Photography lapland week winter

Itinerary

1. 

   Dogsledding

   Enjoy a guided dogsledding tour, feel and see the power of the amazing husky. Warm up inside with a traditional meal after many dog cuddles.

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   Dogsledding

   

   

   

   

   

   Dogsledding in Swedish Lapland: A Rich History

   Dogsledding is one of the most exciting ways to explore the snowy forests of Swedish Lapland. It is a beautiful partnership between human and dog, with a history that goes back thousands of years.To help you get ready for your Arctic adventure, here is a quick overview of the history, the language of mushing, and the amazing dogs that make it all possible.

   A Quick Look at the History

   Long before snowmobiles were introduced in the 1970s, dog teams were a vital part of daily life in the north. The indigenous Sámi people and early Arctic explorers relied on dogs to haul firewood, gear, and supplies through deep snow. It was all about survival. Today, this rich tradition lives on through modern winter safaris, allowing you to experience the wilderness just like people did centuries ago.

   Mushing Terminology & Commands

   When you go dog sledding, you will hear a few specific terms and commands. The dogs are highly trained and listen closely to the voice of their driver. Depending on the guide, they might use the traditional international mushing language or the local Swedish commands!

   • The Musher: This is the official name for the person who drives and guides the dog sled. During your tour, you will get to step into the shoes of a real musher!
   • Basic Commands: Mushers don’t use reins to steer; they only use their voice. Here are the most common commands the dogs know:
     • Hike or Framåt! /Ja! – Go / Start running
     • Gee or Höger! – Turn right
     • Haw or Vänster! – Turn left
     • Whoa! or Stanna!/Ptroo! – Stop / Brake

   Meet the Breeds

   Sled dogs are true athletes that absolutely love to run and thrive in cold weather. The two most common breeds you will meet in Swedish Lapland are:

   Alaskan Husky

   These are the ultimate endurance runners. They are not a registered purebred but are specifically bred for their incredible stamina, speed, and friendly, hardworking character. They love attention and are very affectionate.

   

   Siberian Husky

   The classic Arctic dog. Known for their thick double coat, beautiful markings, and often striking blue or brown eyes. They are strong, full of energy, and love working together as a pack.

   

   Experience DogSledding with Direct North

   At Direct North, we love bringing you closer to this incredible Arctic tradition. Our dogsledding tours are all about giving you an authentic  experience in the beautiful winter landscapes of Swedish Lapland. Whether you want to feel the thrill of steering the sled or just want to enjoy the quiet snowy forests, we make sure it’s an adventure you will never forget.

   When you book a dog sledding tour with Direct North, you can expect:

   • Drive or Ride: You can choose to step into the shoes of a real musher and drive your own eager team of huskies (only possible when booking mushing day), or sit back, relax under warm blankets, and enjoy the magical scenery.
   • Meet the Pack: We believe in personal, small-scale experiences. Before and after the tour, there is plenty of time to cuddle the dogs, learn their unique personalities, and take some amazing photos.
   • Lunch: It is possible to enjoy a lovely lunch in our wooden hut. The lunch is prepared above the fire and a perfect way to talk about what you experienced or what you are going to experience.

   Worry-Free Transfers: Don’t want to worry about driving on snowy roads to get to the trail? We can easily arrange a comfortable transfer for you from Piteå.

   Ready to hear the excited barking turn into absolute silence as the dogs pull you into the wilderness? Join Direct North for the ultimate winter memory!

   What dog breed do you have at the kennel?

   We currently mainly have Alaskan Huskies. These are the ultimate endurance runners. They are not a registered purebred but are specifically bred for their incredible stamina, speed, and friendly, hardworking character. They love attention and are very affectionate.

   Related FAQ

   • Do the dogs really like pulling the sled?

   Related Activities

   • Dogsledding tour 5km

     Feel the power of the dogs

     

     Highlights

     • ~5 Km
     • 2-8 pers.

     Experience the thrill of the short husky tour in Piteå on a 5 km dogsledding tour.  Our huskies are excited to meet you and take you on a short tour over the lake.

     Prices

     Adults

     1 300 kr

     Children Age2-12 years

     650 kr

     View tour

   • Musher for a Day

     Experience the life of a musher

     

     Highlights

     • ~6 hours
     • 2-4 pers.

