Dog sledding expedition in Dividalen National Park
In summary
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Sports
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Duration8 days
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LevelConfirmed
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DestinationNorway / Tromsø and its region
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AgeFrom 16 - 70 years
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CO₂-Emissions239.1 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
English
French
German
In a few words
Explore Dividalen National Park and its surrounding wilderness areas!
Located in the heart of the Arctic, this vast wilderness, one of the last in Europe, stretches across the Norwegian, Swedish, and Finnish borders. Welcome to an exceptional playground, following in the footsteps of the age-old migration routes of the Sami and their reindeer!
Following nature's rhythm, we adapt our program to the weather conditions, daylight, and snow cover. We break camp in the morning and travel between 20 and 80 km per day by dog sled.
The highlights
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Your own dog sled team and a true immersion in the life of a musher
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Crossing one of the last great wilderness areas in Europe
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Small group, flexible itinerary and daily adaptation to conditions
Photos
Francis - verified review - april 2026
Francis - verified review - april 2026
Francis - verified review - april 2026
Sport
Level
Mushing
The expert's opinion
This mushing expedition in Dividalen National Park is aimed at participants in good physical condition, comfortable with prolonged effort in winter conditions and eager to experience a complete immersion with the dogs.
Each participant drives their own team of 4 to 6 dogs over several consecutive days, covering varying distances and natural terrain that may include steep inclines, changing weather conditions, and arctic temperatures. Managing the team, equipment, and pace of the dogs is an integral part of the experience.
No prior mushing experience is strictly required, but good stamina , adaptability , and a motivation to learn and actively participate are essential. A preparation and training phase is planned at the beginning of the stay to acquire or reinforce the basics: handling, safety, dog care, and managing effort and progress.
The expedition is led by experienced professional guides, ensuring a safe and group-friendly environment. The trip progresses towards greater self-sufficiency, with nights spent in cabins or bivouacs, depending on the route and conditions.
This trip is for people looking for an authentic, committed adventure that respects the well-being of dogs, more than just a simple discovery activity.
In figures
Dog sledding ride
- Average duration/day: 4h30
Management
English
French
German
Espen is a true Northern Norwegian, shaped by a lifetime spent in the Arctic. With over 40 years of experience in dog sledding, skiing, and trekking, he moves through the wilderness with a quiet confidence born of a deep understanding of the land. A five-time participant in the legendary Finnmark race, Espen possesses an exceptional gift for interpreting the terrain, the weather, and the spirit of the dogs, perceiving their energy, their limits, and their rhythm as if they were speaking to him. Raised amidst the traditions of reindeer herding and the Sami people, he learned early on the importance of patience, respect for animals, and listening to nature rather than trying to control it. Whether leading dog sledding expeditions in winter or exploring remote landscapes in summer, Espen's reassuring presence inspires confidence and grounds his guests in the Arctic wilderness, connecting them profoundly to its environment.
Originally from the French Alps, Delphine has always been drawn to wide-open spaces and places where nature reigns supreme. A professional skipper and experienced polar guide, she has lived in Svalbard and crossed the Barents Sea countless times, leading sailing expeditions to the most remote regions of the Arctic. What initially drew her to the North was the search for simplicity, authenticity, and a life closer to nature—values that still guide her today. Co-founder of OffTrack Experience, Delphine combines her keen sense of organization, boundless creativity, and over ten years of experience as a professional dog sledding guide. Always ready to explore, she works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure every detail of your adventure is perfect. Delphine blends structure, creativity, and warmth, making each journey a serene and profoundly human experience.
The expeditions are led by a team of experienced professional guides who live and work year-round in the Arctic. They all share a common approach: a thorough knowledge of the terrain, constant attention to safety, and a deep respect for the dogs and the environment.
The instruction is based on a precise assessment of natural conditions (weather, snow, terrain), rigorous management of the dog teams and equipment, and a high degree of adaptability to the group's level and pace. Each participant receives guidance in handling their dog team, driving, caring for the dogs, and progressing towards independence, all within a demanding yet supportive environment.
The guides convey a vision of mushing rooted in Nordic tradition: patience, listening to the dogs, humility in the face of nature, and thoughtful decision-making. Priority is given to safety, animal welfare, and the quality of the experience, rather than performance or distance covered.
This approach allows participants to experience a true immersion in the wild, to gain confidence day after day, and to develop an authentic relationship with their team, all while evolving in a professional, structured and safe environment.
Program
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Arrival in the heart of the Arctic
- Transportation Car - 00h30 - 25km
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Arrival at Bardufoss Airport or the bus station, followed by a 30-minute transfer to our small husky farm. Settle into the house, enjoy a welcome hot drink, and meet the dogs for the first time. In the late afternoon, meet the team, learn about the expedition itinerary, and experience our nomadic lifestyle. Enjoy a friendly dinner at the farm and spend the night in a single or shared room.
