Step into the heart of Arctic Norway’s heritage on this private day tour from Tromsø, where you’ll immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the Sámi people and connect with their gentle reindeer friends! Enjoy an intimate encounter at a Sámi camp, complete with reindeer feeding and joik singing inside a traditional lavvu tent. This personalized tour offers an authentic glimpse into Sámi life, past and present.

The itinerary below is a sample itinerary to show you what you can expect from this private tour. All tour itineraries can be customized to make it perfect for your group’s individual needs.

Private Itinerary for Sámi Culture & Reindeer Experience

Your private tour begins with your private driver-guide collecting you at your Tromsø accommodation. Enjoy a scenic drive out of Tromsø into the surrounding Arctic wilderness while your private guide shares insights into Sámi heritage along the way.

Sámi Reindeer Camp

Your journey into the world of the native Sámi people begins with a visit to an authentic family-run reindeer camp. Just picture a serene Arctic setting with fjord views and snowy hills. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a Sámi host, proudly wearing a traditional gákti, a colorful, woolen garment that varies by family and region. They will normally share personal stories passed down through generations as they lead you towards the reindeer enclosure.

You’ll be introduced to a herd of friendly reindeer that are accustomed to human interaction and will often approach you with curiosity. You’ll be taught how to feed the reindeer, and you’ll have the chance to hand-feed them lichen or pellets.

Your host will explain how each animal is cared for and how the herd is managed throughout the year. Learn about the cycle of reindeer migration, traditional herding techniques, and how the reindeer are viewed as sacred animals.

Reindeer Sledding

Depending on the time of year, you can finish with a reindeer sled ride on a traditional wooden sled. It’s the perfect end to a surreal experience getting to know these beautiful animals and their significance to Sámi culture.

Sámi-Inspired Lunch

To immerse yourself in Sámi culture, you can enjoy a traditional Sámi lunch to really get a glimpse into daily life. Common dishes include bidos (a traditional reindeer stew with root vegetables), fresh bread, and Arctic berry juice. Vegetarian options available upon request

Lavvu Experience (Traditional Sámi Tent)

For another surreal experience, you’ll gather around a fire inside a lavvu, a traditional Sámi tent. The session begins with a joik performance, the traditional Sámi form of song. The performer will explain the inspiration behind their joik and how this art form has survived centuries of suppression to remain a proud symbol of Sámi identity. Each joik is dedicated to something significant, such as a personal, an animal or a memory.

Enjoy storytelling around the fire, with your Sámi host sharing traditional tales and personal reflections. Learn about the Sámi perspective on life, and conclude your session with time to ask questions and engage with your Sámi host.

It’s a unique experience, sitting around an intimate fire and the chance to have a deeper emotional connection to Sámi traditions.

Sámi Crafts

Before you leave the camp, you’ll have some free time to browse handcrafted Sámi items, such as knives, duodji, and reindeer fur. This gives you the opportunity to get some unique souvenirs from a wonderful day while also supporting Sámi artisans.

Return to Tromsø

Enjoy a relaxed drive back to the city as your private driver-guide takes you back to your Tromsø accommodation. Feel free to ask your private guide any remaining questions about Sámi traditions or the special reindeer you got to meet.