Reindeer Sledding, Feeding And Sami Culture At Reindeer Farm

Exploring the Arctic wilderness around Tromsø isn’t just about chasing the Northern Lights or taking the perfect snow selfie. For those craving a more genuine connection with the land and its original inhabitants, the Reindeer Sledding, Feeding And Sami Culture tour offers a window into the lives of the Sami people and their beloved reindeer. It’s a carefully crafted experience that balances fun, education, and cultural appreciation.

What really stands out about this tour is the opportunity to get up close and personal with reindeer—feeding them and even taking a short sled ride. Plus, the chance to sit around a warm bonfire inside a traditional lavvu with a hearty hot meal makes it feel like a real Arctic adventure. However, the price might make some travelers pause—some feel it’s a bit steep for the duration, especially considering the sled ride itself is quite short. Still, if you’re after an authentic, culturally focused outing, this tour hits the right notes.

It’s best suited for curious travelers who want more than just sightseeing—those eager to learn about Sami traditions, interact with reindeer, and enjoy stunning Arctic vistas. If you’re okay with a group of up to 28 people and appreciate guided insights into local culture, this experience could be a highlight of your Tromsø trip.

Key Points

• Authentic Sami Culture: Learn from knowledgeable guides and Sami hosts about their traditions and land.
• Close Encounters with Reindeer: Feeding and interacting with these gentle animals creates lasting memories.
• Scenic Views: Drive through Lavangsdalen valley and along Balsfjord, offering beautiful Arctic landscapes.
• Cultural Dining: Warm up with a hearty traditional hot meal around a bonfire inside a lavvu.
• Short Sled Ride: Experience a brief reindeer sledding adventure—ideal for those wanting a taste of Arctic travel.
• Comfort & Convenience: Included warm clothing and thermal suits help beat the cold, making the outdoor activities more enjoyable.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Meeting Point and Transportation

Starting bright and early at Grønnegata 87 in Tromsø, the journey begins at 9:00am. The tour is operated in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a big plus for maintaining comfort during the drive. Expect a scenic ride through Lavangsdalen valley, where the mountains and rugged Arctic scenery set an impressive backdrop. The drive itself is often praised for its beauty, with one reviewer noting how the scenery makes the journey as memorable as the activities.

The Scenic Drive

Traveling through Lavangsdalen, you’ll notice the landscape gradually opening up as you approach the Sami camp. The route along Balsfjord is often highlighted for its breathtaking views—ideal for snapping photos or just soaking in the Arctic tranquility. The drive offers an excellent chance to settle into the experience and prepare for direct engagement with Sami culture.

Reindeer Interaction and Feeding

Once at the reindeer farm, you’ll step into the world of Sami herders. Expect a warm welcome from guides like Nils or Elias, who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. Feeding the reindeer is a highlight, with many reviewers describing the animals as friendly, curious, and quite adorable. One guest mentioned how the reindeer “nudge your hand or the bag of food,” making it an interactive experience that feels genuine.

The hosts are noted for their kindness—some even assisted guests with nursing infants or offered extra blankets. This personal touch enriches the experience, making it feel less like a tour and more like a visit with friends who happen to be Sami.

Cultural Insights and Storytelling

Beyond the animals, you’ll learn about the Sami people’s way of life. According to reviews, guides like Elias and Nils are informative, engaging, and entertaining, offering stories that illuminate their land and traditions. One review highlighted the value of listening to Sami stories during the hot meal, calling it “the main enjoyment of the trip.”

The Sled Ride and Alternative Activities

The sled ride is often described as a short but fun addition, with some guests noting it lasted about 5-7 minutes. While some reviews express disappointment regarding the length—calling it “quite short”—others appreciated it as a quick, authentic taste of Arctic travel. If snow conditions are challenging, the hosts sometimes offer a snowmobile ride instead, which many find a fun alternative.

Lunch and Warmth

A traditional hot meal around the bonfire inside a lavvu is included, with many reviewers describing it as simple yet satisfying. The hot drinks and coffee served during the experience are appreciated, especially considering the cold outdoor conditions. Some reviewers mentioned the lunch as being just a soup, which may feel underwhelming given the overall price, but the warmth and convivial atmosphere make up for it.

Scenery and Photo Opportunities

Throughout the day, the scenery is consistently praised for its stunning Arctic landscapes. Several guests appreciated the stops at scenic spots for taking pictures, making it a visually rich experience. The views along the drive and at the farm are often described as “breathtaking,” particularly in good weather.

Group Size and Personalization

With a maximum of 28 travelers, the tour maintains a balance between social atmosphere and intimacy. Many reviewers noted that guides are attentive and keen to share their knowledge, making the experience feel personalized despite the group size.

Price and Value

At $197, this tour is a fair investment for those seeking a cultural and scenic adventure. While some feel the sled ride and lunch are a bit brief or simple compared to the cost, many agree that the opportunity to interact with reindeer, learn about Sami culture, and enjoy the Arctic scenery justifies the price.

A few reviews pointed out that longer sled rides or more elaborate meals might enhance the experience, but overall, most found it valuable and enriching.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing. If you’re genuinely interested in Sami culture, reindeer herding, and Arctic landscapes, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided explanations and enjoy interactive encounters with animals.

However, if you’re primarily seeking a long or adrenaline-filled sled ride, this might feel a bit restrained. The short duration of the sled experience and simple lunch mean it’s more about culture than high-intensity adventure.

Families with children are welcomed, especially since the guides are accommodating, and the pace is gentle. Those traveling solo or in groups who want a meaningful taste of Sami life will also find value here.

The Sum Up

This Reindeer Sledding, Feeding and Sami Culture tour offers a genuine glimpse into Arctic life, combining scenic drives with meaningful cultural encounters. The opportunity to feed reindeer, listen to Sami stories, and enjoy a traditional hot meal makes it a well-rounded experience. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, adding depth to what might otherwise be a simple outdoor activity.

While the sled ride might be shorter than some expect, the overall experience feels authentic and thoughtfully curated. It’s a great choice for travelers seeking cultural insight and scenic beauty in Tromsø. The small group size and warm hospitality make it a memorable Arctic day that balances fun, education, and comfort.

If you’re after a respectful, engaging, and visually stunning Arctic adventure, this tour is definitely worth considering—just keep in mind the brief sled ride if that’s a priority.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is generally welcoming for families with children, especially since guides are accommodating and friendly.

How long is the sled ride?
The sled ride lasts about 5-7 minutes, which many reviewers find enjoyable but somewhat brief.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing is included, and thermal suits are provided to help stay comfortable outdoors. It’s advisable to wear layers underneath for extra warmth.

Are the reindeer friendly?
Absolutely. Guests describe the reindeer as very gentle and friendly, often nudging hands for food.

What’s included in the meal?
A traditional hot meal is provided, served around a bonfire inside a lavvu. Some reviews mention a simple soup, but it’s appreciated as a comforting Arctic treat.

How scenic is the drive?
The drive through Lavangsdalen valley and along Balsfjord is consistently praised for its breathtaking views, making the journey as memorable as the activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

In sum, this tour delivers a blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and animal interaction that appeals to curious travelers eager to connect with the Arctic way of life.