Rovaniemi Husky Sled Ride Review: Farm Visit Insights

So, if you are thinking of checking out Lapland, that northern part of Finland, chances are a husky sled ride is on your list, right? In fact, lots of folks put it right at the very top. Like, it’s one of those ‘must-do’ experiences when you’re up that way. That said, not all rides are equal, so I thought I’d chat about my adventure on a Rovaniemi husky sled and a visit to a husky farm.

Why Rovaniemi for a Husky Adventure?

Rovaniemi, right on the Arctic Circle, is, actually, often called the capital of Lapland, and it’s very well known for being Santa Claus’ official home. As a matter of fact, it turns into a winter wonderland that looks almost straight out of a storybook! That said, it is a really ideal place for all sorts of Arctic activities, and sled rides with dogs are right up there. Rovaniemi has really great husky farms because they treat the dogs very well and they know their stuff, which is just what you need for a fantastic trip.

Picking the Right Husky Farm

Alright, so how do you figure out which farm is a good choice for you? Basically, it depends a bit on what you are trying to get out of it. Many outfits run husky sledding, but what makes them different are the experiences and values they provide. You really want to find a place that’s all about respect for the animals; places like that normally have friendlier, happier dogs who really want to do their thing! Very many provide information about how to care for them, and their background too, which I think makes the tour a whole lot more meaningful. Plus, small, family-operated farms very often have something special, it might be in the way they do things, or it could be just the personal care and attention that adds some color to your trip. I am saying look around, compare and then read a couple of reviews before you make any decisions!

My Husky Sled Experience

I decided to go with a smaller, family-run husky farm, which turned out well. You get the impression, really, that they absolutely adore their dogs, who, to be fair, were barking and howling with such anticipation as we walked into their place! After we arrived, one of the owners gave us a great briefing. I remember them explaining what we needed to know about sledding, things such as how to steer, how to brake (quite important, actually) and how to respect your team of huskies. Then, they taught us how to get the dogs harnessed up; that felt great, like we were really getting stuck in.

The Thrill of the Ride

Well, after all the guidance, it was off for our trek through the forest! Oh, that feeling as you glide, it really is something else. Actually, I reckon gliding along a snowy trail while these powerful, beautiful dogs are giving it everything they’ve got ahead of you has something pretty special to it. The route meandered through the woods and past those open snowy areas. We are talking incredible views here. That day it had lightly snowed so it genuinely did seem like you were sledding through an honest-to-goodness winter paradise.

Meeting the Dogs

Right after the sledding we took a breather, sipped some very welcome warm berry juice, and really just spent a little while with the dogs. It was fascinating hearing about each of their unique characteristics. Some of these doggos are young and super excitable, others were a bit older and way calmer, very very chill. I like that the guides knew, to be fair, the names and backgrounds of pretty much every dog there. You kind of felt they had more than just a business going, they also loved their animals.

Visiting a Reindeer Farm

Some tours, basically, tag a visit to a reindeer farm onto their husky adventures. Because you can see and discover so much about the Sami culture, it is definitely a welcome addition. As a matter of fact, the Sami people are Lapland’s original inhabitants, and they’ve had that reindeer herding culture for centuries. I mean, when you visit these farms you’re getting a quick lesson in how important reindeer are to the Sami people’s traditions.

Feeding and Learning

There are a number of farms, so what can you expect on a visit? Generally, it goes like this: first up you can hand-feed the reindeer (and yes, you can get pretty close), they can be a bit timid sometimes. Then there’s normally some history and cultural info which one of the Sami guides will go over. Finally, most times they’ll have a mini sled ride with a reindeer. Which I thought was fun but nowhere near as speedy or exhilarating as those huskies.

The Sami Culture

Okay, so what else did I learn? I felt seeing the way they looked after and revered the reindeer was really striking, just seeing how every part of those creatures gets utilized, to see they are respected. I learned, basically, they don’t view it only as a livelihood, but, kind of, part of who they are as people. In fact, I learned that things like their clothes, some tools, and even transport methods rely heavily on reindeers.

What to Wear for the Ride

Seriously, wear lots and lots of warm clothes! Like, layers upon layers, actually. Remember, we are up in the Arctic Circle, it might just be icy, which means what you’ve got on your bod really impacts how much you’ll enjoy being outside.

Layering is Key

Right then, think in layers. That, basically, allows you to add stuff or take it away to control how you feel. The first layer should always wick the moisture. Second, insulation (like fleece or wool), then your protective waterproof outerwear on top of it all!

Don’t Forget the Extremities

Okay, think about the furthest extremities such as the gloves, hat, scarf and thick socks! Choose proper thermal socks; mittens are way warmer than gloves; and make certain the hat fully covers your ears. If it does get extreme with wind, bring some face protection, as it really makes a huge difference when riding.

Planning Your Trip

So, for those about to lock in their husky sledding adventure, it really helps to be a little bit in the know before you jump in.

Best Time to Visit

What is the best season, really? In fact, a lot would argue that winter (that is Dec-March) offers the absolute ideal conditions. Very arguably you have got guaranteed snow, the magical glow of the northern lights is up in the sky (probably). That is peak tourist time, just saying, be warned though, so make certain you reserve the farm sled in plenty of time!

Booking in Advance

Yes, you should, actually! That is so crucial! These tours get totally packed out pretty quickly, more so during holiday periods like Christmas and New Year. Reserving ahead means you’re more likely to snag yourself a spot at the husky farm that ticks all your boxes.

Ethical Considerations

Look, it’s something you’ve really got to be aware of. Because it is so essential that we all do what we can to be certain those animals involved get cared for in a decent manner, just research and see what farms have an outstanding level of animal care.

Animal Welfare

Keep a look out, specifically, for indications of good health and contentment. Farms who enable visitors to meet the dogs or to have interactions and to ask questions regarding their upkeep and conditions and that value the well-being of the animals have good values. Watch for signs that will indicate they are exhausted or poorly kept, maybe, as that would obviously ring alarm bells!

Sustainable Tourism

If possible, pick smaller, locally run companies. Because very often they are more deeply committed to ethical and environmentally safe tourism models. By opting to support such operations, not only are you gaining authentic and personal tours but your spending habits can also contribute to the health of local communities together with the natural ecosystem.

#rovaniemi #huskysledding #lapland #finland #winteradventures