Husky Sled and Northern Lights Expedition

I joined the trip in March and I had an amazing experience. Our guides Phil and Rasmus are very knowledgeable and took good care of our group. Accommodation was wonderful and the meals were always very tasty. The huskies were friendly and energetic. It was great that you could be involved from feeding the dogs, to preparing the sled and of course to do drive the dog sled. Mushing was a lot of fun. We all got to know our dog sledding team really well and it wasn´t easy to say goodbye the last day. I wish there would be a longer trip available. As for the kit list you should know that you´ll need a bag ca. 20 - 30l (hiking daypack) to bring the necessities you´ll need for the 2 nights in the hut (e. g. water bottle, toiletries, pyjama) on the sled. You really don´t need much as you´ll just wear your layers and the thermal clothes that are provided. All in all I recommend booking this trip.

Highly recommend this trip the environment, guides, dogs, accommodations, and food was great.

Absolutely loved this mini adventure. Fantastic experience: huskies, mushing, Northern Lights, wonderful group of travellers, Arctic landscape, food and accommodation.

Fantastic, fun, thoughtful and experienced guides: Phill and Rasmus!!!

Very special experience.

Wonderful three days! The guides Phil and Rasmus looked after us perfectly from start to finish. The huskies at Holman were an absolute credit to the Holman team, excellent condition, perfectly fed and looked after and bursting with energy! The accommodation was first class, the Fjord Hotel for the first and last night was very clean, warm and with excellent breakfasts! The hut for the second and third night was something special, after 30km of mushing each day it’s a perfect stop. Very warm clean rooms, comfortable beds and a wonderful host who cooked all our meals which were like eating at a top restaurant, we had local reindeer and artic char which was delicious. Whale meat and reindeer tongue for breakfast was also really tasty (there were lots of other options). Hot chocolate and waffles were also amazing! The sauna on the second night was very welcome also. To make our stay here completely perfect the northern lights joined us for the first night and we sat outside next to the dogs to watch which was enchanting. The scenery that we encountered was like nothing else, the vastness as you travel the frozen lakes is extraordinary, the second third day travelling back off the beaten track we didn’t see another person from start to finish. Feeding and kitting up your husky team ready for their days work and then doing the same in the evening is a really good way of bonding with your huskies. We kept the same dogs in our team for the whole trip which was really interesting to see how they worked. All the kit you’re given keeps you very warm! I didn’t need half of the kit I took with me, the suits, boots, hat and gloves kept you super comfortable.

This was an incredible trip in every regard. The scenery was stunning, the accommodation lovely, the food excellent, the huskies very well cared for, and the guide fantastic. The guide made on the spot adaptations to accommodate my neurodiversity which meant I was able to enjoy the trip all the more, I can’t thank him enough

The combination of guides (Phil and Helena), location and time of year, travel mates, degree of difficulty, and the dogs (definitely the dogs) made this the most exceptional trip…ever. Phil set the tone from the start and it was our group’s good fortune to be compatible. The setting was other worldly and while demanding, Helena and Phil anticipated every challenge. In addition to their confidence-inspiring dog and sledding skills, they were both so darned kind…. I iwsh there were more adventures to follow w them on.

Absolutely amazing time. This was so amazing. I will miss my team of dogs; Cactus, MiniMinnie, Pasta, Omega, Sirius, and Bruener. They were everything you could ask for.

The Guides, Phil and Helene, were top notch. They ensured we were well informed and prepared for all parts of the adventures. Also, the Holman Husky support staff made it to where the Guides were able to concentrate on the us and there was zero admin hold ups as we moved from one thing to the next.

The dogs- You can tell the staff really care about the dog's welfare and making sure they are being taken care for at all times. Both Guides checked on the condition of every dog at the end of each day. You could tell the dogs really loved what they were doing with how excited they would get as soon as the harnesses came out and ever more so once they got hooked to the sled.

Hotel- the hotel we said at the first and last night was very beautiful with a great view of the fjord. And the all the meals served here were incredibly tasty! I really ensured the fresh breads and jams.

Mountain Cabin- Milles, the caretaker of the cabin, and her family have been taking care of this cabin for generations. She is an amazing cook and incredibly sweet lady setting the standard for Grandmas everywhere. A visit to the sauna followed by her cooking is a great way to end the day.

