If you’re considering a trip to Tromsø and want to add a unique experience to your Arctic adventure, this overnight tour involving reindeer sledding, feeding, and Sami culture might catch your eye.
From what we’ve seen in reviews and descriptions, it offers a chance to connect with indigenous traditions, enjoy stunning natural scenery, and maybe even catch the elusive Northern Lights — if luck is on your side.
What we particularly like about this experience is how it combines culture with outdoor fun, all set in a remote, tranquil location away from city lights. Plus, sleeping overnight in a traditional lavvu (Sami tent) sounds cozy and authentic, giving you a feel for Sami lifestyle.
A seamless experience from start to end. The reindeer sledding and overnight stay was, without knowing exactly what I was in for, a perfect combination of a activities – informative: learning about Sami culture and their ways of living by Sami people, and being shown techniques on using the lasso to catch reindeer; homely: a cosy tent equipped with hot drinks, snacks, fire and comforts of the reindeer skin, along with the delicious reindeer stew served for dinner and amazing morning breakfast; safe: clear instructions from the staff, especially about safety around the reindeer. The sledding was great, it feels like a wild rollercoaster. You just go around a small loop in 20 minutes or so, bu…
We had a blast with the overnight experience and breakfast was wonderful! It was great learning about the Sami and their love and respect of reindeer.
We were well taken care of throughout our overnight stay. We were given adequate firewood and extra clothing to keep ourselves warm. They were also very understanding of all the attendees who wanted to take pictures of the northern lights; you require a bit of luck to see them, but you should have ample time to take your dream photos. Great experience overall!
That said, a potential drawback is the price point, which some might find a bit on the high side relative to the simple meals and basic facilities.
It’s definitely a tour best suited for those craving a genuine Arctic experience, willing to embrace a bit of rustic charm and natural beauty.
If you’re after a meaningful cultural experience, love wildlife encounters like reindeer feeding, and are excited about the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights, this tour could be a great choice. It’s also great for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures but don’t mind chilly nights in a tent — especially if you’re prepared for basic amenities and an authentic vibe.
- Key Points
- What to Expect on the Tour: A Step-by-Step Breakdown
- Meeting and Transport
- Reindeer Sledding & Feeding
- Sami Culture & Traditional Meal
- Aurora & Night Stay
- Morning & Return
- The Real Deal from Travelers’ Perspectives
- The Itinerary in Detail
- Is It Worth the Price?
- Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Words
- More Tour Reviews in Tromso
Key Points
- Authentic Sami Culture: The tour offers a genuine chance to learn about Sami traditions, reindeer herding, and local stories straight from guides.
- Reindeer Experiences: Sledding and feeding reindeer are very popular aspects that give you close-up contact with these gentle animals.
- Remote Setting: The overnight stay in a cozy lavvu is in a quiet, dark spot ideal for Northern Lights viewing, though weather can be unpredictable.
- Great for Photos & Memories: Many reviews highlight how stunning the scenery is, especially if you’re lucky enough to see the Aurora Borealis.
- Basic Comforts: Tents are simple, and amenities are minimal — no running water, and you need to manage your warmth with firewood and sleeping bags.
- Cost & Value: While reviews mention the experience as memorable and worthwhile, some feel it’s priced slightly high for what’s included.
What to Expect on the Tour: A Step-by-Step Breakdown
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tromso.
Meeting and Transport
You’ll start your journey in Tromsø, meeting your guide at a designated point. The drive to Kvaløya or Lyngen takes around 45 minutes to an hour, offering scenic views of fjords and mountains. The group typically stays small — around 12 people max — which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.
Amazing experience. We did the Reindeer Sledding, Feeding and overnight stay. We really enjoyed the ride, and the feeding. It was interesting to learn more about Sami culture and eat Sami food. The Sami food was simple and really tasty – with an option of Reindeer or Vegetarian stew and fresh bread. Our party had both and all agreed that they were really nice. There were also biscuits, hot chocolate and more. The evening was topped off by an aurora. We stayed overnight at the camp in a 4 person tent which is limited to 16 people. The staff couldn’t have been more fabulous making sure we had what we needed and being clear that we had access to the cold weather gear, and outdoor fi…
10/10 experience! The sledding was magical and John was a great guide. Super fun and would recommend to anyone going to tromso!
This group is lovely. We very much enjoyed the reindeer experience, the bus transfers were very easy. The big question – overnight was nice in a lot of ways. Our night was not the best weather for this. When you stay over night, you can go sit by the bonfire or walk around however for us there was fairly extreme wind (30+m/s gusts=about 70mph!!!). One thing I've learned in tromso is that almost nothing stops for the weather. I can report that the lavvus sustained the wind and constant rain/snow mix that fell. But hard to sleep wondering if it would stay down! Breakfast in the morning was very nice, similar to most hotels. Dinner was with the tour, it was a bowl of soup and cookies (which ar…
Reindeer Sledding & Feeding
Once at the camp, the highlight is the reindeer sled ride. Reviewers describe it as “magical,” with some noting how peaceful and quiet the ride feels, just the reindeers and the starry sky around you. Afterward, you’ll get to hand-feed the reindeer, which many say is adorable and gives a real sense of connection.
Sami Culture & Traditional Meal
Inside a traditional lavvu, you’ll warm up with a local stew, often described as simple but tasty — a meal typically reserved for special occasions like weddings. Sami guides share stories about their history, reindeer herding, and their way of life, making it more than just a meal but an educational experience. Many reviewers praise the storytelling and friendly atmosphere.
Aurora & Night Stay
After dinner, there’s the chance to look for the Northern Lights under the dark, light-free sky. If the weather cooperates, you might be treated to a spectacular aurora display. The camp offers reindeer hides and winter sleeping bags to keep warm, and many say they sleep surprisingly well despite the cold, thanks to the cozy setup.
Morning & Return
The next morning, a simple breakfast is provided, often hot chocolate, coffee, or tea, before being transferred back to Tromsø. Some reviews mention that logistics and communication about the pick-up and drop-off are smooth, but a few have noted instances of being rushed or missing out on breakfast due to tight schedules.
One of those memorable bucket list comes true moment 👍 Did this with my teens and we all had a great fun.
All the staffs (only know Neil and Beli’s names. Sorry) were so kind, friendly, and hospitable. We’re blessed by the unexpected chance to spot the Aurora Borealis despite of all the 0,3-1% possibility. It was a memorable experience for our family. Thank you.
Fantastic place to experience and learn about the brave humble and joyful Sami folks. We stayed in overnight tent, outside was -25 degree Celcius, but thanks to wood stove, inside it was very cozy. The host asked us several times if all was okay and showed great care. We saw night light directly from inside the tent windows. Feeding the reindeer was another major experience. It's one thing to look at them for 5 minutes and another experience to wake up and watch them as first thing in morning. The host especially Nils is a great guy with fantastic sense of humor, and hospitality. If there is anything they can do for you, they will do. If you want you can also buy souvenir from them I hope…
The Real Deal from Travelers’ Perspectives
Reviews give us a balanced picture. The majority are glowing, emphasizing the magic of reindeer sled rides, the warmth of Sami hospitality, and the unforgettable chance to see the Northern Lights. For example, one reviewer mentions, “feeding the reindeer was loads of fun,” and others appreciate how “the camp is set in the most beautiful nature” with fjord views.
Many loved the authenticity of the experience — no fancy hotels or high-tech amenities, just a simple, genuine immersion into Arctic life. The guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience approachable and educational.
However, some reviews also point out areas for improvement. A common concern is the cost relative to what’s provided, especially when meals are plain, and facilities are basic.
One reviewer noted that the tents need cleaning more often and that there’s no running water, which might be off-putting for some. Weather can also be a factor; if visibility is poor or conditions are harsh, your experience might not be as magical.
Amazing time on this excursion — fun, educational and seeing the reindeer in action was fantastic. Highly recommended ! We did see the Northern Lights (not a given) and they were spectacular!
Overall the experience was nice. The staff was really nice, but there is some things to improve and you should know. Very authentic experience, no frills, so the price was a little high. Note there will be no running water and you have to keep the tent warm yourself by putting fire logs in every 2/3 hours and the sleeping bags didn’t zip up, which is part of the experience. The reindeer sledding and feeding was fun! Things to improve: the dinner was just soup and bread so don’t come too hungry, and communication was lacking regarding morning pick up. We were told we would be picked up by 10am back to Tromso by 11am, but we were rushed out at 9am not leaving time for breakfast since we go…
This was a really unique experience to learn more about the Sami culture. Also the lavuu was a lot more warm and comfortable then you might think if that’s a concern. It should be noted that the bathroom is an outhouse.
A particularly unfortunate review described a scenario where reindeer sledding was canceled, and the bus forgot to pick them up the next morning, causing delays. While these are rare mishaps, they remind us that outdoor Arctic trips depend heavily on weather and logistical factors.
The Itinerary in Detail
Start in Tromsø: You’ll meet your guide at a specified location, then enjoy a scenic drive to the camp on Kvaløya or Lyngen Island. This part is scenic, with many reviews noting the beautiful surroundings even before the activities begin.
