Husky Safari or Reindeer Ride: Which Arctic Adventure Should You Choose?

Travellers ask me this all the time when they first land here in Rovaniemi. They’ve seen the photos—the frost-covered trees, the steam rising from a dog’s breath, the gentle eyes of a reindeer—and they want to do it all. But let’s be honest: Lapland isn't exactly a budget destination, and your time here is precious. If you have to pick just one, how do you decide between a husky safari or a reindeer ride?

As someone who has spent years waking up to -20°C mornings and watching the seasons shift from the Midnight Sun to the Polar Night, I can tell you that these two experiences couldn't be more different. One is an adrenaline-fueled dash through the pines; the other is a rhythmic, ancient meditation on ice.

Let’s break down the "Great Arctic Dilemma" so you can choose the experience that actually fits your soul (and your scarf).

The Need for Speed: The Thrill of a Husky Safari

If you’re looking for action, the husky safari is your clear winner. One thing many visitors don’t know is that Alaskan and Siberian huskies aren't just pets here; they are elite athletes. They don’t just like to run; they live for it. The moment you step onto a husky farm—like the ones near the Arctic Circle Husky Park or Bearhill Husky—the noise is incredible. It’s a symphony of barking, howling, and jumping. They are literally screaming, "Pick me! Let's go!"

The Experience

Once the anchor is lifted and the brake is released, the barking stops instantly. The silence that follows is magical. All you hear is the swish-swish of the sled runners on the snow and the rhythmic panting of the team.

In a typical husky safari, you are in the driver’s seat. Usually, two people share a sled: one sits wrapped in reindeer skins, and the other stands on the back as the musher. You’ll need to work, too! When the dogs go uphill, you might need to kick a little to help them out. When they go downhill, you’ll be standing on the metal brake with all your weight to make sure you don't run into the back of the team.

Practical Details

• Season: Late November to mid-April (depending on snow cover).
• Temperature: It feels much colder because of the wind chill. If it's -15°C outside, it feels like -25°C when you’re moving at 20km/h.
• Price: Expect to pay between €150 and €220 per adult for a 10km (roughly 1-hour) ride. Short 2km "taster" rides can be found for around €40–€70.
• Who it’s for: Adventure seekers, active couples, and families with older children who don't mind a bit of a bumpy ride.

The Soul of the North: The Magic of a Reindeer Ride

If the husky safari is a rock concert, a reindeer ride is a soft acoustic set by a campfire. Reindeer are the icons of Lapland—there are actually more reindeer than people here in the north! Taking a reindeer ride is less about the "thrill" and more about connecting with the Sámi culture and the slow pace of life in the Arctic.

The Experience

I usually tell my friends that a reindeer ride is the closest you’ll get to time travel. You sit low to the ground in a wooden sleigh, tucked under thick blankets. The reindeer moves at a walking pace, maybe a slow trot if they’re feeling frisky.

You’ll glide through the "Taiga" (boreal forest), usually at a place like the Santa Claus Reindeer farm right on the Arctic Circle or a more remote family farm like Sieriporo Safaris. It is incredibly peaceful. You have time to look at the snow-laden branches, spot animal tracks, and really breathe in that crisp, clean air.

Practical Details

• Season: Mid-November to April.
• Temperature: Since you aren't moving fast, you don't get the wind chill, but you are sitting still. Most farms provide extra thermal suits, which I highly recommend wearing!
• Price: A short 1km "Reindeer Path" is usually around €30–€40. Longer forest safaris (3km to 5km) typically cost between €70 and €120.
• Who it’s for: Photographers, romantic couples, families with very young children, and anyone looking to de-stress.

Husky Safari vs. Reindeer Ride: The Head-to-Head Comparison

If you're visiting in December, here's what I'd recommend: think about your energy levels. December is dark (the Kaamos period), and the days are short. A husky safari is a great way to wake up your senses during the twilight hours. A reindeer ride, however, is spectacular under the moonlight or, if you're lucky, the Northern Lights.

Physical Effort

• Husky Safari: High. You need balance, a bit of leg strength for braking, and the focus to steer.
• Reindeer Ride: Zero. You are a passenger in the truest sense of the word.

Interaction with Animals

• Huskies: They are high-energy and usually very friendly. They love a good ear scratch after the run, but they can be a bit "jumpy."
• Reindeer: They are semi-wild animals. They are calm and curious but generally don't want to be hugged like a dog. You’ll often get to feed them some lichen (their favorite snack), which is a highlight for most visitors.

One thing many visitors don't know...

Locals here don't really use reindeer for transport anymore—we use snowmobiles and cars. However, keeping reindeer is a lifestyle and a vital part of the local economy and heritage. When you book a reindeer ride, you are often supporting a family that has been herding for generations.

On the other hand, the husky industry is built specifically for tourism, but the level of care is world-class. If you're worried about the dogs, look for companies with "Green Activities" or "Sustainable Travel Finland" certifications. A happy husky is a loud, bouncy husky!

Buddy’s Quick Tips for the Trail

• Book in advance: During the Christmas and New Year peak, these safaris sell out weeks—sometimes months—in advance.
• Dress in layers: Even if the tour operator gives you a suit, wear your own woolly thermals underneath. The Arctic cold doesn't play around.
• Warm your batteries: Your phone battery will die in minutes in the cold. Keep your phone in an inside pocket close to your body heat.
• Safety first: Always listen to the musher’s instructions. With huskies, the most important rule is: Never let go of the handlebar.

Which one should you choose?

If you want a story to tell your friends about how you "conquered the Arctic," go for the Husky Safari. It’s an adrenaline rush you won't forget.

If you want to feel the "Lapland Magic" and have a quiet moment of reflection in a winter wonderland, go for the Reindeer Ride. It’s the heart and soul of our home.

Personally? I usually take my visiting relatives on a husky safari during the day for the excitement, and then we do a reindeer farm visit in the late afternoon to wind down and learn about the local culture over a cup of hot berry juice.

Frequently asked questions

Is a husky safari safe for children? Yes, but with conditions. Most companies allow children to sit in the sled while an adult drives. Some have age limits (often 4 or 6 years old) for longer treks because of the cold. Always check with the specific provider in Rovaniemi or Levi.

Do the reindeer or huskies get cold? Not at all! These animals are evolved for this. A husky is most comfortable when it’s -20°C. In fact, if it gets too warm (above 0°C), the dogs can overheat and the tours might be shortened. Reindeer have hollow fur that provides incredible insulation.

Can I see the Northern Lights during these safaris? Many operators offer evening "Aurora" versions of both husky and reindeer safaris. While it’s a beautiful way to wait for the lights, remember that the Aurora is a natural phenomenon—there’s never a 100% guarantee they will show up!

What should I wear? Most safari companies in Lapland include thermal overalls, boots, and mittens in the price. You should bring your own thermal base layer (merino wool is best), a fleece or wool mid-layer, and a thin liners for your gloves.

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Still can't decide which one is right for your trip? Or maybe you're wondering which specific farm near Rovaniemi has the best hot chocolate? Drop me a message or leave a comment below—I’m always happy to help a friend plan their Arctic escape.

Safe travels, and see you in the snow!

— Buddy