Dogsledding, near Akureyri

If you’re visiting Iceland in winter and want a truly memorable experience, a dogsled tour around Akureyri might just be perfect. We’ve looked into this tour, which boasts a perfect five-star rating from 20 reviews, and it sounds like an adventure that combines stunning scenery, friendly animals, and a personal touch. Whether you’re an animal lover or simply craving a unique way to explore Iceland’s snowy landscapes, this activity offers plenty of reasons to consider it.

What we love about this tour is how it emphasizes close interaction with the huskies and the beautiful natural environment. The chance to cuddle and learn about these friendly dogs adds warmth to the experience—literally and figuratively. Plus, the fact that it’s a private tour means you get more personalized attention and flexibility, which is a big plus. However, it’s worth noting that this experience is priced at around $462 per person, so it’s not the cheapest option out there, but if you’re after quality and intimacy, it could be well worth it.

One thing to keep in mind is that, while most travelers find this experience accessible and enjoyable, the tour requires good weather—like many winter activities in Iceland, it’s weather-dependent. If the skies are clear, you’ll enjoy perfect conditions; if not, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable with outdoor winter activities and who value authentic, small-group experiences over larger, less personal tours.

If you’re someone who appreciates scenic winter landscapes, loves animals, and enjoys a bit of adventure, this tour is likely to resonate. Families with older children who can handle snowy conditions may also find it a special outing. Let’s look at what makes this trip stand out and whether it might be your next highlight in Iceland.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: With a maximum of 4 travelers, you’ll get dedicated attention from guides who are passionate about their dogs.
• Beautiful Scenery: The tour takes you through hills and forests close to Akureyri, offering sweeping views of mountains, the fjord, and snowy landscapes.
• Animal Interaction: The huskies are friendly and loved, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to cuddle and learn about them from knowledgeable guides.
• Convenient Logistics: Pickup is offered, and hotel transfers can be arranged, making it easier to fit into your busy schedule.
• Short but Impactful: At around 2 hours long, it’s a manageable but highly memorable experience.
• Weather-dependent: Good weather is essential, and cancellations due to poor conditions are possible but with a full refund or rescheduling.

The Experience in Detail

The Itinerary

The tour begins in Akureyri, a charming town known for its lush hills and proximity to the ocean. The starting point is the goHusky Dogsledding Tours location at Glæsibær 3, where the huskies are already eager, howling in anticipation. From there, the journey takes you to the snowy countryside that surrounds the town—think mountain vistas, snow-covered forests, and calming silence broken only by the paws and breathing of your team of huskies.

The main event is the dog sled ride, which lasts roughly 20 minutes of actual mushing. The sled is pulled through scenic trails, offering stunning views and a peaceful, natural way to experience Iceland’s winter landscape. This isn’t just a ride—it’s a chance to feel connected with the environment and the dogs themselves.

Interacting with Huskies

This tour is particularly praised for how friendly and beautiful the dogs are. Reviewers mention that the huskies are well cared for and love all the fuss. One guest noted, “The dogs were BEAUTIFUL, so friendly and loved all the extra cuddles.” The opportunity to cuddle the dogs and even drive the sled (for those interested) makes this trip feel more personal. Guides like Maria and Gunni are described as welcoming, passionate, and knowledgeable, which enhances the overall experience.

The Scenic Route

We loved the way the tour integrates a gorgeous route through the forest. It’s not just a quick ride; it’s a scenic journey through a landscape that looks like a winter postcard. The views of Iceland’s mountains rising from the fjord are breathtaking, even if you’re only there for a short time. These vistas make the experience worth the price, especially if you’re craving authentic Icelandic nature.

Practicalities & Logistics

The duration of around two hours makes it manageable even if you’re on a tight schedule. The tour includes pickup, which simplifies logistics, and additional arrangements like hotel transfers can be made, reducing hassle. Since the tour group size is limited to four, you get a more intimate experience without feeling crowded.

Cancellation & Weather

Like many outdoor activities in Iceland, this one depends on good weather conditions. If the weather turns poor, the tour might be canceled, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. The flexibility is helpful, especially given Iceland’s unpredictable winter weather.

Pricing & Value

At about $462.47 per person, this tour is a significant investment, but considering the personalized attention, quality of the animals, and the scenic beauty, many find it worthwhile. It’s an experience that’s more exclusive than larger group tours, which is reflected in the cheers from reviewers who appreciated the personalized, friendly service.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for animal lovers and those who want a more intimate, authentic way to explore Iceland’s winter scenery. If you’re visiting with someone who appreciates guided nature experiences and loves dogs, this could be a highlight of your trip. It’s also suitable for travelers comfortable with outdoor winter conditions; if you’re worried about cold or snow, just remember to dress warmly.

Families with older children who can handle the cold and enjoy animal interactions may also find this a memorable outing. However, this isn’t the best pick for those seeking a very budget-friendly activity or someone who prefers larger, less personalized tours.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a unique, heartwarming experience that combines stunning Icelandic scenery with the chance to spend time with adorable, well-trained huskies, this tour is a strong contender. The small group size and personalized attention make it stand out, and the glowing reviews confirm many travelers had a genuinely special time. The guides seem genuinely passionate, and the scenery is genuinely beautiful.

While the cost might seem steep, you’re paying for more than just a ride—you’re buying a memorable moment of connection with nature and animals, set in a landscape that feels like a winter wonderland. It’s a great choice for those looking to add a bit of authentic Icelandic charm to their winter adventures.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, and hotel transfers can be arranged to make your day easier.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience lasts about 2 hours, including meet-and-greet, the sled ride, and cuddling time.

What’s the group size?
This is a private tour limited to a maximum of 4 travelers, ensuring more personalized attention.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most reviews don’t specify children, the tour’s peaceful nature and interaction with animals suggest it could work well for older kids comfortable in cold weather.

What is the weather like?
Good weather is essential; poor conditions could lead to cancellation with a full refund or reschedule.

Can I drive the sled myself?
Yes, at least one reviewer mentioned being allowed to drive the sled, making it an even more engaging experience.

What’s the cost and is it worth it?
At around $462.47, the price reflects the personalized service and quality of animals. Many find it a worthwhile splurge for a special Icelandic memory.

If you’re after an authentic, warm-hearted adventure that’s also incredibly scenic, this dogsled tour near Akureyri could be just the ticket. It’s a genuine chance to connect with Icelandic winter in a meaningful way—preferably with warm clothing, a camera, and a love for animals in tow.