Land Based Swim with Killer Whales Safari
Swim with Orcas and Humpback Whales in the Wild Norwegian Waters with our expert guide, Joshua Barton.
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Norway Safaris
Norway may not be traditionally thought of as a safari destination, but the breath-taking scenery and unique wildlife that inhabit Norway’s cold north make it a top location for those looking for an off-the-beaten-track experience. Vast valleys and icy peaks pepper the landscape alongside rows of colourful houses. In November, spot hundreds of orcas and humpbacks as they head into the fjords off the coast of Tromso and Tromvik for the herring migration feast with a unique experience to swim alongside these magnificent creatures. Aside from its marine mammals, Norway is home to a whole host of seabirds, puffins, eagles, land mammals such as fox, elk and reindeer.
The Norway Safari Experience
- Dive into the cold Norwegian waters in the fjords north of Tromso to swim and photograph the countless orca and humpback who follow the herring migration. Norway is one of few places you can swim with orcas in the wild.
- Witness the Northern Lights during Norway’s winter
- Learn how to mush your very own team of husky dogs as you cross the magical snowy landscapes of Norway.
- Lying far above the Arctic Circle, explore the Lofoten Islands by seaplane
- are a rare European wilderness offering numerous adventure activities such as hiking, skiing, ocean rafting and scuba diving.
Norway Safaris
From 8500 per person
Swimming with Orcas & Humpbacks
An incredible ship-based safari with the unique opportunity to swim with, and be photographed alongside, killer whales.
Arctic Circle Seaplane Adventure
A private seaplane adventure taking you to places roads do not reach, and to wilderness far from civilisation, exploring the heart of Swedish Lapland, the Lofoten Islands, the North Cape, into Finland and onto Tromso.
Talk to a Polar Destination Specialist
The Norway Safari Experience
Why Natural World Safaris for your Norway Safari?
As specialists in travel to Norway, we have been operating our small ship expeditions for many years and firmly believe that our clients benefit hugely from smaller group travel on specialist expedition ships, led by the experts. Working with Patrick Dystra and his team, our Swimming with Orcas trips are a once in a lifetime opportunity to spend your days riding the waves in search of orcas. As you are in search of wildlife, their exact journey (migration) can never be exactly predicted; but by using our chartered boat you will be able to change direction and stay in specific areas for as long as you wish, providing close-up intimate encounters with the whales.
How Much Does Norway Cost?
For an exclusive 6-day small ship-based safari, swimming with orca and humpback, expect to budget $7,000 per person. For an 8-day land-based safari, typically budget from $8,500 per person, including dog sledding and snowmobiling experiences.
When to Go to Norway?
If you wish to swim with orcas in Norway, we only run small group departures in November as this allows enough light to encounter the whales while still being the best time to see them congregate around the waters of Tromso and Tromvik. For other land-based safaris, the best time to go to Norway is mainly between May and August. Read more here.
Where to Stay in Norway?
A stay on the MS Sjoveien a recently transformed Norwegian research vessel, allows you to travel in and out of the Norwegian fjords, following the herring migration to the whales. For land-based safaris, stay on stilts on the water’s edge in remote converted fishing huts, surrounded by mountains in the Lofoten Islands.
Orcas in Norway
Orcas
Highly trainable, these beautiful creatures have controversially been featured in many aquarium shows, as well as blockbusters such as ‘Free Willy’ back in 1993. They have stable family groups of five to thirty, hunting together to bring down tasty prey that ranges from squid and fish, to seals and sea lions. They work together to tip animals resting on floating ice into the water, deliberately beach themselves to scare prey and even hunt other whales.
Patrick Dykstra
Patrick Dykstra is a TV presenter, BAFTA award-winning wildlife cameraman, and one of our specialist leaders.
Norway Safari Highlights
Client Reviews
Rated 4.9/5 based on 10 customer reviews
- —Lourdes Dingman who travelled on Norway: Lofoten Islands and Svalbard in June 2023
The attention to detail was amazing. The main contact, Javier, was amazing, informative and responsive to all requests. ALL excursion leaders were engaging and knowledgable. Loved them all!
- —Chad B, Swim with Killer Whales and Humpbacks, November 2023
This was one of the most incredible experiences of my entire life. I still can’t even believe that this is something I did. The whales were beautiful and getting a chance to swim with my favorite animal and an apex predator was life changing. The app was incredibly useful and I loved the daily countdown and individualized itinerary!! Lisa, Kayvon, and Sarah: I am so grateful for every single talk, instruction, for their experience, safety awareness, and love of the ocean and these incredible creatures we were able to see. They were all so passionate which gave space and fostered an environment of excitement and learning. Jasper, Willhelm, Patrick, Harold, Olaf, Alice, Emma, Jessica, Lynn, and Crista: The crew was incredible! I wanted to be a part of the crew. Haha! It takes a lot of people to run a ship safely and smoothly and the mix of these human beings together was a beautiful thing to witness. They were always willing to chat with us about the different components of the ship, their specific roles, and their lives off the ship. The food/wine on the Kinfish was top notch! Crista works magic in the kitchen. He had to create a vegetarian dish, a meat dish, and a gluten-free dish every single meal. I will be coming back. The Kinfish was home away from home. Thank you again to everyone who made this a possibility.
- —Candace Nicholas who travelled on the Swimming with Killer Whales Safari in 2022
Everyone in the NWS team who I communicated with was great. The staff of the Kinfish were amazing and you can tell they truly love what they do which makes a huge difference. I would love to travel with NWS again as the company go above and beyond to make the experience authentic with knowledgeable and experienced guides.