The other Adventures- The 7 other people that were on the trip with me were friendly and outgoing. The conversations and companionship were an added plus to the whole thing, increasing the overall experience. I was very impressed by Charles and his wife Nancy. They were 65-70 years old and have made the most of their lives and had tons of great stories. At first, I didn't think they would be able to keep up but they were helping out every step of the way. Never taking a break until all the dogs were take care of and set up for the night.

I could easily write pages and pages more about the adventure, but I will stop here. Just know I will be doing this trip again in the future and booking other adventures as well hoping that the next will be at least half as good as this one. Can't wait for the next trip!!!

The vast, cold, blustery Finnmark plateau changes with every glance. One minute swirling wind whips the ice in to white flurries and then the long sunset begins to cast reds, purples and deep oranges over the low leafless birch forest as we move in to the long dark night.

The guiding by Phil and Helene was simply fantastic. Calm, expert, caring and constantly working to build a great team spirit amongst a very varied group from all over the world.

And the dogs…oh the dogs! Each individual has a different character and role to play in the sled. You can learn how to get them ready, feed and harness their energy, literally.

This is not a trip like any other. It’s remote, the huskies, the landscape need to be experienced and to be understood. We saw the northern lights and the first sun in the region for four months and epic epic sunsets.

And yes, the food, saunas and ice bath are all fantastic.

It’s also not too difficult, even in swirling winds at -20 centigrade. But you have to be “game”.

I laughed with some amazing people and our amazing guides, thanks Phil and Helena. I cried out of sheer awe of where I was and what I was doing. I met some truly wonderful and inspiring people and I will never ever forget them and this trip. If you love dogs and you want to try this. Don’t hesitate. It’s tough at times but so so worth it. The food. Omg the food was more than I ever expected. It’s a wonderful mix of luxury and endurance. Loved it

It's hard to express just how amazing this trip has been. A genuine true adventure. So much done in just a few days. Everything worked. Holmen are excellent, Nik and Rasmus were phenomenal guides, the company was spot on and the dogs - they make it for sure. We had some pretty challenging weather but the dogs got us through it. So much respect and admiration for them. My only wish is that it could have been longer. I'll be back, for sure

This really was a trip of a lifetime. . , from the moment Nik picked us up and brought us to Holmen Husky’s there was a mix of excitement , raw beauty, fabulous A frame accommodation with views of the dark sky but above all it was the people in our group, Nik and Rasmus our guides and the gorgeous dogs… we all emersed ourselves in getting to know them and our allocated 6 dogs that were such a joy and so soft and friendly , whilst being so strong and keen to get going! We had a real mix of weather which added to understanding this beautiful part of Norway , the Finmark plateau is absolutely stunning . . we had wind, and a wee blizzard the first day , rewarded by the best hot chocolate ever… and jugs of it! … sunshine and stillness, saunas , ice bath , snow angels in costumes, fabulous food , fun quiz, and amazing northern lights on 2 nights it really was a breathtaking and grounding experience… and we could not have been better looked after by Nik and Rasmus and all the staff . , and also a huge shout out to the hospitality from Mai-Lu at the restored trading lodge we stayed in for the 2 nights. The dog sledding itself was an absolute highlight, truly awesome, and gave us such respect for the dogs the area, nature ,and the environment whilst being truly able to escape…. Alan and I would love to return .

I have been on a number of group adventures as a solo traveller, this was my first with MBA, but it certainly won't be my last. Everything about this trip was incredible. The pre trip organisation and communication was great. The group size and dynamic was perfect, and the trip itself was amazing. The accommodation was beautiful, and we had great facilities. Our guides were wonderful and made the trip so much fun. The huskies are just wonderful and I fell in love with every single one of them. I would recommend this trip to anyone. If you are sat on the fence, do it, you won't regret it.

What a trip this was! Our group was brilliant, we gelled immediately and we laughed so hard our faces hurt. Holmen Huskies is a magical place, the food was incredible, the people were awesome and we felt at home instantly. The cabins at Holmen were outstanding and we happily cuddled the 130 huskies on site every chance we got. Then it was our three day husky trek which was out this world, we encountered a range of weather which we loved as it made it all the more authentic, when the sun came out it became a winter wonderland. The mountain lodges were beautiful and again… food was brilliant. We had a sauna and snow bombed to cool down… all under the northern lights! What a trip, memories of a lifetime :)

This was the most amazing trip and if you're thinking about doing it i'd urge you to do so. Huskies, guides, accommodation, meals, weather (for us). . . everything was perfect. You can be as hands on during the trip as you want. This includes feeding, poo picking (only if you want too!) and harnessing your team of huskies ready to set out on your adventure each day. I didn't want to come home!!!

Can’t say enough positive things about this trip. From start to finish it was a truly magical experience.

The dogs, the sledding, the snow, the northern lights, the iridescent clouds, the fireside lunch in the snow, we were so lucky to have experienced it all. Safe to say several items ticked off the bucket list, including a couple I didn’t know were on my list before arriving!

Nick and Rasmus were incredible guides throughout our trip, with a wealth of knowledge about the dogs and the local area. Any question we had, they always had the answer!

The brand new accommodation at Holmen and the traditional lodgings were both beautiful and all of the staff I came into contact with were lovely and welcoming. The meals throughout were delicious and included plenty of local produce.

I highly recommend booking this trip, you will not be disappointed!

Just returned from our trip to Alta and it was the best adventure I’ve ever been on! I went with my daughter and 2 other friends and we all felt the same about the trip. Holmen Husky were fantastic - our guides Niklas and Rasmus were clear, informative, helpful, friendly and very patient. The dogs were just incredible and you are given so much responsibility and trust by the staff at Holmen to run your dogs and look after them which is a complete joy! The food was fantastic throughout. The accommodation at Holmen is 5* and for the 2 expedition nights is very warm and comfortable with everything you need, just more likely to be in bunk beds. The equipment you are given is excellent. I would say that you should take a 30L back pack with you for the expedition and some thin, warm waterproof gloves but other than that follow what is on the kit list. Without doubt one of these best, most memorable, most life affirming trips I’ve ever done and I would urge anyone who is thinking about booking this trip to BOOK IT! Oh and Norway is fabulous too!

This trip felt like a proper adventure, led by a great team at Holmen Huskies who were full of knowledge and passion for the dogs. I couldn't have asked for a better experience. 10/10.

I really enjoyed this trip despite the -25 to -30 weather conditions & delayed flight! Our host Niklas adjusted schedule to delay and made sure we got much in as we could. He took care of us well and made sure all questions were answered and we were all safe.

The food in both places was amazing! The accommodation in Holness Lodge are really nice, the Suolovuopmi Mountain Lodge accommodation was basic but it was always warm there and the host cooked some amazing food!

The dogs were great and sledging was lots of fun, it was much more physically demanding then I thought it would be as you have to help the dogs up hills etc

Bonus we got to see northern lights on first night!

Still buzzing from the experience. So much more than just a holiday! Everything, from the food to the accommodation, the guides to the sled dogs, were wonderful. The scenery was simply breathtaking & it really did feel like we were on an expedition. I had the best, most amazing & incredible time! Thank you for enabling me as a single traveller in my 50’s to have this amazing experience. I felt safe on my own, enjoyed be part of the group & everything was very well organised throughout. Definitely recommend Much Better Adventures to anyone with a taste for adventure!

Really cool to sled around with the fantastic huskies. Fun accommodation with sauna and hot tub. Really loved the food and met some great people. Our guides Erasmus and Nicholas were brilliant and so available to help. Definitely recommend.

Practically perfect. From the pick up to the drop off I felt we were well taken care of. There were 12 guests and 2 guides. Plus the owner did a bit of the driving around. The whats app group did help in the beginning for logistics, and was very useful throughout the trip for tipps and photosharing. We had a varied group in age and composition. from the mid 20s to late 50s. We had 4 couples and 4 singles. Americans, Danish, Brits. Well mixed, and helpful people & fun to be with. Our guides, Nick and Rasmus were excellent. Both Swedish, both experts with huskies and being outdoor guides. They were exceptional in their behaviour, their way to kick start the conversation, and keep the group happy. Always stressing that many things (like feeding the dogs) are really optional. You felt in safe hands. The lodge and equipment itself were first class. Suits, goggles, shoes, sleds, huskies, accommodation, communal area. All brand new, or super well maintained. Akin to a wonderful mountain chalet or hotel. Food was plenty, well cooked, local, and highly appreciated by the group. We tried everything from reindeer, to deer tongue to whale and Norwegian waffles (because they are heart shaped...) and famous Norwegian caramelised cheese. The pacing was relaxed, some of us could have gone on longer on each day. Starting off with getting onto the sleds straight away is great. We came off the airport, changed into pro gear and off we went. Dogs were already mounted on the lines. First day we practiced 5k, so it was important to get used to it. Made us hungry for dinner, and the guides used the time well to explain what we needed to pack for the next couple of days. The trail itself was great, it was in huskey terms super easy, still meant 3-4 hours on the sled. The overnighter in the hut was excellent, the lady there was so kind, did everything for us and served Arctic shark. That night the guides lit a fire and we saw the best Northern lights. We saw some the night before, but on track they were special. You cannot legislate for that, so it's I am sure just luck. Following day getting up was easy. Ride back was equally awesome. Landscapes, snow, sun was shining, no more than -15 degrees. Shades out, shout at Huskeys by name and off we go.

This tour lived up to every high expectation I had and more. The guides made sure all of our questions were answered and I felt safe and tended to. At the same time, they were funny, engaging and it was like hanging out with friends. They went above and beyond at every moment (they even got the Northern Lights to come out each night for us ;) ). The food was exceptional- as a vegetarian, I had concerns, but the food was plentiful and delicious. The accommodations were much nicer than expected and hot water was plentiful. I have so many happy memories from this tour. Most of the time, once I've done something, I cross it off my list and move on to the next adventure, but I can definitely see myself doing this tour again, and I've definitely made adventure friends for life.

This was one of the best experiences I have been on! When we arrived the facilities were amazing, these stunning cozy tipi’s where you can see the wilderness. The guides were incredibly helpful and patient in teaching us and answering all our questions. Then there was the dogs and sledding! Absolutely fantastic!

Incredible few days in Alta, the hosts were friendly, informative and accommodating, giving everyone chance to get involved. Accommodation was cosy, comfortable and warm (the mountain cabin does have showers). The dogs are so friendly, well looked after, and love cuddles. Incredible scenery, we got to see the northern lights. Couldn't recommend it more.

What a lovely 4 days of peace and relaxation. From the moment we arrived to the afternoon of leaving we have enjoyed ourselves. Learning to sled and mush is an awesome experience. The overnight sled journey was a mix. Day 1 headwinds, freezing winds, and tough uphills, contrasted to clear blue skies and downhill runs on the return leg. The highlight was the Northern Light show, along with the knowledge you had a sauna, jacuzzi and Nordic Ice Bath to dip into on return. The food is all locally made and prepared. Cod stew, Reindeer Stew, fresh deserts, coffee and tea always available. The facilities are second to none, and every member of staff (including the dogs) are very welcoming.

This was one of the best trips of my life! Our guides, Niklaus & Rasmus were brilliant, they’re experts at what they do, funny, friendly and put all of us at ease. I loved learning how to work with the dogs, the accommodation was great, and sledding the plateau & the campfire with the northern lights were a dream come true. My group got so lucky with the weather and the aurora and I was genuinely sad to leave the trip & my dogs when it was over. Highly recommend.

This was our 2nd MBA holiday and they just keep getting better. From the pre-start WhatsApp group chatter, Nick and Rasmus were great hosts and guides, taking the time to make sure everyone was informed and happy with everything we needed to make the husky sledding safe and enjoyable. The tipi accommodation at Holmen Husky lodge was great, and watching the sunset in the hot tub was a great way to meet new friends. Getting to know your own husky team and how to harness them before setting off into the most amazing wilderness of clear blue skies and sun kissed virgin snow is a memory that will last forever. Then sitting around a camp fire watching the northern lights whilst cuddling a Husky is something most of us don’t do every day. I can thoroughly recommend this trip if your bucket list includes any of the above experiences as you won’t be disappointed.

Probably one of the best adventures / holidays I’ve ever had.

The group dynamic was great, the guides were super helpful, patient and lovely.

The rain-deer stew and whale filet was an experience and amazing. Thank you team Much Better Adventures

This is our 5th MBA trip and our favourite! We love Dogs and this trip is all about Dogs! The lodge is set in a lovely location in Alta and your accommodation is right night to the Dog yard! Looking out at the wonderful snowy Forrest from the Lavoo listening to the dogs howling is a fantastic experience! The staff at Holmen Husky, couldn’t do enough for us and really let us get involved with the dogs, from harnessing them, to putting there booties on and re-clamping there collars when one or two may have made a break for it! The dogs loved their job and so did the staff! We were gutted to leave, could have stayed in that dog yard all year!

This was an excellent husky adventure. We stayed in the wonderful dome with its own sauna and shower and window out to the world. Everything is top quality including the clothing and the dog sledding was pure joy. Our team leader Nicklaus deserves a special mention. The calmest, nicest and most able person you could hope to meet.We will truly never forget this experience and in particular the incredible dogs.