     Mushing day in Piteå is full day experiencing and learning about dogsledding. This is a day for you who wants to experience dogsledding like mushers do!

     Prices

     Adults

     From 4 650 kr

     View tour

   • Dogsledding Tour 12km

     Experience the power of teamwork

     

     Highlights

     • ~12 Km
     • 2-12 pers.

     Experience the thrill of dogsledding in Piteå on our 12km tour. Our huskies are excited to meet you and take you on an adventure through Swedish nature.

     Prices

     Adults

     1 850 kr

     Children Age4-12 years

     925 kr

     View tour

   • Husky Hike

     

     Highlights

     • Summer

     Spend time outside with a friendly husky by your side! Become partners with the husky and enjoy the beautiful nature on a hike in the Swedish Forest.

     Learn more

   Do the dogs really like pulling the sled?

   They absolutely love it.  Our dogs are born and bred to run; it is in their DNA. You will see their incredible enthusiasm the moment we start harnessing them—they bark, jump, and cannot wait to get moving. The moment the brake is released, the barking stops, and they settle into a focused silence. Our dogs are beloved members of our family, and their health and happiness are our top priorities.

   Related Activities

   • Dogsledding tour 5km

     Feel the power of the dogs

     

     Highlights

     • ~5 Km
     • 2-8 pers.

     Experience the thrill of the short husky tour in Piteå on a 5 km dogsledding tour.  Our huskies are excited to meet you and take you on a short tour over the lake.

     Prices

     Adults

     1 300 kr

     Children Age2-12 years

     650 kr

     View tour

   • Dogsledding Tour 12km

     Experience the power of teamwork

     

     Highlights

     • ~12 Km
     • 2-12 pers.

     Experience the thrill of dogsledding in Piteå on our 12km tour. Our huskies are excited to meet you and take you on an adventure through Swedish nature.

     Prices

     Adults

     1 850 kr

     Children Age4-12 years

     925 kr

     View tour

   • Musher for a Day

     Experience the life of a musher

     

     Highlights

     • ~6 hours
     • 2-4 pers.

     Mushing day in Piteå is full day experiencing and learning about dogsledding. This is a day for you who wants to experience dogsledding like mushers do!

     Prices

     Adults

     From 4 650 kr

     View tour

   • 8-Day Winter Experience

     Self driven with Rental car

     

     Highlights

     • From 25000 SEK p.p.
     • 8 Days / 7 Nights
     • Rental car

     Settle in for a week of discovery. This package includes daily excursions, good accommodation, rental car and lunch on your tour days.

     Prices

     Adult(s)

     From 25 000 kr

     Children Age8-12 years

     From 12 500 kr

     View holiday package

   • 8-Day Guided Holiday

     With transfers and guide

     

     Highlights

     • From 26500 SEK p.p.
     • 8 Days / 7 Nights
     • Transfers

     Settle in for a week of discovery. This package includes daily excursions, good accommodation, and lunch on your tour days, all with the support of our expert guides.

     Prices

     Adult(s)

     From 26 500 kr

     Children Age8-12 years

     From 13 250 kr

     View holiday package

   Related Pages

   • Winter Tours

   Can you drive your own team of dogs?

   Yes, but it depends on the tour you book! At Direct North, we offer two different ways to experience the magic of dogsledding in Piteå:

   • Riding as a Passenger (Dogsledding 5km and 12km): On most of our regular tours you get to sit back and take in the stunning snowy landscapes. While you are comfortable on the sledge our experienced guides will share fascinating insights about the dogs. How the team works together and the local surroundings.
   • Driving Your Own Team (The Mushing Day): If you want to feel the thrill of steering the sled yourself, you can book our exclusive Mushing Day. This tour is carefully structured to make sure you feel confident and safe:
     • First Half: You will start the day riding as a passenger. During this ride, your guide will explain exactly how to drive the sled and what important signs to look out for on the trail.
     • Lunch: We will head back to enjoy a lovely lunch cooked over the open fire in our wooden hut.
     • Second Half: After lunch, it is your turn to step onto the runners and be a real musher!

   Safety & Age Requirements

   Please note that there is a minimum age requirement for the Mushing Day tour. Additionally, the safety and well-being of our guests, guides, and dogs always come first. If weather or trail conditions create an unsafe situation, our guides are obligated to adapt the program to provide a fitted, safe solution for everyone.

