Tromsø: Reindeer Feeding & Chance of Northern Lights Viewing

Key Points

• Duration: 4.5 hours, departing from Tromsø
• Activities: Feeding and petting reindeer, learning about Sámi culture, and searching for the Northern Lights
• Location: Camp Breivikeidet, surrounded by mountains and the Lyngen Alps
• Food: Traditional Sámi meal of Bithos, with hot beverages and cookies
• Guides: Knowledgeable local guides who share stories and cultural insights
• Best suited for: Those comfortable with cold weather, with no mobility impairments or wheelchair use

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Tromsø’s Reindeer Experience with Sami Culture and Aurora Chances

This 4.5-hour tour from Tromsø offers a captivating blend of Arctic wildlife, indigenous culture, and the potential to witness the Northern Lights. Starting at the Radisson Blue hotel, the tour takes you to camp Breivikeidet, a scenic spot surrounded by impressive mountains and the Lyngen Alps. Here, the opportunity to feed and pet reindeer in a genuine Sami setting makes this experience truly authentic. The tour’s design emphasizes cultural education, outdoor adventure, and warm local cuisine, making it especially appealing for those eager to connect with Arctic traditions.

While the main attraction is the reindeer feeding experience, the tour also provides a chance to see the dancing Aurora if the sky clears. Since the camp is free from light pollution, it is an excellent location for Aurora spotting, although sightings are not guaranteed. The tour concludes back in Tromsø, leaving visitors with a memorable taste of Sami life, Arctic landscapes, and northern skies.

Key Points

• Authentic Sami reindeer camp experience just outside Tromsø
• Includes feeding and petting reindeer, with plenty of time to interact
• Opportunity to see the Northern Lights in a dark, mountain-surrounded setting
• Traditional Sami meal of Bithos, served in a cozy tent or hut
• Insightful guides share stories about Sami culture, reindeer herding, and Arctic life
• Suitable for travelers prepared for cold weather, with no mobility impairments

From Tromsø to Camp Breivikeidet: Scenic Mountain Journey

The tour departs from Tromsø with a comfortable coach ride lasting approximately 90 minutes to camp Breivikeidet. This location is chosen for its stunning mountain views and proximity to the Lyngen Alps, providing a scenic backdrop for the Arctic adventure. The bus ride is described as smooth and well-organized, and the guides clearly communicate instructions for the reindeer feeding activity.

Upon arrival, visitors step off the bus and are greeted by the breathtaking landscape. The camp is set in an open area, ideal for Aurora viewing, especially because there is minimal artificial light. The guided walk takes you to the reindeer fence, where feeding and petting these friendly animals is a highlight. The environment is lively, with many reindeer eager to eat, making it easy for visitors to get close and take photos, all under the watchful eye of experienced guides.

Feeding and Petting Reindeer in an Arctic Landscape

The core activity at the Sami camp is the reindeer feeding session, which lasts about an hour. Visitors are provided with ample food, and the reindeer are described as very eager eaters that approach with enthusiasm. The experience allows for touching and petting the animals, creating a close-up encounter with Arctic wildlife.

The reindeer are kept in a fence area designed for visitors to interact safely. The environment is characterized by muddy terrain—a common feature in outdoor reindeer farms—so waterproof boots and warm clothing are highly recommended. The animals are described as adorable, friendly, and eager, making this activity a fun and memorable part of the trip.

Guides are available to answer questions about the reindeer, their behavior, and Sami herding traditions, enriching the experience beyond simple observation. The activity is designed to be engaging and family-friendly, with many reviews praising the close contact with the animals.

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Exploring Sami Culture at the Traditional Camp

After reindeer interactions, visitors move to an authentic Gamme, a traditional Sami hut or house, to learn about Arctic Sami life. Inside, the guides provide insights into the lifestyle, clothing, and customs of the Sami people, with the opportunity to see and touch traditional handcrafted clothes.

The cultural presentation lasts about 45 minutes and includes storytelling, explanations of reindeer herding as a way of life, and details about Sami traditions. Guides are described as friendly and knowledgeable, happy to answer questions and share stories. This part of the experience offers a deeper understanding of indigenous Arctic culture, making the trip both educational and immersive.

Enjoying Traditional Sámi Cuisine: Bithos and Hot Beverages

A major highlight for many is the traditional Sámi meal of Bithos, served in the cozy camp setting. This dish, typically reserved for special occasions, is a reindeer stew that is described as tasty and hearty. The meal is accompanied by bread, butter, cookies, and hot beverages, including hot chocolate and tea.

Some reviews mention that the food is delicious and warming, especially appreciated during the cold Arctic evening. The meal is served in a Gamme hut or tent, where visitors can relax after the outdoor activities. The inclusion of vegetarian options demonstrates thoughtful catering, ensuring that most dietary preferences are accommodated.

Chasing the Northern Lights in a Prime Location

Although seeing the Northern Lights is never guaranteed due to weather conditions, the camp Breivikeidet is regarded as a prime spot for Aurora viewing. The location is carefully chosen for its minimal light pollution and mountain scenery, increasing the chances of a spectacular display.

Guides are described as always on the lookout outside, ready to alert visitors when the Aurora appears. Some participants are fortunate enough to witness dancing lights above their heads, making the effort and weather conditions worthwhile. The camp’s natural setting provides an excellent backdrop for Aurora photography, especially if the sky is clear.

Practicalities: Meeting Point, What to Bring, and Accessibility

The tour begins at a designated meeting point in front of the Radisson Blue hotel, specifically on the side with Rorbua Pub and Scandic Ishav hotel. Guides are identifiable by blue Tromsø Lapland ponchos, making them easy to spot.

Participants should wear warm clothing, hats, gloves, and scarves to stay comfortable in the Arctic evening. It’s also advised to bring waterproof boots due to muddy terrain. The tour does not accommodate pets or people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, so those with accessibility needs should plan accordingly.

Transport is provided via a coach, with the drive to the camp lasting about 90 minutes. The entire experience is designed for groups, with no option for custom pick-up or drop-off points.

Food and Beverages in Cold Weather Conditions

The traditional Sami meal includes reindeer stew (Bithos), which is described as delicious and filling. The meal is served with small biscuits and cookies, along with hot chocolate and tea—perfect for keeping warm in the chilly outdoor environment. Some reviews mention that the fire providing heat can run out of gas, making the tent a bit cold during dining, so dressing warmly remains important.

Vegetarian options are available, ensuring flexibility for dietary restrictions. The food is praised for its authenticity and flavor, offering a taste of Sami culinary traditions.

The Guide and Cultural Insights

Guides at the camp are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and storytelling ability. They share insights into Sami culture, reindeer herding, and Arctic lifestyles, making the experience enriching and educational. Many reviews highlight the guides’ willingness to answer questions and their passion for Sami traditions.

Some guides go beyond the standard tour commentary, sharing personal stories and engaging with visitors in a warm, approachable manner. This personal touch makes the cultural segment stand out as a meaningful part of the trip.

Aurora Viewing: Chances and Tips

While the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed, the tour’s optimized location improves the likelihood of sightings. Many reviews mention successful Aurora displays, with some describing spectacular light shows. The guides monitor the sky constantly and alert visitors when the Aurora appears.

To increase chances, visitors are encouraged to dress warmly and be patient, as Aurora activity varies nightly. The natural landscape and low artificial light make camp Breivikeidet a favorable spot for Aurora photography.

Suitability and Practical Tips

This tour is ideal for those comfortable in cold weather, as outdoor activities take place in the Arctic evening. It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to terrain and access limitations. Participants should wear warm, waterproof clothing, including hats, gloves, and scarves.

While the bus ride out is approximately 90 minutes, the journey itself is described as comfortable. Travelers should be prepared for muddy terrain at the camp, which makes waterproof footwear essential. The experience is family-friendly, with many reviews noting that children enjoy the reindeer interactions and Sami storytelling.

Final Thoughts: A Cultural and Natural Arctic Adventure

This Reindeer Feeding and Northern Lights tour from Tromsø offers a well-rounded Arctic experience, combining the chance to interact with reindeer, learn about Sami traditions, and possibly see the Aurora. The authentic Sami meal adds a special touch, making the trip feel warm and genuine despite the cold outdoor conditions.

The guides’ expertise and friendliness, along with the beautiful mountain surroundings, make this a memorable outing. It is especially suited for people eager to connect with indigenous culture and Arctic wildlife in a natural setting. While weather conditions can affect Aurora sightings, the location and experience deliver plenty of other highlights, making it a worthwhile choice for visitors seeking authenticity and outdoor adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
Feeding and petting reindeer, a traditional Sami meal of Bithos, folk music, Sami cultural stories, and a chance to see the Northern Lights if conditions permit.

Where does the tour meet?
In front of the main entrance of Radisson Blue hotel in Tromsø, on the side with Rorbua Pub and Scandic Ishav hotel.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 4.5 hours, including transportation and activities.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing, including hat, gloves, scarf, and waterproof boots recommended due to muddy terrain.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, Aurora sightings depend on weather and sky conditions, but the camp is optimized for Aurora viewing.

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, vegetarian dishes are available, including simple soups and warm drinks.

Can I customize or get a private tour?
No, the tour operates with group bookings and does not offer custom pick-up or drop-off.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments.

What do I learn about Sami culture?
Guides share stories about Sami traditions, reindeer herding, clothing, and Arctic lifestyle, making the experience informative.

Can children participate?
Yes, the activity is family-friendly, and children generally enjoy feeding reindeer and hearing Sami stories.

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