Day 1 -
Handling and training with harnesses
- Activity Dog sledding ride
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, we feed the dogs together and then learn the basics of mushing: harnesses, lines, sled driving, braking, safety, and communication with the dogs. We take a training sled ride around the farm to get acquainted with our team and the feeling of gliding. Each participant begins to bond with their team of 4 to 6 dogs. The afternoon is dedicated to checking equipment, explaining possible routes, and preparing bags and sleds. We review everyone's gear and add any necessary items. Dinner and overnight stay at the farm.
Day 2 -
Departure on a hiking trip and entry into Dividalen National Park
- Transportation Car - 00h45 - 30km
- Activity Dog sledding ride
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, we load the dogs and equipment into the vehicles and drive (approximately 45 minutes) to the expedition's starting point. There, we distribute the food and gear among the different sleds for the days in the mountains. We set off on the first leg through pine forests and snow-covered valleys. Approximate distance: 30 to 35 km. We arrive at a comfortable, secluded cabin. We prepare dinner, gather around the stove, and spend the night in the heart of nature.
Day 3 -
Total immersion while traveling
- Activity Dog sledding ride
- Duration of the activity 5h per day
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Days 4, 5, and 6 are dedicated to in-depth exploration of Dividalen National Park and its vast wilderness. Each morning begins with feeding the dogs, breaking camp, and loading the sleds before setting off again across snow-covered valleys, large frozen lakes, open plateaus, and mountain passes. Routes are chosen daily based on the weather, snow conditions, and the group's energy level, allowing for great flexibility. Distances covered generally range from 25 to 60 km per day, with 4 to 6 hours of travel. The landscapes are constantly changing: pine and birch forests, vast white expanses, tundra areas, and wide valleys carved by glaciers. These regions are home to reindeer, Arctic foxes, ptarmigan, hares, lynx, wolverines, moose, and brown bears—most often identified by their tracks. Each participant gains independence with their dog team: harnessing, feeding, driving, setting up camp, and caring for the dogs are all integral parts of the experience. Lunches are eaten outdoors, and nights are spent in remote mountain huts, sometimes in expedition tents, in a simple, warm atmosphere deeply connected to nature.
Days 4 to 6 -
Last stop and back to the farm
- Transportation Car - 00h45 - 25km
- Activity Dog sledding ride
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Last day of mushing through the park. Late morning, return to the access point and transfer to the farm. Hot shower, sauna, then a farewell dinner with a delicious meal.
Day 7 -
Final goodbye to the dogs and departure
- Transportation Car - 00h30 - 26km
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast, final goodbye to the dogs, and transfer back to Bardufoss, airport or bus station.
Day 8
Note
This expedition is an immersion into one of the last great wilderness areas of Europe, in the heart of Dividalen National Park and its surrounding territories, on the borders of Norway, Sweden, and Finland. The journey unfolds at nature's pace: weather, snow conditions, and day length guide every decision, with the itinerary adjusted daily. The group is intentionally limited to 2 to 4 participants to maintain an intimate atmosphere and personalized guidance. Each participant has their own team of 4 to 6 dogs and becomes responsible for it: harnessing, driving, feeding, and caring are integral parts of the experience. This close relationship between humans and dogs is central to the journey. The landscapes traversed are varied and spectacular: pine and birch forests, open valleys, large frozen lakes, high plateaus, tundra, and mountain passes, often along ancient migration routes of the Sami reindeer herders. Accommodation alternates between isolated mountain huts and expedition tent camps, without electricity or running water. The days require a moderate level of physical fitness and active participation in camp life. No technical dog sledding skills are required, but a love of animals and an appreciation for the simple life in the Arctic are essential. Until mid-March, there are excellent opportunities to see the Northern Lights.
Accommodation
In the heart of our sled dog farm, in a preserved valley in northern Norway, you will stay in an authentic log house that is over 150 years old.
Surrounded by forests, rivers, and mountains, this former family farm offers a unique immersion into the daily life of the Far North. The dogs live a few steps from the house, and travelers share the rhythm of life of our small family team for a few days.
After a day in the mountains, the house becomes a warm place to gather around a meal, share stories of the day or simply enjoy the peace and quiet and the surrounding nature.
Far from the most frequented areas, we favour small groups, human encounters and an authentic discovery of Arctic Norway.
During the expedition, we spend several nights in different mountain chalets located in the heart of Dividalen National Park.
These mountain huts are part of a long Norwegian tradition of mountain living. Accessible only by dog sled, skis or on foot depending on the season, they offer a warm and comfortable setting amidst unspoiled nature.
Built of wood and meticulously maintained, they typically feature proper bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a comfortable living room, and a wood-burning stove. After a day on the slopes, they become ideal places to share a meal, exchange stories of the day, and enjoy the tranquility of the mountains.
One of the shelters used during the expedition is also our own mountain chalet, located far from any road and accessible only via traditional routes through the national park.
Staying in these chalets is an integral part of the experience and allows you to discover an authentic facet of Norwegian outdoor culture.
Access
We offer free pick-up from Bardufoss Airport or the Buktamoen bus stop, the main transport hub in the area. We are flexible and adapt to your journey: feel free to contact me for help planning your trips!
