A taste of Sámi culture
Experience one of the most iconic Arctic adventures and discover Sámi culture in the winter landscape of Gratangen.
Your journey begins with a team of 4 to 6 eager huskies. After a thorough introduction from your guide, you take control of the sled yourself and head into the snow-covered landscape. Two guests share each sled, with one driving and one travelling as a passenger. The route takes you through forests, along frozen rivers and across open valleys and rolling terrain. Halfway through, you stop to let the dogs rest, take photos and switch drivers if you wish.
After the ride, there is time to meet the huskies and thank your team before the experience continues inside a warm traditional lavvu.
A taste of Sámi culture
Inside the lavvu, the pace slows down.
Gather around the warmth and enjoy biidus, a traditional Sámi dish, together with coffee and cake while your hosts share stories from Sápmi, Sámi culture and joik.
The experience also includes a Sámi Northern Lights Ceremony, inspired by traditional beliefs surrounding Guovssahas, the Northern Lights.
Together, the dog sledding, food and storytelling offer an introduction to Arctic life where animals, landscape and Sámi culture are closely connected.
Good to know
Season: 1 December to 30 April, depending on snow conditions
Location: Gratangen, approximately 50 minutes from Narvik
Duration: Approximately 3 to 4 hours
Dog sledding: Approximately 30 to 60 minutes
Group size: Maximum 15 guests
Difficulty: Moderate
Sled: Two guests share a sled with 4 to 6 huskies
Drive yourself: Yes, after instruction from your guide
Included: Guide, dog sledding, time with the huskies, biidus, coffee and cake, Sámi storytelling and Northern Lights Ceremony
Dietary options: Vegetarian and gluten-free options available on request
Transportation: Private transportation from Narvik can be arranged through Your Horizon
Winter clothing: Available to rent through Your Horizon
FAQ
Do I get to drive the dog sled myself?
Yes. This is a hands-on dog sledding experience.
Before departure, an experienced guide teaches you how to control and safely handle the sled. Two guests share a team of 4 to 6 huskies, with one person driving and the other travelling as a passenger.
During the break, you can switch positions. To drive the sled, you should be physically able to run in snow when needed.
What does the Sámi experience include?
After dog sledding, you are welcomed into a heated traditional lavvu.
Here you enjoy biidus, coffee and cake while learning about Sámi culture, joik and traditions connected to nature and the Northern Lights. The experience concludes with a Sámi Northern Lights Ceremony.
What should I wear?
Warm winter clothing is essential. We recommend thermal layers, an insulated winter jacket and trousers, warm winter boots, gloves and a hat.
Winter clothing can be rented through Your Horizon if needed.
Need warm winter clothing?
Travel light and arrive prepared for the Arctic. Winter clothing can be rented through Your Horizon for your experience.
Rent winter clothing
Is this suitable for children and families?
Yes. Children from 4 years old can participate. Driving the sled is more physically demanding, so families can share the sled and adapt the experience accordingly.
The combination of huskies, outdoor adventure, traditional food and cultural storytelling makes this a good experience for families as well as couples and groups.
Can transportation from Narvik be arranged?
Yes. The experience takes place in Gratangen, approximately 50 minutes from Narvik.
Your Horizon can arrange private return transportation and include the experience as part of a complete winter stay in Narvik.
