Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Book Santa’s Husky Rides
Booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially during the peak Christmas and New Year period when time slots fill up quickly.
- Book online through the booking calendar on this page.
- Select your preferred date and time slot (slots run from 10:00 to 15:30).
- Bookings can be made up to 30 minutes before your chosen time slot.
- Walk-in bookings are possible at the location, depending on availability.
Cancellation policy:
- To view our cancellation policy, please check out our Terms & Conditions-page.
Important:
Please arrive at Santa’s Husky Rides at the start of your booked time slot. If you arrive late, we cannot guarantee your place on the ride.
Single travellers will share a sled with other guests outside their party.
Is the husky ride suitable for young children?
Yes! Santa’s Husky Rides is suitable for all ages. The sled is driven by a professional musher, so no effort or experience is required from guests. Small children can sit comfortably in the sled with a parent or guardian.
What do I wear on a husky sled ride in Lapland?
Winter clothing is not provided as part of this experience. Rovaniemi temperatures in winter can range from 0°C to −25°C, so dressing properly for Arctic weather conditions is very important for your comfort and enjoyment.
Follow these simple rules and you will stay warm on the sled:
- Wear wool or synthetic (artificial fibers) layers next to your skin. Never wear cotton — it gets damp and cold quickly.
- Layer up: thermal base layer, a warm mid-layer (wool or fleece), and a windproof outer jacket.
- Wear winter trousers — ski trousers or thick waterproof trousers are ideal.
- Bring warm winter boots that cover your ankles. Cold feet are the most common complaint from visitors!
- Wear a warm hat, a scarf or neck gaiter, and mittens or thick gloves.
- Thin wool or synthetic liner gloves worn under mittens give extra warmth.
- Sled blankets are provided on the ride to keep your legs warm.
If you are staying at a hotel in or near Rovaniemi, they can often advise on renting or borrowing winter clothing. Rovaniemi city centre also has shops where you can purchase warm accessories.
Do I need any experience to go on a husky ride?
No experience at all is needed. This is a musher-driven experience, meaning our trained professional handles the sled and the husky team throughout the ride. You simply sit, relax and enjoy.
Where exactly is Santa’s Husky Rides located?
We are located at Joulumaantie 4, 96930 Rovaniemi, just beyond the outskirts of the primary parking lot at Santa Claus Village on the Arctic Circle. Search for “Santa’s Husky Rides” in Google Maps for exact directions. We are also listed on printed maps of Santa Claus Village.
Can I arrive without a booking (walk-in)?
Yes, walk-ins are welcome at Santa’s Husky Rides if space is available. However, we strongly recommend booking in advance, especially in December and February when time slots fill up fast. Booking online guarantees your spot.
Is transport to Santa’s Husky Rides included?
No, transport to and from Santa’s Husky Rides is not included. From Rovaniemi city center, you can take bus number 8 to Santa Claus Village.
Many hotels in Rovaniemi organize shared shuttles to Santa Claus Village. Check with your accommodation for transfer options.
Optional paid transfers are available from Arctic Snow Hotel, Apukka Resort, Vaattunki Wilderness Resort and Bear’s Lodge. These vary in pricing, so it’s best to check out their published rates on their own websites.
Can I visit Santa Claus on the same day?
Absolutely! Santa Claus Village is the official home of Santa Claus, and his office is located right in the village. Many guests combine a visit to Santa with a husky ride on the same day for the ultimate Lapland experience.
Are the huskies treated well?
The welfare of our dogs is our top priority. All huskies at Santa’s Husky Rides are well cared for, properly exercised and genuinely love to run. Santa’s Husky Rides is operated by Bearhill Husky, one of Lapland’s most respected husky safari companies, with a long-standing commitment to responsible animal care. You can learn more about this by reading our Ethical Husky Tours-page.
What is a kota?
A kota is a traditional Finnish log hut, similar in shape to a Native American tepee but built from wood. It is used as a warm gathering space in Finnish culture. At Santa’s Husky Rides, the kota is where you relax after your ride with hot juice and cookies.