Tromsø: Self-Drive Husky Dog Sledding Adventure

Imagine steering your own team of enthusiastic huskies across snow-covered mountains with the stunning Arctic wilderness stretching out around you. That’s exactly what you get with the Self-Drive Husky Dog Sledding Adventure near Tromsø—a highly-rated, hands-on experience that combines adrenaline, adorable dogs, and breathtaking scenery.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you’ll get to mush your own team of huskies, which isn’t just a fun novelty but also a rewarding way to connect with these working dogs. Second, the expert guides are known for their friendliness and wealth of knowledge, making sure you feel confident behind the sled. Lastly, the post-adventure warmth of hot drinks and cake by the Sami Lavvo creates a cozy ending to a day packed with action and awe.

One thing to consider is that this experience requires a basic level of fitness—it’s not a passive ride, but rather an active sledding session that involves some muscle work, especially when pushing on inclines. This activity is best suited for energetic travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, animal lovers, and those craving an authentic Arctic experience.

If you’re looking for a memorable, well-organized, and genuinely fun adventure that offers a taste of true wilderness, this tour is a fantastic choice.

Good To Know

• Hands-on experience: Drive your own husky sled through snowy landscapes.
• Expert guidance: Guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and supportive.
• All gear included: Warm arctic suits, boots, hats, and mittens provided.
• Authentic setting: Meet over 130 Alaskan huskies and learn about their care.
• Post-trip comfort: Warm drinks, cake, and stories by the Sami Lavvo.
• Accessible yet active: Suitable for those with a basic fitness level and love for outdoor fun.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Meeting Point & Transportation

The adventure begins at the Scandic Ishavshotel, where you’ll spot the black “Arctic Adventure Tours” minibus. The journey to the husky kennel on Kvaløya takes around 40 minutes, with scenic views along the way that hint at the Arctic’s untouched beauty.

This transport setup offers a stress-free start—no hauling gear or navigating snowy roads yourself—and helps you settle into the experience. Many reviewers appreciate how smooth and comfortable the transfer is, with comments highlighting the clean, modern minibuses and punctual service.

Arrival at the Kennel & Introduction

Once you arrive at the kennel, you’ll be greeted by over 130 Alaskan Huskies—each eager and excited, barking happily as they anticipate action. Guides like Johan and the team are praised for their warm, friendly approach and their ability to make everyone feel at ease, regardless of experience level.

Before hitting the trail, you’ll get a quick demo on how to control the sled and what to expect. This includes instructive tips on steering and safety, plus a chance to ask questions. Several reviews mention how approachable and well-informed the guides are, with Kelly noting, “The staff were all lovely and very knowledgeable about the dogs.”

The Sledding Experience

The core of the adventure is about 70-80 minutes of sledding, covering approximately 10 km through Arctic scenery. You’ll alternate between driving your own sled—a surprisingly manageable task even for first-timers—and riding as a passenger. Reviewers like Julie mention that, “The guides were excellent and full of information,” making the experience engaging and educational.

The trail winds through snow-blanketed mountains, fjords, and forests—each turn offering picture-perfect views. Many travelers highlight how stunning the scenery is, with Mark calling it “a great experience” and describing snow-covered landscapes that seem straight from a postcard.

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The Physical Element

While the sleds are designed for ease of use, several reviews point out the activity involves a fair bit of physical effort. Helping push the sled on inclines or when the snow is deep adds a workout element. Serena warns that snow can sometimes be quite deep, requiring guests to help the huskies by giving a little extra push, which adds an authentic, hands-on feel.

If you’re concerned about fitness, this is still accessible—reviewers as varied as Julie (aged 62) and Nicola (who took turns driving) found it manageable. The key is to listen to your body and enjoy working with the huskies under the guidance of your expert team.

Post-Sledding & Cozy Reflection

After the adventure, you’re invited into a Sami Lavvo, a traditional tent-style shelter, where hot drinks, cake, and stories await. Reviewers frequently mention how warming the fire and sharing hot chocolate creates a relaxing, communal atmosphere—an ideal way to unwind after adrenaline-filled sledding.

Many note how much they appreciated the chance to interact with the huskies again—petting, cuddling, and learning about their personalities. Kelly commends the “love and care behind every part of it,” which shines through in the dogs’ friendly and eager demeanor.

Return Journey

The bus will bring you back to Tromsø, typically around 4 hours after start, leaving you with fantastic memories and photos. Reviewers often mention how the whole experience feels well-paced and thoughtfully organized, with plenty of opportunities to swap roles on the sled and take photos.

What’s Included & Practical Tips

The tour fee covers everything essential: transportation, guide, arctic suits, boots, woolen accessories, hot drinks, and cake. Many reviews mention how accommodating the gear is—especially during cold days, reviewers like Mark appreciated the “heavy-duty cold weather clothing provided.”

Travelers recommend bringing:

• Warm clothing and layers
• A hat, gloves, and socks for extra warmth
• A camera (though space on the sled is limited)
• A small backpack for storing extra gear

Drones are not allowed, so plan your aerial shots accordingly.

Duration & Group Size

The experience lasts around 4 hours with approximately 70-80 minutes of sledding. It’s not a large group tour—reviews suggest small, friendly groups that allow for plenty of individual attention and interaction.

Price & Value

While the tour is priced to include all gear and transport, many reviewers feel that the value exceeds the cost. The chance to drive your own team, see Arctic landscapes, and meet the dogs makes it a memorable, worthwhile activity.

Authentic Experiences & Review Highlights

Multiple guests emphasize the quality of guides—noting their friendliness and knowledge. Kelly mentions how the staff and dogs are “truly fabulous,” and Julie adds that the guides are “full of information,” making the trip both fun and educational.

Reviewers also remark on the scenery—with words like “stunning,” “magical,” and “breathtaking.” The snow-covered mountains and fjords create a winter wonderland that’s perfect for photos, memories, and a true sense of adventure.

The dog care and happiness also shine through in reviews, with many guests remarking on how well-loved and energetic the huskies are, making the entire experience feel authentic and compassionate.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurers who enjoy active outdoor pursuits and want a more involved experience than simply riding as a passenger. It’s ideal for animal lovers who appreciate seeing huskies in their element, and those seeking a genuine connection to Arctic nature.

While some physical effort is involved, it’s suitable for most reasonably fit travelers aged 7 and up (not suitable for pregnant women or children under 7). The well-organized, friendly guides and warm après-sledding setup make this a comfortable yet exhilarating day out.

If you’re after a unique, hands-on experience with spectacular scenery and adorable dogs, this tour ticks all those boxes.

FAQ

Do I need to be experienced to drive the sled?
No, guides provide a short demonstration and instruction, making it easy to pick up whether you’re a beginner or have some experience.

What should I wear?
Bring warm clothing, including a hat, gloves, and socks. The tour provides arctic suits and winter boots, so you’ll stay comfortable in the cold.

How long is the sledding part?
It lasts approximately 70-80 minutes and covers around 10 km of Arctic trail.

Can I take photos during the trip?
Yes, there are multiple opportunities to capture the stunning scenery, and you’re encouraged to bring your camera. Space on the sled is limited for bulky items, but you can store extras in the equipment room.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 7, but older children and teenagers who are physically capable will likely enjoy it.

What if it snows heavily the night before?
Deep snow might require more effort to assist the sled, but guides will help you with the physical demands. The scenery remains spectacular, and the experience is still rewarding.

Final Thoughts

The Tromsø Self-Drive Husky Dog Sledding Adventure offers much more than just a ride—it’s a chance to actively participate in a traditional Arctic activity surrounded by stunning landscapes. The combination of exciting sledding, caring huskies, and warm post-trip treats makes it a well-rounded, memorable experience.

Designed for outdoor lovers, animal enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike, this tour provides excellent value, authentic interaction, and breathtaking scenery. It’s not just a tour; it’s a genuine immersion into Arctic culture and nature that you’ll cherish long after your trip.

For those willing to enjoy some physical activity and engage with some of the friendliest working dogs in the world, this adventure will undoubtedly be a highlight of your Tromsø visit.

You can check if your dates are available here: