Sisimiut, the second-largest town in Greenland, sits just north of the Arctic Circle and is widely regarded as one of the best places in the country for dogsledding. With a long winter season from December to May, reliable sea ice, and easy access to the Arctic Circle Trail, the town offers a range of dogsledding experiences. Whether you have a few hours or a full week, there is a trip suited to your schedule and budget. This article breaks down the half-day, full-day, and multi-day options available in Sisimiut, including what to expect, what to bring, and how to book.
Why Sisimiut for Dogsledding?
Sisimiut’s location on the coast of Davis Strait, combined with its sheltered fjords and reliable snow cover, creates ideal conditions for dogsledding. The town has a long tradition of mushing — many local hunters still use dogsleds for winter travel. This means the dogs are well-cared-for working animals, not just tourist attractions. The complete guide to Sisimiut notes that the season typically runs from December through May, with the best conditions in March and April when the days are longer and the sea ice is stable.
Half-Day Dogsledding Trips
Duration and Distance
Half-day trips usually last 2–4 hours and cover 10–20 km (6–12 miles). They are ideal for first-timers or those with limited time. Most operators offer morning or afternoon departures.
Typical Itinerary
- Meet at the kennel (often just outside Sisimiut) for a brief introduction to the dogs and sled.
- Harnessing and hitching: guests often participate.
- Run across the frozen fjord or along coastal trails, with a short break for hot drinks.
- Return to the kennel for a chance to thank the dogs.
Price
Expect to pay around 1,200–1,800 DKK (approximately 160–240 EUR) per person. Some operators offer a discount for children under 12.
What to Bring
Dress in layers: thermal underwear, fleece, windproof jacket and pants, insulated boots, hat, gloves, and sunglasses. The sled moves fast and wind chill is significant. Your operator should provide a warm jumpsuit if needed, but check in advance. For a full list, see the packing list for Sisimiut.
Full-Day Dogsledding Trips
Duration and Distance
Full-day trips last 6–8 hours and cover 30–50 km (19–31 miles). They include a longer break for lunch, often at a remote cabin or on the ice.
Typical Itinerary
- Early morning start (around 8:00 or 9:00) to make the most of daylight.
- Longer run into the backcountry, often following the Arctic Circle Trail for part of the way.
- Lunch stop: a hot meal cooked over a Primus stove, or at a hut.
- Afternoon run on a different route, returning by late afternoon.
Price
Full-day trips cost between 2,500 and 3,500 DKK (335–470 EUR) per person. This usually includes lunch, hot drinks, and all equipment except personal clothing.
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness is helpful — you may need to help push the sled uphill or walk alongside on steep sections. However, most of the time you ride on the sled.
Multi-Day Dogsledding Expeditions
Duration and Distance
Multi-day trips range from 2 to 7 days, covering 50–200 km (31–124 miles). They are true expeditions, often following the Arctic Circle Trail from Sisimiut to Kangerlussuaq or looping through the backcountry.
Typical Itinerary (3-Day Example)
- Day 1: Depart Sisimiut, cross the frozen fjord, and head inland. Camp at a hut or in tents. Distance: 30–40 km.
- Day 2: Continue along the trail, crossing frozen lakes and passes. Lunch on the trail. Second night at a different hut or camp.
- Day 3: Return to Sisimiut via a different route, or be picked up by snowmobile if arranged.
Accommodation
Most multi-day trips use the huts along the Arctic Circle Trail or tents. Huts are basic: wood-burning stove, bunks, and a table. Guests sleep in sleeping bags. If you prefer a tent, discuss with your operator — some offer tent-based trips for a more rugged experience. Learn more about the huts vs tent decision.
Price
Multi-day trips are priced per person per day, typically 3,000–4,500 DKK (400–600 EUR) per day. A 3-day expedition costs roughly 9,000–13,500 DKK (1,200–1,800 EUR) per person. This includes all meals, accommodation, guide, and dogs.
What to Bring for Multi-Day
- Sleeping bag rated to -20°C or colder.
- Thermal pad (closed-cell foam recommended).
- Headlamp with spare batteries.
- Water bottle (1 litre minimum) — metal or wide-mouth plastic.
- Personal toiletries and any medications.
- Camera with extra batteries (cold drains them fast).
How to Book and Choose an Operator
Several local operators offer dogsledding in Sisimiut. The most established include Greenland Dogsledding, Arctic Travel, and Ice Cap Tours. Prices and itineraries are similar, but it is wise to book at least a few weeks in advance, especially for multi-day trips. You can book directly via their websites or through the tourist office in Sisimiut. For half-day and full-day trips, same-day booking may be possible if space is available.
Safety and Ethics
All licensed operators follow animal welfare guidelines. The dogs are fed a diet of dried fish and high-energy kibble, and are rested regularly. Ask your operator about their treatment of dogs — reputable ones are happy to explain. The Sisimiut Museum has exhibits on the history of dogsledding in the region, which provides useful context.
Best Time for Dogsledding
The season runs from December to May. March and April offer the best combination of stable ice, longer daylight (10–14 hours), and milder temperatures (-10°C to -20°C). December and January have very short days (3–5 hours of twilight) and colder temperatures (-20°C to -30°C), but also the chance to see the aurora. May has 24-hour daylight but the ice becomes slushy, limiting travel.
Getting to Sisimiut
Sisimiut is accessible by air and sea. Air Greenland operates flights from Kangerlussuaq and Nuuk. The flight from Kangerlussuaq takes about 25 minutes; from Nuuk about 50 minutes. Alternatively, the Sarfaq Ittuk coastal ferry connects Sisimiut with other towns along the west coast. For detailed routing, see how to get to Sisimiut.
Packing for a Dogsledding Trip
Beyond the basics, a few items are essential for comfort:
- Windproof face mask or balaclava.
- Goggles or wrap-around sunglasses (sun reflection on snow is intense).
- Hand and foot warmers (chemical packs).
- Lip balm and sunscreen.
- Small backpack for water and snacks.
Your operator will provide a sled bag for bulkier items. For multi-day trips, see the Arctic Circle Trail packing list for a comprehensive checklist.
What to Expect from the Dogs
Greenlandic sled dogs are powerful, hardy, and eager to run. A typical team has 8–12 dogs. They are not pets in the Western sense, but they are well-treated working animals. Expect barking and howling — it is their way of communicating. During the ride, the guide will call commands: “ilaa” (left), “iloo” (right), “aue” (stop). You may be asked to help by stepping off the sled on uphill sections to reduce weight.
Combining Dogsledding with Other Activities
Many visitors combine dogsledding with other winter activities. The Sisimiut winter guide lists options such as snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and northern lights tours. If you are interested in the Arctic Circle Trail, note that the trail is used by both skiers and dogsleds in winter — see which direction to travel for planning. After a day on the trail, warm up with a meal at Misigisaq cafeteria or another local eatery.
Related Articles
- The Complete Guide to Sisimiut, Greenland 2026
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- Sisimiut in Winter: Dogsleds, Aurora & Skiing
- How to Get to Sisimiut 2026: Flights, Ferries & Routing
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