Tromsø: Snowshoeing with Reindeer

If you’re thinking about visiting Tromsø in winter, chances are you’re craving a genuine Arctic experience. One activity that constantly catches the eye is the Snowshoeing with Reindeer tour offered by Tromsø Arctic Reindeer. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, we’ve dug into what makes this tour stand out and what to expect if you decide to give it a go.

What really appeals to us about this experience is how it blends active outdoor fun—snowshoeing in the pristine wilderness—with a cultural touchpoint by visiting a traditional Sami reindeer camp. Plus, the inclusion of warm, hearty food and hot drinks makes it feel like a well-rounded day.

On the flip side, a possible consideration is that some aspects—like feeding reindeer—may feel a bit touristy, and the physical activity requires a modest level of fitness. But overall, this is a tour that seems to suit travelers who want a taste of Norway’s wild side without too much effort. It’s great for those who enjoy nature, cultural experiences, and comfortable group sizes.

If you’re after an experience that combines nature, culture, and a bit of adventure in Tromsø, this tour could be a solid pick.

Key Points

• Accessible outdoor activity suited for most fitness levels, no prior snowshoeing experience needed.
• Authentic Sami culture and close-up encounters with friendly reindeer.
• Comfortable transportation from Tromsø city center simplifies logistics.
• Delicious traditional Sami meal included, with vegetarian options available.
• Guided experience with knowledgeable hosts, making it educational and engaging.
• Stunning winter scenery and opportunities for photos and wildlife spotting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tromsø Snowshoeing with Reindeer Tour

This tour, priced at $165 per person, offers a well-balanced mix of outdoor adventure, cultural insight, and cozy comfort. Spread over roughly four hours, it’s a manageable outing that leaves plenty of time to enjoy the Arctic scenery without feeling rushed.

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transportation

Starting at the Tromsø Havn Prostneset bus terminal, your day kicks off with a hassle-free pickup. The meeting point is straightforward—the bus terminal has two entrances, so just walk through to find your guides waiting where the buses are ready to depart. The transportation to the reindeer camp is comfortable, and the group size tends to be limited, fostering a more personal and engaging experience.

Visiting the Reindeer Camp: Close Encounters

Once you arrive at the reindeer camp, you’re greeted by a herd of friendly, curious reindeer. This part of the tour is often highlighted as a personal favorite—feeding the reindeer up close offers a unique chance to connect with these gentle animals. Several reviews mention how engaging and interactive this segment is, with one traveler noting that the reindeer are “just so friendly.”

This close encounter is a highlight that makes the experience memorable, especially since the reindeer are quite enthusiastic about their food. But be cautious—feeding them can sometimes be a bit chaotic, as the reindeer tend to be eager and might poke or nudge.

Snowshoeing Through Arctic Landscapes

After the reindeer interaction, it’s time to don your snowshoes and poles—provided as part of the experience—and hit the trails. No previous snowshoeing experience is required, but a basic level of physical fitness is encouraged. The guided hike offers a wonderful way to see snow-covered hills, forests, and perhaps even some wildlife.

The guides, often praised for their enthusiasm, make sure everyone stays comfortable and confident. As one reviewer put it, “Rafa was an incredible guide,” and many mention how the support and encouragement from the guides helped them enjoy the walk despite varying weather conditions.

The snowshoeing portion lasts about an hour, but it’s enough to get a good workout and enjoy the scenery. The terrain is generally manageable, but there are some gentle inclines; if you’re worried about exertion, this is still suitable for most.

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Warmth and Food in a Sami Hut

Returning to the reindeer camp, you’re invited to relax in a traditional Sami hut, where warmth and comfort await. The highlight here is the hot meal of reindeer stew (bidos)—a hearty, flavorful dish with a vegetarian option too—plus hot drinks and cookies. This is the perfect opportunity to rest, chat, and soak in the Sami culture.

Reviews often mention how tasty and filling the stew is, with many appreciating the chance to taste authentic local cuisine. The communal setting in the Sami hut adds an immersive touch, making it more than just a meal—it’s a cultural exchange.

Ending the Day: Return to Tromsø

After lunch, it’s back on the bus for the short ride to Tromsø. The entire tour wraps up with plenty of time left to explore the city or head to your next activity. The logistics are smooth, and the overall flow of the day is generally well-organized, according to many reviewers.

What We Love and What to Keep in Mind

The guides really shine in this experience. Multiple reviews mention Rafa, Linda, or Arthur as being knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about sharing their culture and environment. Their support makes the snowshoeing accessible and fun, even for those new to the activity.

The scenery is another big selling point. Snow-covered landscapes, mountains, and the chance to see wildlife offer plenty of photo opportunities and a true sense of the Arctic wilderness.

The value for money also seems strong, considering the transportation, guided tour, reindeer feeding, and hearty meal are included. Compared to other high-cost Arctic activities, this one offers a lot of authentic experiences at a reasonable price.

However, some reviews note that the reindeer feeding can feel a bit touristy, and if you’re seeking a more isolated wilderness adventure, this might not be the perfect fit. Also, the activity requires some physical effort, so those with mobility issues or low fitness levels should consider this.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for adventurers who want a balanced outdoor experience that includes nature, wildlife, and culture. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of physical activity in a stunning setting, but don’t want to spend hours trekking in extreme cold. Families with children aged 8 and up will find it suitable—many reviews mention kids having a great time feeding reindeer and enjoying the snow.

It’s also a good choice for travelers who appreciate local traditions, as the Sami hut and reindeer feeding give a glimpse into indigenous culture. If you’re after a well-organized, authentic Arctic day out, this tour ticks those boxes.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Dress warmly with layers, including a hat, gloves, scarf, and sturdy shoes—they’ll be essential.
• The tour lasts around four hours, so plan your day accordingly.
• Remember, no prior snowshoeing experience is necessary, but a moderate level of fitness helps.
• The meeting point is easy to find, but check the terminal entrances to avoid confusion.
• Vegetarian options are available for the meal, so specify dietary needs when booking.
• Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—flexibility is there if your plans change.
• The tour is not suitable for people with animal allergies or pets.

FAQ

Q: Is prior snowshoeing experience needed?
No, prior experience is not required. The tour is suitable for beginners, and guides will support you throughout the walk.

Q: How physically demanding is the activity?
Some level of physical fitness is recommended because of the outdoor nature of snowshoeing and walking over snow, but the hikes are generally manageable and guided.

Q: What is included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation, snowshoes and poles, a guided tour, feeding reindeer, and a hot Sami meal with drinks and cookies.

Q: How long does the tour last?
Approximately four hours, including pickup, activities, meal, and return to Tromsø.

Q: Is the experience suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 8 and up are welcome, and many reviews mention family-friendly fun, especially feeding reindeer.

Q: What should I bring?
Warm clothing, hat, gloves, scarf, and warm shoes are essential to stay comfortable outdoors.

Q: Where do we meet, and how do I find the pickup?
Meet at the bus terminal at Tromsø Havn Prostneset. Guides will be where the buses are ready to depart, and there are two terminal entrances—just walk through to find the group.

Q: Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a traveler looking to connect with Arctic Norway in a way that’s active, authentic, and culturally enriching, this Snowshoeing with Reindeer tour is a solid choice. It offers a good balance of outdoor adventure, culture, and comfort, all wrapped in stunning winter scenery.

While it might feel a bit touristy at times—feeding reindeer and sharing Sami stories are popular activities—it’s these very elements that make it accessible and memorable. The guides’ enthusiasm, combined with the chance to see snow-capped landscapes and mingle with reindeer, make it a day to remember.

This experience is especially suited for those who want to enjoy the Arctic environment without extreme exertion. It’s a great way to spend part of your Tromsø trip if you’re after a mix of nature, wildlife, and local culture in a friendly, well-organized package.

Whether you’re with family, friends, or traveling solo, expect a day that combines fun, learning, and the chance to see Norway’s winter wonderland in a very personal way.

You can check availability for your dates here: