Best Husky Dog Sledding Tours in Iceland | Guide to Iceland (2024)

Frequently asked questions

What is the best dog sledding tour?

The best dog sledding tour is this incredible two-hour Siberian husky dog sled sightseeing tour by the Myvatn Area, rated 5 out of 5 stars with more than 45 reviews. This tour allows you to shoot across the snow on a sled in one of Iceland’s most diverse and beautiful regions.
Another highly-rated dog sledding tour is the unforgettable three-hour dog sled tour with transfer service from Reykjavik. You get to meet the friendly dogs, witness beautiful Icelandic nature, and take an exhilarating ride on this tour.

Is it worth it to take a dog sledding tour in Iceland?

Absolutely, taking a dog sledding tour in Iceland is unquestionably worth it. The experience offers a unique blend of adrenaline-pumping adventure and breathtaking natural beauty, allowing you to traverse Iceland's pristine landscapes in an exhilarating and immersive way. The opportunity to interact with the well-trained sled dogs and witness the country's stunning scenery from a sled makes it a must-do activity for anyone seeking an unforgettable Icelandic adventure.

What is the cheapest dog sledding tour in Iceland?

If you love dogs but are not into the thrill of dog sledding, visit a dog sled kennel on an Icelandic farm in the Lake Myvatn Area that costs approximately 49 USD. Meet and play with the Siberian Huskies and learn about how dog-sledding works.

Do dog sledding tours in Iceland need snow? Are there dog sledding tours in the summer?

While dog sledding in the Icelandic winter is certainly a memorable experience, it's not the only way to experience the Icelandic countryside with these beautiful animals. This meet-on-location 45-minute dog sledding tour near Reykjavik uses a sled that can turn into a dog cart so that you can take a dog sled ride through the beautiful Icelandic countryside, even during summer.

Can anyone go dog sledding in Iceland? Is there an age limit?

The minimum age limit to participate in dog sledding is two years old. Children between 12 and 16 year-olds may be allowed to ride a sled independently based on the guide’s discretion. Those over 16 may operate sleds independently. Remember to always check the details of the individual dog sledding tour you are booking in Iceland.

What clothing should I wear for a dog sledding tour in Iceland?

Many dog sledding tours in Iceland will take place in winter, so make sure to bring warm layers of winter clothing, sturdy winter boots, a wind- and rainproof outer shell, a hat, gloves, and sunglasses. Contact your specific operator to see whether or not they provide overalls.

Do I have to be physically fit to participate in dog sledding?

Given the environment, dog sledding in Iceland can be somewhat demanding. Participants should be able to walk about a mile without becoming exhausted. Dog mushing is a sport and therefore requires physical participation. If you weigh over 100 kg (220 lbs), special arrangements will be made to accommodate you. Contact us at info@guidetoiceland.is if you have any questions.

Do dog sledding tours in Iceland ever get cancelled due to poor conditions?

Yes, the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, and this applies to dog sledding tours as well. In the event of blizzards or a severe storm, a tour might be cancelled. In these situations, you will be offered a refund or the option of rescheduling. Due to Iceland’s ever-changing weather patterns, a tour may be cancelled in advance of your booking or on the day.

Will I see Icelandic dogs on my sledding tour?

Although the Icelandic Sheepdog is a beloved breed, it is primarily a sheepdog. Siberian huskies, Greenlandic huskies, and Alaskan huskies will be the primary breeds you encounter on your sledding tour.

Can we bring treats for the huskies?

In general, feeding and providing treats is left to the kennel staff. However, certain providers may allow you to feed the dogs cookies at the end of the tour. Any treats given to the huskies is at the discretion of the tour provider.

Can we pet the huskies on our sledding tour?

Absolutely! Huskies, though incredibly energetic, are very loving and affectionate animals who love nothing more than to receive your appreciation.

Do the huskies enjoy pulling sleds?

Yes, the athletic huskies have, for generations, been born and bred to do just this! Husky sledding has long since been a tradition across most countries across the northern hemisphere arctic such as Greenland, Canada, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia. In Iceland, dog-sledding is a rather new phenomenon and has recently gathered a lot of interest.

