Dog Sledding and Mushing Experience by Siberian Husky in Iceland

This dog sledding and mushing experience in Iceland offers a unique glimpse into the world of sled dogs, even during the summer months. Unlike traditional snow-bound rides, this tour takes place on land, providing a different but equally engaging perspective of Iceland’s rugged beauty. With a small group setting, knowledgeable guides, and plenty of opportunities to interact with the dogs, it’s a tour that appeals to adventure lovers and dog enthusiasts alike.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines the thrill of mushing with authentic insights from guides who know these huskies inside out. The chance to meet and cuddle the dogs at the kennel afterward is a sweet bonus, making the day more personal and memorable.

One thing to keep in mind is the maximum guest weight of 90 kg, which might be a consideration for some travelers. Also, since the activity takes place on land rather than snow, it’s a great option year-round, but it might not satisfy those specifically seeking icy winter sledding.

This tour is best suited for those craving an up-close encounter with working sled dogs, curious about Iceland’s outdoor traditions, or simply looking for a fun, active way to explore the countryside.

Key Points

• Authentic mushing experience on dry land with Siberian Huskies
• Small group size allows for personalized attention and plenty of questions
• Knowledgeable guides share insights into dog sledding traditions and care
• Includes a kennel visit for cuddling and interacting with the dogs
• Scenic 3-4 km trail offers around 20-30 minutes of husky-powered fun
• Ideal for dog lovers and adventure seekers in Iceland

An Enthusiastic Dive Into the Experience

If you’re looking for a truly authentic way to connect with Iceland’s outdoor culture, this mushing tour ticks all the boxes. At only about 1.5 hours, it’s a manageable length that balances adventure with a relaxed pace, perfect for those who want a taste of the sled dog lifestyle without committing to a full-day outing.

The meeting point at Snow Dogs in Vallholt is straightforward, and the tour starts promptly at 9:00 am, ensuring you can fit it into a broader day of sightseeing. The small group size—limited to four travelers—means it’s easy to ask questions, get close to the dogs, and truly soak in the experience. The guide, a seasoned Musher, not only leads the trail but also shares stories and insights about the dogs’ training and care, adding a layer of depth that larger tours might lack.

The actual mushing portion involves harnessing 8-12 Siberian Huskies to a dog cart, which functions like a wagon pulled along a trail. The trail itself is in a remote part of Iceland, away from busy roads or towns, offering sweeping views of nature’s raw beauty. The terrain is bumpy at times, which adds to the fun, especially if you’re someone who enjoys a bit of playful chaos during outdoor adventures.

Louise, one of the reviewers, described it as “awesome” and appreciated how kind and informative the guides were—”they generate their time and knowledge,” she said, making sure everyone felt comfortable and engaged. Marte mentioned the “super friendly owners” who took the time to explain everything and let guests help out—adding a personalized touch that elevates the whole experience.

What To Expect on the Tour

Arrival and Orientation: Upon arrival at Snow Dogs in Vallholt, you’ll meet the team and get a brief overview of what dog mushing involves. The guides are friendly and eager to share their knowledge, which makes the entire process feel approachable—even for first-timers.

Harnessing and Preparing the Huskies: Next, you’ll learn how to harness the dogs, with guidance from your Musher. This is a practical part of the tour where you can help, allowing you to feel more involved. The Siberian Huskies are well-trained and eager, and their beautiful, expressive faces make it difficult not to smile.

The Trail Ride: The core of the experience is the 3-4 km trail that takes around 20-30 minutes. The trail runs through Icelandic terrain, offering views of open fields, volcanic landscapes, and possibly distant mountains. The terrain is bumpy, which makes it more fun—think of it as a rollercoaster ride with furry passengers guiding the way.

Learning About Dog Sledding: Throughout the ride, your guide shares stories about the history of dog mushing in Iceland and details about how these sled dogs are trained and cared for even in summer. It’s a rare chance to learn about a tradition that’s deeply rooted in winter survival but adapted for year-round training.

Kennel Visit and Dog Interaction: After the ride, you’ll visit the kennel, where you can meet, cuddle, and take photos with the huskies. This personal interaction is something many reviewers highlight as a highlight—Louise called the dogs “adorable,” and Marte appreciated that they were allowed to help and interact.

Closing and Reflection: The experience wraps up with some final questions and a chance to reflect on what you’ve learned and seen. It’s a relaxed ending to a lively adventure.

Assessing the Value

At $249.02 per person, the experience offers good value considering it’s a small, personalized tour that includes not just the ride but also an educational element and direct dog interaction. The tour’s limited size ensures personalized attention, and the opportunity to meet the dogs at the kennel makes it more than just a ride; it becomes an intimate glimpse into the world of sled dogs.

Compared to winter sledding experiences, this summer alternative provides the same sense of adventure without the cold, which might appeal to travelers who want to avoid icy conditions or are visiting Iceland outside of winter.

The pricing also reflects the care and expertise involved—guide knowledge, the training and upkeep of the dogs, and the exclusive kennel visit all contribute to making this experience well-rounded and meaningful.

Practical Details and Tips

• Booking in advance is recommended—on average, this tour is booked about 32 days ahead, indicating solid interest.
• Meeting point: Snow DogsVallholt, at 650 Laugar, Iceland.
• Start time: 9:00 am, so plan to arrive a bit earlier.
• Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, with about 20-30 minutes of actual mushing.
• Maximum weight: 90 kg—be sure to consider this if you’re on the heavier side.
• Weather considerations: The tour is weather-dependent; if conditions are poor, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This experience appeals most to those who love outdoor adventures and want a hands-on connection with dogs rather than just observing. It’s particularly suited for dog lovers, families, or anyone curious about the traditions of sled dog work outside of winter. The personal nature of the small group makes it ideal for travelers who enjoy engaging guides and in-depth explanations.

It’s also a great choice for travelers seeking something active and different from traditional sightseeing—plus, the chance to cuddle huskies creates memorable moments that are perfect for social media or just keeping as a special memory.

The Sum Up

This dog mushing experience in Iceland is a genuine, heartwarming adventure that offers a taste of the sled dog lifestyle all year round. With a knowledgeable guide, a scenic trail, and the chance to bond with adorable huskies, it stands out as an authentic activity that balances fun, education, and personal interaction.

It’s especially well-suited for dog enthusiasts and those wanting a more intimate experience than large group tours typically offer. The small-group format and the kennel visit elevate the experience beyond just a ride, making it a meaningful glimpse into Iceland’s outdoor heritage.

While it may not appeal to those seeking winter snow sledding —or if you weigh over 90 kg—the overall package delivers excellent value for a memorable, engaging day in the Icelandic countryside. For anyone wanting a fun, active day that’s both educational and heartwarming, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, children should be comfortable with outdoor activities and shorter rides. The small group size ensures a safe, engaging environment.

What is the maximum weight allowed?
The maximum guest weight is 90 kg, so travelers at or below this limit can participate comfortably.

Do I need to have experience with dogs or mushing?
No prior experience is necessary. Guides explain how to harness and work with the dogs, making it accessible for beginners.

How long does the actual mushing last?
The trail ride lasts about 20-30 minutes, covering approximately 3-4 km of Icelandic terrain.

What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for weather conditions is recommended. Since the activity is on land, you won’t need winter gear but should be prepared for variable weather.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if weather conditions are poor, with options for rescheduling or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 32 days in advance is typical, but earlier reservations are advised, especially in peak season.