Tromsø: Reindeer Feeding & Chance of Northern Lights Viewing

Planning a trip to Tromsø and looking for something authentic and memorable? This reindeer feeding tour with a Sami cultural experience offers a wonderful blend of Arctic wildlife, indigenous traditions, and the excitement of possibly witnessing the Northern Lights—all in about four and a half hours. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want a taste of local life away from the more touristy activities, with plenty of opportunities to learn, feed animals, and enjoy some spectacular scenery.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how informative and personal the guides are—they don’t just take you to see animals, but also share stories and insights that bring Sami culture to life. Plus, the chance to enjoy a warm Sami meal in such a stunning environment makes it feel like a truly special outing. One thing to keep in mind is that mobility restrictions aren’t accommodated here, so it’s best suited for those who can handle a bit of walking and outdoor exposure.

This tour is especially well-suited for those curious about Arctic traditions, animal lovers, or anyone wanting to combine wildlife encounters with cultural learning. If you’re traveling with children or prefer more accessible activities, it’s worth considering the physical demands and weather conditions involved.

Key Points

• Authentic Sami culture: Learn about the lifestyle of the Arctic’s indigenous people through stories, clothing, and tradition.
• Close animal interaction: Feed and pet friendly reindeer, gaining a new appreciation for these hardy Arctic animals.
• Stunning landscape: The camp’s mountain surroundings and proximity to the Lyngen Alps make for breathtaking views.
• Potential Aurora sighting: Though not guaranteed, the location is optimized for Northern Lights viewing on clear nights.
• Tasty, traditional meal: Enjoy a hearty Sami dish, Bithos, along with hot drinks and bread—perfect for warming up.
• Educational and relaxed: The guides are friendly and eager to share their knowledge, making the experience both fun and informative.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This 4.5-hour excursion from Tromsø offers a well-rounded Arctic adventure. You start with a comfortable coach ride from the hotel meeting point in Tromsø, heading south to the Sami reindeer camp at Breivikeidet. The drive takes about 45 minutes, offering views of mountain scenery and the chance to get excited about the day ahead.

Once at the camp, your guide will lead you to the reindeer fence where you’ll have plenty of time to feed and pet these curious animals. Several reviewers speak highly of the friendly, eager reindeer, with one saying, “feeding the reindeer was such a great experience—they were very eager to eat, and we got lots of close-up moments.” It’s a bit of a hands-on activity that makes it memorable, especially for animal lovers.

During the visit, you’ll also learn about reindeer herding and Sami traditions. A typical comment from guests is that the guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, sharing stories and answering questions, which really adds depth to the experience.

The Sami Cultural Part

After the animal interactions, you’ll move to an authentic Gamme, a traditional Sami dwelling. Here, you’ll get a chance to see handcrafted Sami clothing and learn about their way of life in the Arctic. The guides often share personal stories, making it feel like a friendly chat rather than a formal lecture. Many reviews mention how informative and engaging this segment is.

Food and Festivities

The highlight for many is the traditional Sami meal, Bithos—a special dish served during celebrations or significant gatherings. It’s hearty, warming, and an authentic taste of Sami hospitality. The meal is served in the cozy setting of the Gamme, often accompanied by folk music or joiking, adding to the culture. Reviewers rave about the delicious reindeer stew, praising the flavor and quality.

Guests also enjoy hot beverages, bread, butter, and cookies, which help sustain everyone in the cold outdoor environment. One reviewer noted, “The reindeer stew was really nice, and the guides were very friendly and passionate about their culture.”

Northern Lights Chances

While seeing the Northern Lights isn’t guaranteed, this trip is set in a location that’s well-optimized for Aurora sightings. On clear nights, many guests report seeing the Aurora dance overhead, often calling it a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Some reviews mention that the guides are always on alert outside, ready to call everyone out if the lights appear. Even on cloudy nights, the landscape remains stunning, and the atmosphere is peaceful.

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Practical Details and Considerations

The meeting point is straightforward—located in front of the Radisson Blue hotel, with guides dressed in blue ponchos bearing the Tromsø Lapland logo. No custom pick-up or drop-off is provided, so plan accordingly. You’ll need to bring warm clothing, hats, gloves, and scarves, as outdoor exposure in winter can be intense, especially during the evening hours. Footwear should be waterproof and warm, since the area can be muddy or snowy.

The tour operates in English and Norwegian, and is suitable for most able-bodied travelers. Unfortunately, it’s not accessible for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, given the outdoor terrain and structures.

The activity provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and allows for flexible booking, making it easier to adapt if your plans shift.

What Our Guests Say

The reviews, which average 4.5 stars, highlight how well-organized, authentic, and enjoyable this experience is. Guests repeatedly mention the friendly, passionate guides and the delicious food as standout features. Many describe it as “a lovely, well-planned trip,” with one saying, “feeding reindeer was great, and the northern lights appeared—truly magical.”

Several reviewers emphasize the value for money, noting that beyond just animal contact, the cultural insights and food make it a complete package. The small group size and relaxed pace mean you never feel rushed, and there’s plenty of time to ask questions or just soak in the scenery.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a genuine Arctic experience that combines wildlife, culture, and the hope of seeing the Northern Lights, this tour ticks many boxes. It offers a balanced mix of hands-on animal interaction, storytelling, and authentic Sami hospitality—all set in a beautiful mountain landscape. It’s especially suited for curious travelers, animal enthusiasts, and those looking to learn about indigenous Arctic culture in a relaxed environment.

However, be prepared for outdoor conditions and limited accessibility. The activity is worth it if you’re comfortable with a bit of cold and walking. The chance to pet reindeer, learn about Sami traditions, and enjoy a warming traditional meal creates memories that linger long after your trip.

This experience is a wonderful way to connect with Tromsø’s Arctic roots—something you won’t forget easily.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most reviews focus on adult experiences, the activity involves outdoor walking and handling reindeer, so it’s best for children who are comfortable in cold weather and can follow outdoor safety precautions. It’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, but many families have enjoyed it.

What should I bring?
Pack warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and scarves. Waterproof boots are recommended, especially since the terrain can be muddy. The tour provides extra boots and gloves if needed.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
Seeing the Aurora isn’t guaranteed, but the location is set up for good viewing if the sky clears. Guides are on alert to call everyone outside when the lights appear.

How long is the coach ride?
The drive from Tromsø to the camp at Breivikeidet takes about 45 minutes each way, offering scenic views along the way.

What food is served?
A traditional Sami dish called Bithos is served, along with bread, butter, cookies, and hot drinks—perfect for warming up after being outside.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, due to outdoor terrain and the nature of the activity, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility restrictions.

If you’re looking for a meaningful Arctic adventure that combines wildlife, culture, and a sprinkle of magic with the Northern Lights, this tour from Tromsø might just be what you need. Just remember to dress warmly, keep your camera ready, and enjoy the genuine hospitality of the Sami people.

You can check availability for your dates here: