From Tromsø: Daytime Snowshoeing and Snow Park Visit

Exploring the Arctic wilderness in Norway sounds like a dream, and this guided daytime snowshoeing experience offers just that—plus a visit to the spectacular Tromsø Ice Domes. While we haven’t personally been on this tour, the glowing reviews, thoughtful design, and authentic experiences suggest it’s a fantastic way to spend a day in Tromsø’s winter wonderland.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the blend of snowshoeing through untouched snowy landscapes with expert guides who share their knowledge. Second, the visit to Tromsø Ice Domes, where art, ice, and light create a surreal scene. Third, the chance to interact with iconic Arctic animals like reindeer and huskies. One consideration? The tour involves walking in snowshoes for a few hours, so it’s best suited for those in good physical condition and comfortable in winter gear.

This experience is perfect for travelers craving authentic Arctic adventures—whether you’re a nature lover, photography enthusiast, or simply after a memorable day outside Tromsø. Let’s unpack what makes it so special.

Contents show

Key Points

Authentic Arctic Exploration: Enjoy a guided snowshoe hike through pristine landscapes with expert insights.
Cultural Encounters: Meet reindeer and huskies, iconic symbols of Northern Norway.
Unique Ice Art: Wander through the mesmerizing Tromsø Ice Domes Snow Park with sculptures and light displays.
Well-Organized Experience: Roundtrip transport, gear, and a hearty outdoor lunch included.
Suitable for Beginners: Guide introduces snowshoeing basics, making it accessible.
Limited Group Size: Small groups (max 12) ensure personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Tromso

The Journey Begins in Tromsø

The tour kicks off from Tromsø’s main meeting point at Samuel Arnesens gate 5. After a comfortable 90-minute bus ride, you’ll wind your way into Norway’s remote Tamokdalen area. This drive alone offers stunning scenery—snow-covered mountains, forests, and the vast Arctic sky setting the tone for a day packed with natural beauty.

Camp Tamok: Your Arctic Base

Upon arrival at Camp Tamok, you’re greeted warmly by guides like Miko, who many reviews praise for their friendliness and extensive knowledge. Here, you’re outfitted with all the necessary gear—thermal suits, boots, gloves, snowshoes, and poles—making sure you’re prepared for the cold and snow.

The camp itself is a cozy, well-organized hub nestled in a snow-covered valley. It’s a perfect spot to start your snowshoe adventure, with plenty of scenic photo opportunities. The guides are attentive and eager to share insights about the Arctic environment, wildlife, and survival skills.

Snowshoeing in the Arctic Wilderness

The snowshoe hike is designed to be accessible, with a guide’s introduction to the technique—so even absolute beginners can join in. As you walk at a leisurely pace, your guides point out interesting flora and fauna, and share stories about Inuit and Sami cultures, adding context to the stunning scenery.

The reviews highlight how peaceful and surreal the landscape is: “The walk through the snow was amazing,” notes one guest, emphasizing the quiet beauty of the snow-laden forests and open plains. The guides also teach wilderness survival skills—like how to start a fire or chop wood—which can be surprisingly useful and definitely fun.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch in the Snowy Countryside

Midway through the walk, you’ll stop at a nature camp. Here, you can learn how to build a fire, and then cook a delicious outdoor lunch—typically involving regional ingredients and hearty fare like sausages or vegetarian options. Guests rave about the warm meal and the cozy fire, which contrast beautifully with the icy surroundings.

There's plenty more to explore in Tromso

Tromsø Ice Domes Snow Park

After returning to the camp, it’s time for the second highlight: visiting the Tromsø Ice Domes. This surreal attraction is a wonderland of sculptures, artful ice creations, and snow mazes. The light effects and pristine natural setting turn the sculptures into a glittering spectacle, especially in the Arctic daylight.

Guests describe it as “incredible” and “beautiful,” with many taking the chance to snap photos of the sculptures, the domes, and themselves cuddling huskies. The park also features opportunities to meet and feed reindeer, although some reviewers note the reindeer are wild animals and not always very accessible or friendly—something to keep in mind.

Encounters with Arctic Animals

Interacting with huskies and reindeer is a highlight for many. Guests love cuddling the huskies and taking photos, while the reindeer, part of the Sami tradition, offer a unique chance to connect with Arctic wildlife. One reviewer called it “a great experience,” mentioning the reindeer herds of five or six animals that are kept nearby.

The Return Journey

Finally, after exploring the snow art and animals, you’ll hop back on the bus for the 1.5-hour scenic drive back to Tromsø. The tour concludes at the same point where it started, leaving you with a collection of stunning photos and stories to tell.

The Practical Aspects

Duration and Group Size

The entire tour lasts 8.5 hours, starting mid-morning and returning in the early evening. It operates in small groups (limit of 12 participants), ensuring plenty of personal attention and a friendly atmosphere. This size also means more opportunity for questions and tailored insights from guides like Daisy, whose reviews praise her knowledge and enthusiasm.

Price and Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, reviews suggest it’s a good value when you consider what’s included: roundtrip transport, gear, an outdoor lunch, and multiple encounters with Arctic animals plus the ice park. The tour is a thoughtfully curated experience that balances adventure with comfort.

Accessibility and Suitability

The tour is rated medium difficulty—walking on snowshoes for hours requires a reasonable level of fitness. It’s not suitable for children under 12, those with mobility issues, or wheelchair users. It’s perfect for active travelers eager to explore Arctic landscapes in a safe, guided setting.

What to Bring

Guests are advised to wear weather-appropriate clothing and bring a scarf for extra warmth. The gear provided (thermal suits, boots, gloves) means you only need to focus on staying warm and dry.

Authentic Experiences and Guest Feedback

Looking at real reviews, guides like Miko, Carmen, and Daisy stand out for their friendliness and expertise. Guests appreciate the personal touches, like making a fire and cooking sausages or the cozy hot drinks—“hot berry juice, served as a slush,” one reviewer notes.

Many comment on how well-organized and helpful the staff are, making sure everyone feels comfortable and informed. Guests also mention that the snowshoeing, combined with the chance to see Arctic animals and explore ice art, offers a well-rounded, memorable day.

Highlights from Reviewers:

“The snowshoeing was a lovely experience,” says one, praising the scenery and the fire-cooking.
“The ice domes were incredible,” another notes, emphasizing how beautiful the sculptures and light displays are.
“Guides answered every question,” and “made us feel safe and engaged,” reflect the high level of customer care.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurers, nature lovers, and photography enthusiasts eager to capture Arctic landscapes and wildlife. It suits those who enjoy gentle hikes and are comfortable in winter gear. While not for small children or travelers with mobility challenges, it’s perfect for active, curious travelers wanting an authentic Arctic day.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides introduce snowshoeing basics, making it accessible for those new to snowshoe walking.

How long is the snowshoeing part?
The hike is designed to be leisurely, with a focus on exploring the landscapes and learning wilderness skills.

What’s included in the price?
Roundtrip bus transfer, snowshoe equipment, thermal suits, boots, gloves, an outdoor lunch, and visits to the Ice Domes, reindeer, and huskies are included.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
No, this tour is during the daytime. For Northern Lights, other specialized tours are recommended.

Are reindeer wild or tame?
The reindeer are part of a small herd of 5-6 animals, and some reviews mention they are cautious and not always very accessible.

What should I wear?
Weather-appropriate clothing, plus a scarf, thermal layers, and warm footwear. The tour gear helps keep you warm, but dressing warmly is essential.

How long does the entire tour last?
Approximately 8.5 hours, with a mix of travel, activity, and sightseeing.

Is the tour family-friendly?
It’s suitable for participants aged 12 and over. It’s not recommended for those with mobility issues or young children due to the physical nature of snowshoeing.

In The Sum Up

This day trip from Tromsø offers a well-rounded taste of Arctic Norway’s natural beauty and wildlife. With knowledgeable guides, a scenic snowshoe hike, and visits to iconic Arctic animals and ice art, it balances adventure with cultural insights. The inclusion of gear, lunch, and transportation makes it a convenient and immersive experience.

Best suited for active travelers, photography buffs, and those eager to explore the Arctic in a friendly, guided setting. The small group size fosters a personal, engaging atmosphere, making it a memorable addition to any winter itinerary.

While it’s not ideal for those with mobility limitations, if you’re in good shape and ready for a genuine Arctic adventure, this tour promises plenty of stunning moments and authentic encounters in Norway’s winter landscape.