The Husky Experience: Thrilling Sled Rides and Authentic Alaskan Husky Encounters in Rovaniemi
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have basic mobility and be comfortable standing outside in winter conditions for short periods.
Overview
Step beyond the tourist trail for a genuine taste of Finland's Arctic wilderness with The Husky Experience in Rovaniemi. Meet eager sled dogs, glide across snow-covered paths, and warm up by the fire with Jussi and Inka at Nova's husky camp.
The Husky Experience
Husky Camp Visit & Sled Ride
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About This Adventure
Experience an unforgettable hour at Nova's cozy husky camp, where you'll connect with Alaskan huskies and their dedicated mushers, Jussi and Inka. Enjoy a thrilling 2.5 km sled ride through serene winter landscapes, learn about the dogs' lives, and savor warm drinks and cookies by the fire.
Duration: 1 Hour Start time: 11:00 Price: 99€ per person Available: 1st December to 31st March (Subject to weather conditions and daily availability) Note: The sled will be changed to cart if there is not enough snow for the sled.
About
This experience offers more than just a husky ride. It’s a chance to connect with the world of sled dogs in a responsible and meaningful way.
At Nova, we take animal welfare and ethical tourism seriously. That’s why we’ve partnered with professional mushers Jussi and Inka Holck, a local couple who live with their Alaskan huskies in the quiet forests outside Rovaniemi. In order to share the world of sled dogs with our guests more accessibly, they’ve built a cozy husky camp on the Nova Galaxy Village’s property which works as an office for them and the dogs during the day time.
During your visit, you'll meet the huskies and hear stories about the life with the pack, how the dogs are trained, what daily life looks like, and what it takes to prepare for long-distance sled dog races across Scandinavia. For Jussi and Inka, the huskies are family, and it shows in how they care for each dog and run their kennel with deep respect for both animals and nature. The wellbeing of the dogs always comes first to them.
You’ll also get to experience a 2.5 km sled ride (approx. 10 minutes) as a passenger, guided by a professional musher. The ride takes you through a peaceful winter landscape, giving you a taste of what it’s like to travel the with the dogs.
Before and after the ride, there will be time to interact with the dogs, pet them, take photos, and enjoy a warm drink and cookies by the fire as you take in the atmosphere of the camp and the surrounding nature.
For behind the scene material of the life of Jussi, Inka and the pack, you can check out their Instagram account: @arcticwoodslife
Included:
- 2.5 km sled ride (approx. 10 minutes, passengers in the sled)
- Visit to a cozy husky camp hosted by a local musher family
- Stories and insights into the dogs’ lives and training
- Time to meet, interact with, and photograph the huskies
- Hot drinks and cookies
- English-speaking guide
- Winter thermal clothing: overalls, boots, gloves, woolen socks
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers
Temperatures can plummet quickly, so wear thermal base layers and a warm outer jacket to stay comfortable during the sled ride.
Wear waterproof boots
Snowy and icy conditions demand insulated waterproof boots to keep your feet dry and warm throughout the experience.
Listen to the musher’s briefing
Pay close attention to safety instructions and sled handling tips to ensure a safe, smooth sledding adventure.
Bring a camera with protection
Cold temps can affect battery life; keep camera equipment close to your body and consider a waterproof case for snow photography.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Reindeer frequently roam the area near the camp.
- Snowy owls can sometimes be spotted perched in nearby trees.
History
Dog sledding has been a vital means of transportation in Lapland for centuries, deeply rooted in Sami culture and Arctic survival traditions.
Conservation
The camp operates with a strong commitment to sustainable tourism, minimizing environmental footprint and ensuring the health and welfare of their husky teams.
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Adventure Hotspots in Rovaniemi
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Thermal base layers
Keeps your body insulated against freezing temperatures during the sled ride.
winter specific
Waterproof insulated boots
Protects feet from cold and wet snow, essential for comfort and warmth.
winter specific
Gloves or mittens
Prevents frostbite and keeps hands warm while handling sled ropes and sitting in the sled.
winter specific
Neck gaiter or scarf
Provides extra protection against icy winds and dry air during the sledding adventure.
winter specific