I wish I could have given this experience a 5 star review, as mushing for the first time was fun... For the first 100 meters. Then I unknowingly made a mistake handling the sled, and one of the owners, Ronald, yelled at me and threatened to kick me off the sled. I remained silent, as I understand the need to avoid accidents, but his behaviour seemed extreme for the situation. Moreover, after we got off the sleds he violently pushed me and another tourist who had stopped to pick up her glove. No apologies were made afterwards. Before leaving, when they passed the guest book around, Ronald instructed me not to mention his behaviour - he defensively said that's just how he is, to the point that people have left because of his yelling. Even the dogs seemed frightened of him, which didn't sit well with me. I understand they are quite new to the husky sledding business (only 4 years) but I reckon that this lack of patience and compassion render a person unfit for the tourism industry. Again, the husky safari was a good experience and I would certainly do it again - but elsewhere, where visitors are treated with more kindness.
Edit: Wow, even the reply I got to this review was aggressive. I'd like to clarify I never "deliberately" tried to hurt the dogs. I made the mistake of not breaking the sled in time, it was the first time I was riding one, and miscalculated the distance. After that, I was extra careful. The second instance, being pushed, happened after we'd all gotten off the sleds and were walking away - completely unnecessary and brought about by impatience. I understand safety is of the utmost importance, but this can be achieved in more respectful ways than yelling and shoving people around. Plenty of room for...
   Read moreNot as advertised at all: we had to drive our own sleds (not what we booked due to varying fitness levels in our group). Trip was billed as 2-6pm Inc travel time to and from Narvik, got to 5.15pm, only just starting the 'meal' and 'ceremony'. We queried this and were laughed at and told we would get back to Narvik at 8pm. After arguing he arranged for two of his young staff to drive us back, cramped in the back of their car.
On top of this they are not equipped to take everyone on the sled ride at one time: you go in 2-3 relays meaning a lot of needless hanging around in between (again, not as advertised).
I have done a husky sled ride before, in Abisko, and would recommend that one over this any day of the week.
The young staff are nice. The dogs are great. Everything else was not good. I would not recommend.
I am sure Ronald will come back with a response saying we were unreasonable. Make of that what you will.
But would suggest...
   Read moreAmazing experience! We booked the package including transport, dog sledding and northern lights ceremony. Right from the start we felt really welcomed. They collected us at the bus stop and after a short break to put on warm clothes we hoped on to the sleds. We sat on the sleds as well as drove ourselves. After the Dog Sledding we had a chance to help and cuddle with the dogs They are really friendly and cute. During this time we could ask a lot of questions regarding the topic of Dog Sledding. Husky Isogaisa makes sure all the dogs are threated very well. They get good accommodation and activity. In the end we were invited in to a heated lavvu where we got an introduction in to Sami culture. It was amazing to listen to all the stories coming from an actual Sami person. The whole experience ended with a delicious self made reindeer soup. We are very thankful for this experience and will defnitly return. Thank...
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