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Things to do in Kvaløya, Norway

Our most recommended things to do in Kvaløya, Norway

Tromsø: Self-Drive Husky Dog Sledding Adventure

1. Tromsø: Self-Drive Husky Dog Sledding Adventure

Embark on a guided sledding experience from Tromsø. Take turns directing the sled or simply enjoy the incredible Arctic scenery. After, trade stories around a warm fire with some hot chocolate and cake. Hop on the comfortable minibus and drive to the kennel on the island of Kvaløya. Once kitted out, head to the kennel and see the 130 Alaskan Huskies, who are always excited to meet guests. Get a short demonstration on how to drive a sled and feel free to ask any questions. Then, follow your guide and meet your huskies. Each pair, one passenger, and one driver will have their own sled. Enjoy several opportunities to swap between roles once the trip starts. Finally, head out to the snow and follow the guide along the trail. Take photos throughout the trip and take in the incredible landscapes. After your 90-minute sledding adventure, make your way into the Sami Lavvo for hot drinks and Hege's famous homemade chocolate cake. Trade stories from the trip around the cozy fireplace until it is time to change out of your suits and hop back on the bus. You will be returned to the pickup point. 

From Tromsø: Small-Group 4x4 Arctic Roadtrip

2. From Tromsø: Small-Group 4x4 Arctic Roadtrip

Head off on a 4x4 adventure to explore Norway's Arctic wildlife and landscapes. Go exploring in a 4x4 van equipped for off-road adventures. On your way to Kvaløya island, enjoy the ever-changing landscapes, and be sure to look out for roaming wildlife. Have the possibility to spot soaring sea eagles, native reindeer, and the elusive moose. Make several scenic stops along the way, and capture the landscapes with professional photos taken for you throughout the tip. Upon reaching the archipelago islands, we will enjoy an organic homemade light picnic, and a warm drink. As you continue through the mountain valley, pass quaint fishing villages, and make a final stop at one of the most dramatic fjords on the island.  The seasons in the North are full of charm and character. From autumn colours, to snow capped mountains, with the soft light of polar night, and the feeling of warmth as the sun returns. The melting snow slowly unveils the blooming landscapes as waterfalls begin to flow again.

Tromso: Guided Fjord Expedition & Kvaløya Island with Lunch

3. Tromso: Guided Fjord Expedition & Kvaløya Island with Lunch

Experience the untamed beauty of the Arctic wilderness. Visit the incredible landscapes offered by the northern fjords, to the islands around the city of Tromsø. The tour starts with pickup from Tromsø and heads out into the natural landscape of the surrounding fjords to the west side of the city. First stop is Kvaløya, one of Norway’s biggest and most beautiful islands. Here, take advantage of the viewpoint to admire the breathtaking landscapes of the fjords, mountains, beaches, lakes, forests, and small villages in the countryside of Tromsø. Let yourself be carried away by the peace and tranquility of the scenarios that will gradually present themselves before your eyes, but pay attention to the wildlife that we may encounter: sea eagles, reindeer, moose and otters, are just a few examples. A light lunch, consumed by the sea, will be an unforgettable experience. Immerse yourself in the stunning scenes around you and experience all the arctic wilderness has to offer. During the tour, your guides will help you to set up your camera in case you want to take pictures like a pro. Listen to your guide talk about the native flora and fauna of the region and watch out for the variety of wildlife that lives here including otters, reindeer, and sea birds.

Tromsø: Arctic Fjord Cruise by Hybrid-Electric Catamaran

4. Tromsø: Arctic Fjord Cruise by Hybrid-Electric Catamaran

Depart from Tromsø and set off to explore the bays, straights, and fjords of the Arctic which are rich in wildlife and history. Make a few stops en route including at modern fish farms, small fishing villages, and ancient island communities on the outside of Kvaløya or ‘whale island’. Watch as the crew deploys an underwater drone. See the rich marine life found in the crystal clear shallows. Purchase drinks and a warm lunch on board, to enjoy while taking in the magnificent panoramic views.

From Tromsø: Northern Lights Chase to Aurora Camps

5. From Tromsø: Northern Lights Chase to Aurora Camps

Look for the dazzling northern lights on this guided bus trip from Tromsø. Sit by a fire at a camp and have some warm local fare along with some steamy beverages.  Be picked up from a meeting point in the city center of Tromsø, from there set off by bus to hunt for the northern lights. Along the way, search for locations with low light pollution, minimal cloud coverage, and scenic backdrops get some photos. Choose best site for the night, as the camp visited depends on the latest aurora and weather forecast which is decided upon by guides prior to (sometimes during) the tour. All of our camps have cabins or comfortable lavvus (Sami tents), while toilet facilities are located on the bus. At the camp, be served warm stew and enjoy a heated beverage around the fire as your wait for the northern lights to appear. If you are lucky and the northern lights start flickering above in the sky, the guide will assist you in capturing photos. Get some portrait photos which will be sent to you after the tour. While the lights cannot be guaranteed since the northern lights are a natural phenomenon, you can book a the same tour again at half off if the lights are not spotted.

Tromsø: Arctic Landscape and Fjord Tour

6. Tromsø: Arctic Landscape and Fjord Tour

Join our Arctic Landscape and Fjord Tour and experience the breathtaking arctic nature live and from the closest distance. We will take you to the most beautiful view points fjords, valleys, mountains, lakes and islands and other extraordinary view points in this region. Enjoy the pure and fresh air and water in this area. Our destination will be the coast of the Norwegian sea, with the beautiful greenly shining water, with white sand beaches This combination is so amazing that it has to be experienced. Wild life that live in this area are reindeer, moose, seals, sea eagles, otters that can be spotted with a little bit of luck in the area we drive through. Who knows maybe you spot even whales during their invasion in November or in January/February when they leave again. At our final destination on a high valley we will serve you hot chocolate and Norwegian traditional Lefse cake.

From Tromsø: Guided Husky Snowshoe Hike and Husky Camp Visit

7. From Tromsø: Guided Husky Snowshoe Hike and Husky Camp Visit

Walking on top of a deep layer of snow, listen to the steady rhythm of your breath. A gorgeous mountain landscapes stretches as far as the eye can see; let the image sink into your mind. For the locals, hiking is more than just another outdoor activity, it is the most intimate way to experience nature. Immerse yourself in the moment and let things fall into perspective; clear your head and refill your batteries. Follow your guide into the Arctic wilderness and experience it all for yourself. The exact route will be determined based on the weather conditions and wishes of the group. If the weather allows, enjoy your homemade chocolate cake and something hot to drink on the trail while taking in the views. Otherwise, indulge in the snack around an open fire at the husky camp upon return. Get to know the fluffy friends and their puppies before heading back to Tromsø.

Tromsø: Arctic Fjords and Reindeer Experience

8. Tromsø: Arctic Fjords and Reindeer Experience

Experience the beauty of Kvaløya island on this tour from Tromso. Enjoy a delicious local lunch at the Sommarøy Arctic Hotel. Be surrounded by hundreds of reindeer and have the opportunity to feed them. Be picked up at the meeting point in Tromso and relax on the comfortable journey to the island of Kvaløya. Have the chance to stop and take pictures of local wildlife that you spot along the way.  Once you arrive at the island, be surrounded by snow-capped mountains and arctic fjords. Stop for a lunch made with local ingredients at the Sommarøy Arctic Hotel, which has views overlooking the water. Hear stories and facts about the indigenous Sámi people. Find out how life has changed for these people. Take some time to explore the fishing community on a short walk.  Head off to meet a local Sámi reindeer herder. Watch how the herder calls his herd using a bell. View how the reindeer are free to roam in the wilderness. After a quick safety briefing, feed the reindeer.   Gather in a lavvo (Sámi traditional tent) and sit around a bonfire to enjoy joiking (Sámi folk songs). Listen as your hosts tell you more about their culture and traditions. Relax in the lavvo tent, before heading back to Tromsø. 

Tromsø: Winter Sea Kayaking Guided Tour with Snacks

9. Tromsø: Winter Sea Kayaking Guided Tour with Snacks

Put on your drysuit and hop into your kayak as you paddle around the Arctic sea in winter. See birds, seals, and otters. Get off your kayak at a nice beach as you savor snacks and hot drinks on the seashore. Enjoy a transfer to and from Tromsø city center. Come to the meeting point where you will receive a safety briefing and introduction to winter sea kayaking from your certified local guide. Watch as the guide picks a suitable location according to the weather conditions. Put on your drysuit and get ready for your kayaking adventure. Board your double kayak. Choose a single kayak if you can show sufficient kayaking skills. Appreciate the crystal clear water and clean air of the Norweigan winter or fall as you row in the sea in the Kaldfjorden or Eidkjosen area. Look out for common eiders gathering urchins. Observe White-tailed Sea Eagles scouting for prey and witness an otter swimming away with its latest fish catch. Have the chance to be followed by a seal swimming by your side as you tour the islands, sounds, and archipelagoes. Arrive at a beach halfway through your adventure and explore the shore. Enjoy a snack and some hot beverages. Warm yourself up and prepare for the journey back. Finish your tour at the activity center.

Tromsø: Boat & Bus Fjord Tour with Tasting and Ersfjord stop

10. Tromsø: Boat & Bus Fjord Tour with Tasting and Ersfjord stop

Upon departure we will explore the gorgeous fjords closest to Tromsø. These arctic fjords are filled with history and interesting sights. We can see the location of the old polar bear zoo on land and spot the remnants of the german battleship Tirpitz in the fjord. We will use our underwater drone to livestream the little bits that are still visible of this WWII ship and our guides will bring the story to life. Afterwards we continue south too Rya, where we step on land at an old fishing facility. Here we will go into the facility and our amazing guides will walk you through a small exhibition and share the stories of the industry that has shaped life, culture and tradition in the Arctic & Tromsø. They will also show you some of their rare catches, as well as let you try our northern speciality of dried fish and some fish oil. You can also get close to the famous fish racks outside. From here we switch to a bus and we continue overland to Ersfjord. Erfjord is a stunning fjord hugged by tall mountains that go straight down into the fjord. Along the way we might spot some wildlife. Once in Ersfjord, we will spend 10-15 minutes at this picturesque and iconic fjord for a photo stop. Afterwards we will return back to Tromsø. Our on board cafe has a selection of local food & drinks available for purchase.

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What people are saying about Kvaløya, Norway

Overall rating

4.8 / 5

based on 1,964 reviews

Collection was on time in a super comfortable, clean van. 35mins later and we were at the husky shelter. So many happy huskies waiting to greet us. We quickly jumped into our provided snowsuits and boots before making our way back outside to say hello to all of the huskies. Such happy dogs, all more than happy to accept a quick scratch and a cuddle. Guides gave us a good overview of how to manage the sleds, and away we went. The route was unreal, the dogs love to run and there was a couple stops to switch and take pics. When we got back to the shelter, we took some selfies with happy dogs. Great coffee and tea inside the hut, a warm fire and some good chocolate cake while we listened to the owners tales was a nice finish. It seems expensive but worth every cent in our opinion! One of the best things to do in Tromsø (and maybe anywhere). 20/10

The pickup is on time too and didn't rush you to go back to town after the event, cheers to the driver! The dogs and guides are very friendly. The guides give clear instructions on how to dog sledge properly like how to brake properly, what to take note of when going downhill, etc. The dogs on the other hand just wanna run. =P Be prepared to fall and be physically fit enough to help the dogs if the sledge is going uphill.

We learned so much about the Sami culture and had an incredible time getting to know our guides, learning the culture, feeding the reindeer, and seeing the views. The guides were passionate about their culture and ensuring that it is spread throughout the world. Lunch was served and was also very good and a nice break in the middle of the trip

We really enjoyed this tour. Our guide Virgil gave us plenty of information, including scientific facts, about the area. He showed us some beautiful views we would not have found without him. He also took some beautiful pictures and sent them to us after the tour. Would definitely recommend.

Amazing trip. Our guide Martin and his colleague were fab. Very knowledgeable about the best spot to be so we could see the lights. We got to see them!! The camp was lovely, nice stew, hot drinks and sausages. warm fire and clean toilet to use. Would highly recommend.