Tromso is a destination that will leave you awestruck! Known as the gateway to the Arctic, this little city situated above the Arctic Circle is the ultimate spot to base yourself for nature-inspired activities. Small group tours in Tromso in particular provide a great way to discover the surrounding landscapes, such as majestic fjords and snow-capped peaks, all in the company of knowledgeable guides and like-minded travelers.
Whether you want to capture photos of the dazzling Northern Lights or go hiking under the ethereal glow of the Midnight Sun, the variety of small group tours offered in Tromso leaves you spoiled for choice. But the question is: who to book with? The answer is Wandering Owl: a tour operator based out of Tromso that specializes in wilderness adventures, boasting a friendly team of nature guides and professional photographers.
Their trips span a range of themes – from aurora hunts to monitoring phytoplankton. With a minimal impact mission and passion for sustainability, Wandering Owl is the perfect option for eco-conscious visitors who want to immerse in nature while helping conversation efforts at the same time. Indeed, some of their tours involve collecting data for science projects which helps to protect the tundra’s fragile environment.
Another benefit to booking with Wandering Owl is the all-inclusive set up of the tours. This means you don’t have to worry about expensive winter gear (thermal suits and boots) or photography equipment (tripods). At the end of each tour, they even send you web-sized resolution photos for you to remember the experience in the best way possible. So, without further ado, here are the best small group tours in Tromso that Wandering Owl offers!
Best Small Group Tours in Tromso
Winter
Aurora Hunt With Citizen Science
Not only do you get to tick the Northern Lights off your bucket-list on this seven hour adventure, but you also contribute to a science project by collecting data. The Aurora guides use their expertise to scout the best spot, and once reached a campfire and home-made meal is enjoyed before taking photos. You then receive the images after the tour. The final activity on the Aurora Hunt With Citizen Science is hot chocolate!
Star Walk Tromso
Choose between hiking or snowshoeing as you enter the Arctic wilderness at night. With clear skies you will be able to see the stars, moon and perhaps Northern Lights dancing above you. This five hour journey takes you off the beaten track where nature can be found in its purest form. Star Walk Tromso includes a home-made meal, thermal suits and boots, photos of your trip and a hot chocolate to cap off the experience.
Winter Arctic Landscapes with Citizen Science
A four hour road-trip to marvel at the untouched north of Norway is what Winter Arctic Landscapes with Citizen Science has in store. The views of fjords, mountains, beaches, lakes and wildlife will take your breath away! As well as soaking up the scenery and capturing photos, you have the chance to participate in data collection for a science project at stunning beaches. Lunch is also on the agenda prior to returning to Tromso.
Monitoring Owls in the Wilderness
Monitoring Owls in the Wilderness takes place with the non-profit founded by Wandering Owl called Wild Lab Projects and is a must for wildlife-lovers. You will be tasked with monitoring owls in a picturesque region, where the mountains meet the sea. Data collection is also part of it, which helps protect the owls through increased awareness of demography and movement. Afterwards, the group relaxes with snacks and hot drinks.
Paris of the North – Explore Tromso with a French Man
A French man takes you wandering through “The Paris of the North” on this fun walking tour. The guide helps you immerse in the city’s history, culture, architecture and natural beauty. While some similarities to Paris can be made, Tromso is arguably even more enchanting due to the surrounding landscapes of fjords and mountains. The tour is short and sweet, just an hour long, and makes for an ideal introduction to the city.
Summer
Summer Day Hike Tromso
This hiking trip allows you to get close to the Norwegian fjords, mountains and valleys on an exciting five hour tour. Enjoy the scenery every step of the way and keep an out for animals such as eagles, reindeer and hares. Seasonal berries grow in the wild here so be sure to look down every once in a while as well. To help keep you nourished on the Summer Day Hike Tromso, a home-made meal is on offer plus a hot chocolate at the end.
Summer Arctic Landscapes with Citizen Science
Along with the scenery, the Summer Arctic Landscapes with Citizen Science five hour road-trip gets you involved in a micro-plastic project to help keep the beaches of Norway pristine. At the beaches, you will be gathering data to monitor ocean plastic levels. After the science bit, lunch is served. Note that this tour can be combined with a city walk if you wish to be dropped back at the harbor or city center in Tromso.
Summer Night Campfire
At a remote location overlooking the sea, a Summer Night Campfire will be set up for you to enjoy a mystical sunset gifted by the Midnight Sun. The camp comes equipped with a bonfire to keep you cozy and a home-made meal is provided to savor a very special dinner. Since the sun never sets during certain times in summer, you will be in awe as the sun hovers above the horizon deep into the night – a once in a lifetime spectacle!
Summer Night Hike Tromso
Another Midnight Sun special but instead of relaxing by a campfire you are on a Summer Night Hike in Tromso with the everlasting light guiding your way. At the top, a spectacular vista of fjords and peaks opens up. This adventure is suited to those who like to stay active, no matter the time of day. The hike isn’t too strenuous though as the mountain you tackle is fairly small. Breathe in the fresh air and snap photos of the Midnight Sun!
Monitoring Phytoplankton by Kayak Tromso
Monitoring Phytoplankton by Kayak Tromso is both invigorating and ethical as it helps to collect data on phytoplankton – a key element in the food chain and cycles of the earth. The kayaking takes you along the coastline and to islands that are drenched in sun, an enjoyable adventure on its own but amplified by Wild Labs Projects. All sorts of creatures may be encountered on the paddle including seals, otters and eagles!
Summer Arctic Fjord Sightseeing
A quick two hour trip to photograph the most breathtaking fjords of Northern Norway is the offering here on Summer Arctic Fjord Sightseeing. Get filled with wonder as you look out over the fjords of Kvaloya, stop for photos along the way to Ersfjord and then explore the charming village of Ersfjord. If you are short on time in Tromso or have a few hours to kill before departing the city, what better way to spend the morning or afternoon!
Monitor Songbirds and Provide Secure Nests
Last but certainly not least is Monitor Songbirds and Provide Secure Nests. Like a couple of the tours above, you will be joining Wild Lab Projects and monitoring the impacts of light pollution on songbirds. The tasks can vary depending on the season and needs, but normally revolve around installing secure nest boxes or monitoring the birds for important data. The tour finishes with a tasty home-made snack as you reflect on an interesting day!
