Kiruna: Dogsled Tour with Swedish Fika & Local Guide

Summary

Dogsledding near Kiruna with fika break and local guide

You’ll ride a dogsled through snowy forests near Kiruna with a local guide who shares stories along the way. Warm clothes are included so you can relax and enjoy the scenery. Pause for a traditional Swedish fika — coffee and pastries under the trees — before heading back with cheeks flushed from cold and laughter you’ll remember long after the trip.

What’s the experience like?

I never thought I’d find myself bundled up in layers, standing outside Kiruna with a bunch of excited huskies barking at the snow. The air smelled sharp, almost metallic, and my breath made little clouds. Our guide, Erik, handed me an extra pair of mittens — apparently my city gloves weren’t going to cut it. He grinned and said something about “real winter,” which made me laugh because I was already shivering.

The sled took off faster than I expected — not wild or scary, just smooth and kind of hypnotic as we slid through the white forest. There was this moment where all you could hear was the runners scraping over packed snow and the dogs’ paws thumping in rhythm. Erik pointed out some tracks (moose? reindeer? I honestly forget) and told us stories about growing up here. At one point he let me try saying “tack för fikat” — Li laughed when I tried to say it in Swedish, probably butchered it.

We stopped for fika under some frosted trees. The thermos coffee tasted stronger than usual, maybe because my hands were half-frozen. There were cinnamon buns too — soft, sticky, sweet — and everyone just sort of fell quiet for a minute except for the dogs panting around us. It’s funny how quickly you get used to the cold when there’s something warm in your hands. I still think about that silence sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dogsledding Experience near Kiruna

• Introduction to dog sledding
• Ride as passenger in guide’s sled
• Break for traditional Swedish Fika and hot drink
• Photo opportunities along the route

Top questions

Is this dogsled tour in Kiruna suitable for families?

Yes, families are welcome on this dogsled tour near Kiruna.

Does the tour include warm clothing?

Yes, warm clothes are provided for all participants.

Is there food or drink included during the trip?

A traditional Swedish fika with hot drinks is included.

Can I drive the sled myself?

The sled is driven by your local guide; some excursions may allow driving if you have average fitness.

How close is this tour to the ICEHOTEL?

The dogsled adventure takes place just outside Kiruna, close to the ICEHOTEL.

Are photos allowed during the tour?

Yes, there will be time to take photos along the way.

Is this activity suitable for people with back problems?

No, it’s not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries.

What level of fitness do I need?

You should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness.

What’s included

Your day includes warm winter clothing so you don’t have to worry about packing extra gear, plus a traditional Swedish fika break with hot drinks and pastries shared under snowy trees before returning to Kiruna with your local guide leading the way.