Reindeer Sled Ride: The core activity, often lasting about 30 minutes. Reviewers describe it as “stunning” and “peaceful,” with some noting how close-up interactions feed their admiration for these animals.
Feeding Reindeer: After the ride, you’ll be given food to hand-feed the reindeer. Many reviews highlight how adorable and gentle the animals are, and how fun it is to give them treats.
The overnight stay was a once in a lifetime experience for us. Feeding the reindeer was a great way to get close up with the animals. The tour host gave an interactive presentation on the life of the Sami and reindeer. When booking we were worried about being warm enough in the tent but the little wood fire was able to make the tent very hot! We too it in turns to stoke the fire throughout the night, it needed a top up about every 3 hours. In the we finally had some clear skies and the sunrise in the valley was amazing!
The overall experience is nice. It is overpriced though. The service you get and the money spent don’t match. The dinner is a very nice experience but it’s not much food. Due to weather we didn’t get to do the reindeer sledding, which is totally understandable. But the partial refund was only 30$, which is less than a third of what they actually ask to pay.
Amazing time. The guides were great and the weather was perfect (though so cold in early feb -12C). The guided and staff were lovely. Perfect trip, memories to last a lifetime. Keep the fire topped up if you camp overnight!
Traditional Sami Meal: Inside the lavvu, a simple stew is served with hot drinks, often described as "delicious" and "authentic," offering a taste of Sami hospitality.
Storytelling & Cultural Talk: Guides share stories about Sami life, reindeer herding, and local traditions, making the experience educational as well as entertaining.
Northern Lights & Overnight Stay: The camp's location allows for excellent sky-gazing. With few lights around, the chance for a good aurora sighting exists, though it's not guaranteed. Sleep in a reindeer hide-covered bed inside the lavvu, kept warm with a wood stove.
Next Morning: A basic breakfast, then the return drive back to Tromsø. Some reviews mention an early wake-up call and a quick transfer, so plan accordingly if you're a breakfast aficionado.
Is It Worth the Price?
Pricing is listed as $0.00 here, but based on reviews, the value hinges on what you seek. Many call it "worth it" for the cultural and natural experience, especially if you're eager to learn about Sami traditions and see reindeer up close. The included meals, the overnight experience, and the chance to see the Northern Lights make it stand out.
However, some travelers feel that the experience is a bit overpriced, especially considering the basic facilities, the simplicity of the meal, and potential weather unpredictability. Still, if your priority is authenticity and a unique Arctic adventure, most reviews suggest it’s worth considering.
Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience suits adventurous travelers who want more than just sightseeing — those curious about Sami culture, animal lovers wanting close reindeer interactions, and those dreaming of a night under the Northern Lights. It's ideal if you're comfortable with rustic conditions and appreciate educational, meaningful experiences rather than luxury.
If you're traveling with children, the activity is generally friendly, but keep in mind the basic facilities and cold conditions. It's more suited for teens and adults prepared for outdoor sleeping and chilly nights.
For those seeking a romantic or luxury Arctic escape, this might not be the best fit. But if you're after a real, heartfelt adventure with memorable interactions and stunning scenery, this tour can be a highlight of your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is transportation included?
Yes, you'll meet in Tromsø and be driven to the camp location, with transfers arranged back to Tromsø at the end of the tour.
What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is around 12, which helps keep the experience intimate and allows for personal interaction.
What should I bring?
While not explicitly listed, expect to need warm clothing and possibly some extra layers, especially for sleeping. The tents are equipped with winter sleeping bags and reindeer hides, but dressing warmly is crucial.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the activity. Cancellations within 24 hours won’t be refunded.
Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, the aurora depends on weather and solar activity, but the camp's dark setting offers a great chance to see them if conditions are right.
Are there facilities like running water?
No, there’s no running water, and facilities are basic. The experience is intentionally rustic, so pack accordingly.
Overnight Stay with Reindeer Sledding & Feeding
"A seamless experience from start to end. The reindeer sledding and overnight stay was, without knowing exactly what I was in for, a perfect combina..."
Final Words
This overnight reindeer sledding and Sami culture tour in Tromsø offers a real taste of Arctic life, packed with authentic moments and stunning scenery. It's great for travelers wanting an immersive experience, not just sightseeing, and who are prepared for basic accommodations and winter conditions.
If you’re looking for a memorable night under the Northern Lights, combined with genuine cultural insights, this tour could be just what you need.
Just keep in mind that weather and logistics can influence your experience, so go with an open mind and a sense of adventure. Prepare well, and you might find this to be one of the most meaningful parts of your Arctic journey.
