If you’re dreaming of a unique adventure that combines Iceland’s wild landscapes with the charm of Siberian huskies, this dog sledding and mushing experience could be just what you’re looking for. Even though it’s not battling the snow, this summer land-based tour offers plenty of the excitement and connection you’d expect from traditional sledding, with the bonus of warm weather and lush scenery.
What we really love about this experience is how knowledgeable guides make the whole visit feel personal and informative. Plus, the chance to meet and cuddle the huskies at the kennel after the ride adds a sweet, memorable touch. The only thing to keep in mind is that weight restrictions apply—up to 90 kg—so if you’re on the larger side, it’s good to check in advance.
This tour is a natural fit for adventure seekers, dog lovers, or anyone wanting a different way to experience Iceland’s outdoors. If you’re looking for a hands-on, fun activity that’s both active and relaxed, this trip offers a solid blend of both.
Key Points
- Guided tour with expert musher who shares insights about huskies and sledding.
- Short but scenic 3-4 km trail, suitable for all skill levels.
- Meet the dogs in their kennel for cuddles and photos.
- Small-group size (max 4 travelers), ensuring personalized attention.
- Perfect for dog lovers and those wanting a memorable Icelandic activity.
- Weather-dependent; the tour is canceled in poor weather for safety.
What is this tour all about?
This dog sledding and mushing experience takes place in the summer months, which might surprise some travelers expecting snowy adventures. The focus here is on dry land mushing, where you get to sit in a special cart pulled by a team of lively Siberian huskies—an engaging way to enjoy Iceland’s stunning landscapes without the cold.
You’ll start at the Snow DogsVallholt location, a spot conveniently located between Akureyri and Lake Mývatn, making it easy to incorporate into your North Iceland itinerary. The experience lasts about 1.5 hours, with the actual mushing trail taking around 20-30 minutes. During this time, you’re riding with a team of 8-12 huskies, learning about their training, behavior, and the age-old tradition of dog sledding.
Following the ride, you’ll have plenty of time to meet and interact with the dogs at their kennel. This interaction is a highlight for many, as you can cuddle, take photos, and ask questions about the dogs’ care and training.
The ride: what to expect?
The actual mushing part involves a gentle, scenic 3-4 km trail across remote Icelandic terrain. The trail is designed to be accessible for most travelers, with gentle bumps that add a bit of fun without being overly challenging or bumpy. For those who love the outdoors, the views are a big draw—imagine lush green fields, rocky patches, and maybe even glimpses of distant mountains.
The guide, an experienced musher from Snow Dogs Iceland, shares fascinating insights into the dogs’ lives, training, and the history of sledding in Iceland. According to reviews, guides are super friendly and knowledgeable, which makes the whole experience that much richer. One reviewer mentioned how the leaders “generate their time and knowledge,” adding to the authenticity of the experience.
The dogs and kennel visit
A big part of the appeal is meeting the huskies. After your ride, you’ll visit the kennel, where you can see the dogs relaxing or playing, and get close enough to pet and cuddle these adorable animals. Many reviews highlight how friendly and adorable the huskies are, with visitors saying it’s a fantastic chance to connect with the dogs.
The kennel visit isn’t just for fun; it’s also a chance to learn about how these dogs are trained and cared for, which adds depth to your understanding of the sport and the breed. It’s a relaxed, intimate time that complements the excitement of the ride perfectly.
Who is this experience best suited for?
This tour hits the sweet spot for adventure lovers who want more than just sightseeing. It’s especially appealing to dog enthusiasts, given the opportunity to meet and interact with the huskies. While it’s not specifically tailored for children, families with older kids who can appreciate the activity should find it quite enjoyable.
If you’re looking for a more active outdoor experience with scenic views and don’t mind a small group, this tour offers solid value. However, travelers should be aware of the weight limit of 90 kg, so bigger guests might want to verify before booking.
The value and practical considerations
At around $249 per person, this experience isn’t the cheapest activity in Iceland, but it offers a personalized, authentic encounter with Siberian huskies in a beautiful setting. The small group size (max 4 travelers) ensures you get plenty of attention from your guide and ample opportunity for questions.
One of the best aspects is how the guides make the experience engaging and informative. You’re not just sitting on a cart; you’re encouraged to ask questions and learn about the huskies’ lives. Plus, the pictures of huskies cuddling and the scenic surroundings make for great souvenirs.
The cancellation policy is flexible—free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience—adding peace of mind, especially if the weather turns poor. Since Iceland weather can be unpredictable, it’s good to know you’ll have options to reschedule or get a full refund.
The experience from reviews
The overwhelmingly positive reviews reflect how guides’ friendliness and knowledge really enhance the tour. One reviewer noted, “The leaders were so kind and generated their time and knowledge and the dogs were adorable,” capturing how the personal touch makes this experience memorable. Another mentioned, “We could help where possible,” implying some involvement in dog care, which adds to the fun.
Travelers consistently praise the stunning views and the fun of riding with multiple dogs through the Icelandic landscape, emphasizing that the activity is good for those who want an authentic, hands-on outdoor activity.
The Sum Up
This Siberian husky mushing adventure in Iceland offers a genuinely engaging way to spend part of your day exploring the country’s scenic beauty while connecting with some of the most charming dogs you’ll ever meet. It’s suited for those who love animals, enjoy active outdoor pursuits, and appreciate knowledgeable guides who add depth to the experience.
While it’s a relatively quick activity—about 1.5 hours—it leaves a lasting impression thanks to the friendly guides, adorable huskies, and beautiful surroundings. If you’re curious about sled dogs or want a fun, different way to see Iceland’s landscapes, this tour checks all the boxes.
Keep in mind the weather dependency and weight restrictions, but overall, it’s a well-reviewed, memorable activity that offers genuine value for the price. For dog lovers or adventure seekers wanting a peaceful, scenic interlude with friendly dogs, this might just be one of the highlights of your trip.
Dog Sledding and Mushing Experience by Siberian Husky in Iceland
“Awesome experience!!! The leaders were so kind and generate their time and knowledge and the dogs were adorable!”
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, with the actual trail riding (mushing) taking around 20-30 minutes. The remaining time includes meeting the dogs and photo opportunities.
Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is Snow DogsVallholt, located at 650 Laugar, Iceland. The tour begins at 9:00 am.
What is the maximum group size?
This experience is limited to a maximum of 4 travelers, making it quite personal.
Is this suitable for families or children?
While not specifically advertised as family-friendly, children who can handle outdoor activities and are interested in dogs should enjoy it. Check with the provider if you have younger children.
What about the weather?
The tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How much does it cost?
Pricing is around $249.02 per person, which includes guidance, the ride, and the kennel visit.
Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the activity. Less notice means no refund.
If you’re after a fun, engaging, and scenic outdoor activity that combines Iceland’s natural beauty with the warmth of Siberian huskies, this tour is a solid pick. Just remember to dress appropriately and bring your camera—you’ll want to capture those adorable pups and stunning views!
