Tromsø to Alta: 8-Day Holiday with Crystal Lavvo Stay & Northern Lights

Settle in and discover Tromsø on your first night. On your second day, explore this Arctic city with the Fjellheisen Gondola up Mt. Storsteinen and enjoy panoramic views. At night, join a Northern Lights safari with an impressive 85% Aurora sighting success rate. On day three, expect a full-day adventure through the fjords by boat and visit the whales in their natural habitat (Oct 25 to Jan 31) - or by VIP minivan cruising along three fjords exploring the region around Tromsø (Feb 01 to Oct 24). From Nov 15 to Mar 31 you may upgrade to husky dog sledding.

Then, On day four, check out from your hotel and meet your guides at 11.45am. Transfer to the stunning Lyngen Alps for a night in a Crystal Lavvo Aurora Hut, complete with a fireplace and sea view. Enjoy scenic transfer from Tromsø, an overnight stay in your private Crystal Lavvo, a Northern Lights workshop, and snowshoeing. Complimentary lunch, dinner and breakfast included.

The next morning, on day five, enjoy home-cooked breakfast at the Crystal Lavvos and transfer back to Tromsø. Arrive by noon and take the 4.00pm/16.00hrs bus from Tromsø to Alta. Arrive well rested in the evening. Check in to your comforable hotel and feel at home: welcome to Alta and the Northern Lights Capital of Norway! Over the next days, discover how this Arctic town offers an almost surreal mix of the Aurora Borealis, Sami culture, bustling nature and wildlife, and local Northern Norway welcoming and warmth.

Detailed itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Tromsø and explore this Arctic destination

Arrive in Tromsø and check in to your 3- or 4-star hotel (Home Hotel Aurora or similar), located right in the center of Tromsø. Our preferred accommodation, Home Hotel Aurora, offers modern hotel offers a large breakfast buffet and an in-house café and bar. Rooms include comfortable beds, free WiFi, wooden flooring, and a flat-screen TV.

Spend the day exploring Tromsø at your own pace, visiting local attractions such as the Arctic Cathedral, Polaria, and the Tromsø University Museum. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant before returning to your comfortable room. Based on availability, other hotels of a similar or higher standard might be offered.

Day 2: Fjellheisen Gondola Tickets | Northern Lights Basecamp Safari

After a hearty breakfast, explore Tromsø at your own pace. The Fjellheisen Gondola invites for a thrilling ride up Mt. Storsteinen and can be reached by a short taxi ride or a 40-minute stroll from the city center. Your gondola ride departs from across the bridge that connects the island city of Tromsø with mainland Norway. The Gondola is open All day long, so you may choose to go anytime during the day for a grandiose and panoramic view of Tromsø.

As night falls, join an exhilarating Northern Lights safari. With an impressive 85% success rate, you’ll have a great chance of witnessing the magical Aurora Borealis. With 19 years of experience, advanced weather forecasts, and insider knowledge from Base Station hosts, your guides will curate an unforgettable itinerary ensuring you don't miss a moment of the enchanting lights. If the weather changes, we swiftly relocate to find clear skies and breathtaking views.

Indulge in a locally made hot soup or stew, choosing from fish, reindeer meat, or a vegetarian option, and savor the flavors amidst this captivating spectacle. Join us for an inspiring expedition under the Northern Lights!

After the safari, return to the hotel for a restful night’s sleep.

Day 3: Whale & Arctic Wildlife Safari | Optional Dog Sledding Safari and Long Northern Lights Safari

On your third day in Tromsø, prepare for a true marine adventure. It's time to go find the whales and observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat!

Follow the Atlantic herring and the amazing Humpback and Orca whales that feed on them. Cruise along the scenic coast of Tromsø in a spacious and comfortable catamaran boat. Whale watching cruise, guide, thermal winter suit, life jacket, hot meal and drinks included.The humpback and orca migrate to Northern Norway, along the coast of Tromsø to feed on the Atlantic herring throughout the dark winter months (mid-October until end of January).

During these months you may observe whales and other creatures in the fjord. The journey provides scenic views as we cruise between islands and fjords with amazing mountain backdrops. Depending on weather conditions and whale location, our journey can take up to three hours to reach the sighting area. Once we have spotted the whales, we spend as much time as possible in the sighting area. We drift along with the whales during this time, and we gently follow their path with awareness of our presence in their natural environment. The duration of the tour can be up to 8 hours.

