On the whale and orca route, Norwegian Far North
In summary
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Sports
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Duration7 days
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LevelAll levels
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DestinationEurope / Norway
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AgeFrom 18 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions113.47 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
In a few words
Embark on a journey to conquer the Norwegian Far North on a fascinating voyage along the whale and orca route . Your adventure begins in Tromsø , the vibrant Arctic capital. Affectionately known as "the Paris of the North," this unique city will captivate you with its polar charm.
Then, let yourself be dazzled by the magnificent panoramas of the Lyngen Alps , a breathtaking natural setting, on your way to Skjervøy . It is here that you will experience an unforgettable encounter with orcas and cetaceans , a magical moment in the crystal-clear waters of the fjords.
Your journey will then take you to the gates of Reisa National Park . Settled on the banks of a peaceful river, completely immersed in the surrounding nature, you can indulge in the joys of polar outdoor activities . An unforgettable escape to the heart of wild and unspoiled nature.
The highlights
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A timeless pause to observe cetaceans
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An off-the-beaten-path exploration by dogsled
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Unusual accommodations in the heart of nature
Photos
Sport
Level
Mushing
A dog sledding activity accessible to everyone, from beginners to experienced mushers. The sled team, route, and level of supervision are tailored to individual ability, conditions, and goals. Enjoy a safe experience, whether you are discovering the sport, progressing, or honing your skills.
The expert's opinion
This trip is accessible to everyone! The only skill required will be your curiosity about Norwegian life.
In figures
Dog sledding ride
- Average duration/day: 3h
Management
Program
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Discovering the Arctic City
- Accommodation Private chalet
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Your stay begins in Tromsø , a city nestled between the sea and the mountains. You can start your exploration at the Arctic Cathedral before heading to the summit of Fløyfjellet at 420 meters above sea level, accessible on foot via the steps or by taking the Fjellheisen cable car . From the summit, you'll enjoy panoramic views of the city and the fjords . To better understand the history of local expeditions, you'll then visit the Polar Museum . You'll end your day at the Mack Brewery , where you can sample local products at the Ølhallen pub.
The next day, you'll meet your Sami guides at their encampment . This herding people will share their way of life, shaped by centuries of tradition. You'll interact with a herd of approximately 200 reindeer and take the time to hand-feed them. After lunch , you'll settle inside a lavvu , the traditional tent, around a wood fire. Your guide will explain the history of Sami culture , the daily life of reindeer herding today, and perform a joik , the traditional local song.
Days 1 to 2 -
Towards the island of Skjervøya!
- Accommodation Private chalet
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
You leave Tromsø for a journey of approximately 3.5 hours towards Skjervøy . You first take the E8 southbound to bypass the islands, before joining the E6 northbound. This route offers unobstructed views of the Lyngen Alps . As night falls, you set out in search of the Northern Lights . If the phenomenon doesn't appear, you can still enjoy the surrounding tranquility to observe the night sky and contemplate the stars , planets , and the Milky Way .
Day 3 -
Heading towards the Reisa Valley
- Activity Dog sledding ride
- Duration of the activity 3h per day
- Accommodation Lodge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
This morning, you'll board a rigid inflatable boat departing from Skjervøy to explore the Arctic fjord . From late October to late January, these waters are home to numerous marine mammals. You'll head out to sea in search of orcas , humpback whales , sperm whales , and fin whales in their natural habitat.
The adventure continues in the Reisa Valley with a dogsledding excursion. You'll take the reins of your own team of dogs to traverse the region's winter landscape. During the outing, a stop is planned to enjoy hot food and drinks before continuing on your way.
Days 4 to 5 -
Return to Tromsø
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
You begin your return journey towards the Arctic capital, Tromsø . After approximately four hours of driving through the Nordic landscapes, you settle back into the city. You then have the rest of the day to explore the city at your own pace, whether strolling through its lively streets, walking along the waterfront, or visiting one of its many cultural venues.
Day 6 -
End of your adventure in Norway
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
You're heading to Tromsø Airport to return your rental car . Remember to allow plenty of time to refuel , check your luggage , and go through security without any stress. If the rental counter is closed when you arrive, take a few photos of the car before dropping the keys in the designated key box . You'll then board your flight home .
Day 7
Note
Please note that all winter activities are dependent on the day's weather and snow conditions. Some activities may not be possible if conditions are unfavorable.
Accommodation
A group of chalets 10 minutes from Tromsø city centre.
Magnificent lodge in Reisa National Park. Overnight stays in single rooms.
Hotel on the outskirts of Tromsø (accessible by bus and taxi)
Access
This tour is self-guided, so your arrival and departure times are flexible and can be adjusted according to your flights/trains/ferries etc.
Arrival at Tromsø Airport (TOS). Car rental is not included and must be arranged by the customer. We recommend renting a car for the entire duration of your stay (days 1 to 7).
Go to the starting point
Tromsø is a hub in northern Norway and direct flights are increasingly developing with major European airports.
Your accommodations have free parking
Price details
The price includes
- The 6 nights in hotels and/or individual accommodations
- Breakfasts in Tromsø and Reisa (x5)
- Visit and exploration of the Sami camp (day 2)
- Northern Lights Hunt (Day 3)
- The boat trip to observe cetaceans (day 4)
- The guided excursion with the sled dogs (day 5)
- Tips and advice from our local agency
The price does not include
- Return flights (Tromsø TOS)
- Car rental from day 1 to day 7 (Tromsø airport)
- Meals not mentioned
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
Specific equipment for the activities will be provided by our partners, just remember your general equipment (waterproof shoes and overlayers, base layers, winter accessories...) for your comfort.
Clothing to bring
Norwegians love winter and have learned to adapt to it. The key is to layer: a wool base layer, a thick sweater, and a jacket.
Here's what we recommend you bring to do the same:
- Two pairs of base layers and thermal underwear (preferably wool, as it retains heat better). Having two pairs will allow you to change after physical activity and avoid getting cold by staying in the same clothes you wore while exercising.
- Pair of socks (also wool if possible).
- Pair of snow boots
- A pair of city cleats to prevent you from falling (you can find them at Decathlon, or directly in Norway).
- Heavy winter jacket
- A lightweight down jacket and a GORE-TEX type jacket allowing better breathability if you are doing a sporting activity.
- Scarf or buff, hat
- Gloves and liner gloves (made of wool).
- Ski-type trousers, waterproof and windproof.
- Pair of sunglasses and sunscreen (the reflection of the sun on the snow increases the impact of UV rays on the skin).
- Don't forget to bring your swimsuit if you plan on using the sauna.
The Sébastien team
Specializing in leisure travel, our local partner is a French-speaking destination management company (DMC) based in Gjøvik, on the shores of Lake Mjøsa. They organize tailor-made trips for groups and independent travelers (FITs). Thanks to their extensive experience in Scandinavia, they guarantee their clients optimal service and a highly responsive approach to planning each trip. Their in-depth knowledge of the region makes them an ideal partner for exploring it with complete peace of mind.