Go to the starting point
The nearest train station is in Narvik, which is connected daily to the Swedish rail network.
It is possible to reach Narvik by train from Stockholm via Kiruna and Abisko, a comfortable and more environmentally friendly option for reaching northern Scandinavia.
From Narvik, bus connections then allow you to reach the Bardufoss and Buktamoen region.
Bardufoss Airport (BDU), located approximately 20 minutes from the farm, provides the easiest access for this stay.
It is also possible to arrive via Tromsø (TOS) or Harstad/Narvik Evenes (EVE). From Tromsø and Narvik, daily bus services connect to Buktamoen, where we pick up participants.
We remain available before your departure to advise you on the most suitable flights, connections and public transport from your country of origin.
Free parking is available directly at the farm for participants wishing to come with their own vehicle.
From Tromsø, the drive takes approximately 2 hours. From Narvik, it takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. The roads are well-maintained in winter, but winter tires are essential.
Precise GPS coordinates and the latest access information are provided before departure.
Price details
The price includes
- Return transfers to/from Bardufoss Airport or the bus station
- Accommodation and full board for the entire duration of the stay (farm chalet, mountain huts or expedition tent)
- Supervision by an experienced guide, collective safety equipment
- Your own sled and personal team of 4 to 6 dogs
- Training in dog sledding, dog care, and basic mushing techniques
- Use of all necessary equipment for the dogs (harnesses, lines, sleds)
The price does not include
- International/domestic flights to Tromsø or Bardufoss
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal equipment and additional equipment not included in the basic equipment
- Personal expenses
- Travel and repatriation insurance
Options
- Winter equipment rental package : CHF274.44 / reservation
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
Safety equipment, pulka, sled, dog harnesses, group bivouac equipment, group cooking equipment, etc.
Additional winter equipment can be rented.
€300 / week
This pack complements your personal equipment and allows you to travel lighter.
- Torvi insulated boots -30°C - €50/week
- Long parka with large hood – €50/week
- (in addition to your personal windbreaker)
- Winter sleeping bag – €50 / week
- (in addition to your personal sleeping bag)
- Thermal ski pants – €50/week
- (in addition to your own ski pants)
- Lined or down-filled expedition mittens – €35/week
- (in addition to your personal gloves)
- Soft travel bag, like the North Face – €35/week
- Insulating thermal floor mat – €30/week
Equipment to bring
This expedition takes place in partial self-sufficiency within Dividalen National Park. In addition to clothing suitable for Arctic conditions, we recommend bringing:
- A thermos (1 liter minimum)
- A headlamp with spare batteries
- A small toiletry bag
- Your personal medications
- A camera and spare batteries
- An external battery (power bank)
- A good quality pair of sunglasses
- A pocket knife (optional)
- A soft duffel bag rather than a hard-shell suitcase
A detailed list is sent to all participants before departure and we remain available to answer your questions regarding equipment.
Clothing to bring
This expedition takes place in the Arctic, in partial self-sufficiency, with dogs. It is essential to travel light, with functional and warm clothing .
👉 Opt for a soft bag (duffel bag) rather than a suitcase. Only technical clothing (no everyday clothes).
Head
- Warm hat or balaclava
- Neck warmer or Buff
- Ski goggles (for windy days)
- Category 4 (UV) sunglasses, cap possible from March to May
Upper body (3-layer system recommended)
- Thermal wool underwear (1st and 2nd layer)
- 2–3 warm tops (wool or synthetic)
- Fleece or thick warm sweater
- Windproof and waterproof jacket (Gore-Tex type)
- Very warm down jacket or lined anorak (for breaks and evenings)
- Spare underwear
Lower body
- Thermal underwear: 1 thin + 1 thick
- Hiking or sports trousers (breathable, stretchy)
- Windproof over-trousers or ski pants
Feet
- Warm socks x4-5 (different thicknesses)
- Insulated, waterproof winter boots with room for two pairs of socks
- Lightweight shoes like Crocs (for mountain huts/refuges)
Hands
- Work gloves (for handling and caring for dogs)
- Thick, windproof mittens
- Hand warmers
Personal equipment
- Sleeping bag + sleeping bag liner
- Insulating mattress (min. 60 cm wide)
- Headlamp + spare batteries (lithium recommended)
- Thermos (1 L minimum)
- Folding knife with guard
- Minimal toiletry kit + wipes
- Personal kit (medications, SPF 20+ sunscreen, lip balm)
- Waterproof documents (ID, insurance), camera, batteries, power bank
Personalized advice is provided before departure.
They traveled with us
Francis
100% Verified Reviews: Only travelers who have booked with us can leave a review. All reviews are subject to human moderation. Reviews that do not comply with the moderation rules are rejected.
april 2026
In a couple
Hello Francis,
Thank you so much for your feedback and for sharing the beautiful photos!
We are delighted that you enjoyed this adventure in Dividalen National Park and the support of our team. It was a pleasure to welcome you and Olivier to the heart of the Norwegian winter.
Looking forward to seeing you again one day in the Far North for new adventures with the dogs!
Best regards,
Delphine