*Please note:

From February to October this excursion is replaced with a Fjord Excursion by VIP minivan. This is a small-Group Fjord & Wildlife Sightseeing tour from Tromsø. Step into a luxurious Mercedes V-Class Minivan and prepare to be swept away by the stunning landscapes that await you. Marvel at the beauty of three enchanting fjords, each more magical than the last. Get up close and personal with majestic mountains, meandering beaches, and crystal-clear waters that will take your breath away.

Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive wildlife that calls this Arctic region home, from playful seals to graceful seabirds. Your knowledgeable guide will regale you with fascinating stories and insights about the area, providing you with a deeper understanding of the natural wonders that surround you. Feel the thrill of exploration as you venture off the beaten path to discover hidden gems and secluded spots that few have had the privilege to see. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, outdoor lover, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the world around you, this tour is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

**Alternative Dog Sledding excursion

From November 15 to March 31 you have the option to upgrade to a husky dog sledding excursion. This is an optional activity: please contact us to book this tour additionally to the services included in this pakage. If you decide to go for the Dog Sledding experience, this will replace the Whale and Arctic Wildlife Safari.

The Dog Sledding experience takes place at Breivikeidet with views of the majestic Lyngen Alps. Enjoy mushing through stunning scenery and whizzing across open terrain with our friendly and eager huskies. Pick-up from Tromsø in the morning with transfers to Breivikeidet at the foot of the majestic Lyngen Alps, where striking mountain peaks soar up to 1,400 meters, juxtaposed against serene fjords.

Here, prepare for 60-75 thrilling minutes of dog sledding across both dense forests and expansive snowy landscapes. Prior to takeoff, you'll receive a comprehensive briefing, gearing you up for an unforgettable ride where you'll steer your own team of enthusiastic sled dogs. Share this unique ride with a partner, switching between mushing and enjoying the sled's views, creating a shared bond not just with each other but with your loyal canine team. Groups are small, ensuring personalized attention and guidance from our expert leaders throughout your Arctic expedition.

The adventure doesn't end on the trails; post-sledding, we invite you inside to bask in the warmth of a roaring fire, savoring hot drinks and cookies while delving into the world of our Alaska Huskies. Your Arctic journey is as comfortable as it is thrilling, with thermal suits, boots, and additional winter gear provided, guaranteeing your warmth and safety during this polar adventure.

***Optional long evening Northern Lights Safari

From October 1 to April 13 you may opt for an additional Northern Lights hunt. This is a dedicated tour where the guides are in contact with other teams, hunting for the best weather in the region and according to what location is best. This tour will run every day regardless of the weather, to give you a chance to see this natural phenomenon, and included unlimited mileage as far as possible on the night of your excursion.

Day 4: Transfer to Crystal Lavvos in the Lyngen Alps | Full board and Northern Lights program included

Check out of your hotel after breakfast and meet your crew from the Crystal Lavvo aurora huts at Scandic Ishavshotel, for pick-up at 11:45 AM. Enjoy a scenic 45-minute transfer to the stunning Lyngen Alps. Spend this night in a cozy Crystal Lavvo, complete with your own fireplace and unlimited firewood. Enjoy stargazing from your bed, and with some luck, see the Northern Lights from under your blanket.

Upon arrival to the basecamp, savor a delicious lunch before spending the afternoon hiking, snowshoeing, and/or cross-country skiing through the breathtaking landscapes, or simply relax in your Crystal Lavvo. In the evening, delight in a homecooked dinner, participate in a Northern Lights workshop, and embark on another Northern Lights hunt in the local area. The Northern Lights program includes a photography workshop and a tripod. Photographers will teach you how to capture the Northern Lights. You then continue with your Northern Lights Chase photography right outside the main villa. The main villa includes bathrooms, a dining room area, and a living room with a fireplace.

This is a unique location, far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life. Here, you’ll find minimal artificial light pollution, meaning you’re in the perfect spot to witness the Northern Lights in all their glory. With clear skies and pristine surroundings, your chances of experiencing this natural wonder are high.

Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that cannot be guaranteed, but this location in the Lyngen Alps, far away from light pollution, offers a great chance of seeing them. The Arctic sea can be seen from outside your lavvo, but not from inside it, as only the ceiling is transparent.

