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Northern Norway in winter is nothing short of magical. With its snow-covered landscapes, crisp Arctic air, and breathtaking natural phenomena, this season transforms the region into a wonderland of adventure and beauty. From chasing the Northern Lights dancing across the night sky to exploring the wild Arctic wilderness on dog sleds and snowmobiles, winter here offers unforgettable experiences. Whether you dream of meeting the Sámi people and their reindeer, venturing into the frozen fjords, or seeking the thrill of skiing and ice fishing, Northern Norway has something for every traveler. And after a day of exploration, you can unwind at our cosy hotel and embrace the tranquility of the Arctic winter. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best things to do in Northern Norway during winter, ensuring you make the most of this spectacular season and your visit to Bardufoss. Dancing across the Arctic sky in shades of green, purple, and blue, this breathtaking phenomenon has captivated travelers for centuries. The Northern Lights phenomenon occurs year-round, it can only be seen when the sky is dark and preferably clear. This makes winter the ideal season for viewing. If you're visiting Bardufoss to witness the Northern Lights, we recommend planning your trip between October and April . #1 Northern Lights safari - See natures most breathtaking light show The Northern Lights  are a breathtaking natural light show, and Norway is one of the world’s top destinations to witness this magical phenomenon. Every year, travelers from across the globe visit to experience its beauty firsthand. The Northern Lights phenomenon occurs year-round, it can only be seen when the sky is dark and preferably clear. This makes winter the ideal season for viewing. If you're visiting Bardufoss to witness the Northern Lights, we recommend planning your trip between October and April . Feel free to ask us for the best viewing spots in the Bardufoss area! While waiting for the magical display, why not try some exciting winter activities? We recommend Aurora Husky Tours  for a memorable experience. Please note that the visibility of the Northern Lights depends on solar activity  and weather conditions , so we cannot guarantee sightings. Tip:  The most stunning photos of the Northern Lights are often captured during a full moon . Experience the thrill of dog sledding, an exhilarating Arctic tradition that lets you glide through snowy landscapes, pulled by a team of powerful, energetic huskies #2 Dog sledding - Try your hand at driving your own dog team Come and meet real-life Alaskan huskies—always eager for both cuddles and adventure! Aurora Husky Tours offers unforgettable dog sledding experiences in our stunning winter landscape. Try your hand at driving your own dog team, guiding 4–6 energetic huskies through a breathtaking winter wonderland. Experience the unique bond between musher and dogs as you glide smoothly and silently across the snow. Their trails cater to everyone, from complete beginners to aspiring professionals. Before setting off, you'll meet your dogs, prepare for the journey, and receive expert guidance from experienced instructors to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride. Learn more here: www.aurorahusky.com At Polar Park, you can get up close and personal with one of the most fascinating creatures of the Arctic – the wolf. #3 Visit the arctic animals in the Polar park Polar Park is home to Norway’s largest predators, including bears, wolves, and lynx, as well as deer, moose, reindeer, and muskox. Located just a 45-minute drive from the hotel, the park offers unique wildlife experiences such as up-close wolf encounters, guided photography tours, and educational predator tours. The park’s mission is to create an authentic Norwegian wilderness experience, set against the stunning backdrop of Northern Norway’s natural beauty. Opened in 1994, Polar Park is more than just a typical animal park. It is designed to provide animals with spacious, natural enclosures, ensuring their well-being. With 1,100 dekar (1 dekar = 1,000 square meters) divided into only 12 enclosures, it is one of the world’s most spacious wildlife parks. Polar Park is open almost every day, year-round. After your visit, you can relax at the cozy restaurant located near the entrance. Learn more here: www.polarpark.no Get the chance to meet the reindeer, learn about the herding traditions that have been passed down through generations, and even participate in activities like reindeer sledding. #4 Visit the Sámi People and Their Reindeer – A Journey into Indigenous Culture Experience the rich traditions of the Sámi people, the Indigenous inhabitants of Northern Scandinavia, and gain insight into their unique way of life. A visit to a Sámi reindeer camp offers a rare opportunity to connect with their centuries-old culture, learn about reindeer herding, and hear fascinating stories passed down through generations. Meet the gentle reindeer, feed them, and even try reindeer sledding, a traditional mode of transport in the Arctic. Gather inside a lavvu (a traditional Sámi tent) around a crackling fire, where you’ll enjoy warm hospitality, taste authentic Sámi cuisine, and listen to the mesmerizing sounds of joik, the traditional Sámi song. This immersive experience provides a deeper understanding of the Sámi way of life, their deep connection to nature, and the challenges they face in preserving their culture in the modern world. A visit with the Sámi and their reindeer is not just an excursion—it’s a journey into a living heritage that will leave you with lasting memories. Cross-country skiing in the pristine winter landscapes of Northern Norway offers a rare sense of peace and tranquility. #5 Explore the Magical Arctic Wilderness Around Bardufoss Discover the untouched beauty of the Arctic wilderness around Bardufoss by venturing into the snow-covered landscapes on snowshoes or cross-country skis. This serene and immersive experience allows you to move silently through the crisp winter air, surrounded by towering snow-laden trees, frozen rivers, and breathtaking mountain views. Snowshoeing is a fantastic way to explore deep into the winter wilderness, following quiet trails that lead to hidden gems of nature. If you prefer a more dynamic journey, cross-country skiing lets you glide effortlessly across the snow, experiencing the freedom and exhilaration of the Arctic terrain. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife tracks in the snow—perhaps a fox, hare, or even a moose has recently passed through. The silence of the Arctic is truly mesmerizing, broken only by the sound of your skis or snowshoes crunching against the snow. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a first-time explorer, these activities offer a perfect blend of adventure, tranquility, and connection with nature—making for an unforgettable winter experience in Bardufoss. Ask our staff for more information!

Where is the best place to go to see moose? Well, to put it this way: There are so many moose here in Målselv that we might as well rename the municipality Mooselv! That's why we recommend moose safaris here in the Bardufoss area. We have a local partner who is serious about guiding and moose, and that's Up In The Arctic with Karianne. Foto: Karianne Drage, Up In The Arctic The moose is known as the king of the forest, and on a moose safari you go out into the moose's natural habitat, namely the forest. There is a lot of forest around Bardufoss, and our local guide will take you out into the nooks and crannies of this kingdom. Foto: Karianne Drage, Up In The Arctic When looking for wild animals, there is no guarantee as to what you will find. The animals go wherever they want, over large areas, and finding them is an art form of its own. On a wild moose safari, you will be guided on a weaponless hunt for "flash shots", and hopefully you will get a good photoshoot with this long-legged photo model. Foto: Karianne Drage, Up In The Arctic A warm and cozy cabin will keep you from freezing on this trip. It also helps that you spend a lot of time in a warm car, on the way to places where the moose might be found. You won't be out for too long in the cold, but remember to dress up with enough warm clothes! Foto: Karianne Drage, Up In The Arctic Remember that moose are wild animals that can grow up to 2.2 meters tall. They often travel alone, or in small groups with their mother and calves. The moose mother can defend her calves against wolves and bears, so be careful around moose. Foto: Karianne Drage, Up In The Arctic When searching for winter activities, what first comes to mind might be the northern lights, reindeer and dog sledding. Wild moose safari is therefore a slightly different, unique and not least a royal experience. Do you want to go on a moose safari? We have now published packages with accommodation at Bardufoss Hotell and moose safari, and this can be booked at book.bardufosshotell.no/package . Here you can also book transport between the hotel and the starting point for the moose safari. You can also contact us by email and we will help you book your Arctic adventure: post@bardufosshotell.no .

Yesterday we got to experience some of the most beautiful things Northern Norway has to offer: a trip on the plains with our Sami friends, expertly led by John Mahtte Oskal. Around us, almost 200 reindeer were wandering, the northern lights danced across the sky – and the cold temperature of -23°C only made the atmosphere even more magical. We even got to drive our own snowmobile for the first time. An experience you can feel in your whole body. This is the real Bardufoss and something you can also experience when you stay with us. Northern lights, reindeer up close, snowmobiling and encountering Sami culture makes winter up here very special. Bardufoss Hotel – the heart of Arctic experiences. We look forward to welcoming you <3 #ArcticExperience #NorthernLights #AuroraHunting #ReindeerExperience #SamiCulture #SnowmobileAdventure #VisitNorthernNorway #ArcticWinter #explorenorway This was a blog post from one of our hotel owners who went with the hotel CEO to visit our local sami reindeer hearding family. Do you want to meet the reindeer and learn about sami culture? Write us an email and we will help you book your adventure: post@bardufosshotell.no

We have become members of the destination company Visit Tromsø! We are now opening up for collaboration with the tourism industry both in and outside the popular city. Foto: Nora Størseth, cayac.no Tromsø has become an incredibly popular destination for tourists who want Arctic experiences such as seeing the Northern Lights, going dog sledding and feeding reindeer. The city is almost overflowing with tourists, and it can be a challenge to find accommodation at a reasonable price. At Bardufoss however, we have plenty of space in our hotel with our 57 rooms, and hope that more tourists will stop by Bardufoss when they set off on their Arctic adventure. It is easy to travel between Bardufoss and Tromsø. Bus number 100 runs from Tromsø city center to the stop "Bardufoss Sentrum" which is just around the corner from our hotel. For those who have a rental car, it is easy to stop by; we have free parking and plenty of space for cars in front and behind the hotel. If you are arriving by plane to Evenes, you can stop by Bardufoss and stay overnight here, before traveling on to Tromsø. Visit Tromsø sells guided tours and experiences from approved and reputable suppliers. Members of Visit Tromsø must follow their ethical guidelines, and being a member of Visit Tromsø is a seal of quality. That is why we at Bardufoss Hotell are proud of our new membership! You can see our page on Visit Tromsø's website here: Bardufoss Hotell | Visit Tromso | Norway Photo: Nora Størseth, cayac.no

Looking for something amazing to do this summer? Senja is about a 40-minute drive from Bardufoss. The island offers the possibility for some amazing hikes and great fishing. In summer one can find some really great spots to enjoy the midnight sun here, while in winter there are great spots to experience the magical northern lights.  The island Senja is Norway's second largest island and is by many called miniature Norway. The island has both dramatic mountains and idyllic white beaches. On the island, you can find hills and birch forests, small villages, and farms. One can also find a national park on the island.   ​ If you visit the island we recommend you to remember your camera (or to charge your mobile phone) to be able to capture the beauty of the island. There are a great number of photogenic places. The island offers a number of activities and attractions. If you would like some really memorable experiences, we suggest a hike up Segla or kayaking in crystal clear waters by Hamn in Senja.  ​ ​ Walk one of Norway's scenic routes On the island you can find one of 16 Norwegian scenic routes, along the route you will be able to find white beaches, where you can stop and enjoy.  ​ Hike up the mountain of Segla Hike up one of Senjas most famous landmarks, the mountain Segla. This is a 3-4 hour hike. The mountain top offers amazing views, making the steep incline all worth it.  ​ Kayaking If one visits Senja during the summer months, June to September, we definitely recommend you do some kayaking. The sea is crystal clear and you will be able to get close to the bird life on the island and maybe even meet some curious seals. You can rent the necessary equipment from Hamn i Senja. EOne can book a guided tour.   ​ Go for a walk in Ånderdalen National Park The national park on the island offers some great paths, perfect for the whole family. At times the park is used as feeding grounds for domestic reindeer, please ensure that you do not scare the animals you meet on the way. If you are up for a longer walk, try the queen's path. Find more information  here.  ​ Enjoy the view at Hagenes Kystfort Hagenes Kystfort is a great viewpoint, where one can enjoy the view of Andørja and the islands outside Harstad og Senja.  ​ Topptur til Hesten Another popular hike on the island is hiking the mountain Hesten. This is also about a 3-hour hike, which is somewhat demanding due to the incline. The view on the hike makes it all worth it though. One will also have a view of the mountain Segla.  ​ Tungeneset Viewpoint By Tungeneset you find a wooden pathway to make it easier to make it down to the sea.  ​ Try the local fish, called Skrei The local delicacy is called Skrei, which is Norwegian trout at its best, if one agrees with the locals. Fishing is still an important source of income for many people in Northern Norway, and fish remains one of Norway's most important exports. ​

Winter is the season for the northern lights, nature's most spectacular light show. That is what we think at least. Northern Norway is one of the world's best destinations to experience the magical natural phenomenon, and for this reason, we receive visitors from all over the world. The light Latin name is Aurora Borealis.  ​ The northern lights are technically happening throughout the year, but for us to be able to see it we need it to be dark and preferably a clear sky. A winter phenomenon The northern lights are technically happening throughout the year, but for us to be able to see it we need it to be dark and preferably a clear sky. The winter season is for this reason the best time to experience the light show.  Are you coming to Bardufoss to experience the Northern lights we recommend that you visit in the period October to April.  Where to see the northern lights? There have been many creative explanations for what causes the northern lights through the years. The actual explanation is that the northern lights are a result of solar flares which release charged particles, some of these enter our atmosphere and collide with gaseous particles in the Earth's atmosphere. When the particles collide energy is released and as a result, we see the lights.   The charged particles are drawn towards the earth's poles, where the magnetic fields are strongest. You are for this reason a lot more likely to experience the lights close to the north pole, then called Aurora Borealis or northern lights or by the south pole. then called Aurora australis or Southern Lights. You are most likely to experience the Northern lights in Iceland, southern Greenland, northern Canada and north Alaska, in addition to Northern Norway between Lofoten and Nordkapp. The northern lights are once in a while also seen further south. ​ The colours we see dancing over the sky depends on the type of gaseous particles the charged particles react with. The colours of the northern lights The colours we see dancing over the sky depends on the type of gaseous particles the charged particles react with. The composition of gases varies depending on the distance from the earth's surface. The colour we see for this reason depends on the height the collision happens, e.g. if the charged particles react with oxygen at a height between 95 and 241 hm, then we will see a green colour. If the collision with oxygen happens further up in the atmosphere you will see a redish colour. Blue and purple are less common but can be seen if the charged particles react with nitrogen (most often on lower heights) Yellow and pink are a mix of the colours.  The reaction normally happens at approximately 100km height, and green is thus the most common colour to see. One must also take into account that our eyes see green more easily than other colours. The colours of the lights can therefore look a bit different when you look at the pictures you took.  Are you ever guaranteed to see the Northern Lights? Unfortunately, We can never offer a 100% guarantee that you can experience the magical northern lights, as it depends on solar activity and the weather. One can however keep an eye on the forecast that tells you about solar activity. The higher the activity the greater the chance to see the lights.  To be able to see the northern lights it's best to be outside of great cities and areas with a lot of light pollution. Many photographers do however appreciate having a source of light in the picture. As earlier explained, the northern lights are best seen when it is dark. We recommend the time between 9 pm and 2 am. One must often have a little patience, we suggest bringing some hot cocoa and warm clothing. ​ In the Bardufoss area, you can experience the Northern Lights while participating in evening activities such as dog sledding or Arctic Truck. Experience the northern lights in Bardufoss When you visit us you will receive a northern light guide when you arrive, this includes the best places around the town to experience the Northern Lights, the forecast of solar activity and thus the Northern Lights and some interesting facts about the lights. If you prefer some help to find the best spots we can also book you your very own guide. It is also possible to experience the Northern Lights while participating in evening activities such as dog sledding or Arctic Truck. Then you have a fun activity to do while you wait for the Northern Lights.  Keep in mind that there is a chance to see the lights even if it is overcast, as you never know when the sky will open up a bit.