The Sámi are the indigenous people of the far north, and reindeer herding is central to their culture. This four-hour tour gives an introduction to both. A bus collects you from the Prostneset terminal in Tromsø, either at 9:40 or 12:40, and drives to a camp that reviewers put at around twenty to thirty minutes away. There you feed the reindeer, take a half-hour reindeer sleigh ride, and sit in the lavvu, the traditional Sámi tent, to hear stories about Sámi life and a joik, the traditional chant. A warm lunch of bidos soup and a sweet cake is served, with coffee, tea or snacks. Round-trip transfers from central Tromsø are included.
How it works: guides in blue jackets meet the group at the terminal. At the camp the herders explain how the reindeer are kept and moved with the seasons, and visitors walk among the animals with a bag of feed. The sleigh ride is calm and slow, a very different pace from husky sledding, and suits all ages. Inside the lavvu you sit around a fire, hear about Sámi history and traditions, and may be offered a taste of the traditional food.
What to know: this is a snow-based experience, and reviews cluster from December to May. Sledding is sometimes cancelled when the ground is icy, and some guests have been given partial refunds, so ask what happens if conditions are poor. Wear warm layers and waterproof boots. A Sámi visit is a cultural encounter rather than a show, so listen, ask respectfully and ask before photographing people.
Pairing: it fits well with a late-afternoon visit to Polaria or the Polar Museum, and a night chase for the Northern Lights later on. In the polar night the morning departure runs in a soft blue twilight, which suits the setting.
What to expect
The experience
A guided half-day at a Sámi reindeer camp with feeding, a sleigh ride, stories in a lavvu and a warm lunch.
Best time
The morning or midday departure in the snow season, from December onwards.
How long
About four hours including the transfer.
Tips
Wear waterproof boots, ask about icy conditions and ask before photographing people.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and anyone who wants a cultural, gentle introduction to the Sámi.
- Families
- One of the best family activities in winter, since the ride is slow and the animals are friendly.
- Couples
- A quiet, memorable afternoon by the fire in the lavvu.
- Pair with
- Polaria or an evening aurora chase.
- Time needed
- A half day.
Good questions
Where do I meet the tour?+
The bus leaves from the Prostneset terminal at the harbour, at 9:40 or 12:40. Guides wear blue jackets.
What does the tour include?+
Round-trip transport, a guide, a half-hour reindeer sleigh ride, reindeer feeding, a lavvu visit with Sámi stories and a joik, lunch and hot drinks. Check the voucher for the current inclusions.
What if there is no snow?+
The tour is built around snow and is mostly sold in the winter months. Sledding is sometimes cancelled when it is icy, so ask about the alternative.
How far is the camp?+
The page gives no distance, but reviewers say the drive is about twenty to thirty minutes from Tromsø. The transfers are included in the price.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes, the sleigh ride is gentle and the feeding is popular with children. Dress them in warm layers because you spend time outside.