- —Eric Allenstein-Lyon who travelled on the Swimming with Killer Whales Safari in 2022
This was probably the best trip I've ever been on. The wildlife sightings were perfect, guiding and crew were fantastic, and the other members of the tour were lovely people. I would love to travel again!
- —Dan Kunz who travelled on the Swimming with Killer Whales in 2022
This was an incredible experience, better than I could ever have imagined. I would highly recommend this trip to anyone.
- —Deirdre Smith who travelled on Swimming with Killer Whales Safari in 2022
This trip was easily a 10 out of 10 experience. Everything was very professional and ethical.
- —Mark Jameson who travelled on Swimming with Killer Whales in 2022
I really couldn't have asked for any more from this trip. I will remember this trip for the rest of my life and would certainly recommend it to any whale lovers. Thank you to all who made it happen. The wildlife, guides and Kinfish staff were all fantastic. It was incredible getting up close to the whales, not just orca but humpbacks too. I had a feeling on the first day that we would get lots of good orca encounters but feared the humpbacks may be a little more elusive, however, Rita and Kayvon made sure we got the drops we needed to encounter these fantastic animals underwater too. I couldn't thank the two guides enough, they went out of their way to ensure all guests were happy. The accommodation and Kinfish staff were all wonderful, the food was fantastic and we were very well looked after.
- —Cory Crandall who travelled on Swimming with Killer Whales
This was literally the trip of a lifetime. Sarah and Kayvon were absolutely top-notch guides throughout the trip. They were so informative and always put us in a great position to capture the best videos and photos. The crew of the Kinfish were the best crew a person could ask for. They were so kind and helpful with anything you would possibly need. They would literally let you do anything on the boat from driving the boat to checking out the engine room. I’m so thankful for the opportunity to go on this trip and it wouldn’t have been the same without the people that were on it with me. Thank you so much!
- —Rosalyn Newton who travelled on Swimming with Killer Whales in 2022
This was an incredible trip. We were privileged to have Sarah and Patrick as our guides leading to some unprecedented wildlife interactions; one day over 100 orcas and the next day being in the midst of a pod of 19 humpbacks. We saw an incredible aurora; pinks, purple and green. All in all, it was more than we could have expected, and we feel like we have memories that will last a lifetime.
- —Bharath Mohan who travelled on Swimming with Killer Whales in 2022
Thanks to everyone involved for an overall an amazing trip!! Amazing wildlife sightings, and once-in-a-lifetime aurora displays. We came away with unique memories that will stay with us for a long time - thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Norway and what is it best known for?
Norway is a Scandinavian country in Northern Europe, best known for its dramatic fjords, Arctic landscapes, northern lights, wildlife, and strong focus on sustainable travel and outdoor experiences.
What is the best time to visit Norway?
The best time to visit Norway depends on your goals. June to August is ideal for fjords, hiking, and midnight sun, while October to March is best for northern lights and Arctic winter experiences.
Where can I see the northern lights in Norway?
The best places to see the northern lights in Norway are Tromsø, Alta, Senja, and the Lofoten Islands, particularly from September to March during clear, dark nights.
Is Norway good for wildlife experiences?
Yes. Norway offers excellent wildlife experiences, including whale watching, musk ox safaris, seabird colonies, Arctic foxes, and marine life along its extensive coastline.
Where can I see whales in Norway?
Northern Norway, especially Tromsø, Andenes, and Vesterålen, is one of Europe’s best whale watching regions, with orcas and humpback whales commonly seen from October to January.
Are fjords the main attraction in Norway?
Yes. Norway’s fjords are a major draw, with highlights including Geirangerfjord, Nærøyfjord, and Sognefjord, offering cruises, kayaking, hiking, and scenic rail journeys.
Is Norway suitable for Arctic and expedition travel?
Yes. Northern Norway and Svalbard departures make Norway a key hub for Arctic expeditions, winter safaris, and small-ship exploration in polar regions.
Is Norway safe for travellers?
Norway is one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime, excellent infrastructure, and high environmental standards. Outdoor safety guidelines should be followed in remote regions.
What should I pack for a trip to Norway?
Pack layered clothing, waterproof outerwear, sturdy walking shoes, and warm accessories year-round. Weather can change quickly, especially in fjord and Arctic regions.
How does Norway promote sustainable tourism?
Norway is a global leader in sustainable tourism, with protected national parks, electric transport initiatives, strict wildlife regulations, and eco-certified accommodations.
Why Natural World Safaris for your Norway Safari?
Wildlife Specialists
Norway’s fjords and Arctic coastline offer some of the best opportunities in the world to see orcas and humpback whales in the wild. We work with expert guides and researchers to get you as close as possible — whether you're photographing feeding behaviour beneath the northern lights or observing the subtle interactions of a pod in a quiet inlet.
Wealth of Experience
We’ve been exploring Norway’s Arctic regions for years, collaborating closely with local experts and conservationists. Our team knows when and where to go for the best wildlife sightings and cultural encounters, crafting seamless journeys in one of Scandinavia’s wildest corners.
Small Group & Small Ship Travel
Our Norway expeditions are built around intimate experiences — from privately guided orca safaris to voyages on small expedition ships with flexible routes. Travelling in small groups not only means more personal access to guides and wildlife, but also ensures a lighter footprint in fragile Arctic environments.