Urban experiences meet raw Arctic nature
Guided Tour of Polaria
300 NOK
per person
Join an engaging guided tour about climate, the environment and life in the Arctic through Polaria’s science-based exhibitions and Arctic aquarium.
General information
This tour is operated by Polaria.
The climate in the Arctic is changing rapidly. Researchers from around the world collaborate in Tromsø to understand what is happening, and at Polaria, this knowledge is presented in a clear and visually engaging way.
During this tour, you will explore a vulnerable Arctic environment through Polaria’s new exhibitions. You will gain a deeper understanding of:
• The complex ecosystems of the north
• How all life is interconnected
• The role humans play in the changes taking place
In Polaria’s Arctic aquarium, you will encounter species from the waters in and around Tromsø. The tour offers a unique opportunity to observe Arctic marine life up close.
Your guide will touch on topics such as:
• Human impact on the climate and marine environment
• Interactions between species in the Arctic
• How research in Tromsø contributes to a greater understanding of the north
This experience is both educational and reflective, encouraging visitors to consider how our actions influence the planet.
The tour is conducted in English. Upon request and subject to availability, guiding can also be offered in:
• Norwegian
• Italian
• Spanish
• French
For special requests, such as groups of more than 10 people, school visits or tours outside regular opening hours, please contact [email protected] for a tailored offer.
Minimum age to participate: None
Included:
• Guided tour of Polaria
• Whisper headsets for optimal sound quality
Not included:
• Entrance ticket to Polaria. This must be purchased separately
Number of participants: Max. 10 participants per tour
Level of difficulty: Very easy
Start time and place: Daily at 13:30 (1:30 PM), Polaria, Hjalmar Johansens gate 12, 9007 Tromsø
Duration: 60 minutes
Prices from
300 NOK per person
Facilities
- Short tours
- Wheelchair accessible
- Family-friendly
- English
- French
- Spanish
- Very easy
- Norwegian
- Environmentally certified business
- 0-3 hours
- Eco-Lighthouse
- Green Travel
About Polaria
Polaria is the world’s northernmost aquarium and an Arctic experience centre in Tromsø, with seals, marine life, research and interactive exhibitions.
Polaria is a non-profit foundation connecting research, nature and people. Our purpose is to share knowledge about the Arctic, the marine environment and climate change. Our exhibitions are developed in collaboration with researchers at the Fram Centre and UiT.
We are home to seven seals representing three species: bearded seals, harbour seals and a ringed seal. Polaria is also the only place in the world where you can meet bearded seals up close.
The seals take part in daily training and feeding sessions. Training helps stimulate them physically and mentally and includes veterinary exercises that make it easier to monitor their health. Visitors can watch the training and feeding every day at 10:30 AM (10:30), 12:30 PM (12:30) and 3:30 PM (15:30).
The aquarium features fish, shellfish and other marine life from northern waters. Our interactive exhibitions explore how climate change and human activity affect life in the Arctic, including underwater sound, Arctic food webs and research into the marine environment.
Our panoramic theatre shows three films on a 21-metre-wide screen: one about the Northern Lights around Tromsø, one from Svalbard and one taking visitors behind the scenes at Polaria. The films are shown several times each day and are included in the entrance ticket.
Polaria has also expanded its seal pool, which is now three times larger than before. Large panoramic windows, natural daylight and an outdoor pool create more space for the seals and new viewing opportunities for visitors.
In addition to a regular visit, we offer bookable experiences such as guided tours, seal encounters and behind-the-scenes experiences.
Opening hours
- Daily: 10 AM (10:00) - 5 PM (17:00)
- 24 December: 10 AM (10:00) - 4 PM (16:00)
Accessibility
- Polaria is accessible to visitors with reduced mobility, with ramps and a lift. One wheelchair is available to borrow free of charge, pushchairs can be used throughout the centre, and an accessible toilet with a changing table is available.
Phone: +47 777 50 100
Email: [email protected]
Web: https://polaria.no/en/
Hjalmar Johansens gate 12, 9007 Tromsø