Autumnal Auroras & Wandering Whales: A Senja & Tromsø Retreat
When the light softens and nature slows down, Northern Norway reveals its calmest magic.
Duration
6 days
Season
September – January
Best suited for
Travellers who want to experience Northern Norway’s highlights – whales, fjords and Northern Lights – before winter sets in. A perfect choice for those who prefer milder conditions, open roads and authentic encounters.
As summer fades into crimson and golden hues, the Arctic transforms. This is the time for stillness and reflection, but also for discovery. It’s the time when whales return to the fjords and coastal waters outside Northern Norway and the Northern Lights begin to dance again. This ushers in a time for fairytales, magic and unique experiences with family, friends or solo.
Journey off the beaten path to Senja and Tromsø, two contrasting worlds of raw nature and gentle comfort. Here, the elements set the rhythm, and each day offers new shades of wonder.
Surrounded by the natural beauty of Senja island, you will explore Norway above the Arctic Circle at a magical time of year, before the snow fully blankets the dramatic landscapes. To experience the best of two worlds, this is combined with time in Tromsø, whose popularity has grown rapidly in recent years. The city is lively and full of people, yet offers an interesting history, vibrant culture and several must-see spots, and serves as a hub for both Northern Lights experiences and whale safaris. Together, Tromsø and the quiet, untouched nature of Senja create a balanced and memorable Arctic journey.
Impact Statement
Travelling outside of peak season has many advantages; it contributes to balanced tourism in Northern Norway. By visiting during autumn and early winter, you help support small, locally owned businesses in the off-peak season, strengthening local communities and reducing the environmental footprint of high-season travel.
This journey also aligns with United Nations SDG 11.4, ‘Strengthen efforts to protect and safeguard the world’s cultural and natural heritage’, through sustainable whale watching, locally rooted experiences and travel choices that value authenticity over mass tourism.
Your itinerary
Itineraries are designed by our travel curators in collaboration with our partners to give you the most rewarding experience possible.
Please note that itineraries can be tailored to your specific wishes when you make an inquiry.
Day 1 of 6
Begin from Tromsø
Arrival in the Arctic
Day 2 of 6
Explore the Outdoors
Step Into Ånderdalen National Park
Begin the day slowly before setting out on foot – or snowshoes – to explore the nearby Ånderdalen National Park.
We like to say that the island of Senja is a microcosm of the rest of Norway. The countryside is among Norway’s most varied, ranging from mountains, forests, fjords and hundreds of islets. Ånderdalen National Park is the oldest National Park in the area, protecting the beautiful mountain and fjord landscape typical for Tromsø county.
Learn how to light a campfire and cook lunch over the flames, a skill you can carry with you as you continue exploring on your own. The rhythm is easy; the goal is not to rush, but to reconnect with nature’s pace.
If you’re a dog lover, your host may take a four-legged friend on the trip. If there is snow, you might even try dogsledding, enjoying the company of faithful hounds while taking in the beautiful, frosty surroundings.
Back at the lodge, a rustic dinner awaits. The evening may unfold by the firepit or beneath a sky full of stars. If you’re lucky, it’ll be streaked with Northern Lights.
Day 3 of 6
Norwegian Scenic Route Senja
Scenic Roads and Coastal Flavours
Another option is taking to the road for one of Norway’s most scenic drives, the Norwegian Scenic Route Senja. Each bend reveals new fjords, cliffs, and fishing villages clinging to the shoreline, as well as striking art installations in the form of viewing platforms and toilet facilities along the road.
Pause for a leisurely meal and local stories at Salteriet, a seaside restaurant housed in a former fish-salting plant.
Day 4 of 6
Paris of the North
Return to Tromsø
Day 5 of 6
Excursion at Sea
Wondrous Whales & Arctic Flavours
From late October to mid-January, orcas and humpbacks follow the herring into the fjords, a spectacle of power and grace. With a hybrid electric boat, extensive whale watching experience and expert guides onboard, Brim Explorer allows you to observe the whales without disturbing them.
This activity takes a full day, because the boat follows the whales’ behavioral patterns, which sometimes change during the season. When you’re not scanning the horizon for whales, enjoy the catamaran’s modern facilities and café-bar. Insider tips: Bring a pack of cards.
Day 6 of 6
Journey is Over
Farewell to the North
Enjoy a slow breakfast and perhaps a final stroll along the harbour before your private transfer to Tromsø Airport.
Depart with the rhythm of the Arctic still in your body; the sound of crackling fire, the glow of the aurora, and the stillness of the northern sea. A new season is coming. Prepare for winter.
Personalize and book the Autumnal Auroras & Wandering Whales journey
Personalized itinerary
This journey has been curated to offer a journey of discovering modern values in Norwegian heritage. It can be booked as proposed or further personalized to you.
Worry-free booking
With our flexible terms, we hope to provide you with all the certainty and adaptibility you need when booking your well-deseved escape.
Pricing
The indicated price per person is based on two travellers travelling together. Read more about our pricing here.
Want a journey fully tailored to you?
Our travel curators create bespoke itineraries based on your wishes.
Katharina Steffen
Travel Curator
