Experience extraordinary wildlife encounters across the Nordic region, see moose and reindeer in the forests of Finland and Sweden to whale watching along the coasts of Iceland and Norway,
Wildlife Encounters in the Nordics
@ The Fell
@ The Fell
Moose and Reindeer in Finland and Sweden
The deep forests of Finland and Sweden are among the best places in Europe to see large land mammals in their natural environment. Moose, the largest members of the deer family, roam freely through boreal woodland and lake regions. Observing a moose in the wild is a powerful experience, as these solitary animals move silently through dense forest and open clearings.
Reindeer are central to life in the north and are particularly associated with Lapland in both Finland and Sweden. These animals have lived alongside Sámi communities for generations and are well adapted to Arctic conditions. Guided wildlife excursions take place in remote forest and tundra regions where reindeer migrate seasonally, offering insight into their behaviour and cultural importance.
Off The Map Travel works with experienced local guides who understand animal movement patterns and seasonal conditions, increasing the chances of sightings while ensuring minimal disturbance to wildlife.
© Thomas Eckhoff
An Animal Encounter
Snowshoe safaris, roam with reindeer, elk and Arctic foxes—capture them under Northern Lights on this immersive Swedish wildlife adventure
Customers normally spend between (excl. flights)
Explore
£8,740 - £13,110 pp*
@ The Fell
Family Fun at The Fell
Luxury family escape with snowmobiles, huskies, skiing and reindeer in Finnish Lapland, followed by a cultural city break in stylish Helsinki.
Customers normally spend between (excl. flights)
Explore
£5,450 - £8,175 pp*
@ Holmen Husky Lodge
Arctic Adventure in Alta
A refined Arctic escape in Alta featuring Sámi culture reindeer sledding dog sledding Northern Lights hunting and wilderness lodges
Customers normally spend between (excl. flights)
Explore
£4,530 - £6,795 pp*
@ Christer Adahl
Jänkä Winter Magic Family Adventure in Lapland
A magical family journey through Lapland with reindeer rides, Santa encounters, winter fun and luxury villa comfort at Jänkä Resort.
Customers normally spend between (excl. flights)
Explore
£4,690 - £7,035 pp*
@ Wild Nordic Finland
Bear Spotting in Nordic Wilderness
Brown bears inhabit remote areas of Finland and Sweden, living largely hidden lives far from human settlement. Bear spotting experiences are carefully designed to prioritise safety and conservation, often using purpose built hides positioned near known bear territories.
These experiences require patience and quiet observation, but the reward of seeing a bear emerge from the forest is unforgettable. Watching these powerful animals forage, move and interact in their natural habitat provides rare insight into one of Europe’s most elusive species. Bear spotting excursions are typically seasonal and planned around periods of higher activity.
Whale Watching in Iceland and Norway
The cold, nutrient rich waters surrounding Iceland and Norway support a wide range of marine life, making these regions prime destinations for whale watching. Along Iceland’s coastline, deep offshore waters attract species such as humpback whales, minke whales and orcas, depending on the season.
Norway’s long coastline and fjord systems also offer exceptional whale watching opportunities. In northern Norway, whales migrate close to shore to feed, allowing for responsible observation from boats led by experienced crews. These excursions are designed to respect marine life, maintaining safe distances while offering exceptional viewing conditions.
Off The Map Travel selects locations and seasons carefully to maximise sightings while supporting ethical wildlife tourism practices.
@ Lofoten Insight
Sea Eagles and Birdwatching in Lofoten
The Lofoten Islands in northern Norway are a haven for birdlife, particularly sea eagles, also known as white tailed eagles. These impressive birds of prey are among the largest eagles in the world and are frequently seen soaring above fjords and coastal waters.
One of the most memorable ways to experience sea eagle encounters is on a RIB safari through the Lofoten archipelago. Travelling at water level through narrow channels and open fjords offers a dramatic perspective on both wildlife and landscape. Sea eagles are often spotted perched on rocky outcrops or gliding overhead, using the coastal updrafts to hunt.
Birdwatching in the Nordics extends beyond eagles, with seabirds, waders and migratory species populating cliffs, islands and wetlands throughout the region.
Seasonal Wildlife Experiences
Wildlife encounters in the Nordics are shaped by the seasons. Summer brings long daylight hours, active feeding periods and accessible landscapes. Autumn offers rich colours and heightened animal movement as species prepare for winter. Winter wildlife experiences focus on tracking, quiet observation and the stark beauty of snow covered environments.
Off The Map Travel plans each journey around the best seasonal conditions for wildlife viewing, combining expert guidance with comfortable accommodation and thoughtful pacing.
@ Wildlife Sea Safari Rib - 62°NORD
Why Choose a Wildlife Journey with Off The Map Travel
Wildlife experiences in the Nordics are defined by space, silence and authenticity. These journeys are not about guarantees, but about meaningful encounters rooted in respect for nature. Off The Map Travel curates wildlife itineraries that balance adventure with conservation, offering opportunities to see iconic Nordic animals in their natural habitats.
From forest mammals and Arctic reindeer to whales, bears and sea eagles, these experiences reveal the wild heart of the Nordic region and create lasting memories grounded in genuine connection with the natural world.
We originally hired Off the Map Travel in 2020 to set up a trip to see the Northern Lights. That didn’t happen, thanks to COVID. But, we persisted and in March of 2023, we took a 16-day trip that included both Iceland and Norway. IT WAS MAGICAL! Off the Map took care of everything! We were pampered at every stage of our trip. The people they hired and the activities they planned added up to a trip that will set the standard for any we’ll ever take in the future. Alex and his team were fabulous! We recommend them without restraint!
Jim & Kris
Exceptional service throughout the entire planning and booking process – travel agencies don’t get any better than this. A brilliant, seamless experience matched by the holiday experience itself. Would recommend ‘Off the Map Travel’ to anyone considering booking for a Nordic experience ‘par excellence’.
Chris
Fantastic trip to Svalbard which delivered the true Arctic experience we were hoping for. The hotels were excellent and the activities – dog sledding and snowmobile expedition were lead by first class guides.
Top tip! The champagne tasting in the world’s most northerly wine cellar in the exceptional Funken Lodge is not to be missed!
Faith
I used OTMT to organise a holiday to see the Northern Lights for my partner’s 50th birthday. They took the time to understand my priorities, the kinds of places we like to stay and the things we like to do. They recommended a fabulous itinerary in Norway centred around the Lyngen Experience Lodge. The holiday itself lived up to expectations and I have no hesitation in recommending OTMT. They listened carefully during the planning and delivered the perfect present for my partner.
Alex
Arctic Retreat was simply magical. Graham and his team were superb. Their entire focus was on ensuring we had an outstanding experience. The accommodation, setting and food were all excellent. The team, experienced professionals, each brought their own personal touch and local nuance. It was faultless. The dog sledging trip directly from Arctic Retreat was also superb. We would return to Arctic Retreat in a heartbeat.
George
Amy planned a fantastic trip! Everything was very well-thought out. All transfers went smoothly, accommodations were amazing, great restaurant recommendations and the tours were once-in-a-lifetime, can’t book it yourself off the internet experiences. The guides were all fantastic. Communications were prompt and everything worked exactly the way it was supposed to. What a pleasure! Already working on our next trip.
Anonymous
We did! Everything was truly wonderful! I think the Holman Husky Lodge was our favourite place. Beautiful accommodations, but best of all, wonderful people! Everyone was so friendly and accommodating, excellent food, we really enjoyed our time there. We also greatly enjoyed Bergen! Opus XVI was beautiful and we loved being able to walk to restaurants and bars and take in the sights. All of our drivers were punctual and friendly. The itinerary was full but not overfull.
Thank you so much! It was an epic trip, we are taking home wonderful memories!
Shelly
Amy was a great help with planning this trip. Our trip turned out amazing. I also was very grateful for Off the Map’s Front Desk service, which promptly handled an on the spot issue we had.
Karen
The ease of everything stood out to me. All we had to do was be there at the right time. The dog sledding was the highlight for my daughter and sister. We had the best time! For me, Manshausen was the highlight. We were very lucky and the only guests there for the majority of our stay. The staff was amazing and the food was so delicious. We had moose steak and it was the best meal I’ve ever had.
The cabins were comfortable and we were so lucky to have 2 clear nights where we just sat and watched the northern lights. We were able to get some awesome pictures too.
I appreciate all your time and care with planning our trip! I won’t hesitate to use Off the Map travel for our next adventure.
Kelly
We really enjoyed our Norwegian adventure despite the -22 days! Unfortunately no real experience of viewing the Lights but we did capture a couple of images on our last night – too much cloud otherwise so lots of snow. We really enjoyed the husky lodge – not at all what we had tentatively imagined. Thanks for your assistance, maybe next time we will see the Lights in all their glory.
Andrew
Off the Map Travel was great! Alex helped us plan the most amazing 10 day honeymoon to Iceland. He gave us great recommendations and was so patient with us during the planning process!
Tori
Hello Lucy!! Kim and I had a fantastic time in Iceland! Probably one of my top 3 trips I’ve ever taken!
It was everything we asked for and you did a wonderful job coordinating it all so beautifully!!
Thank you very much and we will contact you again when we get ready to plan our trip to Norway and Lapland!
Doreen