If you’re dreaming of Arctic adventures, chances are husky dog sledding has crossed your mind. This self-drive experience in Tromsø offers a chance to get up close with the legendary Alaskan huskies and carve your own path through Norway’s snowy wilderness.
While we’ve not done it ourselves, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a genuinely special outing that combines excitement, breathtaking scenery, and meaningful interactions with the dogs.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the opportunity to drive your own sled is a real thrill—it’s not just sitting back and watching others. Second, the stunning Arctic landscapes you’ll pass through are often described as awe-inspiring. The warmth and friendliness of the guides and the care given to the dogs also get high praise from travelers.
we have a wonderful trip, although the weather is cold. the dogs are all very friendly.
The whole experience was spectacular. The dogs were clearly well looked after and they were so excited to run. The scenery was just beautiful and getting to meet the dogs after was lovely. We had a good amount of time on the sledge and the cake and hot drinks after by the fire were a lovely touch.
Amazing experience! The dogs were great and so friendly. The staff members and guides were all very helpful. After mushing 10-12 km across the beautiful Arctic landscape, we were treated to hot chocolate and cake while we learned more about the year round operations and training regime. And we got to play with the dogs! We loved it. Highly recommend.
A possible consideration? It’s quite a physical activity, so a bit of fitness helps, and it’s not suitable for children under 7 or pregnant women.
This experience is well-suited for anyone who loves animals, enjoys outdoor adventures, and isn’t afraid of a bit of cold or exertion. If you’re looking for a fun, active way to explore the Arctic scenery and want an authentic connection with the dogs, this tour might be just right for you.
Key Points
- Self-drive sledding allows you to control the team of huskies, making it more interactive and memorable.
- Incredible scenery with mountain views, fjords, and snow-covered landscapes that photos simply can’t do justice.
- Guides & staff are highly knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share insights about the huskies and the Arctic environment.
- All equipment — thermal suits, boots, gloves, and hats — are provided, making it easier to stay warm and comfortable.
- Post-ride warm-up with hot drinks and cake around a cozy fire, adding a relaxing finish to the adventure.
- Physical fitness is recommended, as you’ll help push the sled on inclines, which some reviewers say provides a good workout.
The Experience: What to Expect
The adventure begins at the front of the Scandic Ishavshotel, where you’ll meet your guide and hop onto a cozy minibus heading toward Kvaløya, an island known for its stunning natural beauty. The drive itself is part of the journey — expect scenic views of Norway’s Arctic coastline, mountains, and fjords that make the transfer feel like a warm-up for the day ahead.
Once at the kennel, you’ll get a brief demonstration on how to control your sled. Don’t worry if you’re new to this — the guides are well-prepared to teach, and many find it easier than they expect.
You’ll be paired up with a team of eager huskies, with each sled designed for one or two people. The over 130 dogs are lively, friendly, and clearly well-cared for, often described as full of energy and happiness.
The sledding itself lasts around 70-80 minutes, covering a scenic route through snow-blanketed landscapes. You’ll have the chance to swap roles, switching between driving and riding, which keeps the experience engaging and fun.
Amazing experience! The dogs were amazing and the countryside beautiful. Organised and informative… and the dogs 💚
It's very expensive, but you should go, it's really a wonderful experience.
We had a lovely time at the Husky sledding tour and would definitely recommend it. I am a massive animal lover so I wanted to ensure that we found an ethical company. The tour guide (I didn’t get her name) but she was the owner of the farm, was lovely and she explained any questions that we had, she told us about the dogs diets, their personalities and how the business started. The minibus was around 15 minutes late so people were getting a bit worried however the experience made up for that. The sledding was good it did get fast and bumpy at times and extremely cold but the views and the experience were amazing. You can tell that the huskies love their work and are in good health. We didn…
The terrain can include inclines where you'll need to help push the sled — some reviews mention it’s a good workout, but that’s part of what makes the experience so authentic.
Throughout the ride, you'll want to keep your camera handy. The views are spectacular — snow-dusted mountains, frozen lakes, and vast wilderness — great for photos that will remind you of this Arctic day for years to come. The guides are attentive, often taking photos of guests and sharing interesting facts about the landscape and the huskies.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tromso.
Post-Ride Relaxation
After the sledding, you’ll head into a Sami Lavvo, a traditional tent, where hot drinks and cake await. This cozy setting is the perfect place to share stories, warm up, and reflect on the adventure. Many mention how special it is to sit by the fire, enjoying hot chocolate and cake while the winter landscape glows outside.
Additional Details & Practicalities
Transportation is included from the meeting point, and the whole activity lasts around 4 hours, offering a good balance of travel and experience. The activity is suitable for those with a basic level of fitness — you’ll help push the sled on inclines, which some find a bit strenuous but manageable for most.
The equipment, including warm arctic suits, boots, woolen socks, hats, and mittens, is provided, so you won’t need to worry about the cold.
You are encouraged to bring your own camera, though space on the sled is limited for extra photographic gear. Drones are not allowed, so plan on using your phone or a small camera. The experience is mostly conducted in English, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This trip is great for animal lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone craving a unique Arctic experience. While not suitable for children under 7 or pregnant women, most travelers in decent health will find it rewarding. Be prepared for a bit of physical effort, especially on inclines, and come dressed warmly.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat Travelers Say
Reviews consistently praise the enthusiastic guides, the friendly huskies, and the stunning scenery. Many describe it as a highlight of their trip, emphasizing how well-organized and friendly the experience is. Several mention that driving the sled themselves added a sense of adventure and achievement, making it more memorable than simply riding along.
People also point out the value for money, considering the duration and inclusions. The hot drinks and cake afterward are often highlighted as a lovely touch that completes the day.
Final Thoughts
The Tromsø self-drive husky sledding adventure is a well-rounded experience that offers more than just a thrill — it’s a chance to connect with the Arctic environment and its beloved huskies. The combination of scenic beauty, active participation, and warm post-ride relaxation makes it a standout activity for many travelers.
While it’s physically demanding and requires some basic fitness, most reviews suggest that the effort is worth the unforgettable views and the joy of working alongside these happy dogs. If you’re looking for an authentic, hands-on Arctic experience and don’t mind bundling up, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your trip.
Tromsø: Self-Drive Husky Dog Sledding Adventure
"we have a wonderful trip, although the weather is cold. the dogs are all very friendly."
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
It's not suitable for children under 7 years old, likely due to the physical demands and cold conditions involved in sledding.
What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, a hat, gloves, a camera, and socks. The tour provides all necessary winter gear, but a camera is recommended for capturing the scenery.
Is this experience physically demanding?
Yes, it requires a basic level of fitness, especially because you'll help push the sled up inclines at times. Travelers describe it as a good workout, but manageable for most.
Can I drive the sled myself?
Absolutely. The tour is designed for participants to control their own sleds, making it a more engaging and personal experience.
What is included in the price?
Transportation from the meeting point, guide, warm arctic suits, winter boots, woolen socks, hats, mittens, hot drinks, and cake are included.
How long does the sledding last?
The sledding itself lasts around 70-80 minutes, with additional time for transfers and relaxing afterward, totaling about 4 hours.
What if it snows heavily the night before?
Heavy snow can make pulling the sleds more strenuous, and you might need to assist the dogs more on inclines. Guides are patient and experienced, but be prepared for a bit of a workout if conditions are challenging.
This husky tour offers a taste of Arctic life — active, scenic, and full of warmth from both the fire and the dogs. It’s a chance to make genuine memories and perhaps even spark a lifelong love for these incredible animals.
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