If you’re thinking about trying a dogsledding adventure in Norway, this tour offers a taste of the wild and a glance into Sami culture. While it might not be perfect for everyone, it’s packed with authentic moments and wonderful scenery that often leave travelers with lasting memories.
We love how knowledgeable guides help bring the experience alive, making the stories of reindeer and Sami traditions engaging. The opportunity to drive your own dog sled adds a real sense of achievement, and the stunning Arctic views are truly a highlight.
One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves a fair bit of walking and outdoor activity, which might be challenging if you have mobility concerns or are looking for a more relaxed experience. Also, some reviews mention organization hiccups, so patience and flexibility are key.
This experience is ideal for those who want an active day outdoors, appreciate cultural insights, and are prepared for colder weather. It’s suited for travelers with a good level of fitness and an interest in authentic Arctic traditions.
Key Points
- Authentic Arctic Experience: Combines dog sledding, reindeer interaction, and Sami culture.
- Active and Engaging: You get to drive your own sled and switch roles, adding to the fun.
- Cultural Insight: Learn about reindeer and Sami traditions directly from guides.
- Scenic Views: Expect plenty of snow-covered landscapes and Arctic wilderness.
- Full Inclusive: Warm clothing, gear, and a hearty Sami lunch are provided.
- Some Organizational Variability: Mixed reviews on guide presence and logistics highlight the importance of patience.
What to Expect from This Tour
This is a full-day adventure designed to give you a well-rounded taste of Arctic life. Starting from Tromsø (or the designated meeting point), you’ll travel for about 1.5 hours to reach the activity site, nestled in Norway’s Innlandet County. The journey itself sets the tone, as you leave the city behind for snow-blanketed wilderness.
Once at the site, you’ll be outfitted with thermal suits, boots, mittens, hats, and other warm gear—so don’t worry about packing your winter layers. The activity involves learning sledding techniques; you’ll share a sled with another participant and take turns as musher, which adds an interactive element to the experience. Expect about 30-40 minutes on the sled, depending on snow conditions, so it’s a substantial ride rather than a quick thrill.
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Dogsledding: The Heart of the Day
The core of this trip is driving your own team of huskies. The guides teach basic techniques, and if you’re comfortable, you can take the reins and steer your own sled. For those who prefer, riding as a passenger still offers plenty of excitement and stunning scenery. Several reviews mention this as a highlight, with one guest saying, “The sled ride was fantastic, and being able to steer was a real adrenaline boost.”
However, some reviews note that the sleds are driven by guides if weather conditions are risky, which is worth considering if you’re eager to steer yourself. The snow conditions can impact how much control you have, so flexible expectations are best.
Meeting the Reindeer
After sledding, you’ll visit a herd of around 30 reindeer. These shy animals are semi-wild, and you’ll learn about their importance to Sami traditions. While some travelers note that the reindeer are kept at a distance and may seem a bit skittish, it’s still a special chance to observe and feed these animals. A traveler from Spain described seeing reindeer “very close,” despite their shyness, which made the experience memorable.
Sami Culture and Lunch
The tour brings you inside a traditional lavvu, a Sami tent, where you’ll be treated to a warm and hearty Sami meal—likely reindeer stew (bidos). This meal embodies Arctic flavors and offers a cozy break from outdoor activities. Guides often share snippets of Sami history and customs, providing a richer understanding of the region’s indigenous culture.
Several guests have praised the knowledge and friendliness of the guides who, amid the activities, manage to share cultural insights and answer questions. One traveler from Germany said Wilma the reindeer was “very cute,” and appreciated the guide’s help and explanations.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Itinerary in Detail
The tour kicks off outside the Enter Amalie Hotel in Tromsø, with a bus ride of about 1.5 hours to reach the Arctic site. The journey itself is scenic, with snowy landscapes rolling past as you prepare for the day ahead. Once there, you’ll change into warm gear—an important step to stay comfortable in the cold.
You’ll spend roughly 4 hours exploring, which includes sledding, visiting the reindeer, and enjoying the Sami meal. The actual sledding lasts about 30-40 minutes, but the time can vary depending on snow and weather. The reindeer visit is a quieter, more contemplative part of the day, giving you time to observe and maybe even feed them.
The lunch in the lavvu is a highlight, especially for those who enjoy trying regional dishes. It’s a chance to relax and soak in the quiet beauty of the Arctic environment. The tour wraps up with transport back to Tromsø, completing an 8-hour experience.
Transportation
The bus transfer to and from the site is straightforward, but some reviews mention that the lack of a guide during the transfer can make the initial hours confusing. If you’re unfamiliar with the area or prefer a more guided start, this might be a small inconvenience.
Group Size and Activity Level
Given that driving your own dog sled requires good physical condition, the tour is best suited for active travelers. The guides reserve the right to restrict sled driving if they judge it unsafe, so don’t count solely on this experience if you have mobility issues.
User Perspectives: What People Are Saying
Reviews offer a mixed but instructive picture. Many travelers raved about the guides’ knowledge and the scenery, with comments like “The guides were very knowledgeable and answered all our questions” and “The views were stunning.” Others appreciated the opportunity to handle the dogs and feed the reindeer, describing it as a “really special experience.”
On the flip side, some reviews pointed out logistical issues. One traveler noted that “there was no tour guide during the meet-up point,” and others mentioned that the organization felt a bit disjointed—including the reindeer enclosure, which was described as “very uncomfortable because the animals looked scared,” and the guidance during the tour was sometimes lacking.
On top of that, a guest from Spain expressed disappointment, saying that the activity didn’t meet expectations and that the organization was poorly handled, with unclear instructions and a guide who “disappeared” mid-activity. These reviews serve as good reminders that while the experience has high points, it can be a bit unpredictable.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?
This advanced dogsledding and reindeer visit offers an authentic slice of Arctic life, perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing. If you’re active, curious about Sami culture, and eager to try your hand at dogsledding, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. The scenery alone makes it worth considering, especially if you’re visiting Norway during winter.
However, this tour is not for those seeking a leisurely or luxury experience. It’s physically demanding, and some organizational aspects might frustrate travelers expecting a more seamless process. The weather and snow conditions can impact the sledding experience, so flexibility is key.
In summary, it’s an experience that delivers genuine cultural insights, memorable outdoor thrills, and stunning landscapes—ideal for adventure lovers who are comfortable with a full day outdoors and looking for an authentic Arctic journey.
Advanced Dogsledding & Reindeer Herd Visit with light lunch
FAQ
Can I drive my own dog sled?
Yes, you have the opportunity to drive your own sled, but only if you’re in good physical condition. The guides teach sledding techniques, and you’ll share the sled with another participant. If weather conditions are risky, guides may drive the sleds themselves for safety.
What should I wear for this tour?
Warm clothing, a hat, gloves, and a scarf are essential. The tour provides thermal suits, boots, mittens, and hats, so you don’t need to worry about packing heavy layers. Just come prepared for cold weather.
Is the tour suitable for children?
The activity requires good physical condition and is not recommended for children under 8 years old. It’s geared more toward active travelers who can handle outdoor winter conditions.
How long is the sledding experience?
You can expect around 30-40 minutes on the sled, depending on snow conditions. The total time on-site, including other activities and lunch, is roughly four hours.
What does the Sami meal include?
The lunch is typically a hearty Sami dish called reindeer stew (bidos), served in a traditional lavvu. It embodies regional flavors and offers a warm, comforting break.
Is transportation included?
Yes, the bus transfer to and from Tromsø is included. The transfer takes about 1.5 hours each way, with the return journey at the end of the day.
Are animals kept in captivity during the reindeer visit?
The reindeer are semi-wild and kept at a distance from visitors for their safety and well-being. Some travelers find their shyness natural, and it’s a peaceful observation rather than close contact.
What if the weather is bad?
Guides prioritize safety and may restrict sledding if snow or weather conditions are dangerous. In such cases, they will still offer the reindeer visit and Sami meal, so the experience remains worthwhile.
How are the guides?
Many guests praise the guides for their friendliness and knowledge, especially when explaining Sami culture and the animals. A few reviews mention some organizational hiccups, but generally, guides are appreciated for their effort and expertise.
Is this tour good for travelers with mobility issues?
No, the activity involves physical exertion and walking, especially to the sleds and reindeer enclosure. It’s best suited for active, able-bodied travelers.
This tour offers a genuine peek into Arctic traditions, combining outdoor adventure with cultural storytelling. While it might not be flawless, its authentic atmosphere and beautiful scenery can provide a truly memorable day for those prepared for the cold and a bit of unpredictability.
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