Day 5: Transfer from the Lyngen Alps to Tromsø, and from Tromsø to Alta by Bus (Line 150)

In the morning, enjoy a homemade breakfast and a quiet morning. Your transfer back to Tromsø leaves at 11.00am and you will arrive to Tromsø around noon. Take a few hours to relax and soak up the Tromsø moods as you wait for your bus to depart for your next destination the Northern Lights capital of Alta.

Your bus, Line 150, departs from Tromsø bus station at 4.00 pm/16.00 hrs. Please take note of the departure location well in advance. You may buy tickets on the bus, or in advance following this link: Bus ticket online shop. For technical reasons, we can unfortunately not book tickets on your behalf. Enjoy a scenic transfer from Tromsø to Alta where you will arrive at 10.30pm/22.30hrs. The buss stops at Alta Bus Station, located right next to your hotel.

Check in to your comfortable hotel - Scandic Alta or Thon Hotel Alta, depending on availability - and call it a night after a day with many impressions.

Day 6: Explore Alta | Northern Lights Safari | Optional additional activities

On your first day in Alta, wake up feeling refreshed and enjoy the day at your pace. Explore the Northern Lights Cathedral located right next to your hotel, and stroll through the cozy center of Alta town. Alta is considerably smaller and less filled with tourists, as compared to Tromsø. You wiil find plenty of time to relax and soak up the Arctic silence of the area surrounding you.

In the evening, A Northern Lights safari is included. Alta is known as the "Northern Lights Capital" of Norway and boasts fantastic conditions for exploring the phenomenon. Located right under the Aurora belt, Alta is considerably smaller with less light pollution than Tromsø. Alta weather can also be clearer than in Tromsø, due to Alta's location further north and longer East, away from the Atlantic Ocean currents.

If during the day you'd rather like some more action then why not book an optional fjord safari? Depending on availability on your dates of travel, the fjord safari could also be upgraded into becoming a Whale Safari or even a King Crab Safari out on the pristine Alta Fjord.

Sailing through the waters of the Alta Fjord mens a scenery of wildlife and history unfolding before you. On this tour, you're invited to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. Keep your binoculars ready for a display of local bird species and other wildlife that grace the Alta Fjord. The longer sojourns carry the added thrill of possibly sighting the playful dolphins or the majestic whales that occasionally visit these waters, offering unforgettable moments.

To book an Alta Fjord safari (or upgrade to Whale or King Crab Safari) please contact us at help@booknordics.com after booking your holiday itinerary.

Day 7: Visit to Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel | Reindeer Sledding & Sami Culture under the Aurora

On your last day, prepare for a truly Arctic adventure out of the ordinary! Spend the morning at your own pace. In the afternoon, meet your driver outside the Scandic Hotel and transfer to Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel: the World's Northernmost Igloo Hotel made entirely out of snow and ice. Each year, experienced artists and builders come together to build a new and unique hotel with a special theme. The Igloo Hotel has an area of 2,500 m2 and it takes 250 tonnes of ice and 7,000 m3 of snow to build it.

After a couple of hours exploring and discovering this hotel, meet your guide from the local Sami aboriginal community. Let your guide show you the Sami way of life and explain how the Northern Lights have formed their nomadic lifestyle, living on the Arctic tundra in one with nature, reindeer and the Auroras above.

The Sami word for Aurora Borealis is “guovssahas”, meaning “the light you can hear”. Traditionally, the Northern Lights were not something to be admired according to Sami Culture. It was believed that the lights were a bad omen. If you disrespected the lights it would not only bring you bad fortune, but the lights could also sweep down and deem you to death.

There was the danger of mocking and teasing the Northern Lights - you were never supposed to wave or whistle at it. On this experience you will be introduced to the unique and vibrant traditional Sami culture while sledding through the Nordic pines on a sled behind reindeer.

Eventually you will arrive to a Lavvo where your Sami guide will tell you stories about his lifestyle and culture around a bonfire. Hopefully you will witness the spectacular aurora borealis while sledding around in the Arctic Forest as your guide shares how the aurora was and is featured in their culture and mythology today.

Finally, transfer back to your hotel in Alta and relax after a day of many impressions. Return transfers included.

Day 8: Transfer to Alta airport for your homebound flight

Self-transfer by taxi from your hotel to the airport, to catch your homebound flight.