   Related FAQ

   • What dog breed do you have at the kennel?
   • Do the dogs really like pulling the sled?

   Related Activities

   • Musher for a Day

     Experience the life of a musher

     

     Highlights

     • ~6 hours
     • 2-4 pers.

     Mushing day in Piteå is full day experiencing and learning about dogsledding. This is a day for you who wants to experience dogsledding like mushers do!

     Prices

     Adults

     From 4 650 kr

     View tour

   • Dogsledding Tour 12km

     Experience the power of teamwork

     

     Highlights

     • ~12 Km
     • 2-12 pers.

     Experience the thrill of dogsledding in Piteå on our 12km tour. Our huskies are excited to meet you and take you on an adventure through Swedish nature.

     Prices

     Adults

     1 850 kr

     Children Age4-12 years

     925 kr

     View tour

   • Dogsledding tour 5km

     Feel the power of the dogs

     

     Highlights

     • ~5 Km
     • 2-8 pers.

     Experience the thrill of the short husky tour in Piteå on a 5 km dogsledding tour.  Our huskies are excited to meet you and take you on a short tour over the lake.

     Prices

     Adults

     1 300 kr

     Children Age2-12 years

     650 kr

     View tour

   Related Pages

   • Contact

   Is dogsledding suitable for children?

   Yes, dogsledding is a wonderful experience for children! Kids usually fall in love with the huskies instantly, and our friendly dogs absolutely love the extra attention and cuddles.

   However, because the Arctic winter requires extra care for the little ones, we have a few important guidelines to ensure everyone stays safe and warm:

   The Perfect Tour for Little Adventurers

   For families with younger children, we highly recommend our 5km Dogsledding Tour. Sitting still on a sled can get very cold, and because children lose body heat faster than adults, a shorter tour is the perfect way to experience the magic without getting uncomfortable.

   Age Recommendations

   Children are very welcome on our standard tours from the age of 2 and up. If you have a child younger than 2 years old but still want to experience dogsledding, please contact us directly! We will do our best to find a customized, safe solution for your family.

   Weather conditions

   Your family’s safety and comfort are our top priorities. If the weather conditions on the day of your tour are too rough or cold for children, we will reach out to you beforehand to find a good solution for the entire family.

   Related FAQ

   • Can you drive your own team of dogs?
   • What dog breed do you have at the kennel?
   • Do the dogs really like pulling the sled?
   • Is the Northern light tour suitable for kids?
   • Is winter in Lapland suitable for young kids?
   • Is ice fishing suitable for children?

   Related Activities

   • Dogsledding tour 5km

     Feel the power of the dogs

     

     Highlights

     • ~5 Km
     • 2-8 pers.

     Experience the thrill of the short husky tour in Piteå on a 5 km dogsledding tour.  Our huskies are excited to meet you and take you on a short tour over the lake.

     Prices

     Adults

     1 300 kr

     Children Age2-12 years

     650 kr

     View tour

   Related Pages

   • Contact
2. 

   Meet the reindeers

   Meet our reindeer outdoors and feed them lichen. Gather by the open fire in the lávvo to share Sámi traditions, taste local food, and try catching antlers.

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   Meet the reindeers

   

   

   

   

   Reindeer Encounters in Swedish Lapland

   Few animals are as deeply connected to the heart of Swedish Lapland as the reindeer. These gentle, resilient creatures have roamed the Arctic landscape for centuries, forming a vital part of the region’s heritage, local culture, and everyday life.

   At Direct North, we partner with passionate local hosts and reindeer herders across the region to bring you an authentic, memorable encounter. Because we work with different small-scale farms and locations, every experience is unique offering a genuinely personal look into life in the North.

   What You Can Expect

   While every visit has its own special character depending on the location, most of our reindeer experiences include:

   • Meet & Feed the Reindeer: Get up close with these amazing animals, learn how they adapt to the extreme Arctic seasons, and enjoy the magical moment of hand-feeding them.
   • History & Indigenous Culture: Discover the fascinating heritage of the region. Hear firsthand stories about traditional reindeer herding, Arctic survival, and the deep-rooted connections between the people, the animals, and the land.
   • A Traditional Swedish Fika: Wrap up your experience around a crackling open fire with a warm drink and local treats. It’s the perfect time to relax, ask questions, and soak in the peaceful surroundings.

   Whether you are visiting during the warm summer months, the vibrant autumn, or the magical snowy winter, meeting the reindeer is a gentle, unforgettable highlight for families, couples, and outdoor lovers alike.

3. 

   Snowshoe Hike

   Discover the snowy landscape with special snowshoes under your feet. It will let you walk easily over snow covered areas. Enjoy the nature in a unique way.

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   Snowshoe Hike

   

   

   

   Snowshoe hiking is an amazing and rewarding way to explore the winter landscape of Swedish Lapland. Leaving the trails behind and stepping directly into deep, powder snow gives you access to pine forests, frozen lakes, and panoramic hills.

   To help you get ready for your Arctic excursion, here is a quick look at the origins of snowshoeing, why it is such a special way to explore, and what to expect on the trail.

   A Quick Look at the History

   Long before modern snowmobiles or groomed trails existed, snowshoes were an essential tool for survival in northern climates. For thousands of years, indigenous Arctic dwellers, hunters, and foresters relied on wide wooden frames to distribute their body weight, allowing them to “float” over deep snowdrifts rather than sinking in. Today, light and modern equipment has turned this ancient necessity into a peaceful, accessible adventure for outdoor lovers of all ages.

   The Magic of the Trail

   Snowshoeing lets you slow down and experience the Arctic ecosystem from a whole new perspective:

   • Pure Silence: Unlike motorized winter activities, snowshoeing takes place in total stillness. The only sound you will hear is the satisfying crunch of dry snow beneath your feet and the gentle wind in the forest.
   • Off-the-Beaten-Track Exploration: Snowshoes function as floating platforms, allowing you to walk freely across deep snow, climb untracked hills, and discover hidden natural viewpoints that are otherwise impossible to reach in winter.
   • Wildlife & Tracking: Going at a relaxed walking pace gives you time to observe the subtle details of the wilderness. Keep an eye out for footprints left in the fresh snow by reindeer, moose, arctic hares, and forest birds.

   Experience Snowshoe Hiking with Direct North

   At Direct North, we love taking you into the quiet heart of Swedish Lapland. Our snowshoe tours are all about connecting with nature, breathing in the crisp Arctic air, and enjoying a memorable winter excursion in a intimate, relaxed setting.

   When you book a snowshoe hike with Direct North, you can expect:

   • Guided Nature Trails: Our local guides lead you safely through the winter terrain, pointing out animal tracks and sharing stories about survival skills, flora, and local northern culture.
   • Easy for Everyone & Gear Included: We provide snowshoes and walking poles. No prior experience is require, if you can walk, you can snowshoe! We adapt the pace to make sure everyone enjoys the journey.
   • Fireside Lunch & Fika: Midway through the hike, we gather around a crackling open fire in the forest. Enjoy a warm, hearty lunch or traditional Swedish fika with hot drinks as you relax in the snowy surroundings.
   • Transfer included: You do not need to worry about driving. A transfer from you accomodation in and around Piteå is includded in the tour.

   Ready to swap the noise of daily life for the calm crunch of deep snow beneath your boots? Join Direct North for an unforgettable snowshoe adventure into the wild!

4. 

   Northern Lights Tour

   Chase the Northern Lights. Our experienced guides lead your search for the magical Aurora Borealis. This evening adventure will be an unforgettable night out.

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   Northern Lights Tour

   

   

   

   

   

   The northern lights (Aurora Borealis) are one of natures most spectacular displays. It is caused by solar particles colliding with earth’s magnetic field, they give a lightning show in the dark night sky with vibrant collars like green, purple or pink.

   Because the area around Piteå in Swedish Lapland lies directly within the Aurora Oval, it is one of the absolute a good place to witness this breathtaking phenomenon. The northern lights season here runs from September to early April, offering a long winter window to catch the magic.

   Fun Facts About the Northern Lights

   • Earth isn’t the only place with a light show! Any planet with a magnetic field and an atmosphere can experience auroras. In fact, scientists have captured stunning satellite images of massive aurora activity on both Jupiter and Saturn.
   • The Aurora has a twin: While we are lucky enough to witness the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) in the far North, the Southern Hemisphere has its own mirror image: the Aurora Australis (Southern Lights).
   • You can spot them from the air! If you are flying at night during aurora season, keep an eye out the window. It is highly possible to see the green glow from your seat. Pilots will often make a friendly announcement over the speaker if they spot them from the cockpit!

