Tromsø Reindeer Feeding & Sami Cultural Experience

Tromsø is an incredible place to immerse yourself in the culture and beauty of Northern Norway. The district is full of sweeping countryside, fjords, mountains, and plenty of opportunities to experience the Arctic culture as you explore the district. One of the most photographed and oft-visited sites is the Tromsø Reindeer Park, where visitors can get up close and personal with Northern Norway’s original residents.

Not only can you view the reindeer up close, but the park offers a unique opportunity to feed them and learn about their Husky refuge and Sami culture. The Sami people, who inhabit the Arctic regions of Norway, Sweden, Finland and parts of Russia, have a long history and rich cultural identity. By visiting the Tromsø Reindeer Park, you can learn more about their culture and experience some of their ancient traditions first-hand.

What to Expect at Tromsø Reindeer Park

Tromsø Reindeer Park is open year-round, though late summer and early autumn offer particularly beautiful views of the mountains, fjords and coastlines from the park. The park is centered around its visitors’ centre and overlooks sprawling reindeer enclosures which are home to over 500 reindeer. You can observe them from the comfort of the centre and watch as they graze peacefully on the park’s grassland areas. The centre also offers interactive educational activities as well as a café serving local delicacies and refreshments.
In addition to viewing and learning about the reindeer, visitors can also feed them during select times throughout the day. At the park’s Petting Zoo or “Fiskerstova’, visitors can purchase reindeer-feeding pellets and hand feed the animals directly through trenches. Don’t forget to bring your camera for some great photo opportunities!

Sami Cultural Experiences

Reindeers aren’t only fascinating animals on their own; they’re also a deeply intertwined part of Sami life and culture in Tromsø. During the park’s Sami cultural experiences, you can learn more about the ancient traditions, beliefs and practices that are still alive today in the reindeer herding industry.

You can expect an educational and intimate experience led by a Sami guide, who will explain the traditional uses of reindeer products such as hides, meat, clothing and tools. You’ll also have the chance to try a traditional Norwegian snack: Crispbread served with gammelost cheese or other ingredients like locally caught salmon or herring. You’ll even have the chance to try your hand at roasting coffee over an open fire, just like Sami people did in generations past.
The Sami cultural tour also includes an introduction to traditional Sami handicrafts such as weaving, with visitors being allowed to create a small piece by themselves. This journey into past-times also includes an authentic Jumbo made from birch bark, which participants can ride if they choose.

The Husky Refuge

The Tromsø Reindeer Park also cares for a different group of animals: its huskies. These furry friends live in their own cozy refuge at the centre, where they are cared for during the winter and can be visited by little children hoping to give them some attention or a treat!
The huskies are kept in enclosures above ground and cared for by staff members who have extensive experience with keeping them and looking after them. In addition to taking care of the huskies, staff members also provide talks about the animals for visitors and explain how the huskies were used historically in Arctic regions for sledding.

Book Your Visit to Tromsø Reindeer Park

Tromsø Reindeer Park is a unique experience that introduces visitors to Northern Norway’s oldest residents, reindeer. Located in a stunning setting, surrounded by fjords and mountains, here you can feed reindeers and learn about Sami culture from experienced guides as well as visit the park’s Husky refuge.
To ensure you don’t miss out on this beautiful experience, book a tour in advance online with GetYourGuide so you don’t miss out!

An Insider’s Guide to Tromsø, Norway

Tromsø, a city in Norway, is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and its rich cultural heritage. If you are planning a visit to Tromsø, here is an insider’s guide to help you discover some of the hidden gems of the city.

Local Attractions

While the Northern Lights and the Fjords are the obvious attractions of Tromsø, this city also has a lot of hidden gems that only locals know. One such gem is the cable car ride to Mount Storsteinen, which offers a breathtaking view of Tromsø and its surroundings. Another lesser-known attraction in Tromsø is the Polaria Aquarium, where you can catch a glimpse of the Arctic marine life.

Dining Spots

Tromsø has a robust food culture, which is heavily influenced by its location in the Arctic. One popular local dish is the “Bacalao”, which is a stew made using salted cod, potatoes, onions, and tomatoes. You can find this dish at Fiskekompaniet, a popular seafood restaurant situated at the harbor, known for its fresh catches from the Arctic waters. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, try the “Lefse”, a traditional pastry made using potatoes, at Åpent Bakeri.

Cultural Experiences

Tromsø is home to the Indigenous Sami people, who have a significant impact on the city’s cultural heritage. One cultural experience you cannot miss in Tromsø is the Sami Reindeer Feeding Experience, which takes you on a journey through the Arctic tundra to feed the reindeer. You can also visit the Tromsø Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden to learn about the native plants of the Arctic region, or the Tromsø Museum to explore exhibits on Sami culture and the natural history of the region.

Local History

Tromsø has a fascinating history that goes beyond just being a fishing town. A must-visit is the Polarmuseet, a museum that showcases the history of Tromsø as the gateway to the Arctic. For a deeper dive into the city’s history, visit the Tromsø Cathedral, the only wooden cathedral in Norway, which dates back to 1861.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

If you’re looking for an unforgettable and unique experience, look no further than the Tromsø Ice Domes. Constructed entirely from snow and ice, the Ice Domes offer a surreal experience of staying in an otherworldly environment. Another off-beat experience is the Midnight Sun Marathon, where you can run under the sun at midnight during the summer solstice.

In conclusion, Tromsø offers a unique blend of natural beauty, local cuisine, and cultural experiences that are steeped in history. By exploring these hidden gems of the city, you will have an unforgettable and enriching experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.