If you’re heading to Tromsø and want to explore beyond the city lights, the Fjord Adventure by Bus from Polar Adventures offers a practical way to see some of Norway’s spectacular Arctic scenery. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and details paint a pretty clear picture of what you can expect.
What we love about this experience? First, it offers access to some of the most scenic spots — lakes, beaches, mountains, and fjords — all without the hassle of self-driving. Second, the guides seem to make all the difference, sharing stories and insights that enrich the journey.
One thing to keep in mind? The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, which is a solid chunk of time, but if you’re hoping for a full day of exploring or walking around the fjords, this might feel a bit limited.
We had an average tour – we saw some cool sights and came across Reindeer on the way back but the tour provider had poor communication. We were sent the incorrect meeting point so we were waiting at the wrong Polar Adventures office. We even asked 2 staff members who told us we were in the right spot but we weren't. The driver called us and picked us up but said we needed to leave our stroller behind. We did so at the office location #1. They didn't have the child seat in the van that they'd said they would provide for our 3 year old. After making it sound like we were silly for wanting him in a carseat they begrudgingly drove 10 mins to location 2 to pick up the child seat. When we finish…
It was absolutely amazing, very beautiful nature and friendly atmosphere! Driver and a guide was fantastic
Rauul was amazing!! Made the trip 10/10, we had the best time and would highly recommend this! We got to see some amazing views and it was well worth the money!
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comfortable, guided trip with plenty of photo opportunities, wildlife encounters, and local flavor, without the stress of planning or navigating on your own.
Key Points
- Comfortable transportation means you can focus on the scenery without worrying about driving.
- Multiple scenic stops at iconic fjords and villages provide varied photo and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Expert guides enhance the experience with insights into local culture, environment, and wildlife.
- All-inclusive snacks, drinks, and thermal suits add comfort, especially in colder months.
- Flexible booking and cancellation policies make planning easier.
- The tour maintains a high traveler rating of 4.7, showing most people find it worthwhile.
An In-Depth Look at the Fjord Adventure
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tromso.
Starting Point and Logistics
The tour kicks off at Polar Adventures Tromsø, right at the front pier of Killengreens gate 7-11. Meeting there around 10 am, you’ll be greeted by your guide and fellow travelers. The group size is limited to 15 people, which helps keep things intimate and personalized—something many reviews praise, especially since guides can tailor the experience a bit more.
The transportation is a comfortable tour bus, great for Arctic conditions. You’ll be provided with thermal suits, which are crucial in keeping warm during the stops and outdoor moments. The journey itself lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes, with plenty of stops along the way.
The Scenic Stops
Stop 1: Kaldfjord
You’ll start by visiting this long, beautiful fjord with a rich history. It’s a perfect first impression of Tromsø’s rugged coastline. While the description doesn’t specify exactly what you’ll do here, the name suggests stunning landscapes that set the tone for the day.
Ok like me probably main focus is to chase the lights. But I was glad to see some nature and landscape in the daylight. It is worth doing. Some of the scenery is just stunning. If you are into your photography I'm sure you'll take some magnificent snaps.
The guide talked about nature, animals, history and daily life in Tromsø. We were lucky to enjoy that trip with him. We saw wild animals and such wonderfull sites.
Had a very good day being shown the wonderful arctic scenery and beautiful snow covered mountains and fjords. Guide and driver Nico and Kris were the best. Very helpful, informative and looked after us well. The bar b q on a snow covered beach was surreal. Highly recommended.
Stop 2: Ersfjordbotn
This spot is highlighted as one of the most beautiful fjords in Tromsø. It’s a popular stop for postcard-perfect views. Expect to have around 20 minutes here to soak in the scenery, take photos, and maybe spot some local wildlife.
Stop 3: Grotfjord
This is a standout location — a fjord with a white sand beach and mountain surroundings. With a 40-minute window, you’ll have ample time to walk around, enjoy the scenery, and capture some great photos. Several reviews mention the stunning landscapes here, describing it as a “white sand beach with mountains around.”
Stop 4: Tromsø Return
The trip ends back in the city center, giving you time to relax after a day of exploration or head straight to dinner. The total length of the tour is well-balanced: enough time for sightseeing without feeling rushed.
Wildlife and Culture
Guides are praised for their knowledge about local wildlife, including reindeer and various bird species. Some reviewers mention that guides go out of their way to find animals or re-create local stories, enriching the trip beyond just sightseeing.
Wanna conveyed my thanks to Mama Sara and Kenneth for the terrific tour on March 7 and chilling experience. Keep up the good work!
Wonderful. Great guides, great scenery and lots of extras. Highly recommended trip.
The tour was great. The guide was really friendly and took care of us really well. Very informative about the history of Norway. Able to know more about their culture and visit the many fjords. Great scenery stops where we could take wonderful photos
Food, Drinks, and Extras
The tour includes beverages, snacks, and food — a big plus for keeping energy up and spirits high. You might find salmon, meat sandwiches, or even grilled sausages, especially if you enjoy trying local flavors. Plus, hot drinks and a bonfire are provided, creating a cozy atmosphere amid the cold Arctic environment.