   What to Expect on a Northern Lights Tour with Direct North

   Seeing the lights is more than just looking out of your window; it requires dark skies, patience, and a bit of active chasing. When you book a guided 3-hour Northern Lights Tour with Direct North, we take care of all the details so you can focus entirely on the sky.

   Here is what your evening adventure will look like:

   • Pickup & Return: We pick you up directly from your accommodation in or around Piteå. No need to navigate icy, dark roads on your own—just dress warmly and we will handle the rest!
   • Chasing the lights: Arctic weather can change quickly. To give you the absolute best chance of a sighting, we chase the lights by car. This mobility allows us to escape Piteå’s city lights, stay ahead of cloud cover, and find the darkest, clearest skies possible.
   • Local Expertise: Our guides track live weather patterns and aurora forecasts to select the best viewing spots. While we wait, they will share the science behind the lights, as well as local Arctic stories and folklore.
   • Swedish Fika: Standing out in the cold is part of the experience, but we make sure you stay comfortable. We’ll take a break to enjoy a traditional Swedish fika,complete with warm drinks and sweet treats under the stars.
   • Photography Tips: Capturing the aurora on camera or mobile phone can be tricky. Your guide will share simple tips and tricks to help you adjust your camera settings so you can capture the magic perfectly. Our guide always brings a extra tripod for you to use.

   Why should we go on a Northern light tour?

   Seeing the Northern Lights is more than just watching through your window or stepping outside for one minute. Even when there is a possibility of seeing the Aurora, it does not mean they are visible from every location or at every hour of the evening. Many factors play a role in whether you will see the lights from your current spot or the location you visit.

   Your guide has the tools and experience to find the best location to watch this light show. Factors like light pollution, cloud coverage, and more will influence the guide’s decision to go to a specific place.

   In addition to finding the right spot, your guide can change plans when necessary to increase your chances of seeing the lights. When sudden weather changes occur, your guide has the possibility to switch to a different location or decide to stay put. It is also possible that you will see more than just the Aurora, such as animal tracks or even a moose! Your guide will share information about all of these different subjects, ensuring it will most likely be a fun evening out with a great chance to see the Northern Lights.

   Related Activities

   When is a good time to see the Northern lights?

   The Northern light season is from September to early April. Piteå is located in the Aurora Oval, so you have a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights when there is any activity.

   Related Activities

   Is the Northern light tour suitable for kids?

   We believe our Northern Lights tours are suitable for children aged 8 years and older.

   This recommendation is because our Northern Lights tours take place late in the evening, which often results in younger children falling asleep in the car. Additionally, the temperatures usually drop significantly in the evening/night. Since we spend most of the time watching the sky, it can be very cold for the children.

   From the age of 8, a child’s interest is usually higher, and they can be involved in activities like making a fire, for example.

   If you are on holiday with younger children, please feel free to contact us. We would be happy to discuss the possibility of a private tour. With a private tour, we can easily adjust the timing and pace to your family’s needs, ensuring everyone stays happy throughout the tour.

   Related FAQ

   • Why should we go on a Northern light tour?
   • When is a good time to see the Northern lights?

   Related Activities

   Related Pages

   • Contact

   What camera do I need to capture the Northern lights?

   Any camera with manual settings (shutter speed) and a tripod will work perfectly. During the tour, we can help you with the settings if necessary.

   It is good to keep in mind that the cold drains batteries fast, so bring an extra battery and keep it in an inside pocket close to your body heat!

   If you only have a phone, these are often capable of capturing the Northern Lights as well (depending on the brand and model) when used with a tripod.

   During the Northern Lights tour, we have one tripod available for guest use.

   Related Activities

   What if you dont see the Northern lights?

   The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, which means we cannot control them. However, we do our best to use our expertise to give you a high chance of seeing the Northern Lights.

   If you do not see the Northern Lights, you will still return to your accommodation with a lot of knowledge about the Aurora and the surrounding area. We have organized the tour in such a way that it is still an amazing night out even if the lights do not appear.

   If the chance of seeing the Northern Lights is zero, we will try to find a different place to visit within the three hours or reschedule the tour within your travel dates.