Alta, Norway, offers one of the most compelling reasons to visit the Arctic: its pure, rugged wilderness and the extraordinary opportunities to see the Northern Lights. But Alta isn’t just about chasing the aurora; it’s also about experiencing the region’s remarkable landscapes and local culture firsthand. We’re especially fond of the Privat sled trip with husky in the Alta valley for its private, personalized approach—perfect for those craving an intimate connection with the wilderness and the dogs. Or for a family-friendly outing, the Reindeer – A carrier of Sámi Culture immerses you in Sámi traditions, offering a close-up with reindeer and a peek into local customs.
Alta’s diverse tours cover snow adventures, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences, making it a prime destination for outdoor lovers and curious travelers alike. Whether you prefer the thrill of snowmobiling, the serenity of whale watching, or the magic of the Northern Lights, Alta has a tour that will match your interests. Below is a carefully curated list of the 16 best tours in Alta, each offering a unique way to enjoy this Arctic paradise.
1. Privat sled trip with husky in the alta valley
Enjoy the chance to experience dog sledding in a private setting, making it one of the most personalized ways to explore Alta’s stunning landscapes. This 2.5-hour tour begins with pickup from your hotel and a visit to the sled camp, where you meet the huskies and learn how to handle them—either as a driver or passenger. The thrill of gliding over snow-covered terrain with a team of energetic huskies is unforgettable, and the views of the dramatic Norwegian scenery are breathtaking. The tour garners a perfect 5/5 rating from 69 reviews, with visitors praising the warmth of the hosts and the exceptional experience of riding with the dogs. After the ride, warm up with hot cocoa, making this a cozy yet exhilarating outing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a private, intimate dog sledding experience with the added comfort of personalized service and stunning scenery.
2. Dog Sled Tour and Husky Cuddles
This 3-hour tour lets you drive your own sled or ride as a passenger through Arctic landscapes pulled by a team of huskies. Rated a perfect 5/5 from 67 reviews, it offers a small-group experience—max 16 people—that ensures plenty of time to connect with the dogs and learn about their care. After the ride, you’ll stay warm in a traditional Sámi lavvu, enjoying storytelling, hot drinks, and cookies. Visitors rave about how the guide shares in-depth knowledge about the dogs and the history of dog sledding. The opportunity to pet, hug, and even play with puppies adds a special touch.
Bottom Line: Excellent choice for families or couples seeking a heartfelt, hands-on Arctic adventure with opportunities for socializing and learning.
3. Alta: Reindeer – A carrier of Sámi Culture
A visit to reindeer herds is a quintessential Sámi experience and a great way to learn about the indigenous culture of northern Norway. This 1-hour tour invites you to feed and take pictures with reindeer, hear stories about Sámi traditions, and learn how reindeer husbandry sustains this nomadic community. With a 4.9/5 rating from 83 reviews, visitors often mention the guide’s passion and the authenticity of the experience. It’s a quiet, meaningful encounter that lets you appreciate the connection between the Sámi people and their animals.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers interested in culture and intimate animal encounters in a scenic setting.
4. Snowmobile safari in the mountain plateau of Finnmarksvidda
For those craving an adrenaline rush, this 5-hour snowmobile safari delivers. Set in the vast Finnmarksvidda plateau, it guides you over frozen lakes and rugged terrain. The tour includes training, gear, and hot drinks, making it accessible for beginners and seasoned snowmobilers alike. Guests highlight the spectacular scenery and the chance to see wildlife, including moose. With a 5/5 rating from 61 reviews, it’s praised for the friendly guides and the intimate atmosphere. You can choose to drive or sit as a passenger while absorbing the lunar-like landscape.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for adventure seekers wanting a full-day snowmobiling experience in pristine wilderness.
5. Sleigh Ride w/ snacks – Experience Arctic Farm Life
This 2.5-hour private sleigh ride takes you through the Mathisdalen Valley, pulled by Norwegian fjord horses. Afterward, enjoy homemade cinnamon buns, coffee, and stories inside a Sami lavvu camp. Rated 5/5 from 50 reviews, guests love the cozy atmosphere, the scenic ride, and the chance to meet farm animals. The tour includes warm clothing and transport, making it a relaxing, authentic farm experience. In winter, you might even glimpse the northern lights during your ride.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a peaceful, scenic outing with a cultural touch and delicious local treats.
6. Alta: Guided Snowmobile Safari on Finnmarksvidda With Snacks
This 5-hour guided snowmobile journey is ideal for explorers who want to experience the solitude of Finnmarksvidda. It features visits to an authentic mountain cabin, sledding over frozen lakes, and spotting reindeer and other wildlife. The tour is lauded for its friendly guides and excellent organization, with a 5/5 rating from 44 reviews. Whether driving or riding along, you’ll enjoy the vast, silent landscapes and the chance to learn about Arctic life.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive, guided snowmobiling adventure with cultural insights.
7. From Alta: Daytime Snowmobile Adventure
This 4-hour tour departs from a historic mountain lodge in Gargia Valley—an ideal outing to soak up the Arctic wilderness. It includes instruction, safety gear, and the option to drive or ride along. Rated a solid 5/5 by 40 reviews, participants praise the beautiful landscape and the competent guide who makes safety a priority. The tour offers a mix of excitement and scenic tranquility, making it suitable for novices and experienced snowmobilers alike.
Bottom Line: An accessible, scenic day trip for those who want to experience Arctic snowmobiling without a full-day commitment.
8. Northern Lights Adventure By Snowmobile
One of the most magical experiences in Alta is chasing the Northern Lights by snowmobile. This 4-hour tour combines the thrill of riding through the dark, crisp Arctic night with the anticipation of catching the aurora. Rated 5/5 from 30 reviews, travelers mention the friendly guides, warm suits, and the breathtaking experience—whether or not they see the lights, the ride itself is unforgettable. The tour runs under the stable climate conditions of Alta, increasing chances of a good display.
Bottom Line: Highly recommended for those seeking an exciting way to see the aurora with expert guidance.
9. Sleigh Ride w/ Tapas Meal – Experience Arctic Farm Life
This 2.5-hour private adventure combines a scenic horse-drawn sleigh ride with a delicious meal inside a Sami lavvu. During the ride, you’ll enjoy views of the Arctic landscape, and afterwards, savor traditional snacks like cured meats and cinnamon rolls. Rated 5/5 from 30 reviews, visitors appreciate the friendly hosts, the authentic farm atmosphere, and the comfort of the ride. This experience is a lovely blend of nature, culture, and cuisine, with options for all seasons.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a relaxed, cultural experience with memorable food and scenery.
10. Alta: Altafjord Whale Watching in a Heated Boat
Venture out on a 4-hour whale safari in the Altafjord, where you have a great chance to see orcas and humpback whales. The boat offers heated indoor seating, making it comfortable even in winter. Rated 4.9/5 from 37 reviews, travelers love the knowledgeable guides and the stunning fjord scenery. It’s a peaceful, fascinating way to observe marine life and enjoy the winter landscape from a different perspective.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts seeking a comfortable, up-close encounter with Arctic marine mammals.
11. Alta: Small-Group Guided Northern Lights Tour
This 4-hour tour offers a small-group experience with a high 4.6/5 rating from 84 reviews. Your guide takes you to prime spots outside the city to maximize aurora viewing chances, while sharing insights about local culture and the science behind the lights. Travelers praise the personalized attention and the effort to find clear skies despite unpredictable weather. It’s perfect for those who want a more intimate, relaxed experience.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a personalized, small-group outing with expert guidance on Northern Lights chasing.
12. Sleigh or wagon ride in the arctic countryside
This 3-hour ride offers a slow, peaceful way to experience Alta’s rural landscapes. Pulled by friendly horses, you’ll explore the Alta River valley and enjoy Norwegian snacks and hot drinks afterward. With 25 reviews rating it 5/5, visitors love the friendly hosts and the scenic, tranquil ride suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Bottom Line: A relaxing, scenic option for anyone wanting a gentle, authentic Arctic countryside experience.
13. Northern Lights tour with Alta Adventure
This 4-hour tour provides a high probability (up to 90%) of seeing the Aurora Borealis, thanks to its carefully chosen countryside locations. Rated 4.5/5 from 96 reviews, it includes hot drinks, local stories, and personal attention. The tour’s focus on maximizing your chance to see the lights makes it popular among travelers eager for that iconic Arctic spectacle.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a reliable Northern Lights experience with comfort and local insights.
14. Alta: Dog Sledding Trip under the Northern Lights
This 4-hour adventure offers the rare chance to drive your own team of huskies under the shimmering Aurora Borealis. Rated 5/5 from 21 reviews, it takes you across forests, frozen lakes, and the Finnmarksvidda plateau. The route is described as magical, with stops to pet the dogs and admire the landscape. It’s perfect for those wanting an immersive, hands-on dog sledding experience combined with the stunning Northern Lights.
Bottom Line: Best for adventurous travelers wanting to command their own team in a scenic, night-time wilderness setting.
15. Evening Tour and Aurora Borealis Sightseeing in Norway by ATV
This 5-hour ATV tour combines the excitement of riding along Alta’s coastline with aurora hunting. The small-group experience features stops at scenic viewpoints, with guides sharing local stories. Rated 5/5 from 19 reviews, travelers love the thrill of ATV riding paired with the thrill of possibly catching the Northern Lights. Warm clothing and safety gear are provided, making it accessible for most.
Bottom Line: A fun, active way to experience Arctic nature and the Northern Lights with a small-group guide.
16. From Alta: Adventure Cruise in Alta Fjord
This 2-4 hour cruise offers a peaceful way to see Alta Fjord’s stunning scenery and wildlife. Rated 4.7/5 from 44 reviews, it’s a relaxed, scenic boat trip perfect for families or anyone wanting a gentle introduction to the region’s natural beauty. You’ll learn about local history and enjoy the serenity of the snowy fjord environment.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a laid-back, scenic cruise experience in the Arctic.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Alta
When deciding among these fantastic options, consider your interests and fitness level. For a hands-on adventure, dog sledding (Tour #1) or dog sledding under the Northern Lights are hard to beat for their immersive experience. If you’re after wildlife and scenery, whale watching (Tour #10) or fjord cruises (Tour #16) offer stunning vistas. For cultural insights, the reindeer and Sami farm visits (Tour #3) provide meaningful local connections.
Timing also matters. If you’re aiming for the Northern Lights, tours like Tour #8 or Tour #11 increase your chances, especially in clear winter skies. Book early, as these experiences are popular, and weather can influence availability.
Final Thoughts
Alta offers a remarkable blend of Arctic adventures, cultural encounters, and natural beauty. For adrenaline junkies, the snowmobiling tours (Tour #6) and dog sledding (Tour #14) are sure to satisfy. For those seeking serenity and authentic culture, reindeer visits (Tour #3) and farm sleigh rides (Tour #5) are perfect. And don’t forget the magic of the Northern Lights, accessible through dedicated tours that maximize your chance of witnessing this spectacular natural display.
Whatever your interest, Alta’s diverse lineup of tours promises memorable experiences. Consider your travel style and preferences, then book early—these adventures fill up fast, especially during peak Aurora season. Now, it’s time to start planning your Arctic escape—ready to chase the lights or embrace the snow?