Reindeer Sledding and Feeding With Chance of Northern Lights Tromso

Tromso, the Arctic capital of Norway, offers a unique cultural experience with the "Reindeer Sledding and Feeding With Chance of Northern Lights" tour. Participants can enjoy a 30-minute sled ride, feed the reindeer, and savor a traditional Sami meal. While the chance to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights is enticing, the visibility can’t be guaranteed. But the tour promises an unforgettable adventure, blending outdoor thrills with insights into the indigenous Sami way of life.

Key Points

• This 5-hour activity in Tromso offers a unique opportunity to experience Sami culture, including a reindeer sled ride and feeding, as well as a chance to see the Northern Lights.
• The tour includes a 30-minute reindeer sled ride, the chance to feed the reindeer, and a traditional Sami meal served in a lavvu tent.
• Guides monitor weather conditions to enhance the chances of witnessing the Northern Lights, but no guarantee is provided, and dedicated Northern Lights tours are recommended for better visibility.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and appropriate dress is required as it operates in all weather conditions.
• The group size is capped at 48 travelers, but some guests have felt the experience was too touristy or rushed, and have suggested improvements to the restroom facilities and smaller group sizes.

Overview of the Reindeer Sledding and Feeding Experience

The reindeer sledding and feeding experience in Tromso, Norway offers visitors a unique opportunity to engage with the region’s indigenous Sami culture.

The 5-hour activity includes a sled ride pulled by reindeer, feeding the animals, and a traditional Sami meal in a lavvu tent. Guests can also hope to catch a glimpse of the stunning Northern Lights, weather permitting.

With an average 3.9 rating from 148 reviews, this tour provides a balance of culture and outdoor adventure at a price point of $182.23 per person.

Group sizes are capped at 48 travelers for a more intimate experience.

Itinerary and Scheduled Activities

Starting at 6:00 pm, guests get picked up from the central location of Fredrik Langes gate 4 in Tromso. The 5-hour adventure begins with a sled ride pulled by reindeer, weather permitting, for about 30 minutes. Guests then get the chance to feed the reindeer under the guide’s supervision. After the outdoor activities, visitors warm up inside a traditional Sami lavvu tent and enjoy a hearty meal of Sami stew and hot drinks. An authentic Sami guide also shares stories about the local culture during this time.

Activity	Duration
Reindeer sled ride	30 minutes
Reindeer feeding	–
Traditional Sami meal	–
Sami cultural storytelling	–

Opportunity to View the Northern Lights

One of the key highlights of this tour is the opportunity to witness the captivating Northern Lights.

The guides monitor the weather conditions closely to ensure guests have the best chance of viewing the Aurora Borealis, even during the meal times.

However, it’s important to note that this tour may not guarantee clear skies for Northern Lights viewing. If seeing the Northern Lights is your primary objective, it may be advisable to book a dedicated Northern Lights tour for a higher likelihood of success.

The combination of reindeer activities and potential Aurora sightings makes this a unique and appealing experience.

Important Details to Consider

Although confirmation is received at the time of booking, this tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so guests must dress appropriately. The group size is capped at 48 travelers, which some may find too large for an intimate experience.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, and partial refunds are offered if sledding is canceled due to poor snow conditions.

While the opportunity to see the Northern Lights exists, a separate tour may be advisable for a dedicated Northern Lights viewing experience, as this tour can’t guarantee clear skies.

Guest Feedback and Recommendations

What do guests have to say about this reindeer sledding and feeding experience in Tromso? Feedback is mixed.

Many highlight the fun of sledding and feeding the reindeer, as well as learning about Sami culture.

However, some found the experience too touristy or rushed, with concerns about food quality and cultural depth.

Recommendations include booking separate Northern Lights tours for better visibility.

Improvements suggested are better restroom facilities and smaller group sizes for a more intimate experience.

Preparing for the Reindeer Sledding Tour

3. Arrive on time.

The tour has a strict schedule, so being punctual ensures you don’t miss any of the activities.

4. Keep an open mind.

Embrace the unique Sami culture and be ready to learn about their traditional way of life.

Unique Cultural Aspects of the Sami People

The Sami people, the indigenous inhabitants of northern Scandinavia, have a rich and distinct cultural heritage that’s deeply intertwined with the reindeer.

For centuries, the Sami have relied on reindeer herding as a way of life, developing intricate knowledge of the animals and their environment. This connection is reflected in Sami traditions, which include reindeer-pulled sledding, intricate handicrafts, and storytelling.

During the reindeer sledding tour in Tromso, guests have the opportunity to learn about these fascinating cultural practices directly from Sami guides, providing a unique and immersive experience.

Comparison to Other Northern Lights Tours in Tromso

While the reindeer sledding tour in Tromso offers a unique cultural experience, travelers considering Northern Lights viewing may find dedicated Northern Lights tours more suitable for their needs.

These tours often:

1. Prioritize Northern Lights visibility as the primary focus.
2. Provide better weather monitoring and relocation options to maximize sighting opportunities.
3. Offer smaller group sizes for a more personalized experience.
4. Include specialized photography assistance and equipment to capture the Aurora Borealis.

Although the reindeer sledding tour includes Northern Lights viewing, the experience may feel rushed or overshadowed by the other activities.

Travelers seeking a dedicated Northern Lights adventure may find better value elsewhere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age or Height Restrictions for the Reindeer Sledding?

The tour doesn’t have any age or height restrictions for the reindeer sledding activity. Participants must be able to board and ride the sled safely, but there aren’t specific requirements based on age or size.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a traditional meal and hot drinks served inside a lavvu tent, so bringing outside food and drinks is not permitted.

Is There a Waiting List in Case the Tour Is Fully Booked?

There’s no mention of a waiting list in the provided details. However, it’s worth contacting the tour operator to inquire about availability and whether they have a waitlist in case the tour is fully booked.

Do We Get to Interact With the Reindeer During the Feeding Session?

You do get to directly interact with the reindeer during the feeding session. The tour guides will supervise as you hand-feed the reindeer, allowing for a close and engaging experience with these majestic animals.

Can I Take Photos and Videos During the Reindeer Sledding Activity?

You’re allowed to take photos and videos during the reindeer sledding activity. The guides will encourage you to capture the experience, as long as you don’t interfere with the reindeer or disrupt the sledding.

The Sum Up

The "Reindeer Sledding and Feeding With Chance of Northern Lights" experience in Tromso offers an immersive cultural adventure. Participants can enjoy a sled ride, reindeer feeding, and traditional Sami cuisine, with the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights, though visibility isn’t guaranteed. With a solid rating and the opportunity to learn about indigenous traditions, this tour provides a unique blend of adventure and cultural insights.