I couldn’t feel the cold, which was either pure adrenaline or a miracle, as the snow – whitened world zipped past. It felt like being wrapped in a cloud of frozen cotton candy while riding a rocket, moving at full speed but somehow perfectly still at the same time. My cheeks were probably frozen into a permanent grin, but honestly, I didn’t care.

A few metres ahead, a mischievous husky named Luna decided the snow was a personal buffet. She plunged her furry face into a pile, emerged with a mouthful of icy goodness, and bounced back into line like nothing happened. Mia and Caius were laughing so hard I half expected them to topple out of the sled, and I couldn’t stop thinking that this, right here, was the peak of our Lapland winter adventure.

Why I Chose a Husky Safari in Rovaniemi

I love dogs. Back home in Australia, I have a Cavoodle named Phoenix, and I miss him terribly, so the idea of visiting a husky farm was basically a warm, giant hug in my imagination. Husky therapy.

We picked the Husky Family Safari through Lapland Safaris, which promised a family-friendly pace perfect for Mia and Caius, and a little bit of adventure for me.

We arrived half an hour before our tour at the Lapland Safaris head office in Rovaniemi city centre, which overlooks the partially frozen Kemijoki River – a perfect spot for photos that scream “Winter Wonderland.”

Gearing Up for Lapland Dog Sledding

The office was massive, with rooms dedicated to every type of winter clothing imaginable. We stripped off our jackets and boots and were outfitted in snowsuits, gloves, scarves, beanies – you name it, they had it. Getting geared up was like trying to dress three miniature sumo wrestlers, but eventually we were ready.

TOP TIP: If you book a safari on day one and then on your last day, you can keep the warm gear for your entire stay – no packing oversized thermal jumpsuits!

We hopped onto the shuttle bus that drove us out of the city and deep into the alabaster – coloured Lapland forest. Stepping off into fresh, fluffy snow was electrifying. The suits worked wonders, and the cold didn’t touch us. Ola, our guide, welcomed us to the husky farm, where the real excitement awaited.

Meet the Huskies: Rovaniemi Sledding Adventure

The farm is home to 275 huskies, each with its own personality, name, and kennel. Staff know all of them individually, and the dogs spend their lives outdoors, loving cuddles, scratches, and belly rubs. But nothing excites them more than running at full speed through the Finnish forest.

As we approached the husky team, the dogs began howling and fidgeting with impatience. The anticipation was contagious. Mia and Caius climbed into the wooden sled with me while our guide prepared the dogs for departure and gave us instructions on how to navigate the rhythmic movement.

Husky Ride Rovaniemi

The take-off was instant. Six strong males and two clever females surged forward. The smartest led the pack while the strongest carried the sled’s weight. We were off, zooming through the Arctic wilderness that looked like a Christmas movie set, with snow clinging to branches and reflecting the pale winter light.

Racing Through Lapland

Our husky tour rocketed through the winter landscape, the momentum pulling our sleigh ride easily through the snowy landscape. Mia and Caius were laughing nonstop, their joy echoing through the trees.

The huskies yapped in response to our guide’s positive words, and Luna occasionally glanced back as if checking I was still hanging on. The whole experience was pure, unfiltered joy – my kids warm and cosy, the forest magical, and the huskies living their best life.

Husky Farm Highlights

The ride ended too soon. We disembarked and showered the excitable dogs with love. Most were Siberian huskies, though a few Alaskan huskies added variety, with piercing blue or brown eyes that seemed to see straight into your soul.

The staff made sure they were well cared for before directing us to a traditional tent.

The wooden lodge had a roaring fire, and we warmed up fairly quickly with hot drinks of berry juice and a delicious, warm ginger snap biscuit while learning more about the farm. A guided walk introduced us to more huskies and adorable puppies, who were basically little snowballs of happiness.

Finally, it was time to leave. I stole one last look at the picturesque farm and its sweet, lovable huskies before a snowball from Mia and Caius hit me, sending me in hot pursuit. Memories like these are exactly why I travel.

Where to Stay for a Rovaniemi Husky Safari

For families, Santa Claus Holiday Village is perfect, with cosy cabins and quick access to Lapland Safaris. For a splurge, Arctic TreeHouse Hotel offers magical forest views and a unique winter stay. Both are family-friendly and just 10–15 minutes from Rovaniemi city centre.

Other Things to Do in Rovaniemi with Kids

Rovaniemi is full of family fun. Santa Claus Village is a must, with reindeer rides, elf workshops, and of course, meeting Santa himself. Also, check out Santa Park as well. Arktikum Museum offers interactive exhibits about Arctic life, perfect for curious kids.

For more adventure, try snowmobile safaris, reindeer sleigh rides, or ice fishing tours. I have a list of things to do in Lapland with kids here. Prices range from €40 – €120 per person, and each experience is an unforgettable journey.

Why the Rovaniemi Husky Safari is Unforgettable

If you’re looking for a magical, family-friendly adventure, the Lapland Safaris Family Husky Safari is a thrilling experience in the enchanting winter of Rovaniemi. Mia, Caius, and I will cherish this dog sledding tour memory forever. It’s a highlight of any Lapland winter trip and, of course, a woofing good time!