Do I get to drive the sled?

Yes—participants aged 15 and over can take the reins during the safari; guides give a safety briefing and coaching before you start.

How long is the ride on the sled?

The sled portion covers about 5 km and lasts roughly 30 minutes; the full outing including transport and a Kota hut stop is about 2 hours.

Layered, moisture-wicking clothing, insulated boots, and waterproof outerwear are recommended; bring a warm hat and mittens with a firm grip.

Children can ride but drivers must be 15 or older; family-friendly pacing and group size limits help keep the experience safe for younger guests.

How far is transport to the site?

Transportation from central Saariselkä is approximately 30–40 minutes one way; plan for that when scheduling other activities.

Are the huskies well cared for?

Yes—the operator works in small groups (max 16) and provides supervised time to meet and thank the dogs; guides explain the teams’ care and routines.

Drive a Husky Sled in Saariselkä: 5 km Arctic Safari

On a clear winter morning in Saariselkä, a team of eager huskies tugs at the sled and the world narrows to the sound of paws in snow and the rasp of runners. The 5 km Husky Safari (2 h) runs from Saariseläntie near Inari in Finnish Lapland, carrying you across glittering fells and through birch-and-pine forest. You drive your own sled for part of the route, switch drivers during a mid-ride photo stop, and learn the basics of mushing from English- and Finnish-speaking guides. This short but vivid Arctic run covers roughly 5 kilometers of groomed trail; the full experience lasts about two hours including transport, kit checks and a warm-up in a traditional Lappish Kota hut. Expect glacially shaped ridgelines, wind-polished snowfields and quiet stands of dwarf birch; the landscape alternates open tundra on the higher fells and sheltered fir corridors in the valleys. Halfway through the safari you have time to pet and thank the dogs, and after the ride you’ll warm up by the fire with hot berry juice and local cookies. You’ll meet at Kuukkeli Shopping Center—please arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled departure for clothing checks and transport to the trailhead. Drivers must be at least 15 years old; the activity suits beginners who have moderate balance and a readiness for cold-weather movement. Mushing requires short bursts of standing on the sled runners and some coordination when slowing or guiding turns, but the guides set a beginner-friendly pace. Why this operator stands out: the route has been designed for accessibility without stripping away the wild character of Saariselkä’s fells. Small groups (maximum 16) keep the experience personal, the huskies are handled with clear care, and the pause in a Kota hut ties the ride into Lapland’s living outdoor culture. The combination of hands-on driving, intimate dog moments and a warm communal hut makes the activity both an adrenaline hit and a peaceful winter ritual. Practical notes: dress for Arctic temperatures with layered insulation and waterproof outerwear; transportation from central Saariselkä is roughly 30–40 minutes one way. Bring a camera, gloves with grip, and an open sense of curiosity—this is a compact, authentic Arctic sledding encounter that makes a memorable half-day highlight when visiting Inari and the surrounding fells. Operating year-round in winter conditions, the safari is led by bilingual guides (English, Finnish) who brief you on safety, dog care, and basic sled handling before you leave. Group sizes are capped at a maximum of 16 guests to reduce stress on the teams and conserve trail quality. Pickup from Saariseläntie 1, 99830 Inari, Finland; total outing time includes travel to the kennel site. The short route makes this a fantastic option for families and first-time mushers.