to meet the huskies and hear their stories, a memorable 30-minute sled ride through winter wonderlands, and the cozy farm visit with hot berry juice around a campfire. However, a possible consideration is that this tour is quite structured and relatively short — around 3-5 km — so if you’re craving a longer, more intense adventure, you might want to look at additional options.

This activity is particularly well-suited for families, first-time visitors to Lapland, or anyone wanting a gentle introduction to husky mushing without the commitment of a full-day tour. It offers a balance of fun, education, and scenic beauty, making it a worthwhile addition to your Arctic itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Family-Friendly: Perfect for children over 4, with a guided tour that’s safe and engaging
Authentic Interaction: Opportunities to meet and hear stories about the huskies from knowledgeable guides
Scenic Ride: Approximately 3-5 km sled ride through snowy forests and Arctic wilderness
Comfort & Warmth: Cozy hut with campfire and hot berry juice after the ride
Logistics & Accessibility: Tour is about 30 minutes, operates with set group sizes, and includes specific clothing needs
Price & Value: At $164 per person, it offers a meaningful Arctic experience with some logistical considerations

Exploring the Husky Safari Step-by-Step

Booking and Meeting Logistics

The tour starts at the Pyhä Husky Farm parking lot, located at Molkankummuntie 225, 98100 Kemijärvi. If you arrive early or plan to self-drive, be sure to reach the farm on time and wait in the parking lot until the guide leads the group inside. Guides emphasize punctuality, as arriving late can disrupt the schedule.

Transportation is not included in the price, but you can add transfers during booking. Pickups from Pyhä are scheduled about 30 minutes before the tour, with an earlier start from Luosto (about 45 minutes prior). This helps ensure you’re warm and prepared before the adventure begins.

What to Wear and Bring

Since all winter gear is extra, bringing your own warm clothing, insulated boots, hats, and gloves is essential. The farm does provide some winter clothes and shoes if you book in advance, which is convenient for travelers flying into the area unprepared for Arctic cold. Remember, kids under 4 are not allowed to participate, mainly due to safety and cold tolerance concerns, and pregnant women or those with back problems should consider other options.

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The Farm Visit & Husky Meet-and-Greet

Before the ride, you’ll get a chance to meet the adorable huskies, hear stories about their lives, and learn about the skills involved in mushing. Reviewers note that guides are incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, adding a personal touch to the experience. One reviewer specifically mentions that the dogs are “quite chilled,” making the tour suitable even for nervous or first-time dog lovers.

At this stage, expect to get familiar with the sleds, how they’re handled, and the dogs’ personalities. This part of the tour is not just educational but also endearing, especially for children who love animals.

The 30-Minute Husky Sled Ride

The highlight is the 6-huskies sledge ride covering about 3-5 km through snowy forests and wilderness. It lasts roughly 20 minutes, with the rest dedicated to the preparation and a short break. One review mentions that the ride “leads through the snowy forest and is, unfortunately, over very quickly,” which is a common sentiment. It’s a quick but exhilarating experience, offering plenty of moments to take photos and enjoy the scenery.

One driver per sledge is required, and sledges are generally full, accommodating two adults and children. If you’re traveling as a couple or a family, you may switch drivers at the midpoint, which adds a bit of variety and fun.

After the Ride: Cozy Campfire & Storytelling

Post-sledding, you’ll settle into a rustic hut with a campfire, where steaming berry juice is served. This is a warm, inviting moment that makes the Arctic cold fade away. Guests often mention the storytelling aspect, which adds a personal and cultural dimension to the tour. Guides are usually friendly and eager to share insights about husky life, sledding, and Lapland’s landscape, making this part of the experience both relaxing and educational.

The Experience from Review Insights

Many travelers find this tour a highlight of their trip to Lapland. One reviewer describes it as “the best activity in Lapland,” praising the friendly guides and sweet huskies. Another mentions that the sled ride through the snowy forest is “fantastic,” even if “over very quickly.”

The reviews also reflect that children enjoy the experience significantly, especially those over 4, who appreciate meeting the dogs and sitting on the sleds. Some mention that very young children may struggle with the cold or the speed of the ride, so careful consideration is advised.

Pricing & Value Analysis

At $164 per person, this tour offers a solid introduction to husky sledding, with the added charm of farm visits and storytelling. While it’s not the cheapest Arctic activity, the inclusion of the farm visit, hot drinks, and the opportunity to meet the dogs enhances its value for those seeking genuine, family-friendly experiences.

However, it’s important to note that transportation is extra, and winter clothing isn’t included unless booked in advance. If you’re already prepared with warm gear, you’ll maximize your comfort and enjoyment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for families with children over 4, first-time visitors to Lapland, or those seeking a gentle, authentic husky adventure. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a short, scenic ride combined with educational storytelling and cozy post-ride relaxation.

Travelers with limited mobility, pregnant women, or anyone with back issues should consider their suitability, as sledding and cold temperatures could pose challenges. Plus, those expecting a longer or more strenuous mushing experience might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

The Pyhä Husky Safari offers more than just a sled ride — it’s a chance to connect with Arctic wildlife, listen to stories that bring the huskies’ world to life, and enjoy warm drinks in a rustic setting. The guides’ friendliness, the dogs’ calm demeanor, and the scenic winter landscape make it a memorable, authentic experience.

While the ride itself is brief, the quality of interaction and the beautiful surroundings leave a strong impression. It’s a good choice for families and those new to husky adventures who want a balanced, well-organized activity with genuine heart.

If you love animals, enjoy scenic winter walks, and want a taste of Lapland’s outdoor life without overly strenuous activity, this tour hits the sweet spot.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation to the farm isn’t included. You can add pickup services during booking, with pickups from Pyhä starting about 30 minutes before the tour.

What should I wear for the tour?
All winter clothing is extra, but it’s recommended to bring your own warm clothes, hats, gloves, and insulated shoes. The farm does provide clothing if booked in advance.

Can children participate in the husky safari?
Children over 4 years old can participate. Very young children under 4 cannot join for safety and cold tolerance reasons. Kids can sit on adult laps or ride in sledges, but the exact arrangements depend on the group.

Are pregnant women able to join?
No, pregnant women are advised not to participate for safety reasons.

How long does the safari last?
The actual sled ride lasts around 20 minutes, covering 3-5 km, with additional time for meeting the dogs and enjoying the storytelling and warm drink afterward.

Is the experience suitable for people with back problems?
It’s not recommended for those with back issues due to the physical nature of sledding.

What is the total value of this experience?
Considering the farm visit, storytelling, and scenic ride, the $164 fee offers a genuine Arctic adventure suitable for families and newcomers. Remember, the key to maximizing value is arriving prepared with appropriate winter gear.

This husky safari at Pyhä Husky Farm provides a beautifully balanced Arctic experience, blending scenic outdoor fun with heartwarming animal encounters. Perfect for those seeking a sensory-rich, family-friendly taste of Lapland’s wilderness.