Lapland Husky Safari or Reindeer Ride? Your 2027 Guide

So you’re coming to Lapland! We’re excited to welcome you. You’ve probably got visions of snow-dusted trees, the Northern Lights dancing overhead, and gliding through a silent, white wilderness. The only question is... how are you gliding? On a sled pulled by eager huskies, in a sleigh led by a gentle reindeer, or on the back of a powerful snowmobile?

This is the classic Lapland dilemma, and honestly, there’s no single “best” answer. These are the three most popular safari experiences we have up here, and each offers a completely different taste of the Arctic. We’ve seen countless visitors agonize over this choice, so we decided to put together a practical, no-nonsense guide. We’ll compare them on speed, cost, experience, and what they’re really like, so you can choose the perfect adventure for your 2027 Lapland trip.

The Thrill Factor: Speed & Adrenaline

Let's get straight to the point: how fast do you want to go?

• Snowmobiles: These are the undisputed champions of speed. On open tracks across frozen lakes or through wide forest trails, you can easily reach speeds of 40-60 km/h (25-37 mph). The feeling of twisting the throttle and powering through the snowy landscape is a serious adrenaline rush. It’s modern, it’s fast, and it lets you cover a lot of ground.
• Husky Safari: This is the perfect middle ground. A well-trained team of huskies will pull your sled at a steady clip of 10-20 km/h (6-12 mph), sometimes faster on flat sections. It’s fast enough to feel thrilling, especially as you lean into corners and feel the power of the dogs. It’s an active, engaging speed that requires your attention.
• Reindeer Sleigh Ride: This is all about peace and tranquility, not speed. Reindeer move at a gentle walking pace. You won't be getting an adrenaline hit here. The thrill comes from the sheer magic of the experience: gliding silently through an ancient forest, tucked under warm blankets, listening only to the soft crunch of snow and the occasional sleigh bell.

The Experience: Are You a Passenger or a Driver?

Your level of involvement is a huge differentiator.

Most Lapland husky safari tours are set up for you to be the 'musher' (the driver). You’ll get a full lesson on how to control the sled, use the brake, and work with your dogs. Typically, two people share a sled, with one driving and one sitting as a passenger, swapping halfway. This is a hands-on, physical experience. You are an active participant, and the connection you feel with your dog team is unforgettable.

With a snowmobile safari, you are also the driver. You’ll need a valid driver's license (from most countries) to operate your own machine. It’s less physically demanding than mushing but requires constant focus. Children and those without a license ride as passengers on the back of the snowmobile or often in a heated sleigh pulled by the guide’s machine.

On a reindeer sleigh ride, you are purely a passenger. You’ll be settled into a sleigh, covered in warm reindeer hides and blankets, and your guide will lead the reindeer. This is a passive experience, making it perfect for those who want to relax, take photos, and simply soak in the atmosphere without having to concentrate on steering.

Duration & Distance: From Quick Tasters to Epic Treks

You can find options for all three activities ranging from short 30-minute loops to full-day or even multi-day expeditions.

• Reindeer Rides: These are often the shortest. A typical ride might last anywhere from 15 minutes to 2 hours. A popular option is a 1-3 km loop, which is a wonderful taster. You’ll find these at many farms and at the famous Santa Claus Village.
• Husky Safaris: These tend to be longer to give the dogs a good run. The most common tours last 2-4 hours, covering 10-25 km. We feel anything less than a 10 km run isn't really fair to the dogs (they love to run!) or you. Full-day and overnight safaris are also incredible options for the more adventurous.
• Snowmobile Safaris: Because they're so fast, you cover the most ground. A standard 2-hour tour can easily cover 20-30 km. Full-day tours can take you deep into the fells and wilderness, visiting places like Pyhä-Luosto National Park on a longer excursion.

Cost Breakdown: What to Expect in Your 2026-2027 Budget

Prices can vary, but here's a realistic guide for the 2026-2027 winter season. These prices are per person and almost always include thermal clothing (overalls, boots, gloves, and helmet for snowmobiling).

• Reindeer Safari (1-hour): €70 – €110. It’s a gentle entry point, both in experience and cost.
• Snowmobile Safari (2-hour, self-drive): €120 – €160. The price is usually based on two people sharing one snowmobile; riding solo is more expensive.
• Husky Safari (2-hour, 10-15km, self-drive): €150 – €220. This is often the most expensive of the three for a comparable duration. The cost reflects the immense care, feeding, and training the 100+ dogs at a typical kennel require year-round.

Remember, you're paying for the guides' expertise, the maintenance of the equipment, and, crucially, the year-round welfare of the animals.

Picture Perfect: Which Safari Offers the Best Photos?

Every safari is photogenic, but they offer different opportunities.