Best Husky Dog Sledding Tours in Iceland | Guide to Iceland (2024)

FAQs

Is dogsledding in Iceland worth it? ›

Absolutely, taking a dog sledding tour in Iceland is unquestionably worth it. The experience offers a unique blend of adrenaline-pumping adventure and breathtaking natural beauty, allowing you to traverse Iceland's pristine landscapes in an exhilarating and immersive way.

Can you go husky sledding in Reykjavik? ›

Where can I experience dog sledding in Iceland? There are two places where the dog sledding experiences in Iceland take place. The first one is near Reykjavík, so we offer the chance to book the tour with the transfer from the capital or directly on location.

Do they have sled dogs in Iceland? ›

Sled Dog Breeds in Iceland

There are three dog breeds that are used for dog sledding in Iceland; Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Huskies and Greenlandic Dog.

Is it ethical to go dog sledding? ›

Not All Dog Sledding Experiences Are the Same

There are horror stories of mushers who run their dogs into the ground, pushing them well past any sensible limit. We in no way support this type of treatment of any animal. But we would put conscientious dog sledding in the same category as riding a horse through nature.

Why is dog sledding so expensive? ›

The main reason is because the dogs require care year round. Snowmobiles can be stored in a garage for the summer without maintenance costs, but dogs have daily needs that must be met. They eat everyday.

Where is the dog sledding capital of the world? ›

Willow, Alaska, The Sled Dog Capital of the World.

How much does a husky sled cost? ›

Pricing
Adult$270 per person, low season, $279 high season*
Youth (6-9)$137.50 per person (sled minimums required)
Child (2-5)$70 per person (sled minimums required). Must have a car seat to travel to site. No children under 2 years of age.
Single rateTwo adult prices; guarantees sled exclusivity.
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Where is dog sledding most popular? ›

Sled dogs today are still used by some rural communities, especially in areas of Russia, Canada, and Alaska as well as much of Greenland. They are used for recreational purposes and racing events, such as the Iditarod Trail and the Yukon Quest.

What is the weight limit for dog sledding in Iceland? ›

This is an outdoor activity and weather can not be controlled. Therefore, we recommend children to be at least 6 years old to join this dog sledding tour from Reykjavik. Weight limit is 95kg (210lbs) per person and a maximum of 30 BMI.

What is the best time to travel to Iceland? ›

The best time to visit Iceland is between September and March to see the northern lights, or between June and August for summer activities. While travel to Iceland may depend on your desired itinerary, generally, the best time to visit is during the summer.

Do huskies like dog sledding? ›

I've learned a lot hanging around the Kennel. Not just any dog can become a sled dog. First of all, sled dogs have to love running and pulling sleds, and we need to be able to stay warm in the snow. Huskies, like me, make great sled dogs because we love to pull and we have a double coat of thick, warm fur.

Where can I go husky sledding? ›

Dog Sledding Holidays in Sweden, Finland and Norway:

Huskies are good-natured, full of energy and born to run! Our range of husky sledding tours in Sweden, Norway and Finland has something for all ages and levels of difficulty - from family-friendly shorter dogsled tours to challenging wilderness expeditions.

Why are dogs restricted in Iceland? ›

In Iceland, the capital city of Reykjavik banned having dogs as pets in 1924 because they discovered a tapeworm was being passed from dogs to humans and could cause severe complications or even death in humans, according to Smithsonian Magazine.

What is on the Golden Circle in Iceland? ›

In the strictest sense, Iceland's famous Golden Circle is a popular route between 3 of Iceland's most visited attractions. Starting in Iceland's capital, Reykjavik, you'll drive into the southern uplands and back, visiting Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.

Is snowmobiling in Iceland worth it? ›

IS SNOWMOBILING IN ICELAND WORTH IT? Yes! With its breathtaking landscapes and glaciers, snowmobiling in Iceland offers a unique and thrilling experience.

Do dogs enjoy dogsledding? ›

Dogsledding embodies an exhilarating experience not only for humans but also for the sled dogs themselves. Canines, particularly those with some mix of northern breed heredity like Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes, possess innate traits suited for this activity.

How dog friendly is Iceland? ›

The answer is yes, of course!

There is some confusion about this topic because pet dogs were banned in Reykjavik between 1924 to 1984. Unless you had a special permit, you could not bring your dog into the city. But that's no longer the case.

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