Night Reindeer Sledding with Camp Dinner and Chance of Northern Lights

If you’re heading to Tromsø and want a genuine taste of Arctic culture, the Night Reindeer Sledding with Camp Dinner and Chance of Northern Lights tour is worth considering. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, plenty of travelers have shared their experiences, and the overall impression is quite positive. It combines a lovely mix of cultural insight, outdoor fun, and delicious local food, all wrapped in a cozy, wilderness setting.

One of the things we really like about this tour is how it offers a genuine connection with the Sámi people — you get to hear their stories and see up close their reindeer herds. Plus, the chance to spot the northern lights adds that extra magic to an already memorable evening. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the sled ride can be canceled due to weather, which might disappoint some who are eager for the full experience.

This tour tends to suit travelers who enjoy cultural experiences, beautiful winter scenery, and good food, but it’s also flexible enough for families and anyone curious about Arctic traditions. If you’re after a relaxed yet authentic adventure, this could be a good pick.

Key Points

• Authentic Sámi Culture: Learn directly from the Sámi guides about their traditions and way of life.
• Close Encounters with Reindeer: Feed up to 300 reindeer and enjoy a short sleigh ride through snowy landscapes.
• Warm and Cozy Dinner: Inside a traditional hut, you’ll indulge in a three-course meal with hot drinks.
• Potential Aurora Viewing: With luck, the northern lights will dance overhead, completing the experience.
• Weather-Dependent Activities: Sledding may be canceled if conditions aren’t suitable, but other parts of the tour remain enjoyable.
• Suitable for Various Travelers: It’s accessible to most, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Out: Transportation and Meeting Up

The tour kicks off from Tromsø’s bus terminal at 6:00 pm. You’ll hop on a bus that takes you out of the city into the Arctic wilderness. The drive itself is short — about 25 minutes — but it feels like stepping into a completely different world, surrounded by snow-covered landscapes. Most travelers find the pickup logistics straightforward, especially since guides wear noticeable blue jackets, making them easy to spot.

Meeting the Reindeer: Feeding and Socializing

Once at the reindeer camp, the first highlight is the chance to see and interact with up to 300 reindeer. The guides are well-informed and eager to share stories about Sámi life, making the whole experience both educational and personal. Many reviewers mention how fun it is to feed the animals — some reindeer are quite pushy and eager, almost like big puppies asking for treats. One reviewer humorously noted how some reindeer seem to jump on your back, asking for more food, which can be a little startling but adds to the charm.

The Sleigh Ride: Short but Enjoyable

After feeding, you’ll hop into a reindeer sled for a 15-20 minute ride. The sleds are pulled slowly, with the guide walking ahead, which makes the ride relaxing but not very long. Several travelers have mentioned that while the sled ride is fun, they wish it lasted longer. Keep in mind, if the weather doesn’t cooperate, this part might be canceled — as one guest pointed out, heavy rain can stop the sledding, though you’ll still get to enjoy the other elements of the tour.

Inside the Traditional Hut: Dinner and Stories

Following the outdoor activities, you’ll be invited inside a Gamme, a cozy, candlelit Sámi tent or hut. Here, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, a stark contrast to the chilly outdoors. The dinner is a three-course meal featuring local specialties like reindeer stew, salmon salad, and chocolate cake. Many reviews rave about the quality of the food, describing it as delicious and hearty. Several mention that the meal is well-organized and served in a relaxed, friendly setting.

As you dine, you’ll be treated to Sámi stories and joiking (traditional singing), creating a genuine cultural experience. The guides’ storytelling is often highlighted as a highlight, with many reviewers noting how interesting and engaging they are.

Aurora Watching: The Night Sky’s Bonus

One of the most talked-about aspects of this tour is the chance to see the northern lights. While Aurora sightings are never guaranteed, many travelers have been fortunate enough to witness this natural spectacle. Several reviews describe seeing the Aurora shimmering overhead, which elevates the experience from memorable to truly magical. Even if the lights don’t appear, the overall ambiance of the evening is quite special, especially with the fireside stories and music.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Price and Value: At around $202 per person, this experience is priced to include transportation, guiding, feeding, dinner, and the possibility of Northern Lights viewing. Many guests find it reasonable considering the quality of the culture and the unique outdoor activities.
• Weather and Clothing: Dress warmly — layers, gloves, hats, and sturdy winter boots — are essential. Several reviews mention the importance of being prepared since you’ll be outside for a good chunk of time.
• Weather Dependent: Sledding can be canceled in bad weather, which some reviewers see as a minor disappointment but understand given Arctic conditions. Still, they say other parts of the tour, like feeding reindeer and having dinner, remain enjoyable.
• Group Size: The tour caps at 60 people, which helps keep things intimate but lively.
• Accessibility: The activity is suitable for most travelers, but the sledding involves walking and being outdoors in cold weather.

What Travelers Are Saying

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who share interesting stories about Sámi culture and their reindeer herds. The delicious food and the warm atmosphere inside the hut are also repeatedly praised. Several travelers have called it a “magical” experience, especially when they catch the Northern Lights overhead.

One guest humorously remarked how the reindeer are like “big puppies” with “character,” and others appreciated how close they got to the animals. The cultural storytelling and music are often described as fascinating and authentic, making this more than just a sightseeing tour.

Some feedback points to the sled ride feeling brief, with a few wishing it was longer, but overall, most seem satisfied with the balance of activities. Also, some mention that the experience might be more enjoyable for those who like outdoor winter activities and cultural insights rather than thrill-seekers.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxed yet authentic Arctic experience that combines reindeer encounters, cultural insights, and a warm meal, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy learning about indigenous traditions and want a chance to see the Northern Lights in a cozy setting.

Travelers who appreciate good food, friendly guides, and outdoor charm will find plenty to love here. However, if you’re not comfortable with cold weather or if sledding is a must-do activity for you, be aware that weather conditions can affect the program.

Overall, for a well-organized, culturally enriching Arctic adventure, this experience offers a compelling mix of nature, tradition, and warmth.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children? Many reviews suggest it’s fun for families, especially since kids can enjoy feeding the reindeer and the cozy atmosphere inside the hut. However, sledding may be slow and gentle, so it’s more about the experience than thrills. Always check specific age recommendations if traveling with very young children.

What should I wear? Dress in warm layers, including gloves, hats, and winter boots. Since you’ll be outside for some time, staying warm is key to enjoying the experience comfortably.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour? Many travelers have been lucky, but it depends on weather and solar activity. The guides will do their best to find a clear night for Aurora viewing.

How long is the entire experience? It lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, including transportation, activities, and dinner.

What is included in the price? Pickup and drop-off, transportation, guide, reindeer feeding, a short sleigh ride, snacks, hot drinks, and dinner are all included.

Is there a vegetarian or gluten-free option? Yes, the tour offers vegetarian/vegan and gluten-free meal options upon request.

What happens if the sled ride is canceled due to bad weather? You will still enjoy feeding the reindeer, the cultural stories, and dinner. Some reviews mention that weather cancellations are handled well, with options for rescheduling or refunds.

How many people typically participate? The tour caps at 60 travelers, which helps keep things manageable and friendly.

Can I join this tour if I have limited mobility? While not specifically detailed, the outdoor nature and walking involved suggest it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. Check with the provider for specific accommodations.

If you’re looking to combine cultural discovery with Arctic scenery and a touch of magic, this tour could be just right. It’s a gentle introduction to Sámi traditions, reindeer life, and the allure of the northern lights — all wrapped up in a warm, inviting package.