Dog Sledding in Tromsø
Set out on a dog sledding tour in Tromsø, Norway! One of the largest cities above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is surrounded by mountains and fjords, and is ideal for northern lights sightings. Taking in the views from a dog sled is an off-beat way to see northern Scandinavia’s wilderness. Have some snuggle time with the huskies, drive a sled, learn about the local indigenous people and maybe spy the northern lights!
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Set out on a dog sledding tour in Tromsø, Norway! One of the largest cities above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is surrounded by mountains and fjords, and is ideal for northern lights sightings.
Taking in the views from a dog sled is an off-beat way to see northern Scandinavia’s wilderness. Have some snuggle time with the huskies, drive a sled, learn about the local indigenous people and maybe spy the northern lights!
Here's all you need to know about dog sledding, one of the most exhilarating and cute outdoor activities in Tromsø.
What are the best dog sledding tours in Tromsø?
Self-driving husky dog sledding tours
Try your hand at steering your own husky sled. Travel to a husky camp that’s home to 200 dogs that you can get to know!
From the city center, you will enjoy a comfortable ride to Kvaløya, an island located just west of the city of Tromsø in Northern Norway. It is known for its natural beauty, including rugged mountains, fjords, and forests.
Kvaløya is home to several small villages and settlements, and also known for its wildlife, including reindeer, moose, and sea eagles. It is also popular for viewing the Northern lights (Aurora borealis) and the Midnight sun in the summer.
Tromsø’s dog sledding tours involve basic training on how to drive a sled before an adventurous journey. Led by a guide, embark on a 1.5-hour tour, as you and a companion take turns in steering and riding the sled. Choose a daytime or evening tour.
This 90-minute adventure leads you to Sami Lavvo, a type of traditional tent used by the Sami people, an indigenous group that lives in the Arctic regions of Norway.
The tents are made of natural materials such as reindeer skins or canvas and are used for both temporary and permanent housing. They are typically cone-shaped and have a central fireplace for warmth and cooking.
Sami Lavvos are still used by some Sami people today, particularly during the reindeer herding season, but they are also becoming increasingly popular as a unique form of accommodation for tourists visiting Tromsø.
Full-day husky sledding tours
Get ready for hours of fun racing through Norway’s mountain valleys on husky sledding in Tromsø. You can drive the sled yourself or take turns with your professional guide.
You’ll venture into the wilderness on a much longer ride than you would on other tours. Restore your strength with hearty “bidos,” a Sami stew, around a campfire before your return to Tromsø.
Overnight Northern Lights camping and dog sledding tours
Looking for an unforgettable night during your time in arctic Norway? Enjoy a northern lights tour in Tromsø, camping in the wilderness with a full day of dog sledding.
On this tour, you will spend hours with the husky dogs, enjoy locally-sourced hot meals and the chance to see the northern lights before bed.
At bedtime, get comfy in the “Lavvo,” a traditional Sami tent. Zip into a warm sleeping bag atop reindeer pelts while a fire crackles nearby. Warm up with hot drinks, dinner and breakfast at camp. Even feed some reindeer during your outing!
How much does it cost?
A self-drive husky dog sledding adventure from Tromsø costs about US$200 per person. This includes a professional guide and roundtrip transportation in a minibus from the pickup point to the kennel.
You will be able to use warm Arctic clothing and winter boots, as well as socks, gloves and hats if needed. The tour also provides hot drinks and chocolate cake famous in the area.
A full-day husky sled experience from Tromsø costs about US$400 per person and includes a guide, transportation, winter clothing and a hot meal.
Overnight Northern Lights camping and dog sledding tours cost about US$950 per person, and includes an accommodation in a glamping-style cozy cabin equipped with super comfortable sleeping system.
What is included?
Your dog sledding tour includes round-trip transportation to the husky kennels, use of protective weather gear, safety briefing and instruction on driving the sled. You will also have a guide to lead the tour, and a meal and hot drinks.
Guides also introduce you to Sami traditions with songs, folklore, food and more. Hear about how they have made a home for centuries as reindeer herders in this austere environment.
Full-day tours include up to a 6-hour ride, as well as a hot meal and fun Sami culture. Overnight tours include dinner, breakfast, drinks and snacks, and the use of sleeping bags.
Where does it start?
Your dog sledding tour will start in central Tromsø. Pickup for tours is either near the cruise port at Samuel Arnesens gate 7 or a hotel nearby.
How long does it last?
Depending on which base camp your tour uses, a self-driving tour can last from 4 to 7 hours. Shorter tours start from camps closer to Tromsø, and the longest ones involve a 1.5-hour drive each way. Overnight tours last about 17 hours.
From camp, start out on a 1.5-hour, 12-kilometer sled ride before warming up with a meal and hot drinks around a campfire.
When is the best time for a dog sledding tour in Tromsø?
You can book a dog sledding tour in Tromsø from November through April, as limited daylight during these months allows a good chance of viewing the northern lights. If you don’t see the lights on your dog sledding tour, you can have the opportunity to search for them on another tour.
Are there any combo available with dog sledding tours in Tromsø?
Dog sledding plus a reindeer visit and Tromsø Ice Domes
This tour is an animal lover’s dream. Pilot a dog sled, feed reindeer and spend time petting them all! Along with your sledding adventure and a meal, tour the Tromsø Ice Domes.
These structures are rebuilt every winter and house a cinema, bar, restaurant and lodging. Learn how the domes are built, watch a film and down a non-alcoholic shot at the bar! Alcoholic drinks are available for extra purchase.
Is it safe?
Dog sledding tours in Tromsø are safe for people in reasonably good health. While driving the sled, there are times when you may have to balance on one leg or push the sled. It is not recommended to take the tour if you are pregnant or have back, knee, arm or heart issues.
Winter temperatures in northern Norway can be as cold as -20 degrees Celsius, so wearing weather-appropriate clothing and footwear is essential. All tours include the use of thermal suits, but it is recommended to wear at least two base layers of clothing.
Are children allowed?
Children are allowed on dog sledding tours in Tromsø, but there are age restrictions for some. Some tours allow children from the age of 7, while others allow from age 12.
Two people will ride each sled, and children must be accompanied by an adult on their sled.
What happens in case of bad weather?
Dog sledding tours in Tromsø require good weather. In case of inclement or dangerous conditions, tour companies will offer an alternative date or a full refund.
Which other snow experiences can be done in Tromsø?
Travel tips
- Wear at least two layers of clothing.
- Bring heavy boots and wool socks. You may want to wear two pairs of socks.
- Bring a hat, mittens and a scarf.
- If you have dietary restrictions, let your tour provider know at least 24 hours before your tour.