Tromsø Fjords & Reindeer: Sami Culture, Sommarøy Lunch

Summary

Arctic fjords, Sami reindeer herding & Sommarøy lunch with locals

You’ll ride along Kvaløya’s wild coastline with a local guide, hand-feed reindeer with a Sami herder, and warm up inside a lavvo tent listening to traditional Joik songs. Afterward there’s time for lunch at Sommarøy Arctic Hotel and a walk by windswept beaches—expect moments that stick with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I didn’t expect to laugh so much feeding reindeer in the snow. The day started on Kvaløya, just outside Tromsø—our small group bundled up and half-awake as the bus wound along icy roads between mountains and those silent blue fjords. Our guide, Erik, pointed out where the sea eagles sometimes perch (we didn’t see one, but I kept looking). There’s something about that northern light—kind of soft and gray even when it’s bright out—that makes you pay attention to small things, like the crunch of your boots or how your breath hangs in the air.

Meeting the Sami herder was honestly my favorite part. He called out across the field and suddenly these reindeer just appeared from behind a stand of birch trees—antlers everywhere. We took turns offering lichen from our hands; their noses are softer than I thought. I got licked (twice), which felt weirdly funny. Inside the lavvo tent, we crowded around a fire while he sang Joik—his voice low and steady—and talked about his family’s traditions. The smoke clung to my jacket for hours after. Someone tried to say thank you in Sami and got it all wrong; everyone laughed, including our host.

Lunch at Sommarøy Arctic Hotel was simple but good—I picked fish soup because Erik said it’s what locals order when it’s cold. You could see little islands through the window, all snow-dusted and quiet. After eating, we wandered down to the water; I watched two kids kicking a football on a patch of sand that looked almost tropical if you ignored your freezing fingers. It’s funny how far away city noise feels here.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kvaløya tour and Sami reindeer experience

• Bus tour around Kvaløya island
• Stop to admire landscapes
• Visit Sami reindeer herder
• Feed reindeer by hand
• Gather in Sami lavvo by bonfire
• Enjoy Joik and learn Sami traditions
• Visit Sommarøy islands
• Lunch at Sommarøy Arctic Hotel
• Explore Sommarøy by walking

Top questions

How long does this day trip from Tromsø take?

The tour lasts about 6-7 hours including stops at Kvaløya, the Sami reindeer experience, and lunch at Sommarøy.

Is lunch included during the private tour?

Yes, lunch is included at Sommarøy Arctic Hotel with options for dietary needs like vegan or gluten-free.

Do I need special clothing for feeding reindeer?

Thermal suits and warm shoes are provided for guests during the outdoor activities with reindeer.

Can I join if I have limited mobility?

A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended as there is some walking on uneven ground.

Are alcoholic drinks included in lunch?

No, alcoholic drinks like wine or beer are available but must be paid separately at the restaurant.

Is hotel pickup included in this Tromsø tour?

The tour includes pickup; details will be confirmed after booking.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup in Tromsø, transport around Kvaløya island with a local guide, hand-feeding reindeer alongside a Sami herder (with thermal gear provided), time inside a traditional lavvo tent by an open fire listening to Joik songs, plus lunch at Sommarøy Arctic Hotel—with coffee, tea or hot chocolate always ready before heading back in the afternoon.