Tromsø: Arctic Fjords Tour. Sommerøya and Kvaløya with Lunch

If you’re dreaming of experiencing the wild beauty of Arctic Norway, a guided tour through Tromsø’s spectacular fjords and islands could be just what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, from what I’ve seen and heard from travelers, it’s a seriously rewarding way to explore some of Norway’s most breathtaking landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Two things stand out about this tour: first, the chance to see visually stunning scenery—rugged mountains, turquoise waters, and white sandy beaches—and second, the opportunity to try authentic Norwegian cuisine in a scenic spot. One thing to consider is that this tour lasts about 4.5 hours, so it’s not a full-day adventure, which might be a plus or a minus depending on your plans.

This experience tends to suit travelers who appreciate nature, wildlife, and good food, and who want a guided, small-group outing that feels personal but relaxed. If you’re after a straightforward, scenic day with plenty of photo ops and local flavors, this could be a great pick.

Key Points

• Scenic route through Kvaløya and Sommarøy, with plenty of photo stops
• Wildlife sightings are common, including reindeer and sea eagles
• Authentic Norwegian lunch and warm drinks in a beautiful setting
• Small group size ensures a more personal experience
• Professional photography included to capture your trip
• Suitable for travelers who love nature, photography, and regional cuisine

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Arctic Fjords Tour

This tour offers a lovely snapshot of Arctic Norway, blending dramatic scenery with cultural touches. Starting from Tromsø, you’ll travel across a bridge to reach Kvaløya, which is renowned for its rugged mountains and quiet fjords. Along the way, your guide will point out interesting sights and help you capture the landscape, whether with your camera or with professional photos they take for you.

Scenic Crossings and Photo Stops

The journey begins with a 25-minute coach ride from Tromsø’s Scandic Ishavshotel. Once on the road, you’ll pass through scenic fjords and dramatic mountain views. The first stop at Kaldfjord is perfect for stretching your legs and enjoying breathtaking vistas. Travelers often mention how the scenery here is stunning, and wildlife viewing is possible.

Next, the route takes you to Ersfjordbotn, another scenic spot where you can take photos and soak in the Arctic environment. These stops are brief but meaningful, giving you a chance to appreciate the natural surroundings and spot wildlife such as sea eagles soaring high above.

Exploring Sommerøy and Its Beaches

The highlight of the tour is a visit to Sommarøy, a small island famous for its white coral beaches and clear turquoise waters. Here, you’ll have about 70 minutes to explore, take pictures, and relax. The reviews are full of praise for Sommerøy’s untouched beauty and charming fishing villages, which blend local culture with nature’s serenity.

You’ll have the opportunity for a self-guided walk, a quick swim if you’re brave enough, or just enjoy the scenery from one of the many scenic vantage points. The guide typically helps with taking photos, ensuring you leave with memorable shots of this stunning place.

A Delicious Norwegian Meal

One of the tour’s standout features is the lunch break at a scenic spot, where you’ll be served a traditional Norwegian meal alongside warm drinks. Travelers rave about the quality and regional flavor of the food—often describing it as hearty and satisfying after a few hours in the cold.

Reviews highlight the friendliness of guides, with mentions of thoughtful touches like local tips and even handmade waffles, which are shared in the manner of Tromsø’s local customs. The meal is a perfect way to recharge before heading back.

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Wildlife and Nature Encounters

While not a dedicated wildlife tour, plenty of travelers have seen reindeer roaming freely and sea eagles flying overhead. Guides are attentive to wildlife sightings and will keep an eye out during stops.

The Return Journey

After a full 4.5 hours of sightseeing, the coach makes its way back to Tromsø, typically arriving around 70 minutes after leaving Sommarøy. This allows for some reflection and additional photo opportunities along the route.

The Practicalities: How the Tour Works

The tour kicks off at Scandic Ishavshotel, and transportation is by minivan or minibus. The small group size—limited to 15 participants—means you won’t be lost in a crowd. It also allows guides to personalize the experience and answer questions thoroughly.

It’s worth noting that this tour is not suitable for children under 6 years or wheelchair users, so if you’re traveling with little ones or need special accommodations, you’ll want to consider other options.

What’s Included and What You Should Bring

For $142 per person, the package includes a traditional Norwegian meal, warm drinks, transportation, a local guide, and professional photography. It’s a solid value considering the scenery, food, and personalized touches.

Be sure to dress warmly—layers, gloves, warm shoes—since you’ll be outdoors most of the time in Arctic conditions, even in summer. Bringing water is also a good idea, especially if you plan to walk or swim.

Flexibility and Cancellation

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which is nice if your plans change. Just keep in mind that if the minimum number of participants isn’t reached, the tour will be canceled.

What Travelers Say

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with a 4.9 out of 5 from nine travelers. Many mention knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery as highlights. One traveler from Singapore noted that the weather was perfect and praised the attentive guide and delicious picnic lunch.

Another reviewer appreciated the small group of just five people, which made for a more intimate and relaxed experience. They also loved the professional photos taken during the stops. Several reviews highlighted the delicious, regional food and the scenic beauty of Sommerøy.

Some comments point out the good weather and clear skies enhanced the experience, but others note that weather conditions can change rapidly in the Arctic, so packing appropriately is essential.

Should You Book This Tour?

In general, this tour is a fantastic option for those who want a manageable, scenic, and culturally enriching day outside Tromsø. If you’re looking for stunning landscapes, wildlife, and local cuisine without the hassle of planning, it hits all the right marks.

It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy small-group experiences, photography, and authentic regional food. The fairly short duration makes it accessible for those with limited time, but be prepared for cold weather and outdoor elements.

If you’re traveling with children under 6 or need wheelchair access, you’ll want to look for other options. But for most other adventurers, this tour offers a genuine taste of Arctic Norway’s natural wonders.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 6 years old, as it involves outdoor activities and limited facilities for very young kids.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 4.5 hours, starting from Tromsø and returning there.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly with layers, gloves, and warm shoes. Weather can be cold and unpredictable.

What’s included in the price?
A traditional Norwegian meal, warm drinks, transportation, a local guide, and professional photography.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Will I see wildlife?
Wildlife sightings like reindeer and sea eagles are common, especially at the scenic stops.

Is the lunch buffet of good quality?
Yes, travelers describe it as hearty, regional, and very satisfying.

What is the group size?
Limited to 15 participants, which makes for a more intimate experience.

Is there free time at Sommerøy?
Yes, about 70 minutes for walking, photography, or relaxing.

How do I get to the meeting point?
Meet your guide outside Scandic Ishavshotel, marked with the Aurora 7 logo.

Final Thoughts

This Arctic Fjords Tour from Tromsø offers a smooth blend of scenic beauty, wildlife, and authentic regional cuisine, all wrapped into a manageable half-day outing. The small groups and knowledgeable guides make it feel personal, while the stunning landscapes deliver on the wow factor.

Ideal for those who want a relaxed yet enriching day immersed in Norway’s Arctic charm, it’s a chance to foster unforgettable memories and snap some incredible photos. Just remember to bundle up and bring your camera—you’ll find plenty of reasons to smile along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: