Gift Diaries x Aurora Husky Visit

This week we’re sharing a special winter edition of our ‘Gift Diaries’ series! We spoke to the Aurora Husky camp experience in Tromsø, Norway. Dive into the article as one of their guides shares more about this once-in-a-lifetime experience and how to befriend 200 Alaskan huskies.

What is the best thing about your job?
The people I work with and the opportunity to be with all the dogs.

Can you tell us something about your trip? What inspired you to get started in your current job?
I had some family friends who did a tour in Tromsø Villmarkssenter. When I was looking for ideas for the next step in my life, they suggested this could be for me. I dug into it and signed up. I only started a few months ago, but so far it seems to suit me very well!

What is your favorite place in Tromso to take visitors and why?
There are many beautiful places in Tromsø, but I find the harbor of Tromsø with calm waters and the view of the cable car particularly peaceful.

What was the most amazing journey you’ve ever taken? What animals did you see / what was the Northern Lights like?
My most amazing trip so far was in Nodreisa, where we train dogs in the fall before winter comes to Tromsø. I went for a walk, met hares and saw a moose. The sun was shining this always gives a good feeling. Another fond memory I have is of the Tromsø Wilderness Center. The night was clear. I was standing outside our conference center with the camera when the sky exploded in pink and green. That was probably the most beautiful northern lights I’ve ever seen.

What have you learned most from working with huskies?
I was a little afraid of dogs before coming here, but it all worked out more than fine. All those hugs and how friendly the dogs are have dispelled my fears. However, I thought it would be easier to take care of the huskies because I never had any animals growing up, but it is also very hard work!

Do you have a favorite dog? And can you tell us something about him/her?
Batman. He is a big and strong dog. People often feel intimidated when they go for a walk with him. It’s overwhelming at first, but once he relaxes, he’s the best dog to take for a walk.

Describe your activity in 3 words
Exciting, interesting, fun.

I’m going to Tromso, what’s the 1 thing we just have to do (apart from your activity!)?
Take a walk or ski/snowshoe tour and experience the peaceful nature.

What is the most grateful response you see on tours?
Seeing happy faces on the bus after the tour.

What makes your activity unique?
Our tour offers the best combination of northern lights and husky cuddles. Even if lady aurora is shy that night, there are dogs and puppies to entertain you. We also have a very cozy lavvo where people come to warm up around the fire and eat. The food, made by our French chef, is delicious!

Do you have any final wisdom or advice for someone wanting to embark on a unique experience?
Be open to new things and don’t be afraid to try new things.

Many thanks to the Aurora Husky camp experience for chatting with us! Keep an eye out for more editions of our ‘Giftdiaries’ series.