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Join the Sami Reindeer Spring Migration in Norway – A Once-in-a-Lifetime Indigenous Experience
Walk alongside reindeer herds through untouched Arctic landscapes. Limited to just 6 guests per departure, this is an authentic, immersive journey into Sami life.
About the Sami Reindeer
Migration in Norway
Experience the extraordinary Sami spring reindeer migration in Northern Norway, guided by an Indigenous Sami reindeer herding family. This is one of the most authentic and rare cultural travel experiences in the Arctic, offering both adventure and deep human connection.
You will journey across the vast tundra by sled pulled by snowmobile, following thousands of reindeer as they migrate toward their summer grazing lands. With no roads, no electricity, and no modern distractions, you sleep in a traditional Sami lavvu tent under the Arctic sky, surrounded by breathtaking snow-covered wilderness.
This is not a performance for tourists. It is the real migration, shared with you by one of the few remaining full-time Sami reindeer herding families in Norway. Every moment is raw, real, and deeply rooted in tradition. Your participation helps preserve this Indigenous lifestyle and directly supports the Sami hosts who welcome you into their world.
The Sami are the only officially recognized Indigenous people within the European Union. Today, fewer than 2,800 Sami continue the traditional way of reindeer herding full-time. By joining this unforgettable journey, you contribute to protecting a way of life that is at risk and help keep the Sami reindeer herding culture alive for future generations.
If you are looking for a meaningful Arctic experience beyond the ordinary, this rare opportunity is unlike anything else in the world. Very few travelers are invited to join this migration each year, making it one of the most unique and respectful ways to explore Indigenous culture in Norway
A Typical Day During the Sami Reindeer Spring Migration
There is no fixed itinerary during the Sami reindeer spring migration as everything moves at the rhythm of nature. This incredible journey is guided by the instincts of the reindeer as they make their annual migration from the inland winter pastures to the Arctic Ocean’s coastal summer grounds.
The Sami people say they walk alongside the reindeer. These semi-wild animals guide the way, with the herders following their lead. Sometimes, the reindeer may pause for a day or two; other times, they travel continuously.
The route and pace of the journey are never predetermined; instead, they are shaped entirely by the needs of the herd. This creates an experience that is unique: organic, flexible, and deeply connected to the land.
You will sleep in a traditional Sami lavvu tent set up in new locations as the migration progresses. Nights are spent around an open fire with your Sami hosts, who will cook meals using local, traditional ingredients such as Arctic fish, wild berries, and reindeer meat in smoked or dried forms. This is true slow living in nature.
When the herding duties allow, you might try Sami wooden skis, go ice fishing on frozen lakes, or simply sit by the fire and absorb the silence of the Arctic wilderness. Every day is different, and every moment is shaped by the land, the animals, and the ancient knowledge of your Sami guides.
Highlights of Your Sami Reindeer Herder Experience in Norway
✔ Live Close to Arctic Nature and Reindeer Stay in the heart of Norway’s Arctic wilderness, surrounded by endless tundra and roaming reindeer, as you live alongside a Sami reindeer herder.
✔ Experience Traditional Reindeer Herding in Winter Join a Sami reindeer herder in Norway and take part in authentic herding activities during the snowy season.
✔ Learn Reindeer Herding Skills from the Sami People Discover daily practices passed down through generations of Sami reindeer herders.
✔ Slow Down and Connect with Arctic Culture Unplug from daily life and find peace in the rhythm of Sami life and reindeer herding in Norway.
Spring Sami Reindeer Migration Tours April & May 2026
Each spring, Indigenous Sami families guide their reindeer on a traditional migration across the vast Arctic landscapes of Northern Norway. This is a rare opportunity to travel alongside them immersed in nature, culture, and a way of life few ever experience.
Group size is limited to just 6 guests per departure to ensure an intimate, authentic experience.
SEASON 2026
APRIL 10 - 15
APRIL 16 - 21 (2 spots left)
APRIL 22 - 27
👉 Looking for a different time of year?
Explore the Autumn Reindeer Migration (October – November)
Before joining a Sami reindeer herding family during the spring migration, proper clothing and preparation are still essential. While temperatures are milder than in mid-winter, conditions can change quickly, and wind, snow, and long hours outdoors remain part of daily life on the tundra.
👉 We recommend reading our in-depth guide on how to dress for a Sami reindeer experience in Arctic winter, based on real life with Sami reindeer herders, as many of the same principles apply during the spring migration season.
Location: Where the Sami Reindeer Migration Takes Place
The Sami reindeer spring migration takes place in Northern Norway, above the Arctic Circle, where Indigenous Sami families herd their reindeer between inland winter pastures and summer grazing lands by the coast.
Nearest airport: Alta (ALF), Northern Norway
Pick-up location: Alta (airport or hotel)
Your Sami experience starts with a pickup from Alta Airport or your hotel in Alta. From there, your Sami host will welcome you and take you deep into the remote wilderness, where you'll join the reindeer and fellow herders.
At the end of the migration, you'll return to Alta in the afternoon, filled with unforgettable memories from a land few travelers ever reach.
👉 For a simple overview of routes and distances, our practical guide explains how travel to Kautokeino and inland Finnmark works via Alta.
Accommodation During the Sami Reindeer Migration
Accommodation is in a large, traditional Sami lavvu (tent), shared with your Sami host, their family, and fellow travelers. Your host provides warm sleeping bags and comfortable mattresses for a cozy stay. While there is no shower, a clean outdoor trekking toilet is available for your use.
Traditional Sami Meals and Local Food During Your Stay
Enjoy Traditional Sami Meals Cooked by the Sami Family
During your stay, the Sami family will prepare homemade meals using local, seasonal ingredients. Dishes may include reindeer meat, reindeer bred for herding, Arctic fish, wild Arctic berries, and other traditional Sami foods.
Dietary Needs Welcome
If you have any dietary restrictions or preferences, please let us know in advance. The Sami hosts are happy to accommodate all kinds of special diets.
Want to learn more? Explore Sami reindeer herding culture through food.
How Much Does the Sami Reindeer Migration Trip Cost?
Price: € 3690 / per person (6 days, 5 nights).
The price includes:
-
Round-trip Transfer from Alta
Pick-up and drop-off from Alta Airport or any hotel in Alta City. -
Local Arctic Transportation
All transport during the tour, including car and snowmobile rides with your Sami guide. -
Traditional Sami Accommodation
Stay in an authentic Sami lavvu (tent) shared with the Sami family and fellow travelers. -
All Camping Essentials Provided
Warm sleeping bags, reindeer skin mattresses, and everything needed for a comfortable Arctic stay. -
All-Inclusive Sami Meals and Beverages
Homemade traditional Sami food using local ingredients, with all dietary needs accommodated. -
Thermal Arctic Outerwear
Stay warm with provided overalls, hat, mittens, and insulated boots. -
24/7 Sami Hosting and Guidance
Be welcomed and guided throughout the journey by a native Sami reindeer herder family
The price excludes:
Flights to Alta -
Travel Insurance
Impact
Our unique trips are managed and guided by the indigenous Sami reindeer herder families. In addition to providing an extra income for the family, you support maintaining the traditional reindeer herding traditions.
Visit Natives is also committed to creating long-lasting, positive impact in the Indigenous communities we work with globally. Our approach goes beyond individual trips and focuses on long-term partnerships, cultural preservation, and community-led initiatives. Here you can explore our ongoing projects and impact work in more detail.
What Past Guests Say About the Sami Reindeer Migration
"The Visit Natives trip for the Spring Reindeer Migration exceeded our expectations. We took a deep dive into Sami culture and heritage, herded reindeer on sleds and snow mobiles, andwent ice fishing. Cumulatively this took place over 6 days (4 full days and. 2 part days).
The accomodation was traditional Sami tepee tent with a kerosene stove to heat and for food preparation. We were also fortunate to briefly stay in a cabin, which was comfortable despite its’ rudimentary facilities. We were always well fed (reindeer meat 3 meals a day!) and provided with additional warmer gear as required. Despite this, we definitely recommend that anyone considering this trip is comes well prepared.
Our trip was in late April and temperatures varied between -5 to +5 Celsius. Although we were very fortunate with the weather, temperatures still dropped significantly lower than this due to wind-chill. Throughout this, we assisted the herding of a large reindeer herd about 60km to a remote port just outside of Alta in Finnmark.
The experience was exceptional, both because of the spectacular natural beauty, and the transfer of knowledge between our culture and theirs. Nils (the guide) and his family who assisted with the trip are kind and welcoming hosts. Overall we highly recommend this trip."
Why Choose Visit Natives for Authentic Sami Travel Experiences
✔ 100% Indigenous-owned experience
Created and led by Indigenous hosts, rooted in real cultural knowledge.
✔ Directly supporting Sami families
Your journey helps sustain traditional livelihoods and reindeer herding traditions.
✔ Rated 5 stars by travelers from 20+ countries
Trusted by travelers seeking meaningful, respectful, and immersive experiences.
✔ Chosen by top travel influencers and documentary producers
We are known for providing 100% authentic Sami experiences with real people and genuine culture, without any staging.
