Beyond the Northern Lights
Winter in Norway and beyond the Arctic Circle – of course, that means dancing Northern Lights! But this trip offers more, and blends in whale watching, snowshoeing, kayaking and even a self-drive through scenic Lofoten into the experience!
On this adventure, you’ll go beyond the Northern Lights, gaze for lights during the evenings, go whale watching, and grab the local ferry to Senja. Then, you’ll kayak around Lofoten’s local history after taking a breathtaking cruise to Lofoten. Finally, you’ll finish the journey by marveling at the stunning sights of Lofoten as you meet with locals and relax. Visiting Norway in the winter is a must-do for any traveler, and we’ve crafted the perfect winter itinerary for you!
Like this trip idea? talk to us, and one of our local experts will immediately start talking to you about how to personalise this, tune it to your dates, and even modify it according to interests! Its as simple as that!
Highlights
Highlights on this trip
- Explore Tromsø, Paris of the North
- Silent whale watching
- Scenic Senja on snowshoes
- Roam and immerse in Senja and Lofoten
- Sea Kayak in the crisp winter air and stunning views
- Å – the fishing village at the end of Lofoten
Best time to travel: December – February and beyond with adjustments
Duration: 10 days/ 11 nights
Destinations: Tromsø, Senja and Lofoten
Primary Mode of Transportation: Public transport and rental car in Lofoten
Included: Accommodation, ferry, activities and some meals
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Trømso
Arrive in Tromsø, the vibrant “Paris of the North” in Northern Norway. Check in to your hotel, then dive into the city’s rich history and breathtaking scenery. Don’t miss the chance to sample delicious local cuisine at one of the many charming restaurants.
Day 2: Silent whale watching
Board the electric boat and glide silently to the humpback and killer whales’ habitat. This cold water is ideal for them this time of year, as they hunt in the herring-rich fjords. Keep watch for wildlife in the sea and marvel at the frozen landscape on the horizon.
Day 3: On a Local Ferry
After breakfast, soak in the early morning atmosphere of Tromsø. Enjoy a takeaway coffee as you watch the city wake up. Then, head to the pier for the local passenger boat to Senja Island. Experience life at sea and immerse yourself in the local culture during the ferry ride.
Upon arrival in Finnsnes and Senja, transfer to your accommodation for a relaxing evening in your cabin. Keep an eye on the sky for a chance to witness the Northern Lights.
Day 4: Senja On shoeshoes
Time to strap on your snowshoes! Experience breathtaking locations and viewpoints in a unique way, powered by your own footsteps through the snow. Join a half-day excursion with a local expert who will share fascinating stories and knowledge with you.
Day 5: Free Day
Be present in the moment as you discover some of the most beautiful places in the country. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of daytime activities to choose from!
Day 6: Cruise on the Hurtigruten
Wake up early and start your day with the world’s most beautiful voyage before breakfast. Spend the entire day cruising through Norway’s stunning landscapes, including the narrow Raftssundet and mystical Trollfjord. In the early evening, arrive at Svolvær and Lofoten. For dinner, try the locally sourced fish for a truly authentic taste.
Day 7: Kayak in Icy Waters
Kayak in icy waters among islands, bays, and beaches, spotting wildlife like the white-tailed sea eagle, seals, and otters. Enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature as you paddle. Spend the evening hunting for the Northern Lights and savoring local cuisine.
Day 8: Self Drive to À, the last village in Lofoten
Visit a local goat farm run by Dutch hosts who have called Norway home for nearly 20 years. Learn about their life and taste the cheese they produce. Then, visit Unstad Beach, famous among surfers worldwide. Reach Å, the southern tip of Lofoten, where the Norwegian alphabet ends.
Top Tip: Take your time to explore. Discover secluded beaches, capture scenic views, or visit local galleries along the way.
Day 9: Village Immersion
Take a leisurely day to explore Å, a charming old fishing village nestled amidst steep mountains. Learn about traditional fishing life at the Lofoten Stockfish Museum and The Norwegian Fishing Village Museum. After your tour, treat yourself to delicious cinnamon buns. In the evening, savor your buns while keeping an eye out for the Northern Lights.
Day 10: Discover your Inner Viking
Pack your bags and head back to Svolvær, making a stop at the Lofotr Viking Museum along the way. Learn about the Viking history of Lofoten, where it’s said the first Vikings in Iceland originated. Then, return to Svolvær for your final chance to catch a breathtaking view of the Northern Lights.
Day 11: Farewell to the Arctic
The day when you depart from this region. Fly out of Svolvær.
Places you visit
These are the places you will visit
Click on the place markers to learn more about the places you will be visiting
[tabble title = How much does it cost?]
Kr. 30,900 per person
The fine print. This is per person, and the economies of scale work, so it tends to get cheaper as you get more people to join in.
This is the costs in its current iteration. As we modify it for you, the costs will be dependent on how many people join, which hotels we stay in, and a host of other factors. We are super transparent of how this all works, and will be showing you exactly where your money will go!
This includes of course
Accommodation w/breakfast, three dinners, one lunch, silent whale watching, ferry tickets, private transfers to and from the ferry terminal in Senja, 3-hour northern lights snowshoeing w/hot drinks and snacks, guided kayak tour, cheese plate at Lofoten Gårdsysteri, museum entrances