The Overall Experience
Guests consistently mention the friendly and helpful guides. One reviewer highlights Rauul, describing him as “amazing,” which seems to be a common theme. The guides’ storytelling, combined with the stunning scenery, makes for a memorable trip.
Many reviews emphasize the value for money, with travelers feeling they got more than they paid for — especially with the included food and warm clothing.
What Could Be Better?
A few reviewers suggest that microphones for commentary in the bus could improve the experience, particularly in noisy environments. Others have mentioned that weather can impact plans — since the tour is weather-dependent, cancellations can happen, but the company offers full refunds or alternative dates if needed.
Amazing tour of the fjords but it was entirely by boat. It would have been better if we can dock somewhere and do some walking around the fjords for the excursion as well. The local guide fished for us and we had the best fish soup. Thank you!
Our tour guide, Christina, was so nice, polite, helpful and energetic. Sarah the chauffeur was also great on her driving skill. Both of them made our day with beautiful scenery of Fjord and all around the Whale Island. A mid-snowy beach barbeque was so fun. We had a great time back then!
Tour was cancelled, but I was offered a fishing tour instead. Not as good as the Fjord trip, but still loads of fun! We caught a few fish which the captain cooked and we ate for lunch
Price and Value
At $142.30 per person, this tour is a fair investment considering the inclusions — transport, guided insights, food, thermal suits, and a bonfire. The reviews suggest most find it worth the cost, especially because it offers an effortless way to see a lot in a short time, without the hassle of renting a car or planning multiple stops.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This trip suits anyone looking for a comfort-focused, guided experience that combines scenic views with wildlife spotting. It’s great for travelers who want to avoid self-driving or organizing their own itinerary and prefer having a guide.
If your main goal is to see fjord landscapes, local wildlife, and enjoy some local food in a cozy setting, this tour hits those marks well. It’s also suitable for those with limited time, as it packs a lot into just over three hours.
However, if you’re hoping for more lengthy hikes or in-depth exploration of each stop, you might find this tour a bit too brief. The focus here is on sightseeing from the bus and making strategic stops, which is great for a quick taste of Arctic Norway.
Very nice experience – travel into the interiors, beautiful beaches and coastal areas, from Tromso. Wonderful and amazing landscapes and ample good opportunities to take quality photographs. Overall a very nice experience.
We had a great time with our tour to the Fjords and Mountain Scenery, provided by Polar Adventure. There were only 6 of us in the tour, so we were taken cared of really well by the driver and tour guide. They are both locals from Tromso, they told us interesting stories about life in Tromso. We hardly saw any tourists in the areas where they took us, so we were able to enjoy and absorb everything at our own pace. We also had a bonfire in the middle of a mountain overlooking snow capped mountain ranges and grilled some sausages and marshmallows. I would definitely recommend.
This tour was amazing! Marlene and Kenneth showed us some of the most beautiful scenery on the shores of Tromso. We saw mountains, beaches, nature, reindeer and much much more! The tour was to last almost 4 hours but it lasted close to 6 and they drove us back right up to the dock! We were only 2 couples on this tour so it was more personal than a ship tour.They provided us with delicious salmon and meat sandwhiches and the best apple juice! Such a lovely couple don't hesitate for one minute in booking this wonderful tour!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s focus on scenic drives and outdoor stops suggests it’s flexible for most travelers, including families. Just consider your children’s comfort with cold weather and bus rides.
What should I bring?
The tour provides thermal suits, but you should wear warm layers underneath. Winter shoes aren’t included, so bring or wear your own if needed. Also, bring a camera or smartphone for photos.
Is food included?
Yes, snacks, beverages, and food are included, often featuring local ingredients like salmon and meat sandwiches. They also serve hot drinks and marshmallows over a bonfire.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The trip is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops and transportation.
Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
This tour isn’t specifically aimed at aurora viewing but focuses on fjord scenery and wildlife. For Northern Lights chasing, you might consider other options.
What is the group size?
Up to 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal and relaxed.
Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, a vegetarian option is available if you advise at booking.
Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a comfortable bus with heated thermal suits provided, suitable for Arctic winter conditions.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 28 days ahead to secure your spot, especially in peak seasons.
Tromsø: Exclusive Fjord Adventure by Bus
"We had an average tour - we saw some cool sights and came across Reindeer on the way back but the tour provider had poor communication. We were se..."
Final Thoughts
If you’re after an accessible, scenic, and wildlife-rich Arctic adventure without the stress of planning every detail, this Fjord Tour by Bus ticks many boxes. It’s praised for its friendly guides, stunning scenery, and good value, making it a solid choice for anyone wanting a taste of Tromsø’s natural beauty.
While it’s not a full-day expedition or a dedicated Northern Lights chase, it offers a comfortable, comprehensive glimpse into Arctic Norway’s landscapes and culture. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group, this tour provides a relaxed way to experience the region’s awe-inspiring fjords and wildlife.
In a nutshell: This tour is best suited for travelers who want a well-organized, scenic, and informative day trip with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights. If you’re okay with a shorter adventure and love the idea of cozying up next to a bonfire while surrounded by snow-capped mountains, it’s definitely worth considering.
