Most of us used to enjoy sledging as we were kids. Unfortunately, grown-ups have to give up this fun, but not in New Zealand. Here you will have a wonderful opportunity to restore one of the best childhood memories and even outmatch it with sled dog experience. Yes, you will be able to drive your own dogsled, a whole team of Huskies or Samoyeds. Of course, at first, a skilled musher will introduce you to the technique and prepare you for a self-ride. A guided tour may also be arranged. In addition to tuition, the tour also includes meals and accommodation in a cosy backcountry hut. The tour is designed to last approximately 20 hours and involves a few day runs and a night run.
This unique experience is available only during July and August, sometimes stretching to September. You can also experience the fun at Wanaka Sled Dog Festival which takes place annually, usually around mid-August.
Practical info
When can I experience sled dog tours and what is the ideal season?
Enjoying a sled dog tour is best between July and August, sometimes extending to September, which is the winter season in New Zealand. During the winter, the snow conditions allow the sled dogs to run and work optimally. In August, the Wanaka Sled Dog Festival takes place, which offers a unique opportunity to experience the sled dog culture in New Zealand. Show more
What is the location of the Wanaka Sled Dog Festival and how can I participate?
The annual Wanaka Sled Dog Festival takes place at Snow Farm NZ, New Zealand's prime cross-country skiing resort situated in the southern hemisphere just outside Wanaka. The best drive time is around 35 minutes from Queenstown International Airport. To participate, visitors book through Snow Farm NZ's website, and its offices are available to address inquiries. Show more
How long does a guided tour last during a sled dog experience, and what can visitors expect?
A sled dog experience's guided tour lasts approximately 20 hours, covering several day runs and one night run. Accommodation is provided in a cozy backcountry hut. Before the self-ride begins, the musher provides guidance and instruction on how to handle the dog sleds. Visitors also receive weatherproof clothing and boots suitable for the activity. Show more
Is guiding provided, or can visitors drive their own team during a sled dog experience?
Visitors can drive their own team during the sled dog experience, which is one of the highlights of the tour. A skilled musher will brief drivers on the self-ride technique and offer tips for a safe and exciting experience. Nevertheless, for visitors who might not feel comfortable driving their own sleds, there is an option to choose a guided tour. The tour guide will include a briefing on basic safety rules for the dogs. Show more
What are the age and weight requirements to join the sled dog experience?
For safety, most sled dog tours have 16 years as the minimum age for participants. However, some tour companies may allow children as young as 12 years when accompanied by an adult. The maximum weight limit for safety is around 100 kg, but it varies among tour companies. Visitors should be aware of their fitness abilities since sled dog experience requires physical activity. Show more
